Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

When Izuku found himself in a dark barred cell with a growling dragon in the corner, he finally realized just how awful his life was. Izuku had only woken a few minutes ago, his mind hazy which he could only guess was because of the influence of an unknown drug. The substance kept away the panic Izuku could feel bubbling in the back of his mind, keeping him docile and delirious. For the moment he embraced the forced calmness, anything to keep the creeping anxiety away.

He shifted into a more upright position and blinked slowly, looking at the room around him he found three drab light gray concrete (or concrete adjacent) walls. The texture was rough on his skin, he'd probably get a nasty scrape from it if he wasn't careful. The last wall was barred horizontally, Izuku could probably stick his arms through, but nothing more than that. With the buzzing coming from it, he didn't want to risk being shocked. The room itself was mostly dark and quiet, just a big box with the only ‘room’ being a walled off corner that Izuku leaned over to look inside. It looked like a bathroom, or something resembling a bathroom, it was too dark to really tell what was there. The only light is a dim light that flickered constantly and the only noises are the buzz from the bars and light above, the hum of what Izuku could hazily guess was air conditioning, and the growling of the dragon.

As fogged as Izuku’s brain was, he couldn't ignore the snarling creature in the opposite corner of the cell. If Izuku had to describe it he'd honestly just say the word dragon.. It looked like it walked bipedally, it had animal-like legs with sharp claws on its hands and feet, pointed ears lay flat on its head and the two horns it had were broken near the base. It had wings tucked behind it, the wing resembled a paw, it even had paw beans! The hazy, drugged state of Izuku's mind was ecstatic at that fact, giggling as he babbled something about dragons and random fantasy creatures. The creature also had a tail curled around itself, almost protectively. It was a pale yellow color with starbursts of orange and red flicked over its scales. Spiky fur on its head partially covered its eyes from view. It wasn't wearing much, just pants that puffed out near the end, it ended around the bend of its digitigrade leg. Izuku wondered if it couldn't wear a shirt because of its wings and tail. 

As Izuku and the dragon stared he couldn't help but laugh a little, partly due to the unknown drug in his system and partly due to the absurdity of it all. Izuku laughed deliriously and his head lulled, falling against the cold, rough wall behind him. His body felt floaty like gravity simply didn't exist. Sleep pulled at his head, sluggish and tired and confused, Izuku didn't resist. His eyes drooped closed and his breathing stilled, the forced calmness could almost make him forget the situation at hand.

It wasn't too long before Izuku awoke again, now laying on his side with his feet facing the bars. He shifted to his elbows, his gakuran catching on the uneven texture of the floor, before he sluggishly sat up. 

Huh? What is… Izuku looked around the room lazily, his eyelids heavy and his gaze unfocused. It took a good few minutes before Izuku finally remembered what happened and where he was. With the calmness of the drug now wearing off Izuku immediately began to panic. Frantically looking from corner to corner, wall to wall, bar to bar, trying to comprehend just how this happened. He was walking home from school if he remembered correctly.. he looked down and sure enough he was still in middle school uniform. Okay so i know when this happened but still lost as to how… or why… Izuku put a hand to his temple, a headache forming in his skull.

He curled in on himself and his breathing quickened. The gravity of the situation weighed on his shoulders. Him? Abducted? What should I do? What can I do?!

His wide, frantic eyes looked to the only other being in the room, the dragon. 

Expressions flashed over Izuku’s face quickly; disbelief, fear, curiosity, wonder, caution. The dragon looked as angry as it did before, teeth bared and snarling. It looked like it was trying to make itself bigger, holding its wings out and keeping its chin up high. Its presence felt almost explosive, the blond fur on its head certainly looked like it'd been detonated.. Izuku weighed his options, he knew nothing about the being and it was clearly aggressive, Izuku had no way to fight it nor did he want to. He’d simply avoid it as much as he could. No need to anger it or start any fights…

Izuku turned his gaze to the bars beside him, buzzing with faint electricity. Should he touch it? Obviously it'd hurt and was generally a bad idea, but the buzzing was faint and he couldn't see any visible sparks. He at least wanted to look outside the bars to see more of the surrounding area, maybe then he could form an escape plan. Izuku took a few shaky deep breaths. Steadied his trembling hands and stood up. When he stood his feet floated a few inches above the floor before he fell back down. That’s strange. Was there just less gravity here? His legs felt numb too, when was the last time he stood up? He couldn't tell how long it'd been since he was taken or how long he'd been asleep, which was a horrifying thought in and of itself. Izuku desperately shoved the thought and building dread away and focused on the task in front of him.

Izuku cautiously padded over to the bars; it only took a single step due to the lighter gravity. Without touching it Izuku stood on his tippy toes to try and see down either side of the hallway his cell seemed to lie in. Nothing in view. There was however, an empty cell just like his across from the one he and the dragon stayed in.

Slowly, Izuku lifted a finger to the bar. Right before he could touch it though, the dragon shouted at him. Izuku flinched, quickly facing it.

“H-huh? Is something wrong?” Right as Izuku stuttered out the question he felt stupid, there's no way it can understand him.

It spoke again, obviously Izuku couldn't understand it, and it couldn't understand him. Izuku smiled and waved, unsure of what else he could do. The dragon didn't seem to like the smile however, it seemed almost shocked? Its expression settled back to its unusually unending anger quickly though. Did i do something wrong

Izuku returned his attention to the bars, still determined to at least test how big of a shock it'd give. He tapped a finger against it, it did hurt a bit (and Izuku did not yelp in pain) but other than that it felt like when you'd gain too much carpet friction and zap yourself on a doorknob. Was the shock really supposed to keep prisoners away from the bars? It isn't that strong at all.

Izuku wrapped a hand around the bar, aside from the initial little zap it did nothing else. Izuku shrugged and leaned in closer, being closer to the bars Izuku could now make out large sliding doors at the ends of the hall. Though no way to tell where they led. Izuku huffed with frustration and anxiety. The last thing he tried with the bars was pulling them, to no one's surprise the metal didn't budge one bit. It was times like these that Izuku wished he worked out…

I've really been abducted… Even if it was the truth, it didn't feel real.

Izuku did one last once over the room, deciding to check the ‘bathroom’ last. It was just a walled off corner of the room, a slab of a lighter material acting as a sliding door. He pushed it open and looked inside, it was very bare bones. Quite literally just a hole in the ground and what looked like a shower head. Izuku wasn't looking forward to using either but it was better than nothing so he wouldn't complain too much.

Izuku returned to the wall and slumped onto the floor, curling into a tight ball. He eyed the dragon again, its unrelenting anger seemed to have been switched out for confusion. Izuku looked into its eyes and smiled as a peace offering, the dragon took it poorly and went back to snarling. Although Izuku didn't want to upset it more, he really didn't have much to do other than look at it and he didn't want to spiral into his own thoughts.

So he took to observing the dragon more instead! Upon closer inspection the dragon looked incredibly skinny, and was breathing heavily as well, maybe that's just what the species was like? Izuku wondered when the last time he ate was and immediately regretted it, all he did was make himself hungry. His stomach growled at the mere thought of food. So not only were his legs numb but he was really hungry as well. That means he must've been abducted for a day at least? Mom must be terrified… 

If the dragon was starving and skinny Izuku figured it meant he wouldn't be fed any time soon either. Why did I get abducted anyway? I'm no one special, there were billions of way more impressive humans on earth. For some reason, they chose a random scrawny, nerdy, 14 year old. Izuku huffed a sigh. His mind was just filled with too much disbelief at the situation. He should be home with his mom eating katsudon and telling her about his latest interest! Not sitting in a cell with a dragon made up entirely of anger and hatred…

Izuku sighed, he felt exhausted in ways he didn't even know possible. He felt like he'd been simultaneously set on fire and drowned. Like he's floating adrift in space and at the same time stapled to the ground on earth. Although he didn't spend much time awake Izuku was already wishing for sleep again, only this time he didn't have the aid of mystery drugs. He laid on his side, using his hands to cushion his head. The cold floor was uncomfortable against his skin and itched at his clothes. Izuku glanced at the dragon one last time before closing his eyes.

Izuku wouldn't be able to sleep, but he could close his eyes and remember happy memories with his mom, even if it was just to escape his current reality.

Izuku was broken out of his sleep by the sound of squeaky wheels. He quickly propped himself up on one elbow, his gaze flickered between the dragon and the bars. The dragon’s eyes were locked on to bars, Izuku tilted his in response.

Does it know what that means for us? It doesn't look scared so maybe it's a good thing?

Izuku sat up and crawled towards the bars to look. Something that looked like a horrid mix between a furless squirrel and a spider trudged down the hall. It was bipedal with a segmented body. It was an odd grayish-green color. The only clothes it seemed to be wearing was glowing armor like metal around their legs. It looked like it'd been dumped in acid if Izuku was being honest.

Izuku focused his attention to the cart it was pushing, the squeaking sound from before was from the tires of a cart it was pushing towards Izuku’s cell. It was a simple metal cart with multiple levels, each one had a tray with two flimsy looking white cups on it.

Izuku felt hope, he might be getting food! His stomach growled against his will. He could feel hope willing up but he carefully smushed that hope, better to keep his expectations low. He's on an alien ship, it's not like the meal will be anything from earth, which he wasn't looking forward to. What if it's dangerous to me? Or just tastes really bad?

It stopped right in front of Izuku and the dragon's cell. Strangely enough, the alien didn't float above the ground with every step. It was walking normally. Huh.. is this the gravity it's used to? Does the leg armor help? Does that mean earth has a more intense gravity? Or do I have some kind of resistance? Ugh, too many questions, no answers.

The first creature waited a bit as another squirrel-spider walked behind it. Pleased with its back up, the first squirrel-spider kept its eyes on Izuku and opened the door to his cell. It placed a tray on the floor and kicked it farther into the cell with its segmented leg. Squirrel-spider two held a weapon -a baton?- at its side as it spoke with the dragon.

Although Izuku couldn't understand the words, he did understand that the weapon wielding alien was taunting, or perhaps insulting, the dragon. Instead of attacking or growling like Izuku thought the dragon would, it simply huffed smoke from its nose and buried its head in the corner of the wall. The alien that pushed the tray in the cell left and locked it, its eyes always tracking Izuku’s position even when all he did was sit still.

Izuku stared at the two, he didn't like them. Not just because they were involved with his abduction but also because of how they were treating the dragon. Not only did they abduct it, they also starved and insulted it. When the two first arrived Izuku felt a sliver of happiness at being given food, now Izuku was tempted to throw whatever meal was given to him in their faces as an act of rebellion.

Izuku knew better though, instead he sighed and eyed the two nasty creatures, they continued down the hallway with the cart, presumably to pass food to more abducted prisoners. The staring matches continued, only now Izuku was staring at the dragon, and the dragon staring at the food tray. Its eyes shifted between Izuku and the food, like it was deciding if fighting Izuku to the death over it was a good idea.

Izuku chuckled nervously and averted his gaze. 

I do not want to fight the dragon.

He crawled towards the tray, glancing at the dragon every few seconds. The black steel tray had a single cup of what looked like kibble and a cup of some liquid. Izuku outwardly cringed. Kibble and an unknown liquid, not the best meal but hopefully edible and non-toxic. He looked towards the dragon again. Its expression was strangely blank, nothing like the constant growling from before. Izuku felt like it was trying to communicate through sheer willpower alone.

Izuku sighed, he’d already made up his mind before but the dragon's expression simply set it in stone. Izuku would share. Izuku tipped the cup of kibble so half was on the tray itself. Izuku grabbed the half cup of kibble and the cup of strange liquid and walked closer to the dragon, though with the lower gravity it was more like hopping. When he got close it bared its teeth but didn't growl or make any attempt to attack, which Izuku took as a win, smiling instinctively. 

Izuku should've realized the connection between him smiling and the dragon becoming aggressive but it seemed interacting with a sentient creature that isn't human puts human norms into perspective. Izuku quickly closed his mouth and looked apologetically at the dragon. He couldn't tell if the dragon knew he was apologizing but left the kibble and liquid near its corner anyway. 

With his half delivery-half peace offering done Izuku stood and returned to the tray where the other half of the kibble lay. He took the tray to his corner by the bars, sat down, and grabbed a piece. Not only did it look as unappetizing as kibble, it smelled as unappetizing as it too. Is this even safe to eat? Mom always told me not to eat anything if I don't know what it is… Forgive me, mom.

Izuku closed his eyes and threw the kibble into his mouth. It was dry and hard and crunchy in the worst ways possible. It had the consistency of a crumbly rock. Still, he managed to chew it enough to swallow. It tasted like dirt..

Still unsure whether or not it was actually edible, he set the tray beside him. He ate one, now he'd wait to see if it made him or throw up or anything. If he was clear for the next few hours he'd eat the rest. He’s lucky there was a bathroom in the cell in case the food upset his stomach. Small miracles right? Izuku closed his eyes and sighed.  

When he opened his eyes again, he couldn't help but look at the dragon. It sat curled in on itself, the white cups sat a few inches away from it. In the few minutes it took for Izuku to hesitantly eat a single piece of kibble, the dragon's half was completely gone. There looked to be some of the liquid left. 

Izuku started another staring contest. The dragon grabbed the cup of liquid and swished it around. Izuku found it interesting that even though they're different species, he could tell the dragon was contemplating something even if he didn't know what. It looked sharply at Izuku, who in response tilted his head with a closed lip smile.

The dragon growled out something at Izuku before shakily standing up. Izuku tensed. It didn't seem angry but that didn't stop the jolt of fear that went through Izuku. It wasn't mad that Izuku took half the kibble, right? Izuku dragged his tray of uneaten kibble closer to him anyway.

The dragon wobbled over, unsteady on its feet like it was carrying something heavy. How come it has so much trouble walking? It stopped, not close enough for Izuku to reach but closer than before nonetheless. It placed its half-full cup of mystery liquid on the ground in front of Izuku then walked backwards back to its corner before crumpling onto a heap of limbs on the floor. Its chest heaved heavily. *Did simply walking exhaust it?*

Izuku eyed the cup. The kibble was bad enough, now he had to consume an unknown liquid too? Izuku grabbed the cup and looked into it, the substance was slightly thicker than water and had a purple sheen to it. What is this?? He really didn't want to drink it…

Izuku gave it the good old sniff test. It smelled of lavender, not bath scent kind of lavender but more like fresh laundry kind of lavender. There's a difference if you think about it hard enough. 

It smelled more like chemicals than anything natural. This was likely the only thing he'd ever get in here though, drinking whatever this is would suck but dying of dehydration was a much worse outcome.

Izuku hummed in thought, the dragon was watching him intently. Would it be disrespectful to not drink it immediately? Izuku shook his head. He should wait to see if the kibble has any negative effect before trying the liquid. He placed the cup on his tray. Across from him, the dragon huffed through its nose and looked away.

Izuku put his hands up in an apologetic gesture. Sorry buddy, can't risk it..

He moved the tray of loose kibble and lavender liquid a few inches away from him and laid on his side again, placing his hands under his cheek to keep the cold of the floor at bay. He looked at the dingy flickering light above, it was still on, would they ever turn off? 

Izuku shifted his eyes to the cold floor beneath him. There really is nothing to do here. Right as Izuku thought that, the lights suddenly shut off. Izuku panicked for a bit as his eyes took time to adjust to the new light level. He did a once over of the now dark room, nothing had changed except… In the dark he managed to see the dragon shivering.

Cold maybe? Doesn't look scared but it could just express it differently… It seems more prone to anger than anything even if it's calmed down.

Must be because it's eaten. Hopefully my food offering puts a bit of trust between us. I should stop calling them ‘it’ as well, they're sentient enough in my eyes.

Izuku sighed (he'd lost count how many times he's done that today alone) and closed his eyes. Seems like it'll be a cycle of waking up, doing nothing, eating, then sleeping for the foreseeable future. That fact only made him feel more dread.

Izuku shifted to get as comfortable as he could, which was not a lot of course, before going back to the memories of his mom from before. Her soft smile, her hugs, her voice. Izuku missed it.

He missed her so much. Laying in the cold dark cell with a dragon across from him, he could at least promise her one thing.

I’ll come back home, mom.

Chapter Text

Ka’s’ki opened his eyes. His eyes felt heavy as the eyed the wall opposite of him. Still in this damn cage. He shifted his eyes around the cell, he'd been here for maybe five solar cycles. Hard to tell with the random light changes. 

He gritted his teeth and tried to focus on anything other than the pain his body was in. His stomach twisted in agony, he hadn't eaten at all since he'd been taken and he was painfully aware of it every second. The gravity in the ship wasn't made for him, just standing felt strenuous. It made him feel weak and Ka’s’ki Ba’kgo was not weak. He heaved heavily, even when he was sitting it felt like he was carrying boulders. Ka’s’ki shifted in his corner, he could never feel truly comfortable but changing how he was sitting every once in a while helped with the constant ache in his bones. There wasn't much for Ka’s’ki’ to do other than sit in silence and wait to die. So that's what he did.

He didn't have to wait long for something to happen. Soon enough footsteps could be heard at the end of the hall. The taps of the Arachids armored footsteps got closer and closer. Ka's'ki waited with baited breath.

He leaned his head towards the bars from his corner, they wouldn't bring him food he knew that much. So what else could it be? He desperately hoped it wasn't a cellmate.

Then huffed in annoyance as he saw it was in fact, a new cellmate. Two Arachids dragged a small, strange, fleshy creature while two more guards stood behind. Ka’s’ki didn't recognize its species and he considered himself to be rather knowledgeable on other species documented in the HPSC. It wasn't mandatory but it made it easier to defeat someone if he knew more about their species. Plus, there were no downsides to being smart and well-read.

Returning his sight to the guards, they opened the cell, dropped the creature on the floor and hurried away from it once it hit the floor. Are they afraid of it? Tch, no way they're afraid of that scrawny, pathetic looking thing. Ka’s’ki eyed the creature, It really was small. If he had to guess he'd say it’d only reach his shoulders or chest. Ka’s’ki’s long curved neck only added to the height difference. it had a mop of messy green fur on its head, Ka's'ki could see the green fur above its closed eyes but nowhere else. It has two forward facing eyes. A predator? That thing? Ka's'ki found that unlikely.. Two arms, two legs, no wings, tail, horns or anything even remotely predatory, did it not have any natural defenses? What a strange species. Why would the guards be worried about it?

Normally Ka’s’ki would be confident he could defeat the small creature, especially if it didn't have any natural defenses, but with the oppressive gravity and starvation he'd been through he'd likely just crumble at its feet, which Ka's'ki refused to do. He didn't bow down to anybody! Except his parents of course. He was taught his manners at least.

Ka's'ki looked back at his new cellmate, it was definitely unconscious and depending what they Arachids drugged it with, it'd probably stay that way for a long time. Ka's'ki was still too paranoid to sleep with it here though. The Arachids were chittering in their native language just outside the re-locked cell. As three began to walk away, the fourth stopped and looked back at Ka's'ki, speaking in Common to make sure he understood.

“Good luck with that one!” It and the other guards laughed as they left the hall. Good luck? Ka's'ki huffed smoke from his nose, there's no way he'd need good luck to take it down. Maybe just a plan to deal with the gravity and starvation then he could tear everyone in the damn ship apart! Annoying traffickers… if i wants going to be a HERO I’d slam their heads in the ground and hijack this ship for myself.

The Draconic sighed. No, I need to think logically. It was in his nature as a Draconic to be prideful and confident but Ka's'ki still knew when to be logical. He knew that trying to pick a fight with a new, unknown species while Ka's'ki himself was weak, starving, and tired was a horrible idea. Ka's'ki would just have to keep his temper relatively in check.

The being shifted in its sleep. Ka's'ki tensed. No way it's waking up already. He squinted his eyes towards it.

He leaned forward to get a better look. Sure enough, the being opened its eyes and looked right at him. Ka's'ki, against his previous logical reasoning, bared his teeth and growled. Sure he didn't want to start a fight but he wouldn't just let that thing stare him down like it was better than him. Ka's'ki wanted to keep at least some of his dignity in this insufferable cell.

It shifted upright and lazily looked around the room, the corners, the walls, the bars, back to him. It moved strangely, it was definitely still under the influence of drugs. Its lips pulled back to show its teeth though not at Ka's'ki. It let out a strange huffing noise before resting its head on the wall behind it. Curly green fur prevented Ka's'ki from seeing any of its face.

What a weird creature.. He turned his head and curled into his corner again. As long as it stays to itself he won't have a problem with it.

He closed his eyes but refused to let himself sleep even as his body desperately asked for it. He needed to stay vigilant.

Ka's'ki flicked his ear, the creature must be awake. He opened one eye to glance at it. It was on its side now, though that didn't last long. It shifted to sit up and looked wildly around the room, more panic than it had before. It's likely sentient then, if it knows what kind of situation it's in. Ka's'ki flicked his ear again, better to be alert than not.

It didn't take long for the creature's eyes to fall on Ka’s’ki again. What's with this thing and staring. Does it want to fight me? He snarled at it again and to his surprise it actually averted its gaze. 

Good. He huffed smoke out his nose, this time out of pride. It's smart enough not to test me.

It got to its feet, Ka’s’ki watched in mild horror as it floated when it stood. Somehow, his scowl managed to deepen. It floated when Ka’s’ki felt like he was being crushed to death! His tail thumped against the ground in frustration. Still, he kept his eyes on it. 

It walked towards the bar and lifted a single finger towards it. Ka's'ki didn't care if it got hurt or not, but it'd be better for his potential ally to not be writhing in pain on the floor. So he tried to warn it despite it probably not speaking Common.

“Hey, the bars are electrified, dumbass! Don’t touch it if you don't wanna die.” He leaned forward to see its reaction. It flinched and looked towards him. It made some sort of noise at him. Great. It doesn't know Common and I don't know its language… still…

“If you touch it you'll be writhing on the floor, idiot.”

It was silent for a moment then it bared its teeth and moved its arm side to side while facing him. 

Ka’s’ki felt a sliver of betrayal but swiftly buried it. I try to warn it and it bares its teeth! Whatever, doesn't matter to me if it dies!

Ka’s’ki snarled at the thing before he turned his head away to huff and puff in his corner. Logically he should've kept his eyes on it, but clearly it didn't need his help.

He did turn his head when he heard a yelp though, Ka’s’ki snapped his gaze over to the bars. The creature stuck its finger in its mouth. The hell happened? He tilted his head up to get a better view, the being waved its injured hand side to side before walking closer to the bars again. 

Ka's'ki was paying attention now. It wrapped a hand around the bars with only a small flinch being any indication it felt the bars shock. Ka's'ki's face scrunched up at the sight. Did the bars malfunction or something?

The being leaned forward and looked from side to side, obviously it didn't see anything it liked.

It tried to pull the bars apart, which resulted in the thing letting out a long breath. Ka’s’ki wasn't surprised, even if the traffickers on this ship were total cheapskates, they didn't cut corners when it came to security. The bars were too thick to walk through and too strong to pull apart, much to Ka’s’ki’s ever growing annoyance.

The last thing it checked was the waste disposal area. Ka’s’ki could curse out the traffickers as much as he wanted, but he was begrudgingly grateful they gave him somewhere to do his business. Draconics were one of the cleaner tribal species after all. After it checked everything it could it walked backwards and curled into a ball in its corner beside the bars. Ka's'ki snorted. Welcome to the party.

It laid on its side, eyed him and closed its eyes. Ka’s’ki could tell from its breathing though that it wasn't actually asleep. That put him on edge, was it waiting for something? Waiting for him to fall asleep so it could attack? 

Ka’s’ki didn't like the unpredictability of the unknown species. It showed its teeth and stared a lot. It could be a naturally aggressive species but he doubted it with how.. subdued, this one was. Maybe it just wasn't fully grown? That thought only made the discomfort and anxiety he felt worse, what if it's kin were hyper protective? Ka’s’ki had read stories of certain species wiping out entire clans for so much as threatening their offspring. Ka’s’ki growled and tapped his claws against the ground impatiently. This is pissing me off… I know nothing about it, I need to be more cautious and less… growly! The thought only made him subconsciously growl more. He spent a few rekliks cursing the fact he was born as a Draconic.

There was nothing he could do but sleep and wait to die as usual, so he hesitantly closed his eyes and ignored whatever terrifying thought popped into his head regarding everything that's happened within the last 6 solar cycles. He stayed awake as long as he possibly could before the cycles of sleep deprivation caught up to him. 

Ka’s’ki awoke to the sound of wheels rolling towards him. His ears immediately perked up and he looked towards the cell door. If he was right, and he usually was, then that's the sound of the food cart. Were they actually gonna give him something to eat? His tail swayed side to side anxiously as the sound got closer and closer. 

No, I need to be realistic. They told me directly I wouldn't be getting any food which means…

He eyed the creature in the corner diagonal to him. The food must be for it. Ka's'ki had to think through this logically. The ideal situation would be the creature offering up all the food to him, unlikely. The creature could share part or half of its food, not impossible but Ka’s’ki doubted it. He'd done nothing but growl at it, he wouldn't want to share food with someone who constantly threatened him.

The worst scenario would be it keeping all the food and defending it. Should Ka's'ki fight for it in that situation? He'd have to in order to avoid starving to death. He looked back to the hall. The guards finally arrived with a tray, a cup of pellets and a cup of pure-form sit atop it. 

The second guard that arrived spoke to Ka’s’ki directly. “How’s the cell treatin’ ya? Feelin’ comfy in there? I bet yer hungry right?” The guards looked at each other then began laughing. 

“Then it's unfortunate this ain't for you. It's for the tiny one ‘ere. This species is known to be *pretty* violent. Fight it if you wanna but it’ll be yer funeral!”

Ka's'ki knew better than to argue, he bit his tongue and looked away from the guards. No need to get in a fight, it’d just get him unnecessarily injured. The two guards quieted down and they both left as quickly as when they first delivered the other creature. 

There was now a tray of mediocre food on the ground and Ka’s’ki wanted it. He just needed to figure out how to get it, even just a small portion. He could always fight the thing for it.. but that’ll be worse for the long run. Though starving is even worse for the long run.

The creature stared at Ka’s’ki again and he resisted the urge to snarl, maybe if he acted exceptionally passive right now the creature would give part of its food? So he forced his face to remain as blank as possible all in hopes of being able to eat for the first time in five solar cycles.

The being crawled towards the tray on all fours. There was silence as it inspected the food, clearly unhappy with what it'd be given if Ka’s’ki guessed right from its expression. It pawed at the cup of pellets and didn't even touch the cup of pure-form. It glanced at Ka’s’ki every now and then.

Did it think he'd try and take it? Well he would, but only if the thing kept it for itself.. the being made a huffing sound similar to when it first awoke. It poured half of the pellets on the tray and grabbed the remaining cup and the pure-form. It moved closer to him, slowly walking over. It's resistance to the gravity making it float a bit with each step.

Ka’s’ki bared his teeth, just as a warning. He wanted the food but he wouldn't submit to this strange tiny thing for it! Maybe the creature didn't like Ka’s’ki’s attitude because it bared its teeth in response as well. It feels like no matter what i do this thing just bares its teeth for no reason! Why does it have to be so complicated?

Ka’s’ki tensed and shifted irritably but closed his mouth, he couldn't worry about dignity while being given food that would prevent his death. For what it's worth, the creature quickly closed its mouth as well. Maybe it was just a warning? Like it's telling me to be grateful that it gave me half of its food. Ka's'ki eyes it suspiciously, he would not submit even when starving.

Still, Ka’s’ki reluctantly dipped his head, the least he could do is thank it despite it threatening him right after. He really couldn't afford to mess this up and have the food taken because of his aggressive tendencies. The food and pure-form cups were now safely on the ground. The being eyed Ka’s’ki before turning its back and walking back to its corner, its feet still floating with every step.

Well it clearly doesn't see me as a threat if it's willing to turn its back on me. Ka's'ki was slightly irritated by the fact he wasn't feared by it but quickly got over it. He had food now! Food was much more important.

He brought the pellet cup to his mouth and downed a couple pellets at a time. He of course wanted to swallow the whole thing all at once but that would upset his deathly empty stomach and cause him to vomit.

He look at the being opposite of him. It was eyeing and pawing a single pellet cautiously. Can it even eat the pellets? It sniffed the pellet then finally ate it. The rest lay untouched on the tray beside it. Ka’s’ki wasn't sure if the thing was being cautious or simply hated the food that much. Not that he could blame it, U.E pellets and pure-form weren't nutritional at all, tasted like rotting garbage, and it didn't even meet the bare minimum requirements to sustain a sentient being, especially not one as tall as Ka’s’ki.

He focused back on his own meal, the pellets had been devoured and he'd drunk half of the pure-form. He began moving the cup in circles watching as the liquid swished back and forth. He eyed the creature again, it eyed him. It sure does like its staring contests and the worst part was, Ka’s’ki couldn't tell if it was a threat display or not. *It has to be, right? But it still hasn't been aggressive… ugh, I already don't like it.*

It tilted its head to one side and its lips pulled upwards but didn't show teeth. Is that a threat display? Ka’s’ki really hated knowing nothing about whatever species it was.

Ka’s’ki huffed, guess he was doing this then.. 

“Hey, you should drink something too.” 

Ka’s’ki placed a clawed hand against the wall for leverage and wobbled closer to the other sentient. The oppressive gravity weighed on his shoulder as he shifted closer to it. It tensed and held its own tray of food closer. 

Ka's'ki placed the cup of pure-form within the reach of it then walked backwards back to his corner. The other creature might feel confident enough to turn its back on Ka’s’ki but the feeling was not mutual.

He slid against the wall, irritating his wings a bit as he did, to sit back down. He watched intently as the being sniffed the liquid and squinted at it. Equally as cautious as it was with the pellets. It didn't drink anything though and simply placed the cup on the tray as well. Ka’s’ki felt slightly irritated by this but pushed the feeling away and buried his head in the corner of the wall. Watching from the corner of his eye as the creature laid down once more.

Even if they couldn't understand each other and tiptoed around each other's existence they were both in the same awful situation and set to do the same thing every day. Sit and wait in silence.

It was a little while later when the lights finally shut off but along with light went the heat. Ka's'ki was coldblooded, he didn't have temperature regulation that warm blooded sentiments had... And sure the dingy overhead light didn't give a lot of heat but it was enough to keep Ka’s’ki from shivering at least.

Now with that last bit of heat gone it's back to shivering through the night. He attempted to spit out a bit of fire but like always it only helped for a klik or so before he was right back to shivering. He shouldn't be using up his fuel reserves for something so trivial, sure he was cold but it wouldn’t kill him . He needed to save his fire for when he'd make his eventual escape.

Ka’s’ki closed his eyes. His only hope is to sleep through it now. As much as he hates to say it, Ka’s’ki hopes the routine stays the same. There's a thousand worse things the Arachids could have him doing. Sitting in a cell certainly isn't the worst.

..I really wish A’zawa was here.

Chapter Text

Izuku opened his eyes to darkness. The room was cold and eerily quiet. Izuku put a hand to the cold floor and slowly sat up. He felt like he'd slept for years yet the lights were still off. He rubbed the sleep out of his eyes and looked at his dragon.. ally? They were still asleep and still shivering in their corner. Izuku felt bad but there wasn't much he could do besides try to warm them with his own body heat, which he doubted they'd like if their constant growling meant anything.

His tray of kibble and lavender liquid sat beside him. His stomach wasn't hurting at all so the kibble was safe enough to eat at least. Although dreading it, he picked pieces of kibble off the tray and ate them. The kibble crumbled between his teeth and Izuku had to try his best not to gag. Izuku imagined this is what eating a handful of dirt and sediment would be like.

The cell was quiet, like it usually was, but this time it felt worse. Izuku couldn't tell if it was because he couldn't see or because his cellmate was asleep and shivering. He could hear everything from before. The low hum of air conditioning, the faint buzz of the electrified bars, but now if he strained his ears he could hear muffled chittering through the walls. He couldn't tell if it was the guards or other prisoners. *That's a horrible realization… If me and this dragon were taken, who else was? How many are being held captive here?*

The stillness, the cold uncaring walls and floor, the ever taunting bars, all made Izuku wish he hadn't woken up. At least not until the lights were back on. Izuku wouldn't say he's scared of the dark, but the unknown certainly unnerved him.

He chewed solemnly on his kibble. Maybe I could plan an escape? Or at least figure out how the lock works. Izuku stuffed the rest of the kibble in his mouth and left the liquid, he'd test that later. He wiped crumbs from his mouth and walked towards the cell door.

He grabbed the bars, flinching when he felt the zap but pressed onwards. He leaned his head closer to look at the cell door lock. It seemed like a digital lock, a keypad? Izuku might be able to figure out the code when the guards deliver the next meal (assuming he'd get a next one) but that's assuming they'll let him just.. peek at the numbers, Izuku doesn't have high hopes for that method. 

Izuku pokes and prods at the bars, looking for any kind of discrepancy, any hint that he'd be able to get out. He pulled at the bars with all his strength, the metal didn't even creak under the pressure just like last time. Izuku groaned, he knew it wouldn't work and now his arms feel sore. He turned to try and see if there were any vents in the room but with the lights off, he couldn't tell. He didn't feel any air despite hearing it. Maybe the air vent was just outside the bars? 

He wanders over to his sleeping cellmate, while not the best idea, Izuku just wanted to do something other than poke at bars or walk in circles. The dragon is still asleep and probably will be for a while. Izuku sighs, what else can he do?

He walks over to the bathroom area, it isn't much. Two walls block it from the rest of the room. A place for waste disposal and something on the wall that resembles a shower head. Wonder if it's actually water? Kinda scared to find out though.. It was more than Izuku was expecting. Still he'd prefer to know more so he inched against the wall and stood beside a lever beneath the shower head. Hopefully Izuku was out of the splash zone.. 

He shrugged and pulled the lever up. As expected, liquid poured from above. Izuku was close enough to get a couple drops on him but was otherwise dry. He slowly moved a hand under the stream. It was warm but not too hot. It made his skin itch a little. It wasn't super noticeable but still uncomfortable. Izuku sighed, he didn't want to have to bathe in this stuff, but he also wanted to stay as clean as possible even when he's been abducted. 

He'd make his decision later..

Izuku turned off the mystery itch inducing liquid and stepped out of the bathroom to sit by his tray again, guess it's time to try the lavender liquid? He brings the cup to his nose and sniffs it again, same as before. Still thicker than water, still has a purple sheen. Izuku gulped nervously. Down the hatch then…

He sips the liquid and it goes down easy enough. Why does it taste like lemons? 

Izuku’s face scrunches at the sourness. Eugh. Somehow sour and sweet at the same time. It didn't taste like anything Izuku's had before but he could definitely say it tasted bad. Like the gross, cold, thick, liquid medicine his mom would make him take when he was little and caught a cold. Izuku shivered at the memory.

Izuku wills himself to finish the cup. It doesn't make him feel better, but he has to stay hydrated somehow. Assuming this stuff is good for him.

…Doesn't stop him from shuddering at the taste though. 

Izuku sighed and looked up at the ceiling. He taps his fingers against the ground for a solid three minutes before he gets bored again. He shifts to sit cross legged in front of the bars. Maybe someone will walk by? He’ll just wait around then, not like he can do anything else..

Wait he does, he waits for what feels like hours. The lights still aren't on, and no one's passed through the hall. Izuku has resigned himself to curling into a ball and crying, the sanest of choices really. Only a few minutes after he sat down his thoughts started getting to him again. 

He felt sick, homesick in fact. The only thing he could think of is his mom, his house, the playground he always used to go to, the nice clerk at the corner store, all the hero movie merchandise he has in his room.

Home’s probably trillions of miles away. He’ll never be able to return. He'll be stuck here forever.

The thought just makes him curl into himself more. If he was smart he would be thinking of ways to escape, if he was brave he'd try and fight the aliens, if he was strong he'd win that fight. Instead he's completely and utterly useless. That fact hurts him the most. He's in a horrible situation and he can't do anything about it. Useless, useless, useless…

His thoughts spiral and spiral until the only thing he can think of is all the horrible ways he’ll end up dead in space. What did the aliens even abduct him for? He isn't special and there's only one person who loves him. So… why?

He wipes his nose on his sleeve and tries to quiet his sobs, he's already pretty good at crying silently. He laughs to himself over that fact, Never thought this talent would come in handy other than to avoid bullies..

Before Izuku’s mind can run himself ragged remembering the bullies that tormented him throughout elementary and middle school he saw a small flame in the corner of his eye. Izuku flinched and looked over; the dragon was awake.

Somehow managing to feel embarrassment and shame, Izuku wipes his eyes dry as much as he can. Can.. Do dragons even cry? Do they know what crying is?

In the dimness of the room Izuku could see the shivering dragon looking at him, staring contests were routine at this point. It was at this moment, after a minor mental breakdown, that he realized he never introduced himself and felt even more embarrassed.

He sniffed and wiped his eyes again, sitting crisscrossed and straightening his posture.

“U-uhm. Hi?” Izuku offered a closed smile and a wave. The dragon tilted their head.

Izuku figured gestures would work well enough despite the language barrier and pointed to himself. “Izuku Midoriya.” Then, Izuku pointed towards the dragon and tilted his head.

The dragon squinted for a moment, Izuku was about to repeat himself when they pointed a clawed finger at him. “Iz’ku Mid’rya?” 

Izuku couldn't help the wide smile that formed on his face, before realizing and slapping a hand over his mouth. The squint of his eyes being the only tell he was still smiling.

“That's close! Try again,” He pointed to himself. “Izuku Midoriya.”

The dragon straightened their own posture and their rough voice reverberated in the cell.

“Izuku Mido’iya..?” Izuku figured that was good enough!

“Yup! You can just call me Izuku though. What's your name?” He pointed at the dragon, his other hand still concealing his thousand yard smile.

The dragon pointed to themself, “Ka’s’ki Ba’kgo.”

Izuku hummed, practicing the words in his mouth silently before speaking them aloud.

“Kas.. suki Bakugo?” They make an ‘ehh’ sound at his attempt. Izuku laughs, still keeping his mouth hidden.

“Can I call you Kacchan?” The dragon tilts their head.

“You can call me, Izu. I will call you, Kacchan.” Izuku gestures with nearly every word, hoping that makes what he's saying clearer to them.

They tilt their head and make an odd noise, it doesn't sound like immediate denial so Izuku decides their name is Kacchan now.

“Izu, Kacchan!” Izuku holds a hand out to them, palm up gesturing for them to repeat Izuku. After a few seconds of processing they understand and speak.

“Izu. Kacchan?” They point to themself at the end, guess Izuku didn't quite make it clear enough. Izuku nods, he doubts the dragon understands that gesture but it's instinctual enough that Izuku didn't have time to think about it. He gestures to Kacchan. 

“You, Kacchan." Kacchan seems to accept their new name with resignation. Izuku’s just happy with the communication progress they've made. 

Emboldened by said progress, Izuku points between himself and Kacchan, asking if he could come closer. Kacchan shifts in their corner, allowing more space between them and the wall. Izuku accepts the invitation and walks over to the still-shivering dragon.

Izuku sits in the corner, Kacchan practically buried Izuku with their wings and tail but Izuku doesn't really mind. Kacchan leans against him, still shivering but less than before at least. Izuku pulls his knees to his chest and leans his head against the warm body beside him. After sleeping on the cold hard floor, it's a very welcome change. 

Now that Izuku’s closer he sees that Kacchan is still breathing heavily. They were like that before too. Is it the atmosphere? I don't have trouble breathing though... Or maybe the gravity? That'd make more sense.

Izuku let out a deep breath and tried to relax his body. He needs to find something to do with his time. He’s never done a single push-up in his life but maybe he should start working out? His muscles ache at just the thought but it is a good idea if he wants to escape. Or he'd be too sore from working out to fight back..

He looks at Kacchan one more time before closing his eyes. At least he knows the dragon's name now. His body finally relaxed and he fell asleep with a smile on his face.

The lights flashed on and Izuku brought a palm to his eye with a groan. He felt groggy, his body wanting to sleep in for just a little bit more. He opened his eyes again to see four guards near the cell door. Almost instantly the grogginess left his body and snapped to wakefulness. 

He looked at Kacchan, they were tense as well. Izuku started to move closer to the door,  but Kacchan grabbed the collar of Izuku’s gakuran and pulled him back. Okay.. so no getting closer then.

Izuku and Kacchan look at the doors, the guards are all talking with each and while Izuku can't understand any of it, Kacchan definitely does. They're growling under their breath, not loud enough for the guards to hear luckily.

Izuku’s eyes ping-ponged between the guards and Kacchan. The tension was thick enough to cut with a knife. Izuku could feel anxiety welling inside him. What's going on? Nothing good, I’m sure…

The guards bustled about, each of them holding a baton. Izuku could see buzzes of electricity coming from them. Izuku’s mind churned with fear. He didn't have to be smart to realize something bad was gonna happen. The only question is *what's* gonna happen.. I feel sick…

Izuku stood to his feet, or as much as he could with Kacchan holding him by the collar at least. The guards filed into the cell and argued with Kacchan. Izuku expected them to keep quiet, but soon it was a yelling match between Kacchan and the guards. 

Kacchan stood on shaky legs. Don't tell me they're gonna start a fight with the guards?! Izuku gaped at Kacchan. No, they wouldn't do something that reckless.

They would, in fact, do something that reckless. Kacchan lunged for the nearest guard, sinking their teeth into its shoulder. The other three ran to surround them, being sure to block the exit as well. Adrenaline surged through Izuku. He doesn't know how to fight, never even raised his fists before, but he can't just stand around either! He saw one of the guards holding up their weapon to strike Kacchan. 

Without thinking, Izuku ran and slammed his body in the guard, grunting with the impact as the two fell to the ground. Izuku heard the weapon rattle to the ground.

It didn't stay down for long though, every alien Izuku had seen so far was taller than him and the guards were no exception. The alien stood and reached for their weapon. Izuku stood up as well and ran over, nearly falling forward over himself in his rush to get the weapon. He saw the alien's hand get closer to it. He kicked their arm with as much strength as he could muster. A loud cracking sound rang out as he did. Before Izuku had time to feel horrified he snatched the weapon into his hands, making sure to hold it by the insulated handle instead of the electrified end.

He took a deep breath and looked around again. The guard whose arm he probably broke is writhing on the floor near the wall, Kacchan still has their teeth sunk in the guard's shoulder, two other guards attempting to pry Kacchan's mouth open. Determined to help, Izuku ran towards the mess of fangs and blood with the baton. He bashed it into the nearest guard's head, another sickening crunch rang out as the guard slumped to the ground. Izuku silently hoped he didn't just kill them and turned his eyes to the next. 

Kacchan ripped off a chunk of flesh from the first guard's shoulder before spitting it out onto the ground. They were breathing even heavier than before. They really shouldn't be fighting! They probably shouldn't even be standing right now. He huffed at the dragon's lack of apparent self preservation. 

The last intact guard turned to face them, yelling something at Kacchan and waving their baton around wildly. Izuku looked between it and Kacchan. Should I keep fighting? Is it over?

He looked behind the panicked guard to the one whose arm he broke. It was standing now, clutching its crumpled limb loosely. The guard who was bitten by Kacchan was also holding its bleeding shoulder, kneeling on the floor. The hopefully not-dead guard was still lying on the floor. 

The intact guard stopped shouting, instead Kacchan was yelling. Izuku nearly covered his ears, everything was so loud! So much happened in an instant that Izuku still couldn't process it all!

The surviving guard turned to look at its injured teammates. It carefully turned its back to help the bitten guard to its feet, the crippled guard trudged over to rest as well. They dragged the unconscious -not dead- guard out of the cell with them and finally left. Izuku gripped the weapon tightly in his shaky hands and left out a shuddering breath. His heartbeat was still going a mile a minute and his brain refused to calm down. 

He turned to look up at Kacchan, only to find them on the ground.

Izuku gasped and he dropped the baton. He sat on his knees beside the dragon. They were dry heaving and shaking on the floor. Izuku’s hand hovered over them. Is there anything I can do?? Come on, think!

Izuku settled to simply help them sit up. He draped an arm around them and moved one of the dragon's arms to rest around Izuku’s neck, then lifted them up. They were heavy due to their height, but with how skinny they were it made lifting them manageable.

Izuku led them back to their now shared corner and slowly lowered them. Are they even still awake?

Their eyes were open but they didn't give any kind of response when Izuku waved his hand in front of them. I'm sure they'll be okay..

Izuku couldn't sit still himself, however. His heart rate hadn't gone down much and his brain still felt incredibly antsy. He spent his time pacing back and forth in the cell, walking from wall to wall and occasionally checking on Kacchan to make sure they were still breathing.

His thoughts spiraled and spiraled. Why were they here in the first place? I have no idea what they expected from us.. Were they going to bring us somewhere else? Izuku shuddered at the thought. I mean, they're traffickers right? So they'd be passing us off somewhere else. Was that what that was all about? Us getting transferred to another location? What's the end goal?

Izuku groaned, he felt a dull ache behind his eyes. The headache wasn't shocking but it did make everything feel ten times worse. All he can do is hope everything turns out okay, he's always been good at staying positive, he'd just have to put more effort into staying positive this time around.

After what Izuku assumed was an hour or so of pacing, time was still odd in this place, he sat back down in his and Kacchan’s corner. They were asleep by now, Izuku had already checked for wounds before but there wasn't anything too bad. A couple of scrapes and scratches along their arms and torso. Izuku tried his best to help, tearing pieces of his gakuran's over shirt to tie around the injuries. Their blood was an orangey color and bled through the fabric of the makeshift bandages. Sorry Kacchan, can't do anything else for you.

Izuku grabbed the electrified baton and fiddled with it, he'd found a way to turn off and placed it between him and Kacchan to hide it from view. Izuku hummed with anxiety, surely they'd be punished for fighting back like that? He groaned, pulling a hand down his face, nothing he can do about it now. Instead he leaned against Kacchan, careful to avoid any wounds. He closed his eyes and tried to reassure himself. Reassure himself that Kacchan would be okay. Neither of them would be taken away. He'd get back home. He’d see his mom again. He wouldn't die here.

Even with all the gentle musings he told himself, nightmares plagued his mind. 

Chapter Text

Ka’s’ki flinched awake to an odd sound. It sounded vaguely like choking. The Draconic squinted his eyes and looked around the room for his cellmate. He found it huddled by the bars, streaks down its face. It’s crying? Ka’s’ki knew what crying was, his own species cried during times of intense pain, but his cellmate didn't look injured, so what was the cause of the tears? Ka’s’ki looked over it again, thinking he'd missed something but no. No blood, or injuries, or torn clothing, it looked the same as it always did.

Ka’s’ki’s ears lowered out of annoyance. Why is it so damn confusing?

Letting fire build in his throat, Ka’s’ki let out a small burst of flames, catching the attention of the other and lighting the room up for a tick. The flame warmed his scales for a moment but did nothing to help the shivering. 

His cellmate quiets, wiping at their face with their hands. The two stare at each other, Ka’s’ki still hasn't figured out if it's a threat display, but they've never shown any signs of aggression…

The other faced him more properly, changing the way it was sitting and straightening its back. Ka’s’ki tensed and kept his eyes on it. Even if it acted like the most docile doormat Ka’s’ki’s ever seen, he could never be too careful. His cellmate made a sound, and the same side to side motion with its arm when he warned it about the bars. Is that a greeting of some kind? Maybe.. The sides of their lips were turned up, but no teeth.

After a klik it pointed to itself and spoke. “Izuku Midoriya.”

It then pointed to him, and tilted its head to the side. Ka’s’ki thought about what it said, there were a few possibilities. It could be a greeting, and it expects Ka’s’ki to repeat it or greet it back, or it could be its name and it’s now asking Ka’s’ki for his. Ka’s’ki took a gamble and decided it was saying its name. He pointed back to them and repeated what it had said, albeit incorrectly. 

“Iz’ku Mid’rya?”

The other bared its teeth widely and Ka's'ki tensed. Was I not supposed to repeat what it said?

It covered its mouth with its hand but Ka's'ki could tell it didn't actually stop showing its teeth. Ka’s’ki shifted uncomfortably. Its behavior was downright contradictory. It spoke again, saying something Ka’s’ki couldn't understand then repeating ‘Izuku Midoriya’

Ka’s’ki sat up more and attempted to repeat it again. “Izuku Mido’iya.”

It made an up and down motion with his head and spoke again, the only work Ka’s’ki could understand was ‘Izuku’, is that what it wanted him to call it? It pointed at him again and Ka’s’ki knew now that it was doing introductions. 

“Ka’s’ki Ba’kgo.”

It made a humming sound then attempted to repeat Ka’s’ki name, and butchered it.

“Kas… suki Bakugo?”

Ka’s’ki made a low grumble sound. It was close, but they added extra parts to his name that weren't there, like they were filling in the gaps.

They made an odd huffing sound that Ka’s’ki knew he heard them do before, then spoke again, but they didn't repeat his name. They didn't give up did they? My name isn't that difficult to pronounce, not like Aktri’farectch names. Ka’s’ki settles to tilt his head, knowing they tilted their head when they were asking a question he’d just mimic it.

“You-” They pointed to him. “-—– —— —–,” They pointed to themself. “-Izu.”

Izu? Just a shorter version of Izuku then.

“I-” They pointed to themself. “-—– —— —–,” Back to Ka’s’ki. “-Kacchan.”

Kacchan? I have no idea what that means… It's not my name, so what else could they be saying? Is it a title?

“And that means…?” He tilted his head again for extra emphasis.

“Izu, Kacchan!” They repeated, pointing to themself then him.

They're clearly calling me that, but why? It's not my name, my name can't be impossible for them to say… It was annoying, more so because he didn't know what the intricacies of them calling him a nickname and-or title meant. For some species, nicknames are a show of companionship, partnership, or otherwise implies a close relationship. Ka’s’ki was grateful he had an ally in this place, but he wasn't to become close with the unknown sentient… 

Regardless, he repeated what they implied, if only for clarification.

“Izu. Kacchan?” He pointed to them, then himself again.

They motioned their head up and down again.

“You, Kacchan.”

Another word. ‘You’... it's probably referring to me as a person, or my species, okay, simple enough.

Although Ka’s’ki still didn't know what the implications of being assigned a nickname meant. (he desperately hoped it wasn't them courting him or anything like that.) He'd just have to try and keep learning their language, or alternatively, teach them Common.

After a few more kliks they gestured between themself and him. Do they wanna come closer?

Ka’s’ki wasn't the type to like physical contact, but he was still shivering and his cellmate seemed to be a mammal, and considering they weren't shivering they likely had temperature regulation… Ka’s’ki shifted in the corner, moving to the side to allow some space between him and the closest wall. His cellmate takes the invitation and makes their way over, fitting into the small space easily. While Ka’s’ki had moved to the side, his wings still took up a lot of space near the other sentient, but they didn't seem bothered by it. Now with his cellmate so close, Ka’s’ki could tell for sure they had temperature regulation. Their body was warm, even just leaning a wing against them helped. Ka’s’ki hesitantly leaned against them, testing how okay they were with physical contact. Despite being smaller, they didn't care they were getting practically crushed by him. Whatever, as long as I stop shivering…

They leaned their head against him as well, and the two relaxed. The only sound in the dark room being their breathing and the buzzing of the bars. Ka’s’ki hated to admit it, but he was glad he wasn't alone. As much as he boasted about being a loner who didn't need anybody, it was still ingrained in his dna, his very being, to yearn for packmates. Draconics were a stuck up species, but they were all loyal to someone, no matter how awful a Draconic may be, they were never truly alone. Except Ka’s’ki. He pushed the memories away, that was the last thing he'd want to be thinking about right now. Ka’s’ki let himself relax, his cellmate was probably the least dangerous thing on this entire ship if their behavior was anything to go off of. They may show their teeth a lot, but they're hardly aggressive…

So confusing…

Ka’s’ki snapped awake when the lights turned on. His body had been slowly getting used to the odd artificial day and night cycle, and he had a feeling the lights were on earlier than usual. His suspicions are confirmed when he sees four Arachid guards stood near the door. Ka’s’ki let himself growl under his breath, keeping it low enough the guards wouldn't notice it. 

Damn it… what are they here for? He glanced at his cellmate who was slowly waking, rubbing at their eyes. Something with Izu, but the question is what exactly do the Arachids want them for… I haven't gotten any info from the guards other than the fact they collect rare or strong species… Izu could be rare, considering I don't know anything about them. Are the Arachids going to sell them? Sell their body parts? Or do the traffickers need them alive? Ugh, it doesn't matter! I’m not letting the guards take them…

Beside him, Izu stood, intending to get closer to the guards for whatever reason. Ka’s’ki reached a paw up and grabbed the back of their clothing, keeping them near him. Moron, don’t get closer.

The two went back to eyeing the door, Ka’s’ki flicked his ears, trying to eavesdrop on whatever the guards were talking about.

“We need to grab it quickly! I told you we shouldn't have put it with the Draconic.”

“Ugh, I thought it would keep the food for itself and let the Draconic starve, how was I supposed to know it would be oddly passive?”

“It's too late now. We need to grab it and get this done quickly.”

As if I’ll allow them to do anything they have planned. The guards moved around, taking their places and lighting up the weapons they had with them. Their calibrative leg braces kept the harsh gravity from affecting them as they stepped into the cell. His cellmate stood as much as they could with his hand still firmly gripping their clothes while the guards gathered.

“Hand it over, this is none of your business.” The first Arachid said.

“Absolutely not. I don't care what you need them for. Go die in a ditch." He spat back at them. The cluster of Arachid’s anatennae clicked, their voices getting more shrill.

“Hand it over! You are in no position to defy us! We will use as much force as we need to, Draconic.” They said his species’ name like it was a slur, a blight on the world.

Ka’s’ki growled back. “I gave you my answer, don't think I’ll just lay around limply and let you do what you want. I will fight you.”

Ka’s’ki pushed against the gravity that constantly threatened to cave in on him, his legs trained with effort but he was able to keep himself upright. Izu looked frantically between Ka’s’ki and the guard.

A different Arachid spoke, “If that's how you wanna be… Don't say we didn't warn you.”

Ka’s’ki didn't allow the Arachids to get the first hit in, instead, he lunged for the guard closest to him and sunk his teeth into their exoskeleton. The guard yelled out and writhed, shaking side to side in an attempt to get Ka’s’ki to release his hold. The other guards surrounded the two, keeping the path to the exit blocked. One of them tried to pry Ka’s’ki’s mouth open, only to be met with his claws. 

From his peripheral, he saw the guard that was previously blocking the door charging at him with their weapon, Ka’s’ki was ready to let go of the guard and duck out of the way when Izu slammed into the charging guard, taking them both to the ground. Ka’s’ki wanted to keep an eye on his cellmate but he was in his own fight. Deciding Izu could handle themself, Ka’s’ki kept his attention on the two guards with him.

He didn't let go of the guards shoulder, determined to keep his jaws in place until he tore the flesh or the guard bled to death. It was difficult, keeping the other guard away and preventing the guard he was biting from retaliating, but with the use of his claws, wings, and tail, he was able to avoid any serious injuries. Ka’s’ki could hear an odd cracking sound behind him and hoped it was the Arachid and not Izu.

Ka’s’ki juggled fighting the three guards that surrounded him, using the guard he was still biting as a kind of hostage, while tripping the ones moving around him with his tail. Ka’s’ki was usually an honorable fighter, but if using cheap tricks meant he got to live another day, he'd use them. A guard slipped through a gap in his wings and tried to get his teeth out of the guard he was still biting, whose purple blood had pooled all over the floor, causing them to be limp.  Ka’s’ki raised his claws to digs rat h the guards’ eyes out when they suddenly fell to the ground with a crunch sound. More blood coated the cell floor as Izu stood beside him. Now with proper back up, Ka’s’ki tightened his jaw and tore off a part of the guard's shoulder, spitting the rancid flesh onto the ground as the guard fell limply. 

Now, three guards were down. One holding an arm that was certainly bent the wrong way, one of the ground holding their shoulder, and one of the ground unmoving. I hope that one's dead. Ka’s’ki had no sympathy for these Arachid, they could all be set ablaze by his flame and he'd feel no remorse.

Ka’s’ki took the moment of tranquility in the fight to catch his breath. His bones felt like they were slowly being crushed, his lungs tried to take in air but it was difficult, like there wasn't enough air in the room. A glance at Izu showed they were breathing fine, it's just the gravity affecting him…

“You disgusting reptile! And you fleshy meatbag! What have you two done?!” The last guard waved their Elctrix around, sparks crackling out from the weapon. If Ka’s’ki was physically able, he would’ve raised his head. Even if his lungs didn't have enough air, he wouldn't back down.

“It’s not my fault you're all weak! I wouldn't be in the situation if it weren't for you freaks, I hope you all suffer gruesome deaths. Get out, or die trying.” Ka’s’ki let his sharp teeth be on full display, he flexed his claws and let his wings flare out behind him as an intimidation tactic. Ka’s’ki would fight with everything he had to get these damn guards out of here.

Instead of attacking, the last guard sensibly decided to retreat. They helped the bitten guard to their feet and joined the guard with a broken arm. The three of them then dragged the unconscious—hopefully dead—guard out and locked the cell. Once Ka's'ki heard the door shut he fell to the ground, breathing even more heavily than before. His limbs struggled to support his body, threatening to fold under the weight and pressure his body was under due to the gravity. It was the tactic Ka’s’ki hated most. Upping the gravity to keep prisoners under control wasn't a commonly used tactic, since the traffickers were also affected, but the damn Arachids simply bought gear to counter it. Ka’s’ki will rejoice when the day finally comes where he rips off their gear and watches as they too succumb to the overwhelming artificial gravity on this cursed ship.

Through blurry vision, he could see Izu beside him, waving their arms around. The world sounded distant to Ka’s’ki, Izu’s clearly worried voice was barely audible despite Draconics having naturally good hearing. 

Ka’s’ki’s mind drifted in and out of consciousness, he could feel himself being half lifted up and taken back to the corner where he and Izu had slept. Ka’s’ki tried to stay awake, to reassure Izu, to make sure he could help if the guards came back, to not feel like he was dying. But it wasn't enough. Against his will his eyes slowly fell closed and his mind went silent, slipping into unconsciousness.

Chapter Text

“Izu.” … “Izu?” …

“Izuku!”

Izuku woke with a gasp, wildly looking around. Only to find Kacchan hitting his forehead with their tail. Izuku looked all around the room for any sign of danger. Everything seemed okay? No guards, lights were on again and oh. There was a tray of food by the door. He noticed the old tray they had was missing. 

Izuku looked at Kacchan and pointed to the food, “Want me to go get that?”

Kacchan responded by flicking a wing in the direction of the food and pushing him with a clawed hand.

Izuku snorted and nodded. He walked over and picked up the tray, still amazed with how low the gravity was for him. If he wasn't in a life or death situation he might just have some fun moon hopping around. He did check each end of the hall for any guards, but none were there. Despite not being in immediate danger like last time, Izuku was still on edge.

Izuku checked the food on the tray, same as before and still only one serving. That’s alright! We’ll just share again.

Izuku moved back to the corner and set the tray between them; splitting the kibble again and passing the lavender liquid to Kacchan first. They both ate their barely edible food in silence, Izuku would turn every few minutes to check the door. He knew something bad would happen. It was only a matter of what and when. Izuku has to focus to keep his hands from shaking and the food in his stomach. Throwing up due to anxiety would only make everything worse.

With the food eaten the two shared the lavender liquid, Kacchan drinking their half first and Izuku finishing the rest. The two each kept an eye on the cell door and the sliding door at the end of the hall. They kept their ears open for footsteps or talking. Izuku could swear he heard a clock ticking. Maybe the sound really was there, maybe he was hallucinating it, but it made him feel worse. Like the world was counting down to his death, he hoped he was just being dramatic or overly paranoid.

Izuku shuddered and put away the food tray and cup in his old corner and returned to Kacchan’s corner. The two waited tensely, Kacchan quite literally licking their wounds as the two waited. There was no way Izuku would be able to sleep.

He turned to Kacchan, it seemed that Izuku’s overwhelming anxiety and worry was obvious enough for even the dragon to notice. They pointed at Izuku and tilted their head, with their eyes squinted. Izuku laughed nervously, still making sure to cover his mouth as he smiled.

“I’m okay! Don't worry!” Izuku gave a thumbs up and Kacchan interpreted the gesture as a positive one, albeit hesitantly. Heh, Guess they don't quite believe me.. Not sure if i believe myself either to be honest..

The two stared solemnly at their prison bars, they'd have to wait and see if they were going to be punished for fighting.

It was another few hours when more guards arrived. Around 14 this time and all armed with electrified batons. Izuku reached for his own and gripped it tightly. Should we even fight this time? We’re outnumbered by 12… I’m not sure we can get out of this one.

Two of the guards walked in and quickly grabbed Kacchan’s arm, they thrashed, pulling their arm back and trying to stand. With that simple action all hell broke loose. 

The rest of the guards hurried over all attempting to hold down the dragons flailing limbs. A couple of guards walked towards Izuku as well, grabbing his wrists and attempting to drag him towards the door. Four of the guards had left the room for whatever reason, leaving ten to try and get Izuku and Kacchan under control.

Izuku turned his attention to the guards grabbing him. Should I fight back?? I don't know! I don't.. He looked towards Kacchan, their mouth was already covered in one of the guards thick viscous blood. Guess we’re fighting then!

Izuku closed his eyes and bit the guard holding his arm, the warm thick blood flowed into his mouth, a trail of it ran down his chin and dripped onto the floor. Izuku quickly spat out as much as he could. It tasted vaguely like black licorice. Izuku regretted having taste buds.

The guards, of course, retaliated; tackling Izuku to the ground and pushing his arms behind his back. Izuku’s head hit the ground with a thud, the weapon he held so tightly fell to the ground with a barely audible clunk. It didn't stop him though, he still attempted to kick at the remaining guards, he thought he heard a crack but it was hard to tell with the overwhelming sound of screaming and fighting from everyone in the room.

There was a nasty shriveled segmented hand near Izuku’s face and without thinking about it, he bit down. The snap that rang out was painfully audible, ringing in Izuku’s ears. His bite was powerful enough to sever the three fingers it had on its hand.

Izuku gagged and frantically shook his head to get the severed fingers out of his mouth. Izuku nearly threw up at the sight of the chewed appendages on the floor.

Izuku’s head was pushed to the ground again, he could feel blood pooling near his temple. Someone grabbed his hair and pulled his head back, someone else slapped a contraption over his mouth, locking his jaw in place. Izuku tried to scream and yell but it came out muffled, barely audible even to the guards beside him.

His arms were similarly restrained, painfully stretched behind his back with straps not only wrapping around his hands and arm but also his entire torso.

Izuku figured this is what straitjackets felt like and immediately felt sorry for anyone who'd been in one. The guards wrapped their clawed hands around his arms again and hoisted him up. Izuku being smaller than the aliens made that task embarrassingly easy.

Izuku felt light-headed. He wasn't sure if it was because of the concussion he probably had or because he shifted from head on the ground to a couple feet off the ground within a matter of seconds; either way he was now incredibly dizzy and the room spun around him. Don't throw up, don't throw up, don't throw up!

He looked towards Kacchan, they too were restrained like Izuku. A muzzle around their snout and straps lining their arms and torso. From the look of it, they were teetering on unconsciousness. If simply walking tires them to the point of short breath he can't imagine what all this fighting feels like for them.

Kacchan mumbled words through their muzzle and the guards spoke with them for a few minutes. Kacchan huffed air from their nose and growled. They looked at Izuku, their expression looked so.. defeated. Izuku couldn't help but give a similar look to them as well, his head and arms ached with pain. With Izuku and Kacchan now properly restrained the guards laughed smugly. Izuku’s face contorted into a snarl without him realizing. They're actually laughing at us? Really?

Izuku didn't feel angry often but right now he could confidently say he felt pissed. He glared at the guards through his hair. It wouldn't do anything, but he'd like to make his anger known. Pathetic fucks.

The guards ordered Kacchan around. Making them stand and follow the guards out, Izuku instead was lifted off the ground. They’re going to separate us…

The guards carried Izuku through the cell door, Izuku could see Kacchan heading down the left end of the hall, unfortunately Izuku was being led down the right.

He sighed internally, I hope we both make it back alive.. Please be okay, Kacchan.

Izuku kept his eyes peeled as they carried him, trying to memorize the path they were going down. It'd come in handy for any future escape attempts. Although with how frantic his mind was he wasn't sure if he was actually taking in the area around him.

They'd gone down multiple halls and through many doors making it difficult to keep track of directions. Still, Izuku thought he had a pretty good memory. He may not be able to remember it step for step but he should be able to get the general direction right.

The guards stopped at a door and held a keycard to a screen beside the door. The heavy metal pulled apart with a low hiss and the guards carried him inside. Izuku could hear his heartbeat in his ears, he couldn't get a full breath in and the muzzle only made the suffocating feeling worse.

The room was a dark grey color overall, from the walls to the floor to the ceiling. It felt like an abandoned hospital. There was a metal operating table in the center of the room with what looked like a furnace, or a more high tech version of it, on the left side. An orange-yellow flame flickered from inside giving the room an eerie glow. There were a multitude of tools and coils of metal wire near the machine.

Izuku wasn't sure if his heart actually stopped but it felt like it. Horrible ideas flooded his brain. Torture. I-i'm gonna get tortured! They’re gonna kill me here. A metal slab is my deathbed…oh god…

Izuku’s breath was so quickened he could hardly get any air at all, even when he did it was cold, it stung his throat and lungs with every inhale.

The guards dragged him closer to the operating table.

Izuku sobbed and wailed and did everything he could to stay away from it. He dug his heels into the floor, made himself go limp, flailed his body in any way he could to try and wiggle out of the guards grasp.

None of it stopped the guards of course.

They picked him up and dropped him on the operating table, His hands behind his back twisted with the pressure. He tried to roll off the table but he was caught and placed back on it before he could even blink.

He writhed as the guards strapped him down to the table, they'd taken his arms out of his restraints to place them at his sides. 

The short relief he felt didn't last as his feet, legs, and throat were strapped down right after.

They held his head down and turned it so his right cheek was flush with the metal, it was cold and harsh against his skin. With his head restrained they took the muzzle off. Red lines from where the metal dug until his skin were visible.

The guards were careful to avoid his mouth, as they tightened and checked his restraints.

Izuku whispered out pleas that fell on deaf ears. Every ‘Sorry.’ every ‘Please.’ every ‘Help me.’ went unheard.

Izuku’s chest heaved up and down, his clothes chafing against the leather straps around his body. His gaze flicked around the room, the aliens all stood around the furnace. Metal clanking together was the only sound other than Izuku's increasingly panicked breaths.

The next few minutes were hazy, Izuku could see the guards work near the furnace eventually they turned around. A thin piece of metal had been shaped into a symbol Izuku couldn't decipher. It was a circle with a line through the middle, a triangle in each half of the circle. The end of the metal was glowing yellow, heat radiating off of it.

***

Izuku squirmed and writhed in his bindings as the guard walked closer. Izuku's heartbeat reverberated in his ears. The sound of his breaths felt far away and muffled. He strained against his binding, twisting his body in any direction possible as the heat of the metal grew closer and closer. He tried, and tried, and tried, to no avail. He nearly went limp.

Realizing that he wouldn't be able to get out of this, Izuku closed his eyes, clenched his jaw, and balled his fists until he could feel his nails dig into his palms. His nails teared into his skin. The heat was closer.

The guard brought the glowing hot metal to his face, pressing it into his left cheek.

His flesh burned and sizzled with pain, the shape of the metal being permanently ingrained into his skin. Izuku couldn't keep down the scream that erupted from his throat. He desperately tried to move his head away but more segmented alien hands held him in place.

The metal felt too hot and at the same time too cold against his flesh. He swore he could feel the heat from the inside of his cheek. The scent of burned flesh wafted through the room as smoke rose from his injury. Izuku gagged at the smell. He felt like throwing up. His chest heaved up and down against the restraints. His vision was dizzy, it was hard to breathe, he could only feel the pain in his cheek as blood slid down the curves of his face and dripped down the cold metal slab. The rhythmic drip, drip, drip, overwhelmed Izuku's ears.

Izuku’s vision started to fade, he could feel blood in his hands from where he’d dug his nails in them. He tried desperately to keep himself awake and present, but he couldn't. With his concussion and the various bruises from his fight he lost himself sleep. His eyes drooped close and he fell into a fitful sleep.

Izuku groaned. What happened? Where am I again..? He slowly opened an eye, the room he was in was dark. Izuku’s brain felt foggy, like his mind was somewhere else entirely.

His mind slurred, begging to go back to sleep but he felt something poking his shoulder. Izuku shifted away from it when pain shot over his entire body. 

Izuku shot up, one hand to his cheek (which strangely felt like metal) and one hand to his chest. His face scrunched with pain as he remembered exactly what happened.

Izuku slowly opened his eyes, worried he'd still be surrounded by guards only to meet the face of Kacchan in the dim cell room. Izuku gasped and went to say their name but his voice was muffled.

Izuku brought a hand to his face, the muzzle was on again. That explained why he felt metal then. Izuku sighed. He didn't remember where the pain on his chest came from though..

Izuku looked down, the top of his gakuran was gone, both the under and over shirt, instead his chest was wrapped in bandages. Izuku didn't have the guts to peel the bandages away and find out what happened. He could only assume it was a second branding. Izuku focused on his breathing. Don't panic... don't panic. It's okay, Kacchan's fine. I'm fine... breathe. Breathe.

He looked back at Kacchan. They had a muzzle and bandages covering them too. Seeing Izuku awake seemed to have calmed Kacchan, they huffed smoke through their muzzle slowly and leaned against Izuku. Gently, as to not irritate Izuku’s wounds.

Izuku brought his knees to his chest and leaned into Kacchan. Izuku finally had time to think, time to breathe. He took a few deep breaths in. His hands were still a little shaky.

He put a hand to his injured cheek, he couldn't feel the wound through the muzzle but he still felt the pain under his skin.

He looked towards Kacchan's bandages. Their bandages were around the same area as Izuku’s. The two likely got similar.. brandings. The word felt heavy in his mind. They’d been branded.

He put a hand to his chest. He wasn't awake for this one, but he could almost imagine the pain. The intrusive image of his chest being burned flooded his brain. 

He kept his palm on his chest and closed his eyes. His body ached with every breath.

He buried his head into Kacchan’s side. Izuku needed to prepare himself for whatever would happen next. It'd be bad but.. he’d survive. He had to, for his mom, to get back home. 

Izuku cried silently as he fell asleep leaning against Kacchan that night.

A clang at the door woke Izuku from a nightmare. He and Kacchan looked at the cell door where guards loitered around waiting for them. Izuku snapped to lucidity. What?? Why are they back already? The lights were still off so Izuku couldn't see anything other than the guards' vague figures.

Kacchan growled and stood, Izuku followed. The two walked towards the door, this time accepting what was to come instead of fighting. If they did fight they'd likely just be electrocuted or drugged into compliance. The guards were quick to grab their arms again. Like last time, the two were led down opposite ends of the hall.

Izuku tried to calm his breaths. Why were they taking us again? Was branding us not enough? Izuku dragged his feet as he walked, encircled by the guards on all sides. They were leading him down a different path than last time, they weren't going to the branding room again.

They walked for a while, through the occasional locked door. Eventually the smooth light grey metal walls and floors changed to a grungy, worn down concrete. The harsh texture scraped at Izuku’s bare feet. The hallway was dark, a few overhead lights flickered as they walked. Now this feels like a walk of death…

They arrived at large metal doors, they creaked open and the guards shoved him inside. Two guards followed him in while the rest stood outside. The two guards removed his muzzle and pushed him farther into the room. The room was completely empty with only a set of double doors on the opposite wall. The guards dragged him and opened the double doors. Izuku struggled of course but the guards simply threw him into the next room.

Izuku rolled across sand, he quickly stood nearly tripping over the sand beneath his feet. He stood, the area he was in was circular, walls spanned high above his head. 

Izuku hadn't realized it over the ringing of his ears but there was shouting all around. He looked up, there were what looked like hundreds of aliens of all shapes and sizes sitting in stands above the arena. They were all shouting and cheering as Izuku spun to look at all the beings looming above him.

There was a booth above the rows of aliens, something that resembled a bipedal octopus made of glass sat in it, a microphone-like device in front of its face. It was speaking quickly and the aliens sitting in rows lowered their voices to allow it to speak. It was clearly announcing something.

Izuku took a deep breath and closed his eyes, pushing his palms into his eyes.

Oh god… This— This is a fighting ring!

He opened his eyes and looked across from where he stood. There was a quadrupedal creature standing near the opposite door. It looked like a mix between a wolf and a deer, its long shaggy fur being a vibrant red with gradients of bright yellow mixed into it. Long sharp tusks poked from the rest of its shark-sharp teeth. It had large round eyes with slit pupils and blood red irises. Incredibly long ears sat atop its head, and a long tail that swished side to side behind it.

It looked starved and ready to kill.

It held its body low to the ground ready to pounce. Izuku held a hand over his mouth. 

I-I have to fight t-that thing?!

The creature lunged towards Izuku as the crowds cheered…

Chapter Text

Izuku drew in a sharp breath, the creature lunged for him, jumping in the air to tackle him. As its form grew closer Izuku jumped to the side, even with Izuku being more resistant to the gravity its tusk still nicked his side as he did. Izuku rolled through the sand but quickly got to his hands and knees, he turned back to look at the wolf-deer.

It was growling, slobber dribbled down its chin as dozens of razor sharp teeth clacked as a warning. Izuku was backing up towards the wall when It pounced again, Izuku dodged to the left. It stabbed his claws into Izuku’s ankle, he gritted his teeth to prevent a scream. He turned his body so his back was on the sand, he kicked its jaw as hard as he could with his free leg and its claws finally dislodged from his ankle.

The animal regained its focus and went for him again, Izuku rolled across the arena. He could hear cheers from the crowd above, and even some chanting.

The announcer's voice rang out as the animal got a mouthful of sand, biting where Izuku’s body had just been before he rolled. Izuku stood to his feet, sprinting away from it as fast as he could with his injured foot, kicking up sand with every step. Izuku couldn't get a full breath in, every time he tried to inhale it escaped him nearly immediately. 

The creature gave chase, hot on his heels as he ran. How the hell am I supposed to defeat this thing??

The wolf-deer tackled him to the ground. Izuku landed on his back, the creature's claws dug into his stomach. The flesh tested and blood poured out, tainting the sand beneath him. The creature's mouth went for his throat, Izuku threw his right arm above him, letting out a scream as its sharp teeth pierced his skin and bone. Blood and drool splattered onto Izuku’s face. He looked up through the blood only to be met with dozens of razor sharp teeth latched around his arm. His legs flailed uselessly under him.

Izuku could hear the cracking and see through the dusted up sand and blood as his arm began to crumple and break under the animal's bite force. His lower arm bending it ways it definitely shouldn't be. Desperately, Izuku grabbed one of the creature's long tusks and pulled on it. He didn't have a weapon but maybe, he could use its tusk as one.

It was a mess of fangs and blood, the wolf-deer shaking its head back and forth tearing chunks of flesh off of Izuku’s arm before viciously biting down again. Izuku tried to push his foot against its throat, pushing its head up and pulling its tusk down he could hear the tusk starting to break. He screamed through gritted teeth as the tusk finally gave way. Izuku’s arm hit the ground once it broke away. When the tusk broke, the animal's own head recoiled, its remaining tusk ripping a line across Izuku's head. A tear ran across his face, from just under his left eye diagonally over his right eyebrow.

The wolf-deer reared up and threw its head back, taking Izuku’s entire body with it since its jaw was still snapped around Izuku’s bloodied, mangled arm. The crowd went wild as Izuku was flung across the arena, rolling across the sand until he hit the wall. Izuku trembled up to his knees, his mangled arm limp at his side and tusk firmly gripped in the other. The creature never stopped. It kicked up dust as it ran towards Izuku. Although his sight was covered in his own blood, he braced, throwing his mangled arm up again.

The creature latched onto his arm, Izuku dug his heels into the sand, trying to hold himself in place. He gripped the broken tusk tightly in his free hand, it was still sharp enough to stab. If… If I could just—!

Izuku stood firmly in place and brought the tusk above his head and stabbed it into the neck of the wolf-deer. It pierced its skin on impact but Izuku pushed it further and further into the animal’s flesh. It pulled back instinctively, Izuku kept the tusk in his grasp as the being fell to the ground, it gurgled as blood flooded its throat. It writhed in place, growling and whining as its body started to spasm. Its body slowed then stopped moving after a few minutes, only a few twitches here and there. Its eyes were glossy, looking in no particular direction. Izuku shuddered a breath and slowly crawled away from the corpse. I actually killed it… I’m so sorry.. He brought his intact hand to his eye to stop the tears. Bright lights shone overhead, the crowd was hysterical. 

It seemed Izuku gave an impressive performance as the announcer was speaking quickly and wildly.

Izuku let the tears flow as he left the creature's body in a pool of its own pale green watery blood. He walked to the door, not looking back. He let out a breath and held onto his mangled limb. It was his right arm too.. 

As Izuku walked he tried not to put pressure on his wounds but considering he had gashes along his stomach and a claw wound through his ankle he couldn't help but agitate them. He limped closer to the door and waited for it to open.

The doors creaked open yet again and guards rushed him. They were quick to restrain and remuzzle him. Not only that, but something pierced him in his neck. A syringe?! Izuku tried to face it, to at least try and comprehend what they’d just injected into his system to no avail. The effects didn't take long either, within three minutes he was feeling lightheaded. The blood loss from his wounds definitely didn't help his mission to stay conscious.

Izuku groaned, he was laying on cold hard concrete yet again. His brain is foggy as well. Izuku felt a sickening sense of deja vu.. he went to sit upright but inhaled sharply at the pain he was in. Right… fighting ring… He sighed and relaxed his body, the floor was fine for now.

Izuku’s breath was labored and shaky. He tried to recount everything that had happened. He fought and killed the wolf-deer thing. The traffickers must've tended to his wounds since he could feel bandages over his body and couldn't feel any blood. Strangely enough there was also a bandage around the base of his neck. He didn't remember getting any injuries there? He slowly ran his left hand up only to feel metal. He checked his mouth, the muzzle was on again. What was around his neck then?

He wrapped his hand around it, surely enough… collar. Izuku is very awake now. Determined to see what had happened to him he sat up, gasping every time he accidentally twisted his torso wrong and agitated his wounds.

He sat against the wall, his back aching with the movement.

Izuku examined his body and injuries. The new one that went diagonally over his face had gauze haphazardly taped on. He felt the collar around his neck, it was a simple metal one but he couldn't feel any way to get it off. No buckle, no lock, no anything...

He looked at his torso, he could see all the bandages from before, he could feel his cheek and chest branding but there is a similar feeling on his back now as well. A third one? Why? Izuku put his hands to his head and let out a childish whine. 

Why does everything in my life have to go horribly wrong all of the time?!

Izuku stopped to take a few deep breaths, his chest and back ached with every inhale. Back to his injuries. The wounds on his stomach and ankle were carefully bandaged. His right arm is now in a sling. Izuku wasn't surprised by that but he was disappointed. Hurts like hell too..

Izuku supposed that him getting any kind of medical care was a good thing, but he still felt upset about it. He shouldn't have been hurt in the first place!

He looked up, he was in the cell again, unsurprising. Kacchan was asleep a few feet away from him. Izuku let out a sigh of relief, at least they're okay..

Izuku wanted to lay beside them but his body was in too much agony. Even breathing was painful right now. Izuku’s vision blurred and flickered. The lights were dark, he was cold, tired and in immense amounts of pain. He just wanted to sleep.

That didn't take long and soon he slipped into a nightmare filled slumber.

Izuku awoke to something or someone picking him up and shifting him around, his immediate instinct was to flail around as much as possible and get away from the threat. He rolled to the floor and groaned as pain shot all over his body. He’d somehow forgotten about the wounds. He turned his head to face his attacker..

and breathed a sigh of relief, It was just Kacchan.

They were sitting on their knees with their hands out, palms facing upwards, from where they were just holding him. Izuku started apologizing over and over. 

“S-sorry! I'm so sorry! Y-you just s-scared me, that's all..”

Izuku was confused for a second, he could hear his own voice clearly somehow. He reached a hand to his mouth, to his surprise the muzzle was gone. He looked at Kacchan, theirs was gone too! Though they had also gained a nasty collar. Izuku's happiness faded when he saw it.

Kacchan seemed to sigh, they flicked their tail side to side. Izuku didn't know dragon body language but he hoped they weren't angry with him. He chuckled nervously and moved to sit next to them again, it was a bit harder with only one hand available. “Sorry ag-gain. I’m okay n-now.” He looked up at them, they looked down at him. They definitely seemed worried which made Izuku happy. At least he's made one friend in his lifetime. 

The dragon pointed to Izuku’s bandages and spoke. Their tone sounded questioning.

“Hm? Are you asking i-if I'm okay?” Izuku wasn't sure how to communicate with such limited words.. Still, Izuku nodded and pointed to himself. 

“I, okay!” He pointed to himself then gave a thumbs up and closed smile.

“Kacchan, okay?” He pointed and tilted his head, the two had at least that gesture in common. Kacchan mimicked Izuku’s nod and thumbs up.

“I, ‘kay.” Izuku smiled, and couldn't help but show his teeth. He quickly covered it though and ushered out an apology. “Sorry! Um, I don't think you like that..”

He looked back up again and had to cover his mouth again, only this time to hold in a laugh.

Kacchan was attempting to smile but it looked more like when a dog or cat smiled.

Izuku tried desperately not to laugh but it didn't work. He burst into a fit of giggles despite his attempts. Unfortunately causing his wounds to pull and shift as well which made his laughing turn to coughing.

Kacchan, for their part, looked aggressively worried by his laughing-coughing fit. 

“Hah?! Izu ‘kay? Izu ho’kay??” Kacchan tapped Izuku on his head with a claw which only made Izuku laugh more. Clutching his stomach from the pain.

Eventually Izuku managed to get a sentence out. “Y-yeah, haha! Aha, ha, I'm- pfft I'm okay!” He held up a shaky thumbs up as his laughs settled down. Kacchan’s face was deadpan, the sight almost made Izuku burst into laughter again but this time he held it in if only to avoid the pain laughing caused.

“Um, look! Smile? Good.” He demonstrated by smiling and giving a thumbs up.

“Snarl? Bad.” He pulled the corners of his mouth down and gave a thumbs down.

Kacchan hummed with thought and mimicked Izuku’s nodding gesture. They tried to smile again but it just looked like their usual snarl, but Izuku just knowing that this ‘snarl’ was meant to be a smile made Izuku happy. He could almost forget how painful it was to breathe when he was just sitting and talking to Kacchan like this.

Izuku decided he'd teach Kacchan even more words, after all, talking would be the only mentally stimulating thing they could do in this hellhole of a cell.

“Okay, Kacchan! Listen closely, ‘cause class is in session.”

After a few hours they'd made a bit of progress. Kacchan now knew words like I, you, me, our, yours, mine, hurt, eat, drink, tired, speak, danger and directional words. Only enough for basic, flimsy conversation but progress nonetheless.

While Izuku was trying to teach Kacchan what a dragon was through bad charades, two guards arrived at their cell with another food tray. Izuku and Kacchan stayed huddled in their corner as one of the guards shoved the tray inside and pushed it to the middle of the room with its foot and left. Izuku glanced at Kacchan and went to grab the tray.

It was different this time though, instead of the weird kibble it was some kind of raw meat on a plate. Izuku cringed, he was just getting used to the kibble. Why did they change it?

Nevertheless, Izuku balanced the tray on one hand and walked on his knees over to the corner, Kacchan seemed happy with the food change at least. Try as he might, Izuku couldn't feel the same enthusiasm as the dragon. The meat still had blood oozing from it, not to mention the fact it's literally raw… No way it's safe for me to eat, right?

He decided he'd drink his half of the lavender liquid first since he knew it was safe while Kacchan ate their half of the meat slab. The sound of their chewing made Izuku even more queasy. I really have to eat that?

When they were done they held the half eaten piece out for Izuku. He squirmed. Raw, bloody, half-chewed mystery meat?

Still, he needed to eat eventually… he took the meat in his hands and brought it to his mouth. A disgusting squelching sound came from the meat as Izuku bit down, blood from the meat filled his mouth. Izuku gagged but was able to keep the food inside. He chewed agonizingly slowly and had to take a long pause before swallowing. Izuku shuddered when it went down.

Izuku placed the meat on the tray, a single small bite mark on the side of it. I can't… I just can't.

Izuku wiped his hands on his bandages, and wiped his tongue with his hands to try and rid his mouth of the taste. Though without anything to wash it down Izuku had to just suffer through it. Izuku decided he'd sleep the hunger off as much as he could and laid on his side. 

“Izu, ‘kay?” Kacchan tapped Izuku’s stomach with a claw. Izuku looked down and laughed a bit.

“I'll be okay! I just really don't wanna eat that.” Izuku pointed to the meat and put his thumb down. Kacchan seems to understand at least so Izuku made himself comfortable on the floor and closed his eyes.

There was a bit of shuffling around him, probably just Kacchan putting everything back on the tray and setting it aside. Right as Izuku started to feel tired to actually sleep he felt something grab around his stomach. Izuku opened his eyes and looked at Kacchan. 

“Huh? W-what is it?” For a second Izuku worried his wounds had started to bleed again or something similar but when he looked at the bandages they were the same as before. Izuku was about to ask another question when Kacchan lifted Izuku up, holding him up by his armpits. 

Izuku blinked in surprise and wiggled in their grip. “Huh? Kacchan!”

Kacchan set him down in the corner beside them. Oh, guess they didn't like that I was sleeping a bit farther away then? Izuku shrugged and made himself comfortable again, leaning against the dragon's wing. Izuku closed his eyes again, sleep came quicker this time and soon Izuku was in a dreamless, and thankfully nightmare-less, sleep.

Izuku woke a few hours-ish later and immediately noticed he felt awful. Izuku could blame multiple things as to why that is, but right now, specifically, his stomach hurts. This is why I didn't want to eat raw meat!

Izuku was covered in a cold sweat from head to toe. He felt like he was going to throw up- No, he knew he was going to. So Izuku sat up from his spot beside Kacchan, who flicked an ear when he stood. The lighter gravity that usually made walking a bit more fun now only made him nauseous as he begged his body to return to solid ground.

*** 

He found his way to the bathroom area. Izuku wobbled over to the literal hole in the ground and emptied his stomach, retching to get the raw meat and blood out of his system. His entire body was in pain, from the raw meat making his stomach upset to his wounds from the fight rings to the sheer exhaustion that came with the situation he was in. The only thing Izuku could do was get the meat out of his stomach and wait for his wounds to heal, so that's what he did.

It took a good ten or twenty minutes but eventually his stomach didn't feel like it was eating itself from the inside out. Izuku wiped the leftover bile and blood from his chin and heaved. His mouth tasted utterly disgusting. Raw meat, blood, and vomit was an abhorrent combination. Izuku really wished he could have even just a single drop of water at this moment. Instead Izuku did his best to simply spit it all out.

With his stomach emptied he pressed a button beside the hole in the ground and waited as it was disposed of. Izuku felt better, not really physically, but mentally. He's just glad he doesn't have the meat in his system anymore. He would not be touching that stuff ever again.

***

Izuku stood on wobbly legs, internally cursing as he floated against his will. When he turned to leave he saw Kacchan hunched in the doorway looking concerned. Izuku groaned and waved before wobbly walking over to them. They tilted their head and led Izuku back to the corner. 

“Izu ‘kay?” Their voice was skeptical, and Izuku didn't bother lying. He shook his head and gave a thumbs down. Kacchan set him on the ground and Izuku curled into a ball wiping sweat from his brow as Kacchan sat beside him.

Even though Izuku threw up, he really didn't feel any better than he did before. His stomach still hurt and he was still in a cold sweat. Whatever, i jus’ wanna sleep…

So Izuku focused on shutting his mind off and returning to the dreamless sleep he craved.

Izuku awoke, and didn't feel any better. He'd hoped getting it out of his system and sleeping would do the trick but guess not. He could tell the lights were on now and purposefully kept his eyes closed. He didn't want to add a headache to his list of ‘reasons why I don't feel so good’.

Izuku could never have peace though because Kacchan was speaking very loudly nearby. Izuku creaked open an eye just to peek, if they were speaking to a guard like that he'd try and stop them to prevent punishment. Except it wasn't a guard it was… who is that?

Izuku sat up despite his body's complaints and looked at the cell across from theirs. There were two new occupants. What looked like a black panther and a yellow bird sat near the bars of their cell. 

Izuku wanted to feel interested, Kacchan certainly was, but his body wasn't up for it. So he laid back down instead, carefully avoiding laying on his mangled arm. He still kept his eyes open, just watching the two new aliens talk with Kacchan. He couldn't understand it, and there was no way he could speak it with the sounds they were making, but he could at least pay attention anyway.

Kacchan stopped for a moment and turned back to him, they crawled towards him and made a grabbing motion. Izuku felt too sick to care so he shrugged and nodded. Kacchan slinked one arm under Izuku’s armpit and across his chest. Izuku just stayed limp in their grasp, though the movement gave him a headache he'd figured he'd have gotten a headache even if he did stay curled up on the floor.

Kacchan sat on the floor and placed Izuku in front of them as they continued their conversation with the two newcomers.

Izuku closed his eyes, he didn't want to deal with this right now, maybe when he was feeling better..

Chapter Text

Ka’s’ki was dragged down the hall back towards his and Izu’s cell. He’d gotten brought to a filthy operating room and given a third branding on his back and a metal collar around his neck. The guards had taken some of his blood as well which added to his nauseousness. He would've known the reason if the traffickers spoke in common but they strictly spoke in their native language around Ka’s’ki which only infuriated more. He was barely strong enough to stand though, let alone continue to fight back so he begrudgingly allowed himself to be thrown around. The guards tossed him in the cell again and left.

Ka’s’ki looked around the room for Izu, but they weren't there. His ears and wings dropped with disappointment. He hoped they were alive at the very least. 

He shifted in the dark, Ka’s’ki didn't have anything else so he laid on the floor to sleep, hoping Izuku would return by the time he woke up.

When Ka’s’ki returned to consciousness he blocked the light from his eyes. At least he could see again. Though he felt the night cycle was shorter compared to before. 

He looked over and was happy to find Izuku in the room as well. Ka’s’ki shakily rose to his feet and walked over to the smaller sentient. Ka’s’ki cringed, they had a ton of new injuries. Their arm, now in a sling, looked like it's been through a shredder with how much blood coated the bandages. One of their ankles and their stomach was also covered in bandages. They had a slew of thin bandages trailing across their face as well and Ka’s’ki couldn't even guess how they got that one.

They were laying on the ground oddly, No way that's comfortable. Ka’s’ki moved his arms under them to pick them up, only for them to wake up and start flailing around frantically, falling out of Ka’s’ki’s grip. He tried to grab them before they hit the ground again, but his own injuries and the gravity made him too slow, they landed on the floor with a thud.

Izu groaned and looked up at him, Kacchan still had his arms out and Izuku stared at him for a bit then spoke. He didn't know what it was, but they said something like “S’ry” a lot. After they spoke, they reached their uninjured hand to their mouth. Guess they didn't know their muzzles were off yet since they also looked at him with surprise.

Ka’s’ki sighed and flicked his tail. Izu’s species is so odd. Not that I'd say that to them though.. It’s just weird, it must've been only 2 or 3 solar cycles yet they treat me like we’re packmates. Must be an odd quirk of their species.

Ka’s’ki decided he'd follow that train of thought for a bit. Does Izu consider us pack? They certainly act like it with all their worrying, not to mention fighting alongside him when he attacked the guards. For Draconics fighting by each other’s side is a show of camaraderie. Still, they couldn't have pack-bonded that quickly… whatever. He huffed smoke from his nose. If it means they'll take me with them if they manage to escape then I'll take it.

He flicked his tail and returned to the present. Guess their species is just weird and complicated by default.

He returned to sit against the wall and Izu followed, still saying the s’ry word. Ka’s’ki might as well ask if they're okay. So he pointed, tilted his head and asked;

“Are you doing alright? Those look pretty bad..” 

They answered with a “‘kay” sound and paired with a gesture, they put down four of their fingers and left the last one pointed to the ceiling. Pointing to themself they repeat the word again. They were baring their teeth as usual but Ka’s’ki figured out it was just a *thing* their species did and didn't actually mean anything negative.

They pointed at him and repeated the word as a question. Ka's'ki mimicked the head bob thing he'd seen them do and also mimicked their gesture. That made them happy at least.

They bared their teeth again, only a little wider than usual. Ka’s’ki tilted his head at the slight change. Izu placed their hand over their mouth to cover their teeth. Is baring their teeth so common they don't even realize they do it? Yet again, Izu said “S’ry”. Ka’s’ki tried to figure out what it meant, likely an apology or some form of manners if he had to guess.

So far, Izu was happy with Ka’s’ki’s mimicking so he tried to mimic their non-aggressive teeth baring. It looked like his usual snarling except the corners of his mouth tipped up instead of down. He thought he did a good job though and was surprised when Izu made an odd huffing-choking sound. What the hell??? Why are they choking?

He leaned closer to them as they hunched over on themself, gripping their stomach. What is wrong with them? Are they... laughing? “Hah?! Izu ‘kay? Izu ho’kay??” 

They stayed shaking uncontrollably on the floor. Ka’s’ki sat beside them very, very confused. All I did was copy what they did. Damn thing doesn't make any sense...

They shakily leaned against the wall again and put up a thumbs up, saying they were okay. Ka’s’ki’s face was deadpan, he did *not* believe that.

Still, they're coughing-choking noises stopped and they seemed alive enough..

They straightened themself as much as they could with their injuries and turned to face him. They demonstrated their passive teeth baring and put their thumb up. They did it again but they brought the corners of their mouth down and put their thumb down as well. Ka’s’ki hummed. I think I get it. When their mouth is pointed up it's passive, but when it's pointed down is when it's aggressive. Ka’s’ki felt a bit of pride at understanding his ally's species even a little more. He should try and teach them about Draconics sometime. He mimicked their passive-teeth again and they seemed happy by it even if Ka’s’ki knew he couldn't get it exactly right.

Suddenly, Izu spoke again, and Ka’s’ki had no idea he was about to be taught words like he was a kindergarten student.

Ka’s’ki learned a ton of new words, mostly by relating them to previous words or weird interpretive charades. He was able to have a conversation with Izu that now sort of made sense. Even if he had the vocabulary of a human two year old he was proud of his progress. Right now Izu was trying to teach him about some dead animal, or that's what Ka’s’ki assumes is what they were trying to communicate, It's very difficult for him to tell.

While he was understanding one out of every five words Izuku said he heard steps down the hall. He flicked his ear and looked down it, Izu did the same a few seconds later (minus the ear flicking) 

The guards arrived at their door with the food cart. They did the usual routine of staying in place while the guards pushed the tray in and left in a hurry. He glanced at Izu who stood to drag the tray over. Their face scrunched up when they saw it, now he was curious.

They brought the tray over and Ka’s’ki beamed. On the tray was a slab of Kier’tav meat. His tail subconsciously shifted from side to side. Finally, real food!

Izu set the tray between them and grabbed the pure-form first so Ka’s’ki happily grabbed the meat and chewed his half. Kier’tav is a common galactic meal for carnivores and omnivores so he’s had it plenty of times before. Even if it was raw and still a bit bloody it had way more nutrients in it than those pitiful pellets and actually tasted like something other than the ground. While he ate, Izu looked at him with an oddly squished face. Hm? Do they want their half? He licked his teeth and passed the rest of the food over to Izu and went to drink his half of the pure-form.

Izu spent a long while looking at the Kier’tav meat. Ka’s’ki drank his pure-form and tilted his head. Guess they’ve never had it before? Now that I think of it, I’m not sure if they've ever interacted with another sentient species. I don't know their species or where they came from. Maybe that's why the traffickers took them, ‘cause they're exotic? Fucking pathetic traffickers.

Ka’s’ki set his empty cup down and watched as Izu took a bite of the meat, chewed it very slowly then paused before swallowing. Their eyes were closed and the fur above their eyes scrunched closer together. *They don't like it?*

They placed the meat back on the tray, a single small bite in the side. They wiped their hand on their bandages and wiped their tongue with their hand. Did it really taste that bad to them? Not impossible, I'm not even sure if they're a carnivore or omnivore. They left their hand over their mouth and shuddered. They turned to lay down on the floor. Ka’s’ki tapped their stomach. “Izu ‘kay?” They looked at where he tapped them and made that coughing-huffing noise again and spoke.

“I’-- – okay! I —- —--- don’t —-- eat that.” They pointed a thumbs down at the half uneaten meat. So they actually don’t wanna eat it. Ka’s’ki didn't understand but whatever, they could be a herbivore with how flat their teeth are. 

They laid back down and closed their eyes. Ka’s’ki hoped the meat wasn't toxic to them and they just really didn't like how it tasted. They laid on the floor an arms length away. Ka’s’ki was mildly upset by this. They usually stuck pretty close to me after the first night. Why the change? Ka’s’ki wasn't having it, currently Izu was acting as a wonderful heat lamp. He crawled over and grabbed Izu, careful not to put pressure on their wounds as he did. When he did, they flinched and looked over at him. “Huh? W-what – –?” they looked down at their bandages then back to him.

He shifted back to the wall and set them beside him. It was worth it to have them closer even if they were just a glorified heater to keep him from shivering. They didn't mind though, they closed their eyes again and let out a breath. Ka’s’ki did the same and the two began to fall asleep.

Ka’s’ki flicked an ear and waked as he heard footsteps, they were too close and too light to be a guard’s footsteps so he figured Izu was up and walking around. Ka’s’ki peeked an eye open to see the lights off and Izu heading to the waste disposal area. He closed his eyes again to try and return to sleep in the quiet of the cell. The quiet was immediately broken by some retching or gagging sound. Ka’s’ki sat more upright and looked to where Izu had gone. Are they sick..? He pushed against the gravity to stand up and walked over, they were still making the sound along with a coughing fit every klik. 

He stepped closer and leaned against the doorway, they were hunched over a hole in the ground emptying their stomach. Ka’s’ki cringed at the sight. Was the meat actually toxic? They must not be able to digest meat.

Ka’s’ki stood and waited for them, it took a while but the retching and coughing finally calmed down. They stood and walked towards him, their resistance to the ship's gravity seemed to be making them more nauseous than anything. He grabbed onto their arm to make sure they kept their feet on the floor. He let them back to their corner. “Izu ‘kay?” He wouldn't believe them if they said yes but figured he'd ask anyway.

They gave a thumbs down and the two sat back down the cold floor. They curled into a ball against his side. This seems like a very big reaction.. better not be lethal or I’ll kill those Arachids two times over.

He wiped a bit of liquid from their face, where did this even come from, their skin? Ka’s’ki chalked it up to Izu’s species being weird again and closed his eyes. Even while he started falling asleep again he kept an ear focused just in case they went to empty their stomach again.

Ka’s’ki slowly awoke to the sound of talking. Strange. He opened his eyes and looked around the room, the lights were on again which surprised him. Usually the night cycle lasts much longer. He felt Izu still sleeping beside him, their breathing was a little shaky but they were still alive so Ka’s’ki turned his attention to where he heard people talking.

He looked to the cell across from them and gaped. Mr. A’zawa?? And Yam’da? Ka’s’ki snapped to attention. He carefully shifted away from Izu and towards the bars. The two adults were talking in the corner, their backs facing him. Ka’s’ki looked down each end of the hall, no guards were present. He breathed a sigh of relief and whisper-shouted to the two.

“Mr. A’zawa! Mr. Yam’da! What are you two doing here?” Did they get kidnapped too…?

The two turned to face him, Yam’da was the first to speak. “Little listener! Glad you're up now, we were so worried!” He flapped his wings anxiously. A’zawa walked closer to the bars and Yam’da followed.

“It's good to see you cub, though of course I wish the circumstances were different..” He ran a paw down his face while Yam’da patted his back.

A’zawa continued, “More importantly, how are you? You look way too skinny.”

Ka’s’ki groaned, he knew he was always near starving but to hear his own teacher say it somehow made it worse. 

“Ugh, they didn't give me anything for five solar cycles, but once I got a cellmate the guards brought food for them and we’ve been sharing the food.” The surprised look on his teacher's faces made him flick his tail in irritation. Is it really so surprising that I'm capable of sharing? He huffed smoke in annoyance. Yam’da snickered a bit while A’zawa continued.

“As long as you're getting some sort of food. If you need more we can give you some of ours as well, all you need to do is ask.”

Ka’s’ki looked to the ground defiantly. “Tch, whatever. Anyway, seriously, why are you two here? If you tell me you came to get me I will physically fight you!” 

Yam’da responded with a laugh. “Then I guess you won't be too happy to know that's the reason we’re here. You know we can't just let a student get kidnapped.” Yam’da shifted from foot to foot as he spoke.

“That is why we’re here, but it's not an official mission. We still have to do everything ourselves. Nezu tried to get HPSC to help but, you know how they are. Now, what of your… cellmate?”

Ka’s’ki looked back at where Izu was laying, they were drowsily sitting up now. They didn't come over like Ka’s’ki had expected though, they laid back down instead. They must still feel sick.

He crawled over to them, A’zawa and Yam’da voicing their complaints.

“Uhh.. little listener! You really shouldn't go near that!”

“‘Zashi is right, you need to leave it there.”

Ka’s’ki made grabby hands in front of Izu, they responded with a weird shoulder movement then nodded. Ka’s’ki wrapped an arm around them and lifted them up.

“Ka’s’ki! Don't grab it!” Yam’da stood to his full height and ruffled his feathers. A’zawa meanwhile kept all four eyes on the small being. “Ka’s’ki, do you know what exactly that is?”

He shakily walked closer to the bars and placed his cellmate in front of them, they were still limp which worried Ka’s’ki but again, as long as they were breathing there wasn't much else he could do for them.

“If you're asking if I know their species then no, but they've been fine around me. I really don't think they’re that dangerous.” Izu closed their eyes again though clearly listening to the three talk.

A’zawa sighed in frustration, a common side effect of working with children, and explained. 

“That is a Terran in your arms Ka’s’ki.” 

…

“Hah?” Ka’s’ki looked to being limp in his arms. Terrans were more of a legend or folklore rather than a tangible sentient race. There were horror stories of early scouting ships never returning with only a distress signal being proof the ship ever went there at all. Terrans were said to be dangerous, borderline feral beasts. Izu was… definitely not that. Though, I guess they were pretty vicious when they fought the guards. He went through his memories, various moments of Izu easily breaking the Arachids limbs, biting through entire fingers, and tackling even enemies bigger than them to the floor. Them being a terran made slightly more sense. He still couldn’t see ‘vicious beast’ when he looked at Izu though.

“Are you.. sure?” Yam’da squaked at that. “Wha— Yes we’re sure! While the public knows next to nothing about them, a lot of U.A staff do, and the HPSC too.” He held a wing over his beak in thought. A’zawa spoke again. “Has it injured you in any way? Although we can recognize the species we don't have much info on their temperate or psychology, only the known aggressive behaviors Terrans are known for.”

Ka’s’ki let Izu sink to the floor and lay down, might as well let them sleep. Ka’s’ki answered his teacher's question with a shake of his head before realizing that was a Terran specific thing and responded vocally. 

“Nah, they haven't hurt me. I'm pretty sure they've pack-bonded with me actually, if they weren’t sick from the Kier’tav meat it'd be really obvious.” He laid his tail over Izu’s eyes, they groaned, pushed it off, and turned to lay on their back. A’zawa and Yam’da looked very confused by that.

 A’zawa sighed again. “That- okay. Alright, as long as it's passive I suppose. I'd really prefer if you interacted with it as little as possible though. Why did the meat make it sick? Terrans are omnivores as far as I’m aware. Why is it injured anyway, do you know?” His eyes flicked from Ka's'ki to Izu as he asked question after question. Meanwhile Yam’da laid his head on A’zawa’s shoulder to get a better look at the Terran.

Ka’s’ki’s ears flattened against his head. “They just got sick after they ate it, I dunno. For the injures, I don't know for sure but considering we’ve been kidnapped by traffickers I’d guess they were put in a fighting ring. We’ve both got brandings as well.” He pointed to the bandages covering his right cheek and covering his torso. Yam’da’s feathers seemed to droop and A’zawa tapped his tails against the floor in irritation. “What about you then, cub?” 

Ka’s’ki placed his head in his hand. “Nothing like Izu, that's their name by the way; Izuku. The guards took some of my blood and my horns, and claws too obviously. Other than that though I've been mostly untouched. I'm fairly sure they're gonna take my Solnite even though i don't have enough energy to breathe fire. Apparently they sell well…” He grumbled the last bit. He wasn't ignorant, he knew the organ that stored fuel for him to breathe fire was valuable to black markets, he wasn't sure what people ever used them for but the point was it sold for a lot regardless.

A’zawa flicked an ear in acknowledgment and Yam’da spoke this time. “Try not to worry, little listener! We’ll try and get us all out before anything like that happens.” A’zawa hummed in agreement to Yam’da’s statement.

“We’ll get the Terran out as well, especially if it actually has bonded to you. We really don't know much about their biology, they could be empathic bonders like the Precitur.” 

All the aliens turned to look at the Terran, they looked slightly better than they looked at the start of the conversation but were still clearly sick. Ka’s’ki hoped they woke up soon, if only to show off his human language skills with them. He picked them up and placed them back in their huddle corner.

For the next brax Ka’s’ki spoke about whatever came to mind with his teachers. He still wasn't hopeful about his chances to escape, but it certainly seemed more plausible. Ka’s’ki wouldn't say so out loud, but he trusted his teacher and he was glad they were there.

Maybe we'll actually be able to get out of this place.. wishful thinking i guess.

Chapter Text

Izuku shifted in his sleep, he was feeling much better than before by now. His stomach had settled and his body wasn't shivering anymore. Izuku was gonna keep sleeping but a sudden memory entered his brain that made him wake up. There were two new aliens!

He opened his eyes and sat up, he was in his and Kacchan’s corner as usual. He looked at the bars and to the cell opposite of theirs. There were two creatures inside, one looked like a bipedal panther with doubles of nearly everything. 

Four ears, four eyes, four arms, and two tails. They had black fur covering their body with red eyes that followed him like a hawk. They were wearing a black outfit with small pieces of white around the cuffs and waist. They also had white fabric wrapped around their neck, Izuku couldn't really tell if it was bandages or a scarf. 

The other one was a harpy-bird thing. They stood on two legs but when they walked it was more like a bird hopping. They were a bright yellow color that faded into darker oranges at the end of their wings and feathery tail. They had large feathers on their head that pointed up, kinda like if a cockatoo gelled its feathers up. They had two wings where their arms would've been, Izuku wondered if the lack of hands was an issue for them or if they were used to it. The outfit they had on looked like leather, their black top had a big puffed out collar, they had a red belt and baggy black pants that ended at the bend of their leg.

Izuku certainly thought they looked interesting. It was cool seeing more creatures besides the squirrel-spiders and Kacchan (not that Kacchan wasn't interesting) Speaking of Kacchan, they were still speaking with the two others. Have they been talking the entire time I was asleep? Izuku pushed against the floor with his hand and floated a few inches off the floor closer to Kacchan. They noticed and turned their head to him.

“Hi. Izu ‘kay?” Izuku nodded, “Yeah, I'm okay now!” He gave them a wide smile only to see the two being across from him tense up. The bird even hid behind the panther. Izuku slapped his hand over his mouth.

“Ah! I'm so sorry! I can't believe I keep forgetting.” Izuku didn't expect a response from anyone so he was surprised when Kacchan spoke.

“I speak.” They pointed to the panther and bird. “Izu sorry, I speak.” They pointed to two new aliens again. Uhh, Oh! I get it.. they’ll translate for me.

“Okay, and you mean to say ‘tell’. Kacchan will ‘tell’ them Izuku is sorry.” Kacchan took a second to process, then nodded and smiled. “I tell A’zawa, Izuku sorry.” 

Izuku gave a thumbs up. Kacchan spoke in their own language to the others.

The bird and panther looked confused at Kacchan's words. The bird carefully moved from behind the panther, Kacchan seemed to be teaching them about human gestures which Izuku was thankful for. Saved him the trouble.

The conversation continued and Izuku tried to listen in for any words Kacchan had taught him. Kacchan was showing them the gestures Izuku had taught them, simple things like nodding, thumbs up and down, and smiling too. The smiling seemed to worry them the most. Izuku tapped his fingers together nervously. I'll have to pay more attention to my facial expressions..

The two aliens across from him shared a look. The panther eyed him, Izuku waved in response. I think their name’s A'zawa, that's what Kacchan called them earlier anyway. I hope I didn't upset them somehow.

Kacchan shrugged as he talked, another Terran-borrowed gesture. Izuku thought it was a bit odd they were using the gestures even when not talking to him. Izuku hoped he hadn't somehow ingrained human gestures into Kacchan to the point they used them subconsciously. 

The bird tilted their head and hummed. They seemed to ask Kacchan something and A’zawa flicked an ear in agreement.

Izuku sat on the floor beside Kacchan, listening but never understanding the conversation that was happening. Eventually Kacchan turned to him and spoke.

“Izu, why hurt?” Izuku tilted his head at the question.

“Hurt? Um, which hurt?” He eyed the wounds over his body, he hurt all over. Saying ‘why hurt’ was way too vague.

They pointed to their tongue and made a ‘bleh’ sound and pointed to the bathroom area.

“Ohh. How do I explain this.. You know the word for food, right?” They nodded.

“Well, humans, I'm human by the way! Humans need food to be cooked. Hm you probably don't know that word either..” He laughed nervously. Kacchan didn't know any words relative to food or cooking, with no starting point he couldn't really explain that raw meat was bad for him.

Izuku hummed in thought, he looked at his nail on his uninjured hand, it had grown a bit past his finger and with the rough texture of the floor he figured he could draw to explain what he was trying to say. 

So he started drawing, the line that appeared on the ground was barely visible but it worked. Kacchan sat beside him and leaned their head over his shoulder to see. Izuku drew the meat he ate from before two times, side by side. He left one alone and drew a fire under the other. He drew a thumbs down above the first and a thumbs up against the second. 

“Okay, here we go. This is raw meat, I can't eat it, because it’ll hurt my stomach. Cooked meat is safe to eat, and good too! Do you get it?”

Kacchan nodded, they pointed to the fire Izuku had drawn. “What word?”

“Fire. Fire cooks food and makes it safe. I can't eat raw meat like you can.”

Kacchan nodded again.

“No cook, Izu sick? Cook, Izu ‘kay?”

“Yeah! You got it!” While his drawings weren't the best he was glad they were good enough to get the point across. 

Kacchan turned back to the other aliens and told them about what Izuku just taught them.

The three spoke for a while longer, and Izuku decided he'd draw more things to teach Kacchan. The aliens' conversation seemed to end on a sour note. Izuku frowned, he really wanted to know what was going on. Guess he’d just have to teach Kacchan more words and try to learn a bit of their language too.

Izuku went over a ton of new words with Kacchan. General words like ‘who, when, why, where, how, is, be, can, can’t, do, don’t’’ and any words that would be common in conversation and easy enough to learn and implement into conversation. Izuku thought it was amazing progress even if it looked like Kacchan’s brain was actively on fire. Kacchan taught Izuku a few words as well, he tried to replicate the sounds but whenever he did it made his throat sore through coughing fits and he could feel himself losing his voice whenever he tried to speak the alien language. For now, Izuku would just try to learn and understand it. He’d find out if he can speak it later.

In the other cell, the bird was pacing the room while the panther leaned against the wall. The guards had delivered food again, they'd changed it from the meat back to the pellets which Izuku was thankful for. He did feel bad for Kacchan though, they seemed to enjoy it before.

The four sentients sat near the bars as they spoke and ate their food. Despite the overall awful situation, the four were happy at this moment. With Kacchan being a translator Izuku was able to talk with and get to know his two new potential allies, plus it was nice to talk to Kacchan and actually know what they're saying! 

Izuku learned the two newcomers' full names, Sho’a A’zawa and ‘Zashi Yam’da. Izuku was happy to meet them but he noticed they were both kinda skittish around him, only in different ways.

A’zawa seemed more defensive, despite knowing that smiling isn't a bad thing the two still tensed every time so Izuku started covering his mouth again. A’zawa always kept their eyes on him, Izuku wasn't surprised they were cautious, but he was a little hurt. 

He was more hurt by ‘Zashi who did seem legitimately scared of him. He tried his best to reassure him but if he smiled or spoke too loudly they'd hide behind the panther and Izuku would apologize over and over. It’d take some time for the two to get used to him but he'd be patient.

The rest of the day, or what Izuku considered the day, went by slowly. The four spent the day by the electrified bars talking to each other, well, more so Kacchan and the others talking while Izuku happily listened on.

Ka’s’ki grumbled. “I don't know. You’re sure Izu’s a Terran? Like no doubt?”

A’zawa tapped his claws together impatiently. “Yes, cub, positive. They perfectly match the descriptions and images we’ve seen of Terrans. There are very few species that could even be confused for Terrans.”

Ka’s’ki grumbled even more. “But they're—” He waved a paw in Izu’s direction who just looked at him, confused. “—not very Terran-y.”

Yam’da made a cooing sound. “That's certainly true! If I remember correctly, there was documentation of more passive Terrans, it just so happened that many of them were quick to become aggressive.”

A’zawa flicked an ear. “Didn't you say they attacked the Arachids.”

Ka’s’ki huffed smoke from his nose defiantly. “Yeah, and? I attacked them too! They're our damn kidnappers, no way we’d go easy on them.”

A’zawa continued. “I’m simply saying we should still be careful, cub. What I mean… While not all Terrans are aggressive, they all have the capability of extreme levels of violence. You're lucky to be on the Terran’s side of the bars, if you were an Arachid, you'd surely see Terrans as the beasts the HPSC say they are.”

Ka’s’ki flicked his tail irritably, processing his teacher's words. That makes sense… Izu isn't scary because they’re on my side. If for some reason, I was their enemy, they’d probably be way scarier… They were able to break an Arachids exoskeleton with a kid, while under intense gravity that doesn't affect them… Actually, speaking of the gravity.

“You two aren't bothered by the gravity?” He asked, mildly pissed off. Why was he the only one being crushed constantly?

Yam’da quickly chirped out his response. “They gave us calibrative devices, see?” Yam’da used the bend of his wing to move some of the feathers around his neck to allow Ka’s’ki to see a collar, similar to his own, around his teacher’s neck. A’zawa also showed Ka’s’ki a collar, moving his fur out of the way. Ka's'ki huffed. Not mad at his teachers, but still mad. Why did they get calibrative devices but not me? My collar doesn't do shit to help with the gravity…

“You don't have one then? This is going to be more difficult than I thought…” A’zawa took to pacing around the room, likely trying to think up a way to help Ka’s’ki. Yam’da shifted closer to the bars, his feathers fluffed out in worry. “You shouldn't move much then, which means no more getting up and down to pick up the Terran.”

Ka’s’ki growled under his breath but agreed, all the walking around was really grating on his bones. He looked over at Izu, who was laying on their back looking up at the ceiling blankly. *Sucks that they can't talk with us.*

“Yam’da, A’zawa. I’m gonna try and teach Izuku Common words, just so they can at least understand us y’know.”

“Right. You do that, cub. Me and Yam’da will try and figure out how we’re all gonna get out of here.” 

Yam’da cooed in agreement and the two huddled in the back of their cell to discuss plans. Izuku noticed that the two had stepped back from the bars and looked towards Ka’s’ki with a raised eyebrow. Ka’s’ki explained with the few Terran words he knew. “A’zawa and Yam’da speak, no me or Izuku.”

Izuku sat up and faced Ka’s’ki with a closed smile and a nod. “Okay. Wanna talk?”

Ka’s’ki shook his head. Technically he did, but he intended to teach Izuku words, not just casually talk. “Izu, words. Hmm… give? I give Izu words?”

Izuku tilted his head. “Teach? You will teach Izuku?” Ka’s’ki nodded in response. That's the word, teach. “Yes. I teach Izuku Common.” He said the word common in Common, which caused Izuku to tilt his head?

“Last word?”

Ka’s’ki repeated the word in common. Izuku attempted to replicate it. “Ca’tchzer- eh, uhm? C-ca’ztech-” 

Izuku’s attempt at speaking was cut off by a coughing fit. Ka’s’ki’s ears lay flat on his head, it happened every time Izuku tried to speak Common. There were plenty of species that were physically incapable of speaking Common and relied solely on translators, but it was still upsetting to know that apparently, Terrans were one of them. After the coughing died down, Izuku looked back at him with what Ka’s’ki learned was a frown. Ka’s’ki could see A’zawa and Yam’da eyeing Izu worriedly from their spot in the cell.

“Sorry.” They said while rubbing their throat. 

“It okay. No speak just…” Ka’s’ki motioned towards his ears.

“Listen? I —— that’s what you ——.”

Ka’s’ki shrugged, he hoped that's the word he was looking for. “I speak, Izuku listen, Izuku not speak.” Izuku nodded at that. “—— I learn — ———— —– not speak. Oh uhm, — ——— — —— —. I learn, —der—and, not speak. Understand, not speak.”

“Understand?” Ka’s’ki used the context of the rest of the words to figure out what understand means. It wasn't too difficult, if someone learns, then they understand. Understanding is knowing, or something similar to it.

Izuku nodded. “Learn, understand. Get it?”

Ka’s’ki nodded. “I teach, you listen, understand, not speak.”

Izuku smiled widely. “Yeah! Okay, what —– we learn—– —–?”

Ka’s’ki grinned widely in return, he’d already decided on all the words he would teach Izuku, it was only fair given the non-stop teaching lesson they gave him before. Izu has no idea how much they're going to learn…

The lights had long since turned off, Ka’s’ki and Izuku were asleep, leaving Yam’da and A’zawa as the only two awake. They both sat near the bars, huddled close to each other as they spoke. The topic in question? The Terran. Yam’da was eyeing their sleeping form warily, Ka’s’ki and the Terran were curled up next to each other. 

“I’m just still not sure about it…”

“Me neither ‘Zashi. It seems like it and Ka’s’ki have bonded though. I hadn't expected Ka’s’ki though but considering he isn't like most of his species, I should've known it was a possibility.” He lowered his bottom set of ears and flexed his claws in and out, a gesture showing he was deep in thought.

“Would it be bad to try and separate them? We have no idea how the Terran would react, like you said they could be like Precitur.”

“Hmm… I’m doubting that. Terrans would be far less aggressive if they had empathic abilities. Well simply have to be careful around them, and really the situation as a whole.”

Yam’da’s feather fell downwards, but he knew A'zawa was right. They didn't have much of a plan to escape. Attempting to brute force or fight their way through would just earn them stricter restraints and less freedom, making escape even more difficult. Not to mention how poorly Ka's'ki was doing. Fresh wounds, starvation, and oppressive gravity with no calibrative device is a bad mix. The Terran isn't doing well either, having been thrown into the ring mere braxes before him and A’zawa were thrown into this cell.

The two teachers shared a look. Neither of them knew how, but they would escape, with everyone.

Izuku woke up to Kacchan poking his forehead and cheek. He waved the dragons clawed hand away but Kacchan continued to poke and prod, which caused Izuku to sigh and sit up. 

“Ugh, wha’ is it, Kacchan?”

A few feet away, Kacchan sat next to a tray of food. “Oh.” Izuku used his good arm to push himself and walked-slash-floated to where the dragon sat. In the opposite cell, A’zawa and Yam’da had also gotten their meals, one looked to be raw meat (Izuku suppressed a shudder at that) and the other looked like some kind of fruit or vegetable. Izuku and Kacchan got the usual single serving of kibble and lavender liquid. Izuku handed the kibble to Kacchan to eat first while Izuku drank his half of the liquid.

It didn't take long for Kacchan to start talking with his teachers again, Izuku was even able to understand a few words! It was simple stuff like, I, me, you, us, etc, but still cool in Izuku’s opinion. Once Kacchan ate his half the two swapped their cups, Kacchan quickly down the rest of the lavender liquid while Izuku slowly ate his half of the kibble.

Ka’s’ki and his teachers conversed for a few minutes before all three turned to look at him. Izuku tilted his head and looked at each. Luckily Kacchan was there to translate. “Me, A’zawa, Yam’da, teach you.”

“Oh, teach me more uh, alien words?”

Ka’s’ki gave a nod. Izuku wasn't *ecstatic* to get another teaching lesson, but he supposed it was a new day, so there was no reason not to. He'd need to take any opportunity he could to improve his communication. Its not like he'd be back on earth any time soon, better to at least be able to understand what everyone was saying even if he couldn't physically manage to speak it.

“Okay. How about we teach each other?”

“Each o’ter?”

“Each other.” Izuku pointed between everyone in the room, after a moment Ka’s’ki hummed in understanding.

“You, A’zawa and Yam’da teach me, and I will teach all of you.” 

It took a minute for Ka’s’ki to process the sentence but eventually nodded with a smile. “Yeah. All teach all?”

“Exactly!” Izuku gave a thumbs up, happy that Kacchan caught on so quickly. The dragon then explained their conversation to the other two, who also seemed to agree to the group teaching session.

It started off slowly, Kacchan or one of the teachers would say a word in… he’ll just call it Common since it seems most, or every, species could speak it, then Kacchan would use human words to describe it. Then Izuku would do the same, teach Kacchan a new word who'd then relay the word to A’zawa and Yam’da. This way, Izuku was learning an alien language while simultaneously teaching Kacchan human language, who'd then teach his teachers.

It was an odd set-up but it worked for them.

Kacchan was trying to teach him a word that Yam’da had said. “Word for… when that not.” They pointed to the light above, that was currently on. Lights out meant night, is that the word they were trying to teach him? Admittedly, their method of teaching had a lot of flaws, since misconceptions could rise easily. For now, he'd guess it's night and hope he was right.

“Night? When the lights go out, it's night. Lights on, means day.”

“Night… I think correct. Night. No light. Hmm. what word for…” Kacchan waved his paw around, thinking of how to describe it. “Light, up? Out.”

Along with the sentence Kacchan gestured with his hands. Making a circular shape and pointing upwards. A light outside and up, Izuku could only assume he was referring to a sun.

“Sun? Light in sky?” Izuku resorted to the drawing tactic again, using his finger (although he had to change which finger he was using when his pointer nail became too dull) to draw a cartoony sun and sky. 

Kacchan nodded excitedly at the drawing, pointing to the sun. “Word for this?”

“Sun. Sun, sky, cloud.” He pointed to each of the poorly drawn topics in question.

“Okay. No sun, not day, what word?”

“Night. Day, night.” Next to his ‘day’ drawing, he drew a night sky. “Moon, stars, clouds.” Again, pointing to each respectively.

Kacchan smiled. “Right!” He then turned to his teachers, who responded before turning to Izuku and saying something in Common. It sounded like they were saying worcestershire.

Kacchan repeated the Common word, then gave a translation. “Day, day, night, night.” Izuku nodded. He would've attempted to say the words, but the inflections Kacchan and the teachers used sounded like it'd hurt for him to try. The sounds they made were very guttural, Izuku didn't think he'd be able to lower his larynx as much as the language needed him to, nor be able to push his tongue that far back in his mouth. But even if he couldn't speak it, he'd show he understood.

“I get it, next word?”

And on they continued, until the lights turned off again. At the end of the group study session, Izuku could say he at least understood basic sentences in Common, A’zawa and Yam’da were also steadily learning the language, but not as fast as Kacchan was picking it up…

No matter. What was important was that communication was steadily building. Everyone took to their spots to sleep. Izuku and Kacchan in their cell corner, with A’zawa and Yam’da opposite them in their cell corner.

Izuku laid on his side, curled up beside Kacchan when it occurred to them he didn't teach them a very important phrase.

“Goodnight.”

“Hm?” Kacchan hummed.

“Goodnight, you say it when you go to sleep.”

“Goodnight… when sleep?”

“Yeah.”

“...Goodnight, Izuku.”

Izuku couldn't help but smile at the sense of normalcy he felt at being told goodnight. “Goodnight, Kacchan.” 

He would've told A’zawa and Yam’da goodnight, but he didn't want to yell across the room and started them just for that. He'd teach them what goodnight meant next time they woke up, when he'd also teach them goodmorning.

Chapter Text

Izuku woke up as the lights turned on. He'd forever hate how suddenly he got blinded whenever the ship deemed it was time to wake up. The four people in the room woke up at the same time, each in varying degrees of annoyance at the sudden light change. Kacchan was quick to stretch and move closer to the bars beside where A’zawa and Yam’da were also starting to move towards. Izuku joined them, using his resistance to the gravity to his advantage, he was able to sit next to Kacchan without putting any pressure on his injured leg. As soon as Izuku sat down he smiled at the two aliens across from him and said, “Goodmorning!” Of course, the two teachers looked to Kacchan for a translation, who then looked to Izuku for an explanation.

“Goodmorning?”

Izuku nodded. “Mhm. Morning is day, Goodmorning is opposite of goodnight.” Izuku knew Kacchan didn't know what opposite meant, but he also knew they were smart enough to figure it out using context clues. On cue, Kacchan nodded in understanding and gave a translation to their teachers. Izuku could catch a few words Kacchan said, Terran, said, word, and learn. It wasn't enough to fully understand what was said, but enough to grasp what they were talking about.

Kacchan turned to Izuku with a smile (never a good thing) and declared it was ‘learn time’. Izuku wilted at the words, he hadn't even had breakfast yet and now he was going to cram his head full of new words that sounded like if french got ran through a shredder. Oh well, better to keep learning as much as I can.

With as much enthusiasm as he could muster, which was not a lot, Izuku repeated. “Learn time.” 

For all the mental, and vocal, complaining Izuku did, it really was fun learning new words. He'd learned enough words to understand basic sentences, and right now Yam’da was doing a test of sorts.

“I sleep –– night time.” They said in Common. 

Izuku looked to Kacchan and repeated what they said in his own language. “I sleep, uh, something, night time.” 

Kacchan gave an affirmative nod and clarified what the middle word.

"I sleep at night time.”

“Oh, got it!”

Then the roles would switch, Izuku saying a phrase as A’zawa and Yam’da tried to understand and translate it. It was a better method than the previous one, since both sides were fact-checking and making sure the sentences and words said were actually accurate. With each new word each side learned, they were able to describe and learn even more. Izuku imagined this is what cram school would've felt like, non-stop new information. It was a bit overwhelming at times, and he definitely forgot a lot of words and had to be reminded of them later, but Izuku was proud he was learning a new language. No only a new language, an alien language. I wonder what mom would think of this…

The four returned to talking, no longer studying but instead talking casually. Izuku was asking what A’zawa and Yam’da’s favorite colors were when the positive atmosphere was broken. Izuku, Kacchan, and A’zawa stilled as the sound of guards' footsteps got closer. Izuku immediately fled back to his corner. They aren't planning to take me again right? I'm not even fully healed! A’zawa and Kacchan tensed while Yam’da moved to stealthily hide behind A’zawa.

When the guards came into view Izuku could see another new alien, unlike when Izuku was brought they were still awake and didn't have any restraints on. They were very short, the only alien Izuku’s seen that's smaller than him. Long wavy white hair fell around their shoulder with a horn that stuck out from the right side of their head. The horn looked like vines or tree roots twisted around each other and there was a sprout sticking out from the base of the horn as well. Floppy equine-like ears drooped from out from the sides of their unruly hair. 

They had pawed hands but equine-like hooved legs. Izuku saw a tail sticking out of their dress that ended in what looked like a flower. They were wearing a sleeveless dress with their neck, arms, and legs covered in bandages. Izuku cringed when he saw they also sported the metal collar everyone else had.

Kacchan stepped towards the back wall while the guard dragged the little alien to the cell by their arm. There’s really no need to drag them, they’re not even fighting back! His eyebrow twitched in annoyance, for maybe the second time in his life, Izuku wanted to start a fight, but with his injuries it'd only get him killed.

The little alien was placed in the cell and the guards promptly left without explanation. Everyone looked at them and A’zawa spoke to them first. The alien turned around in circles trying to look at everyone and Izuku couldn't help but snort at it. They seemed younger but Izuku hoped they weren't a little kid. Sure Izuku himself is still only 14, but what if they were younger than him? He didn't want to consider it even if it was likely.

Kacchan walked closer and leaned down to them, A’zawa, Yam’da, and Kacchan all spoke with them while Izuku limped over and sat beside them, just waiting. He tried to figure out a few of the alien words and thanks to Kacchan he knew a few. He understood they were greeting them, and asking if they were okay. Izuku wanted to add his own greeting but there were simply too many sounds in Common that his vocal chords couldn't make, and even the words he could say were basically unintelligible due to mispronunciation. So instead he waited and accepted the fact he'd have limited communication with the new alien until he learned more words or they learned his language.

The new alien turned to Izuku and pointed at him. Izuku took the chance to introduce himself. “Hi there, my name’s Izuku Midoriya, you can call me Izu if you want!” He smiled widely, all his teeth on display which was met with three faces of varying fond exasperation. He chuckled nervously and covered his mouth. The little alien pointed to themself and said their name. “Eri.”

Izuku was ecstatic at the fact they didn't seem scared by his smile. He carefully brought his hand down from his mouth and smiled again. They seemed curious, but not scared or defensive like Yam’da and A’zawa. 

“It's nice to meet you Eri.” He waved a hand and they copied the movement. They slowly inched forward and grabbed Izuku’s hand, pulling him closer to where Kacchan was. He chuckled and stood to follow them, limping over and sitting right next to Kacchan. Across from their cell Yam’da and A’zawa looked confused by Eri's action, though Izuku wouldn't know the reason why.

With introductions out of the way and their nerves settling from the guards interruption, they resumed talking. From what Izuku could gather, it was about escape plans. He heard the word “out” more times than he had before so that's what he assumed, but other than that he was in the dark regarding the plan. Kacchan tried to fill him in, confirming they were discussing escape plans, but they didn't have the vocabulary to tell him the specifics. Izuku reassured them he was happy just knowing they were talking about escape plans and that he'd follow their lead when the time came. Hopefully by then though, Izuku will be able to properly understand everyone.

After the lengthy discussion that Izuku understood barely 1% of, the lights had been turned off again bathing the room in darkness. A’zawa and Yam’da took to their usual corner, taking turns sleeping while they sat by the bars. They were telling the three to get some sleep while they'd stay awake. Izuku wanted to fight them on that but with all his injuries he was just grateful. With the long conversations over, Kacchan and Izuku returned to their own corner, bringing along their newest member.

Izuku had learned more about each of the aliens through their conversation including everyone's species, although he couldn't pronounce his species name (Kacchan really is a dragon), genders and ages. Kacchan seemed to be around his age while Eri was younger, Izuku was pretty upset to find that out. A’zawa and Yam’da were adults though, and Kacchan’s teachers at that.

He did find it odd they still called him a ‘Terran’ despite him teaching them the word human, but it didn't really bother him. 

The three sat in the corner, Izuku and Kacchan side by side and Eri nestled between them, she seemed to cling to Izuku a lot. He didn't understand, but didn't mind either. Though he was curious as to why she liked him so much compared to the other who could actually communicate with her. He smoothed down a few strands sticking out of her long, winding hair. I can try to figure it out tomorrow. Today was nice but somehow still exhausting… All my wounds still hurt too much to relax. He groaned and leaned against Kacchan. He’ll just have to sleep it off even more.

Izuku felt light tapping on his head and cracked open an eye, he expected Kacchan but saw Eri instead. Izuku moved to sit up, his body ached worse than usual and he was lying fully on the ground now, the cheap fluorescent light from above shined into his eyes. He pushed himself up with his uninjured arm and rubbed the sleep from his eyes. He felt like he'd been asleep for a long time, maybe 9-10 hours? Near the bars Kacchan was talking with Yam’da while A’zawa slept beside him. He looked to Eri, she grabbed his hand and led him to Kacchan again. Izuku slumped to the floor, he was still tired somehow, and less surprisingly still in pain. Eri sat in his lap and looked up at him, Izuku felt a bit put off by her staring. Is this how Kacchan felt whenever I stared at him before?...

“Goodmorning.” Kacchan looked at him. “You look bad. You okay?”

So honest. Even Yam’da and A’zawa looked worried. Izuku’s eyebrow twitched but he responded anyway. “I still don't feel too good. I think it's only been a few days since the fight so yeah, doing anything and everything still feels awful.” He put his elbow on his knee and let his head lean into the palm of his hand. Kacchan flicked a wing towards Izuku. “Maybe ask —----- for help?” 

Please don't tell me he means the guards.. Izuku laughed nervously. “Um, I don't think I want to get medical help from our kidnappers..” Kacchan responded with a tilt of his head, so Izuku explained the words further. Once Kacchan understood he simply shrugged, another human borrowed gesture. Izuku hummed anxiously. Just the thought of being on an operating table made Izuku feel sick with anxiety. 

Randomly, Eri leaned up and patted his head. Izuku raised an eyebrow. Is my anxiety that obvious? She’s.. a bit odd. At least she’s being nice, I think?

He ruffled her hair in return and she seemed fine with it. She pointed to his arm in a sling, then the bandages wrapped around his head, and cheek, and chests, and ankle. Izuku sighed. “Yeah… i got really hurt when i had to fight this big wolf-deer thingy, i'll be okay though!” Eri looked at him, then Kacchan probably for a translation. Kacchan told her what Izuku said and she looked horrified. Izuku tried to fix this, but he’s never really taken care of a kid before so it doesn't go as well as he hoped.

“N-no! I'm okay really! It was just a few scratches and bites. I'll be fine in no time!” All his efforts earned him was a watery eyed little girl plus a bird and dragon laughing at him. Izuku side-eyed both of them while he tried to comfort Eri. Luckily she didn't actually start crying, Izuku would have no idea what to do if that happened.

A’zawa awoke and tilted his head to the side at the sight of him trying, and failing to comfort Eri. He apparently asked Kacchan and Yam’da what happened. Kacchan’s face was a mix of evil glee, Izuku sighed, guess that's just how he is. Izuku leaned his head forward to sit on top of Eri’s. With the excitement of meeting new people dying down he could only focus on the pain he was in again, it was easy enough to ignore during the study sessions but now it was bothering him. Eri poked his face but he stayed still, he just didn't have the energy to respond.

Kacchan and her talked for a bit before Kacchan spoke to him again, Yam’da giving his own input although Izuku could only catch a few words of what he was saying, it was probably similar to what Kacchan was telling him.

“Still hurt? Go to sleep.” Izuku hummed. “Sleep won't fix it all though. This’ll still take weeks at least to heal and my arm would need physical therapy. I can't even feel it right now.” Izuku poked his right arm and hand, he couldn't feel anything. He could still move his limb but it was slow, like it was lagging in a game. 

“Sleep.” Kacchan flicked Izuku’s forehead with his claw. Izuku groaned but agreed nonetheless. “Fine. Sorry Eri, I'm gonna go back to sleep.” He picked her up with his arm and set her beside Kacchan, she watched as Izuku crawled back to the corner. He laid down and even with how cold and uncomfortable he was without Kacchan to use as a sentient mattress, he fell asleep rather quickly.

Izuku woke up to pitch black, lights must be off again. There was talking nearby but it sounded distant, Izuku was used to it by now. He was being poked awake yet again. He opened his eyes and sat up, Kacchan was in front of him blocking Izuku’s view of the bars with his wings. Izuku tilted his head. “Um, is somethin’ wrong?” 

Kacchan made an ‘eh’ gesture with his hand, something Izuku had taught him. “It… before when I said, ask the —----- for help? A’zawa did.” He moved one of his wings so Izuku could see the door. There were guards there but they had different outfits. The usual guards only wore the armor, or calibrative devices as the teachers explained, but these ones had clean white coats on top of the usual devices. Izuku at least knew it meant they were doctors or scientists of some kind but that didn't quell Izuku’s worries.

Anxiety buzzed in his mind. “What? Why?! Can I tell them I don't want their help?” The coated guards turned their gazes to him and Izuku couldn't suppress the shudder that ran through his body. Kacchan just shrugged. As helpful as ever Kacchan..

Kacchan grabbed Izuku’s hand to help him up despite the dragon also struggling to stand, Eri stood on Izuku’s other side, holding onto him tightly. Izuku patted Eri’s head and walked closer to the bars. Kacchan let go of him but he had to pry Eri away from his side. He nervously stood near the bars and coated guards. Kacchan’s voice spoke from behind him. “I don’t think they're.. ugh, what's the word? Not being true?” 

“Lying?” 

“Yeah, I don't think they're lying. They will help you.” Izuku hummed with anxiety. He doubts he can just refuse, they’d probably want him to fight again but a fight would be underwhelming if he was already weak and injured. Izuku sighed and walked forward, waving goodbye to his four alien friends.

Izuku was led to an operating room once again, only this one was cleaner and more professional looking. The walls were white and clean, the floor too. Machines were set up around the room along with a few hospital beds, though bigger for the much taller aliens that would usually be here. He was led to one of the hospital beds. He wasn't being strapped down this time, and he almost felt hopeful until they stuck a syringe in him. He groaned and laid down on the bed. The drug they administered was quick as he started slipping into an unwanted state of unconsciousness. 

Izuku sighed. Yeah, I should've guessed that. I don't know what they’re going to do though… What does alien ‘medical help’ even mean in this situation? If they don't know anything about my species they would probably just make things worse! He struggled to stay awake as long as possible but his body couldn't resist whatever substance they’d injected into him so within a few minutes he was out like a light.

He just hoped whatever they were going to do would actually help…

Chapter Text

Izuku groaned, he couldn't tell where he was or what was happening, the only thing he could feel was burning hot pain all over his body. He heard shuffling around him and some annoying chittering sound. Izuku was getting used to waking up dazed, confused and in pain and he really wished he wasn't. 

He blinked open his eyes, his vision was so blurry he couldn’t even tell what was in front of him. He pushed himself to lean on his elbows, his body felt so sluggish. 

What in the world even happened? My head feels like it's splitting apart! He sat up fully, his vision was still blurry but it cleared a bit. The room he was in was blindingly white which only worsened his headache. He closed his eyes and pushed his palms into them. He looked down at both his hands. Both his hands? He looked at his right arm, it wasn't in a sling anymore.

He clenched and unclenched his right hand multiple times, it felt off. His fingers wouldn't reach his palm when he tried to close them, they stopped just centimeters away like an old run down machine locking up. His arm felt the same way too, slow and difficult to move. He had a black sleeve on his right arm, from just below his shoulder down to his wrist. Is it helping his arm somehow? 

His vision was clearing more and more. The blurry white mess of a room soon became recognizable as the room where he received ‘medical help’ from his kidnappers. There wasn't anyone else in the room and Izuku let out a sigh of relief. His mind was still foggy and he felt delirious, he didn't need the anxiety of aliens being in the room with him. He leaned back against the hospital bed he was on. I wonder if they actually did help.. He looked down to his previous injuries, the bandages over his body were gone, allowing for all the scars to show. The branding on his chest and cheek were visible and he assumed the one on his back was too. He ran a hand over his face, the slash he got from the wolf-deer was unbandaged too. He could feel a long scar running from just under his left eye diagonally over his right eyebrow, it was a centimeter or so away from his hairline.

The slashes on his stomach and ankle were healed and scarred over too. Izuku was very much confused as to how his wounds could go from ‘gonna pull a stitch and bleed out any second now’ to ‘months of healing and proper medical attention’ but he didn't really care, he felt better and that was what mattered.

He shifted to slide off the hospital bed when he realized he was in a hospital gown, similar to the one Eri had on. Izuku cringed, hospital gowns were the worst. Sure they were useful for patients but for any moment you aren't being worked on by a doctor they become a major inconvenience. Too flowy, too revealing, the fabric felt icky against his skin, the color was something like sickly green and it didn't even have any pockets! Izuku wondered where they'd put his pants, or his shirt for that matter. They'd taken it to bandage his chest wounds initially, he hoped they didn't just throw it out.

Izuku groaned and rubbed at his eyes again, everything was still a little blurry but he could at least see what was around him. He slid off the hospital bed, nearly falling as he did. He steadied himself with the bed and started forward again. He still had a minor limp, he could still walk fine enough but if someone looked closely they'd be able to spot it. Ugh, this seriously sucks.. I just wanna go home!

He walked over to where a desk was, due to all the aliens being generally a foot or two taller than him the desk was closer to his chest than his waist and he struggled a bit to get into the chair that sat beside it. He wasn't sure what he was looking for, he just had too much anxious energy in him to sit and wait around for the aliens to come back. He didn't want to risk just walking out the room though, they might see that as an escape attempt and he wanted to avoid getting any more injuries. So he snooped through whatever he could find on the desk. Maybe he could take something with him..

There was a bunch of paper of course, documents probably, and a few pen looking things. There were few things which Izuku assumed were medical devices, he didn't dare touch them without knowing what they did so he kept his focus on the documents. One of the documents had his face on it, he couldn't read it but it must've had details on his injuries. Beneath his, papers for Kacchan, A’zawa, Yam’da and Eri were there too. Maybe he could take these, they're the only ones really relevant to him. The only problem was figuring out how to take them.

The idea that immediately came to mind was to just fold all the papers as small as he could and ball them up in his fists. Would him having his fists clenched be suspicious? Izuku was banking on them not knowing anything just like how the others knew next to nothing about his species. The second plan was to stuff the paper in his mouth but that was a worse option of the two. 1. It’d be gross not only cause it'd taste like paper but also because they'd be soggy, blegh. 2. He doesn't know what this paper’s made out of, it could be toxic to him for all he knows.

He’ll fold them and keep them in his hands, if the aliens get suspicious he’ll just have to suck it up and stuff them in his mouth…

He folded all the papers into small squares, he held three in his left hand and two in his right. He was worried about the two in his right hand, it was still a bit… finicky? Sometimes his hand would twitch or loosen on its own and he didn't want his hand to go against him and drop the documents. He didn't have a choice though, he'd just have to focus more on his right hand then. 

With all the documents secure he turned to look at the door. He hadn't heard much since he woke up, just the occasional footsteps and chittering. I just have to keep waiting then.

He shuffled off the chair and back to the hospital bed, it'd be better if the aliens thought he never got up at all. He sat on the plush mattress and leaned his against the back of it. He wondered how the others were doing.

A’zawa tapped his paw against the ground, he couldn't stand just waiting around like this. They had no idea where the Terran- Izuku- was or if he was okay. Although A’zawa still didn't trust Izuku fully, he could at least feel sympathy for the young cub. A’zawa certainly would want any of the cubs in that kind of situation. Him and Yam’da were some of the few who even knew of the existence of Terrans, it was clear the Arachids knew nothing if they tried to feed a Terran raw meat. If they didn't know dietary needs how could they possibly know how to treat Izu’s wounds? A’zawa was almost impressed by the Arachids stupidity. You had to be a special kind of reckless to abduct a mostly undocumented new sentient species rumored to be ruthless savages.

A’zawa ran a paw down his face, he still had to figure out how to escape the ship with all three cubs and his mate intact. A’zawa planned to do this rescuer mission solo but of course Yam’da insisted he come along too. Not only was Yam’da supposed to stay at base but there weren't supposed to be two new cubs that needed rescuing either.

We’ll be lucky if we even get out of here in a Solrune.

A’zawa turned his focus to his mate. Yam’da was similarly anxious, pacing circles in the room. The two had gone over more potential plans but without any info on the ship they'd be running around like a headless Shencid. Yam’da stopped pacing and sulked over to sit next to A’zawa. He flicked both of his tails around his partner, comfort was a rare thing in a cell but he'd at least try to make his mate feel better. He looked to the cell across from theirs, the two cubs were curled up in a corner, Eri practically sitting in Ka’s’ki’s lap. 

Once the Ter- Izuku, was taken she cried and cried. Everyone tried to comfort her but she was near inconsolable. A’zawa flicked his ears in irritation, he didn't understand why she was so attached to it- him. Preciturs were known to be empathetic with telepathic abilities. Preciturs are also a rare species, not many enter the galactic community, although they're known and documented most still reside on their own planet. The thing Preciturs are known for is their ability to judge a person’s character, to be able to tell when someone is lying or being truthful, whether they’re being malicious or benevolent. 

It’s said that in stressful situations a Precitur foal will bond with who they believe to be the most well-meaning and truthful person near them. In most situations, that would be their parents, in this case it seems Eri believes Izuku to be the most benevolent amongst them. A’zawa wasn't upset that Izuku was a good person, no; he was very happy to know he wouldn't be a threat. (at least not for now) 

A’zawa simply believed that while Izuku may be the most benevolent, he certainly couldn't protect Eri like the adults could. He wasn't sure if a Precitur foal bonding with a cub of another species was common or not but he doubted it was. A’zawa didn't want the pressure of looking after a telepathic empath to be on a cub’s shoulders.

Before A’zawa’s train of thought could go any further he felt a wing brush against his leg, he looked down to Yam’da who gestured towards the bars. Eri was standing near the bars of her own cell. A’zawa hissed under his breath. Problem children, all of them.

He walked forward anyway, even if dealing with cubs was nearly always a stressful experience he wouldn't leave her to be scared or sad.

He stood near the bars of his cell, directly parallel to the little Precitur.

“Yes, Eri? Is something wrong?”

Eri tapped her hoof against the floor, a nervous gesture if A’zawa remembered correctly. “Um, when will Izu get back? Will he be okay?” A’zawa sighed, internally this time. He knew she would ask that.

“He’ll be alright. I don't know when he’ll be back but he’ll return I assure you.” 

Eri looked at him with watery eyes, A’zawa was sure she could tell he was uncertain about Izuku’s fate.

“I can't guarantee it, but I believe he’ll be alright and return soon, I truly do.” Eri gripped the edges of her frayed dress and nodded slowly, a Terran borrowed gesture. A’zawa hoped Ka’s’ki and Eri would drop said gestures once they were away from the Terran. Again, he didn't have anything against Izu, but it was odd seeing non-Terrans use Terran gestures.

Eri trotted back to where the Draconic lay and climbed on top of him and onto his lap. He huffed smoke but didn't push her off thankfully. A’zawa turned back to his mate. Yam’da was looking worse for wear, his feathers stuck out in every direction and his colors looked less vibrant.

He walked over and sat down beside his partner, wrapping his tail around him again. “We’ll be okay. You know that.” Yam’da nodded. “I'm just worried about the little listener. There’s no way they know how to properly treat him, right?” A’zawa flicked his lower set of ears, he would compare it to a Terran shrugging.

“We’ll have to wait and see.”

Izuku was about to fall asleep again when he heard a click. He sat straight up in the hospital bed and looked towards the door. The aliens were back. Izuku focused on keeping his breathing under control. There were two of them, in clean white coats. Are they the ones that helped me? The two spoke with each other, luckily neither glanced at the desk which was now empty of his and the others’ documents. Instead one of them walked forward and handed Izuku clothing. It was his uniform pants, they had clearly been cleaned. Izuku was slightly miffed that he didn't get his shirt back, but he couldn’t complain too much. Izuku carefully slid the folded documents in his hands under the hospital blankets and tentatively grabbed his clothes.

The alien placed one of their hands on his shoulder and guided him to a side room, a bathroom of sorts. Similar to the one in his cell except better in every way. He stepped inside and the alien shut the door behind him. Izuku set his clothes on the counter and took off his hospital gown, glad to finally get rid of it. He put on his gakuran, it had been cleaned at least. Izuku felt better being in his own clothes again, it might be silly but his clothes are like the last piece of home he has so they feel special. With half of his uniform back on, Izuku looked at himself in the mirror. His wound ridden torso was on full display, his brandings were particularly eye-catching. 

There was a compression sleeve around Izuku’s arm, so he decided to take it off, just to see the damage. He slid it off, he didn't really feel the fabric against his skin. With the sleeve off he could see a majority of his arm was scarred over. There was a patch of intact skin around his elbow and his hand was mostly clear too. He ran a hand over the rough scarred skin, he couldn't feel it, like his arm was numb or paralyzed. He flexed his fingers again, still difficult and slow. Izuku sighed. Permanent damage then..

He slipped the sleeve back over his arm, it did make him feel a bit better. In the mirror he stared at the slashes along his stomach, the ones on his ankle were partially visible too. Izuku frowned, he didn't think scars made people ugly, but looking at himself he couldn't say he looked good. He wrapped his arms around himself. He was already self conscious due to middle school bullies but now he was feeling especially bad for him and not having a shirt made it worse. He’d have his scars on display all the time no matter what. He scratched at his brandings, nothing he can do about it.

He folded the hospital gown and walked back to the door, he pushed it open a crack and looked through. The two aliens were standing by the bathroom door talking. Izuku creaked the door open more and the two turned to look at him. The same alien from before held out their arms and Izuku handed the hospital gown to them. The two walked off to a closet and Izuku went back to the hospital bed to retrieve the folded documents, luckily they were still there. With his uniform pants back he stuffed the documents in his pockets. When the aliens returned one left room while the other grabbed Izuku’s uninjured arm to lead him out the room. Izuku followed silently, he just wanted to get back to the others.

Yam’da was back to pacing, he couldn't help but worry about the little listener! The Terran was nicer than Yam’da had expected. The second Terran observation log portrayed them as being near animalistic with as much anger as a Draconic only with four times the strength and temper! Izuku though? One of the nicest hatchlings Yam’da’s ever seen. Yam’da could tell everyone was worried, even Ka’s’ki seemed anxious. It’d been around 3 brax since Izuku was taken and Yam’da wasn't confident that he would return, he tried to hide his anxiety as much as he could but with a telepathic empath in the room it didn't work.

Eri could feel everyone's worry and it was clearly getting to her, Yam’da tried to offer as many comforting and reassuring words as he could but nothing ever really helped calm her.

The two hatchling were playing some Terran game, Yam’da noticed they'd been using a lot of Terran borrowed gestures and customs. A’zawa seemed unsure of that but Yam’da was happy to see all the hatchlings getting along, but especially Ka’s’ki. While most Draconics are near emotionless Ka’s’ki was deemed ‘defective’ which just meant he could feel empathy, bond with other sentients and didn't blindly idolize physical strength. Because of Ka’s’ki’s ‘defectiveness’ other Draconics shunned and ignored him so the only people he could be friends with were other species, normally this would work out perfectly! Ka’s’ki though, has an interesting personality which makes most other people avoid him.

Yam’da always tried his best to help Ka’s’ki bond and get along with other students in his class but even after a lunar rotation Ka’s’ki was still a loner. So Yam’da was reasonably ecstatic to see him get along with Izuku, and Eri too for that matter. Yam’da always assumed if Ka’s’ki ever tried to look after a hatchling they'd cry on the spot and run in the opposite direction.

Looking back at the hatchlings game, it seemed Ka’s’ki was losing if his snarl had anything to say on it. Yam’da fluffed his feathers out happily, the sight eased his nerves a bit at least.

He was about to talk to the hatchlings when his partner tapped his tails against him.

“Hm?” A’zawa flicked two of his ears to the left side of the hall. Yam’da looked to the side and strained his ears. Ka’s’ki also flicked his ears towards the hall, Faintly, Yam’da could hear footsteps.

Everyone quiets and stares down the hall, everyone hoping that it was Izuku. Everyone's faces lit up, with Eri and Ka’s’ki doing the odd ‘smiling’ motion, when a head of green fur appeared. Izuku also smiled widely when he saw everyone else and waved. At first, Yam’da was relieved to see him alive and well, before noticing the sheer amount of scars that covered his body, as well as the brandings. Yam’da internally winced. A hatchling with all those scars? He felt sick at the thought.

Izuku was pushed back into his cell and Eri wrapped her arms around him. Yam’da had seen her do that before but he still didn't understand what it meant..

Izuku excitedly spoke with Ka’s’ki. Yam’da wanted to at least welcome the hatchling back even if he couldn't fully understand. A’zawa seemed to share the sentiment.

“Welcome back little listener! We’re all relieved that you're alright.” 

“Yes, it's good to have you back, cub.”

Izuku smiled and gave Yam’da and A’zawa a thumbs up. Yam’da swelled with happiness, at least he seemed okay mentally.

Izuku turned back to Ka’s’ki and took out some paper from his pockets, he handed them to the Draconic who nearly choked on his own smoke in surprise. He exclaimed something in the Terran language which made Izuku smile more.

Eri tried to stand on the tips of hooves to see the paper, Izuku handed a different one to her but Ka’s’ki snatched it. He told Izuku something then turned to face Yam’da and A’zawa. “Izu stole shit!”

Yam’da’s brain short circuited. “H-huh?” 

A’zawa eyed the creased paper. “Stole what exactly?” He stepped as close to the bars as he could without being zapped, Yam’da stood just behind him.

Ka’s’ki turned the paper so they could see it. It looked like document logs of everyone. Ka’s’ki turned the paper back to him. “Let me read it out loud, I'll tell Izu about it after.”

Ka’s’ki sat down and mostly everyone else followed, Izuku sat beside the Draconic with Eri in his lap. Yam’da sat down as well but A’zawa insisted on standing.

Ka’s’ki began reading, starting with Eri’s file.

“074 - Log

074 is a Precitur bought from Ch’saki with the intention of gathering the Precitur’s blood to sell. The Precitur has no ties to its parents making buying and selling it easier for the organization. We’ve decided to place the Precitur in the cell with the Draconic and unknown species with hopes of the Precitur bonding to one of them. It’s easier to manipulate a Precitur whose bonded to another sentient, in most cases threatening to harm who they've bonded too will get the Precitur to cooperate. This log will be updated as we observe the interactions between all species in H-311.

Update 01 -

The Precitur seemed to have bonded to the unknown species (which will hereby be called 070). The outcome was unexpected but not unwelcome. It will be easier to control them by threatening one with the other. 070 also seemed to have bonded. Due to the unpredictability and inherent violence 070 exhibits, we will continue to observe its behavior before attempting to take back the Precitur for blood collection.

Update 02 -

The Precitur has begun mimicking 070 and subconsciously using its native gestures. This is concerning, 070 could be tainting the Precitur. We will attempt to separate the two when the timing is right. We will have to restrain 070 and the Draconic to prevent retaliation as the two seemed to be protective of the Precitur.”

Yam’da shuddered as he listened. They were thinking of taking the hatchlings blood?! There was a silent promise made by everyone to make sure Eri stays safe and away from their traffickers. The logs also proved they knew nothing of Izuku’s species other than the info they apparently got from treating his wounds and observing him. Yam’da looked to Eri, at some point while Ka’s’ki was reading Izuku covered her ears. Even without fully knowing what Ka’s’ki was saying he could tell it wasn't good. Yam'da was grateful he was looking out for the tiny listener. He heard his partner sighed beside him.

“Alright. Well, obviously we’ll try and prevent them from taking Eri’s blood and Ka’s’ki’s solnite.” Everyone except Izuku voiced their agreements. Ka’s’ki pulled out the next file, it was Yam’da’s. He shifted anxiously, he didn't know if it was selfish but hoped they didn't have anything planned for him.

“072 - Log

072 is a Hertzhi, a cousin to the Uravian species. As far as we’re aware it and its Nekuro mate (073) are a part of the U.A staff. We've taken precautions to ensure the rest of U.A won't track down the ship to try and rescue their staff and student. Currently, the Hertzhi and Nekuro only serve as bargaining chips or hostages to counter any attempts U.A make to harm the organization.

update 01 -

The Hertzhi has made contact with their student as well as 070 and the Precitur. 072 initially showed fear and defensiveness towards 070 indicating knowledge of its species. We’ll have to look into this more and possibly interrogate the U.A members for info on 070’s species.

update log 02 -

The Hertzhi seems to have bonded with not only the Precitur, but 070 in some capacity as well. While still wary and untrusting of it, 072 does seem to care for 070’s wellbeing and is attempting communication. This could be a potential bargaining chip when we get to interrogating the Hertzhi. If simply threatening the well-being of 070 can get results then it may be a tactic we can use for all others in H-311.

073 - log

072 is a Nekuro, an apex predator on the A’razshure planet. As far as we’re aware it and its Hertzhi mate (072) are a part of the U.A staff. We've taken precautions to ensure the rest of U.A won't track down the ship to try and rescue their staff and student. Currently, the Hertzhi and Nekuro only serve as bargaining chips or hostages to counter any attempts U.A make to harm the organization.

update log 01

The Nekuro has made contact with their student as well as 070 and the Precitur. 073 initially showed aggression and defensiveness towards 070 indicating knowledge of its species, as a predator species it’s concerning that the Nekuro finds 070 threatening. Even with the knowledge of 070’s aggression and combative abilities, we had expected 070 to be scared of 072, not the other way around. We’ll have to look into this more and possibly interrogate the U.A members for info on 070’s species.

update log 02 -

The Nekuro seems to have bonded with not only the Precitur, but 070 in some capacity as well. While still untrusting of it, 072 does seem to care for 070’s wellbeing and is attempting communication. This could be a potential bargaining chip when we get to interrogating the Hertzhi. If simply threatening the well-being of 070 can get results then it may be a tactic we can use for all others in H-311.”

Yam’da looked to A’zawa, he had his two upper paws covering his face while his lower arms crossed over his waist. Yam’da couldn't help but let out a sad chirp. They were just being kept as hostages and worse than that they'd harm Izuku more to get them to cooperate.

“Right,” A’zawa started. “Now we know why there haven't been any updates or contact with U.A. They must've deactivated our Holos before they could send an automated distress signal.” Yam’da nodded along. They'd had all their equipment taken when they were restrained. He knew they likely wouldn't get any outside help before but this just cemented it.

“Do.. you think we can still get out?” Ka’s’ki’s head was tilted down, his wings tucked closely around Izuku and Eri. A’zawa crossed his upper two arms and sighed. “Maybe. We’ll definitely try. It may be difficult since it appears we’re being observed somehow.” He eyed the room, looking for any hidden cameras to no avail. “Let’s move on for now, we don't know when guards will come to check on us again.” Ka’s’ki nodded and took out the next file, his own.

“071 - log

071 is a Draconic taken specifically for its solnite and clicker. Recently Draconics organs have been going up in price. Draconics themselves have also been selling well, we already have a few buyers lined up. If we properly restrain 070 then we’ll be able to properly harvest the Draconics organs and sell them to the highest bidder. We’ll have to wait for our surgeons to practice to be able to remove the organs without damaging any other part of the product.

update log 01

We calculated the gravity in H-311 correctly, the gravity is more intense than our own causing the Draconic to have halted movements, while we have our calibrative devices to prevent us from being affected. We’ve granted the Precitur, Nekuro, and Hertzhi calibrative devices as well, we deemed they will not be a problem to us. It’s more important to avoid using sedatives or electrical devices against the Draconic as to keep its organs as undamaged as possible for the highest profit. 070 seems to have natural resistance to high gravity. For the first five solar cycles we also made sure to starve the Draconic to weaken it. With 070 and the Precitur sharing their food, we may need to have guards stationed to make sure they don’t share in the future, as it is counter productive. The Draconic must be weakened and easy to manipulate.

update log 02

The Draconic learned 070’s language. Unfortunately the spectators haven't been able to learn along with the Draconic so we’ll have to focus on their interactions more. The Draconic has bonded with 070, we expected this to happen as we knew this particular Draconic is defective. It also bonded with the Precitur which makes collecting it more difficult. It may be in our best interests to separate the group in H-311 to make each product easier to handle.”

By the end of it, Ka’s’ki could barely get the words out through his growls. Izuku and Eri were trying to comfort him but he was too angry. Yam’da understood, each and every one of the files were upsetting. Izuku slowly grabbed the document from Ka’s’ki’s hands before the dragon could tear it apart. A’zawa rapidly tapped a paw against the floor, clearly stressed. Yam’da wrapped a wing around his partner as A’zawa shared his thoughts.

“We really need to focus on our escape now. It will be much more difficult for us to arrange it if we’re separated. Me and ‘Zashi will focus on that when the lights go out again.”

Ka’s’ki stood and paced in circles despite the gravity affecting him, flexing his claws and snarling so wide his eyes were squinted. Yam’da flapped his wings to get everyone's attention. “Alright, Let's not panic! Me and Sho’a will think of something overnight, when the lights are back on we can prepare, and when they turn off again we’ll make our escape attempt.” 

Ka’s’ki huffed smoke from his nose but nodded anyway. Eri slowly nodded as well, still sitting in his lap. Ka’s’ki sat down beside the two other hatchlings and Yam’da assumed he was translating for Izuku.

Yam’da’s gaze flickered over everyone in the room. Would we even be able to figure out a viable escape plan overnight? We might have to bruce force it, or if lucks on our side, sneak through the ship. These hatchlings have been harmed too much already.

After Ka’s’ki had calmed down, he took out the last document, Izuku’s. Yam’da was already fretting over what he was about to hear. He hoped it wasn't anything too gruesome.

Chapter Text

“070 - Log

070 is a species of unknown origin. It was found on an undocumented (or potentially documented yet classified) planet. The planet has natural disasters and harsh living conditions and is at least a class 10 deathworld. Should 070 prove profitable we may return to the deathworld to retrieve more of the species, with proper precautions and preventative measures. We’ll need to spend more time figuring out the species itself first. 

Currently the most we know is it is incredibly violent against enemies and very protective of allies, or those it’s pack-bonded with. It has enough force in its limbs to break an Arachids limbs and a strong enough bite force to severe fingers. It may have a weak stomach, further experimentation needed for confirmation. Generally it is best to keep electrified weapons and paralysis darts when dealing with 070 for the safety of organization members.

Update 01 -

070 performed well in the fighting ring which upped profits considerably. At first we were worried 070 would be killed but it surprisingly survived and even killed the Candivere. Now that we’ve figured out how to heal the NULLs injuries we can set up its next fight against an Ocji’ker. If profits continue we will proceed with the routine of setting it up in a fight, taking care of its injuries, and making it fight again until it's inevitable death.

Update 02 -

070 has not only pack-bonded with all other sentients in H-311 but has also set up a way to communicate with the Draconic and is now teaching the Precitur, Nekuro and Hertzhi its language as well. This may jeopardize the individual profit plans for each of the products and it's in our best interests to separate all subjects residing in H-311 within a Solrune.”

Izuku leaned against Kacchan. He couldn't understand anything the dragon said but it was clear from his and the others' expressions that the document's contents were bad. As with the previous documents, everyone had either a frown, a snarl, a scowl, or some odd mix of them all on their face. Izuku desperately wanted to know what was on the file but he knew Kacchan didn't have the vocabulary to be able to fully translate it yet. 

Still he patted Kacchan’s shoulder, he could comfort him without knowing exactly what the problem was. Kacchan huffed and pushed the document toward him. Izuku grabbed it and looked at it. It had a picture of him, when was that taken? There were paragraphs of alien text which were separated by odd looking numbers, he assumed they were numbers or some form of written organization. Eri, who was sitting in his lap, shuffled out of it and sat across from him instead. He glanced to his side, Kacchan was speaking with his teachers. Kacchan said Yam’da and A’zawa would come up with an escape plan, he figured that's what they were talking about, he was starting to understand more and more Common so he could catch words and the occasional sentence.

Izuku turned to Eri as she tapped his shoulder.

“What’s up?” He sat criss-crossed in front of her. She pointed at him and then herself. “Izu, say word, Eri.”

Izuku blinked a few times. “Teach? Do you want me to teach you more words?” Unfortunately Izuku made the mistake of using more words than she knew, so the response he got was just her tilting her head. Izuku laughed and apologized. “Right, sorry! Um.. Izu teach Eri words?” Now that was met with an enthusiastic nod. 

“Okay! Let's get Kacchan to help.” He pointed towards the dragon and Eri gave a thumbs up. He stood and limped over to said dragon who was still talking with his teachers. He had a very large snarl on his face. Izuku frowned, he had gotten used to not-growling-24/7-Kacchan.

“Kacchan?” He tapped the dragon's wing and he turned his head to Izuku. “Ugh, what?” Izuku was a little hurt by his tone, but he knew everyone was stressed by whatever was in the documents so he didn't comment on it.

He pointed a thumb towards Eri. “Eri wants to learn more words, think you can help me teach her?” Kacchan tilted his head and tapped his paw on the ground. He asked A’zawa something and Kacchan seemed upset about the answer.

Kacchan growled and turned away with a huff, mumbling out a quiet ‘fine.’ Ah, they must've said the conversation wasn't for kids or something. It's impressive how angry Kacchan can get over things like that.

Izuku grabbed Kacchan's hand and helped him over to Eri, the three sat in a triangle and Eri was swaying side to side in excitement. “Alright then! I’m gonna teach you all the words I taught Kacchan so that way you can form sentences to learn even more!” He looked at Kacchan who in turn translated what Izuku said to Eri. She clapped her hands. "Yes! Eri, learn!"

The dragon huffed. “This’ll be bad…”

Izuku had a mischievous grin on his face. “You’ll live.” 

By the time the guards delivered their next meal (which was unfortunately only two servings, not that that stopped Izuku and Eri from sharing) Eri had learned a ton of words. Similar to when he taught Kacchan, Izuku was very proud of Eri’s progress even though she looked like her head might explode due to information overload.

Currently the three were taking a break to eat their food. The teachers kept an eye on them at all times, apparently they also picked up a few words while Izuku was teaching Eri and Kacchan. He hoped the teachers were making good progress on the escape plan. He didn't want to rush them, but he sure as hell didn't want to stay in this cell for any longer than he had to.

While Izuku was teaching his two cell mates he couldn't help but constantly consider them family. It was probably weird for them since they'd really only been in this cell for a week or so and he was already so attached, but he’d always been an only child and with no friends or siblings to hang out with he was on his own a majority of the time. So despite these awful circumstances he could confidently say he had a new sister and brother, even if they themselves were unaware of that fact…

“Hey, Eri, Kacchan. Do you remember when I taught you family words?” The two stopped eating their food to nod. Izuku smiled. “Perfect!”

“Eri, you're my little sister now, and Kacchan-”

“No way!” He slapped a paw on the ground and growled. Izuku expected this reaction though and had the perfect response. 

He widened his eyes as much as he could, purposefully filled his eyes with tears and pouted his lip. With a small gasp he feigned dramatics. “You- you don't.. you don't wanna be my brother? Do you hate me that much?” He put his left arm over his face and turned his head away from Kacchan, who had his jaw open trying to sputter a response. Eri, not knowing Izuku was playing around, pouted and glared at Kacchan.

“Why mean Kacchan? Be Izu’s brother!” She stood and slammed her tiny fists on Kacchan’s shoulder, who didn't even feel it. “He’s not sad! He just wants me to agree!” Izuku intentionally sniffled loudly, he moved his arm to glance at Kacchan before covering eyes again and fake crying.

“You're right, Eri. Kacchan is mean!” Kacchan growled, between Izuku’s fake crying and Eri tugging on his arm he gave in.

“Fine.” He growled through gritted teeth. Immediately Izuku’s tears disappeared and he grinned widely, leaning over to engulf Kacchan in a hug. Eri smiled and joined in on the hug. The dragon huffed and puffed and pretended not to like it, but Izuku knew from him wrapping his wings and tails around the two that he enjoyed the hug.

When the two finally stopped squeezing the dragon he continued to huff and turn his head. Izuku giggled at Eri’s worried reaction.

“Don't worry Eri, he’s just feeling shy.”

“Shy?”

He turned so his back faced Kacchan and whispered in Eri’s ear. “Mhm. He’s pretending he doesn't like us even though he does.” Eri, though she only understood two or three words, muffled a laugh causing the dragon's ear to flick in their direction.

“I can hear you!” Kacchan groaned and returned to his food. Izuku laughed again and shuffled back over to his own food too.

“Kacchan Eri’s pack now?” Eri picked up her food again, some kind of fruit that Izuku wasn't brave enough to try. Izuku nodded. “Yup. Izuku, Eri, and Kacchan are pack!” He patted her head and returned to eating his own food. Izuku swore he could hear laughing in the opposite cell. A’zawa’s tails were swaying side to side and Yam’da’s feathers were slightly ruffled. Izuku learned enough about the two's species to know they were happy.

After a while, all five of the sentients had finished their food, and the adults decided with everyone now fed they'd go over part of the escape plan. The three kids sat parallel to the adults and listened intently as they spoke. It was still spotty at best due to the plan having to be rushed and the lack of resources.

Basically as far as plans went, it was “fuck it we ball” with some precautions. The first obstacle was the bars, at first this seemed to be their biggest problem due to the electrical aspect of it. That is until Kacchan told the teachers that Izuku was practically immune. After Izuku confirmed it only felt like a small zap to him rather than paralyzing pain, A'zawa had asked if he was willing to try and handle the bars himself. Izuku was happy to help and agreed.

With that discussed, they turned to how they'd navigate the ship. Izuku and Kacchan were the only ones brought out multiple times so they gave as much knowledge on the layout as they could to the two teachers.

They had a general guess as to how the ship was laid out, their ‘room’ was a long hallway with two cells on each side. The sliding doors on each end led to another hall with doors lining each side similar to their own hall's doors. 

Past the halls there's a large common area of sorts that neither Izuku nor Kacchan have been to. Where they have been though are the operating rooms. Past the common area when you take a left there's another lining of doors, these all lead into those grungy operating rooms used for branding. Even farther past those is the medical bay where Izuku was brought for treatment.

Izuku also shared that the fighting arena was past the common room as well, only you take a right instead of a left.

Yam’da and A’zawa listened along with everything the two boys were saying. With the two’s heightened senses they'll also be able to avoid any guards walking about. There was a problem though, at any point through their escape an alarm could be triggered which would basically stop the plan entirely. The adults made sure to let the two boys know to avoid fighting if they could, and focus on protecting Eri while the adults handled the situation. The two nodded, Kacchan begrudgingly while Izuku determinedly.

The plan goes that they’ll find the cockpit, either by sneaking their way around or fighting their way through, and put the ship in lockdown mode then send a distress signal to U.A. Yam’da was unsure if the distress signal would suffice, since while it could bring U.A to them, it could also bring more trouble like space pirates or other traffickers looking to take advantage of potential competition down on their luck.

So far that was what they had, flimsy and there were a thousand ways it could go wrong, but they all agreed on it. With the discussion over, A’zawa shooed the three kids to ‘go play’ (which Kacchan did not take kindly too), but Izuku and Eri were happy to have some time to talk.

Eri was playing a game with Izu, one where they clapped their hands together to a song. Eri didn't really understand most of the words, but the melody was nice!

There was a huge smile across Eri’s face. For a long time, she felt nothing but sadness. She still doesn't understand why, but she was taken from her mother by a bunch of awful people. They wanted her blood, but it always hurt when they took it. When she ended up with a new group of bad people, she thought it'd be just like last time. Instead, she met lots of new friends! Izu and Kacchan even agreed to be her brothers. Eri had always been an only foal, siblings were rare among Preciturs, the concept of brother or sisters was usually a far off dream for Eri, but not anymore. I finally have siblings of my own!

Her eyes fell back to Izu, who was happily singing the song they were playing too, something about ‘ca’yke’. Izu was really nice, which is why it was weird when she felt lingering feelings of fear within A’zawa and ‘Zashi. The bad guys were even more scared of Izu, but Izu isn't scary at all! He showed his teeth and stared into her eyes a lot, which is usually something bad guys did, but Izu wasn't trying to scare her.

She looked to the person sitting beside izu, her other brother Kacchan. (She'd call him that no matter how many times he'd try to correct her to say Ka’s’ki.)

“Kacchan, join!”

Kacchan opened one of his eyes to look at the two. “No way.”

“C’mon Kacchan. I’m sure we could play like… three way tic-tac-toe or something?”

“Nah.”

Eri pouted, abandoning the game she and Izu were playing to tug on Kacchan’s wing and get him to play. “Come, Kacchan! Play!”

Kacchan was undeterred, he flicked her on her forehead and watched as she fell backwards. She could feel a sense of satisfaction and pride in Kacchan, something all Draconics she met felt. Meanie…

Since she wasn't strong enough, she tried the next best thing. “Izu! Kacchan not play!”

Izu closed his eyes and put a hand to his chin in thought. “Hmm, you're right. This is a tough situation…”

Izu put his hands together in an odd motion and said, “Please, please, please, please, please, please, plea—”

“Fine! Shh! No more of that…”

Izu looked at Eri with a smile, who smiled back. Mission successful!

The three spent the next bream trying to figure out how to turn a two person game, called tic-tac-toe, into a three person game. It didn't work out well, Izu suggested they play a word game instead to help their language skills while still being fun, which Eri happily agreed to and Kacchan huffed and puffed about but didn't argue.

So now they were playing a game called scrabble, where Izu would give them various letters or sounds and they'd have to form words using them. Eri was only a little, tiny bit upset since Kacchan knew more words than her, but that just meant she'd have to try extra hard to remember all the words Izu taught her!

The game continued for as long as possible until the lights went out, which is when A’zawa and Yam’da told the ‘little kids’ to get some sleep. Eri wanted to argue she wasn’t that little, but she didn't have a good argument to convince them of that so instead she just followed her big brothers to the huddle corner.

Eri curled into a ball on top of Izu, while Kacchan’s wings fell over the two. The sleep pile kept everyone warm, which was important for Kacchan. Eri liked it because it made her brothers happy, and Eri was happy when others were, a side effect of her being a Precitur. 

Even if she was in a bad situation, having been taken by strangers for a second time, but surrounded by her newly found family she feels safe.

Chapter Text

It was what Izuku assumed was midday when A’zawa and Yam’da were going over the escape plan again, only this time emphasizing the fact they needed to leave quickly. A’zawa was the one to explain why they needed to leave soon, his voice sounding more tired than usual. “Izuku will ——– be fight— an ——— ——– today.”

...Fight…? Like, in the ring again…? Izuku looked at Kacchan with a grimace, silently asking if he heard A'zawa correctly. Kacchan nodded back to him grimly. Eri looked between each person in the room with worry in her eyes.

“Will Izuku be okay?”

Yam’da opened and closed his beak a few times. “Sorry, Eri… we ——- no —- to know — he’ll be okay.”

Izuku suppressed a shudder. Okay, so he was going into the ring again. No problem! He could deal with whatever he was fighting just fine. He wouldn't even get injured! If Izuku repeated stuff like that enough times maybe they'd come true…

All eyes fell onto Izuku, who was visibly panicking. A’zawa cleared his throat, getting Izuku’s attention. Izuku looked at the other with watery eyes, already dreading what the day had in store for him.

“I know, cub. It’s scary. ——– me when I say, if I was ——— the —–—– it'd be me going out to fight ——–— of you. The ——– we can ——– is ——— on how to ———– it out of the fight alive.”

Kacchan nudged Izuku with his wing. “It’s a Ocji’ker, you’ll be fine.”

Izuku tried to look comforted, but it didn't really work.

“Uhm, O’ker are the ——–— ones, right?” Eri asked the two teachers in the room.

Yam’da chirped a laugh at Eri’s pronunciation. “Ocji’ker. But yes, Ocji'ker are ——– made of ———-, a ——— ————. Their planet is one ———– made of liquid.”

A’zawa flicked his tails in agreement. “Izuku will have the ——— if the fight is —— on land. For you to ———–, cub, I’d ————— ———– off its ———–. ———— being ———–, Ocji’ker’s ——–– ––-, and more than the ——— –– ———— species at that. It’s your ——– ———–.”

“U-uhm… Kacchan?” Izuku had made lots of progress learning common, but not nearly enough to understand all of what A’zawa said.

“Eh… He said to… I don't have the word for it… the in and out thing.” He pointed a claw to Izuku’s nose.

“Breathing?” Izuku demonstrated by taking a deep breath in, then letting out.

“Yeah that, Ocji’ker’s do that too. You have to make it stop breathing.”

Both Izuku’s and Eri’s face twisted up at that. Izuku knew he didn't have much of a choice, but it still upset him. Eri was also distraught at Kacchan’s words.

“Izu has to hurt someone? Why?”

“Izu doesn’t want to, the bad guys make him. If Izuku doesn’t hurt them, then he’ll be hurt ————. Get it?”

Eri stared sadly at the ground, Izuku ran a hand through her hair to try and raise her spirits, if just a little bit.

Yam’da cooed gently. “Sorry ——– ———–, but it's —–. We’ll get out soon ——–, and no one will have to get hurt! ——– stay ——–- for us. Can you do that?” 

Eri responded with a small nod.

“I’ll be okay, Eri! I’m really strong, you know!” Izuku held his arms up, flexing them like a cartoon superhero.

That got a laugh out of Eri and Izuku smiled in turn. Even if the situation itself was horrible in almost every way, Izuku would still try to keep Eri happy.

For the next half bream A’zawa went over strategies to take down who his opponent would be, as well as informing Izuku on all the different species he could face in the ring. It was overwhelming, but all important information.

A’zawa was going to go over another species when four guards entered their hall. Of course, everyone silenced immediately, they knew what was going to happen. Two guards walked to Izuku’s cell and he tensed, even if he knew he had no choice, he still didn't want to go. 

Izuku patted Eri’s head and she clung to him. “I’ll be right back, okay?” She hesitantly let go. Kacchan brushed Izuku’s side with his wing as the human left the cell, once again unsure of his fate. A'zawa flattened his ears, his tails tapping against the floor while Yam'da flapped his wings anxiously.

I have got to be the unluckiest person in the world. Izuku waved to everyone else and followed the guards. He wrapped his arms around his torso, already dreading the upcoming fight. He tries to calm his nerves. I know what I’m fighting at least… kind of. A water based creature that still needs to breathe air, it's body is soft snd hard to damage so I’ll have to suffocate it… At least this one won’t have razor sharp teeth?

Izuku stepped into the arena, his feet sinking into the sand beneath him. Overhead lights shined down which caused Izuku to hold up a hand above his eyes. The crowd was still here, maybe even more people than last time. Across from him, the creature A’zawa and Yam’da described to him stood. It was very tall, even taller than A’zawa, maybe 12ft? It looked mostly like an octopus but its head resembled a jellyfish. It was a glowing light blue color that shifted to a glowing magenta near the end of its tentacles. It had dozens of tentacles sliding around itself, and it didn't seem to have any eyes or ears. Izuku couldn't help the dread he felt.

He’d have to commit murder.

Yes, he killed the wolf-deer but Kacchan let him know the creature was at least non-sentient. He killed an animal, not a person.

This one though, they’re just an unfortunate person in the same situation as Izuku. Only one of them would be leaving the ring alive.

The doors behind him slammed shut and Izuku could hear an announcer above start to speak, introducing the two sentients set to fight. Izuku carefully eyed the other person, he desperately hoped for some easy solution to appear in front of his eyes. To be able to close his eyes and open them to his old room, hear his mom calling him for dinner. No such thing happened.

His opponent slithered towards him quickly, quicker than Izuku thought they'd be able to. They wrapped several of their tentacles around Izuku, snaking up his leg to chest, then wrapping around his throat. Izuku clawed at the slippery limb, his nails had grown since he was captured and pierced the surface of the tentacles, a bit of pinkish blood poured out. Izuku’s opponent didn't give up though and soon he could feel his breath start to escape him and his vision blurring. Desperately, Izuku swung a leg up and over the tentacle and kicked downward; Its limb folded under the weight and Izuku took in a gasp of air as he hit the floor. He rolled away from the being as fast as he could and stood back up. 

His opponent was cradling their now bruised and scratched tentacle, Izuku felt a surge of determination. He’d hurt them, that meant he had a chance.

They charged towards Izuku again, he made sure to stay in constant motion to avoid its many tentacles. Running and dodging and rolling around the sandy arena. Its limbs twisted and folded over themselves, some even getting tangled enough to stop it from moving. Seeing them struggle reminded Izuku of a strategy A’zawa told him about…

With the octopuses attention on him, Izuku ran aimlessly around them, running in circles or zig-zagging around their tentacles. The more Izuku ran, the more his opponent's limbs tangled and knotted themselves.

His opponent was not only tangling itself up but was also getting increasingly tired. Izuku was grimly reminded that Humans are persistence hunters. 

The octopus writhed in a pile of its own limbs, frantically trying to untangle them and protect itself. Izuku felt sick at the sight. He didn't have anything sharp this time around and refused to bite them to death. He’d do what A’zawa suggested… Suffocate them.. Izuku apologized internally. He needed to survive.

He moved so he was out of their apparent line of sight and angled himself behind them. He didn't know where his opponents ‘throat’ was, so he'd have to guess. He kneeled down and took a running start towards the tangled up octopus. He jumped, his resistance to the ship's gravity giving him extra height to reach near their jellyfish-like head. Izuku wrapped his legs around their squishy body and wrapped an elbow around what Izuku assumed was their neck. The being struggled under his gasp, they flailed and managed to push their body backwards so Izuku hit the wall behind them.

The octopus kept reeling their head forward and slamming Izuku against the wall. He didn't let up, if anything, his grip around them tightened. Their thrashing started to slow, some of their tentacles going limp, their body turning an odd grey color. Izuku closed his eyes and tried to focus on anything else other than the fact he was taking someone's life.

Izuku focused on his memories on earth, trying to remember all the things he loved. The people he missed. His dreams he had before getting abducted. He’d even be willing to remember his bullies over his own blood stained hands.

After what felt like an eternity he felt the person's body slowly sink to the floor in a mushy pile. Izuku loosened his grip and stood up, he opened an eye to look, just a peek. Their once colorful, glowing, neon body was now a harsh, lifeless white. Their tentacles piled around them looked like they were melting. Izuku gagged. He regretted looking. 

The crowd above them cheered. Izuku grimaced. I just killed someone. And they’re cheering. Izuku’s voice sounded scarily monotone in his head. 

He shook the thoughts away. He looked at the body and whispered an apology before walking back to the doors he entered through.

Objectively speaking, Izuku did very well, he didn't get any limbs mauled this time. He did get a concussion but he figured it wouldn't last long since as far as he could tell the bleeding had already stopped. Still, when he pulled his hand out of his and saw a splotch of blood he grimaced. The guards pulled him along, lazily wrapping bandages around his head. Apparently they didn't consider concussions bad enough for proper alien medical treatment.

With his head now poorly bandaged they started walking him out, he expected to meet back up with others before he remembered something. After his last fight, he'd gotten a branding on his back. He asked Kacchan what it was and Kacchan informed him it was a trophy branding of sorts. (not that such a thing existed) Basically it was a branding that showed what he’d killed in the arena. Izuku groaned. Then if he was right…

The guards led him down the corridor with the branding rooms. Izuku wrapped his arms around him to suppress a shudder. This was fine, it was fine, He handled this before, he’d just handle it again. Even if he didn't like the guards touching and shoving him around, didn't like the straps, didn't like the muzzle, was terrified of the burning hot metal he'd be faced with soon, he’d be fine. He has to make it back to his family, that was all that mattered.

A’zawa ran a paw down his face, he found himself doing these nervous gestures more and more by the reklik. His mate was similarly pacing around nervously. It was almost the same as the last time Izuku was taken, except far worse since everyone knew he’d been sent to the ring thanks to the earlier document reading.

A’zawa was just frustrated. He’d hoped that fight wouldn't be for another solar cycle at least. A’zawa knew this wasn't Nezu’s fault but cursed him anyway.

In the opposite cell Eri was clinging onto Ka’s’ki. While Ka’s’ki was eerily quiet, Eri was crying her eyes out, asking over and over if Izuku would be killed. At some point when the three cubs were talking earlier, they'd established themself as pack. More specifically, the Terran claimed the other two as littermates. The entire situation was a mess. With Ka’s’ki’s ‘defectiveness’ making him more empathetic than other Draconics and Eri’s telepathic empathic abilities, the two were in shambles over Izuku being back in the fighting ring. Yam’da for his part, kept trying to comfort the two cubs. Ka’s’ki kept claiming he didn't care while Eri continued to cry. Why must cubs be so complicated?

A’zawa rapidly tapped his paw against the ground. He wanted more time to gather resources for their escape but now it was urgent. If they were going ahead with Izuku’s fighting plans they'd likely begin working on harvesting Eri and Ka’s’ki’s blood and organs. They needed to escape as soon as possible.

Izuku stumbled down the hall. He felt incredibly dazed and delirious. Maybe the concussion, maybe whatever drugs his traffickers injected in him to help dull the pain of his new branding, he couldn't tell. He didn't care either. He was just tired.

The guards half dragged, half carried Izuku down the hall closer to their cell, his eyes were barely even open by the time they arrived in front of his cell door.

He laughed deliriously and waved at the dragon inside. “Hi, Kacchan—!” Izuku was pushed inside and fell flat on his face. He turned his head to the side but didn't bother getting up. Eri ran over and grabbed Izuku’s arm, trying to help him up. Kacchan crawled over and grabbed Izuku from under his armpits. The dragon glanced at his teachers, they both had worried looks.

Kacchan set Izuku in their huddle corner and Eri latched onto his arm. Kacchan looked over Izuku’s body, there were bandages over his head and a new branding on his back but he looked safe and alive otherwise.

“Hey, Izuku? Are you okay?” The dragon waved a clawed hand in front of the humans eyes. Izuku nodded. “Yeahhhh, s’jus a con’ussion. It’s’ll be gon’ in like a… few days maybe? Y’know, light on, light s’off?” Kacchan nodded slowly and relayed the information to his teachers. The two adults looked at each other and A’zawa’s voice filled the room. “We’ll escape right when Izuku recovers. We can't waste anymore time.”

Kacchan and Eri nodded, Kacchan focused on Izuku again except he was already asleep. Eri’s teary eyes looked at the dragon. Kacchan growled under his breath. “Yes! He’ll be fine! He said he’ll be better, so just wait. Okay?”

Eri whined but nodded anyway. She rubbed the bandages on Izuku’s head. “Get better, brother.”

The overhead lights flicked off. Kacchan and Eri snuggled into the corner alongside Izuku. The teachers discussed who would take the first watch for the night. There was a layer of anxiety over everyone in the room. (minus the currently delirious Terran) Everyone was anxious for their upcoming escape attempt, they'd need all the sleep they could get though. The world wasn't kind to these five, something would surely go tomorrow.

Chapter Text

Izuku rose like a corpse out of a grave. He pulled bandages off his head and rubbed his temples. He still felt loopy and delirious but he was able to form coherent thoughts and sentences. Eri was lying beside him and Kacchan beside her. Kacchan and Yam’da were the only other ones awake. 

Kacchan nudged Izuku with his wing. “Feeling better?” 

Izuku yawned, he’d feel even better if he got more sleep and didn't wake up in the middle of the night. He nodded either way.

“Yeah, not all better, but better than before at least.” 

Kacchan nodded.“We’re leaving next time the lights turn off.” Izuku was a little surprised by that. A’zawa mentioned wanting to wait another day or two before leaving. He figured they must have a good reason though, so he didn't question it.

“A-alright then. I’ll have to figure out how to deal with our cell doors then.” Kacchan crossed his arms and hummed in thought. “Got a plan?”

“Eh…” Izuku shook his hand side to side in a ‘maybe’ gesture. “Really the only thing I think I could do is break them. I don't have the code and trying to leave while the guards are here would be stupid.”

“Less words, Izu, I didn't understand all of that.”

Izuku mumbled out an apology and continued. “What I'm saying is, the only way I can get through the door is by breaking it. Like a human battering ram!”

One of Kacchan’s ears flattened while the other pointed up, basically like a human raising an eyebrow.

“Uhm, yeah, i'm just gonna run into the bars really fast and hope they break.” Kacchan laughed and yeah, saying it aloud made it obvious how stupid it was.

“If you think it’ll work. I’ll tell Yam’da.” Izuku nodded and the dragon stood against the gravity to walk to the bars. Izuku decided to follow after making sure Eri was still sleeping soundly.

Kacchan and Yam’da spoke for a few minutes, Izuku was able to understand more of it than he'd thought.

“Izu said he’ll run into the bars.”

Yam’da squaked. “What?! Just run into them? No, no, that is way —– ———–.”

Kacchan shrugged. “Got a ——— idea?”

Yam’da’s feathers lowered. “No… but are we sure Izu will won’t ——– ————–?”

Kacchan to Izuku. “Yam’da says you're reckless and asks if you’ll be okay.” Izuku sighed and couldn't help but agree. Izuku nodded half-heartedly. “I think I will be. It's our best chance unless we somehow steal a keycard.”

Kacchan hummed in agreement, understanding the gist of what Izuku said.

Yam’da cooed worriedly. “If you’re sure… but if the plan doesn't work, let me and A’zawa ——— it!”

Izuku gave a thumbs up and sat down by the bars, Kacchan following and sitting next to him. Yam’da doing the same. The room fell into silence, not uncomfortable but not entirely calm either. The air buzzed with anticipation of their future escape.

By the time the lights turned on and everyone else got up, Izuku felt like he was about to die from information overload. Kacchan and Yam’da spent the time they were awake teaching Izuku any new Common word that would be relevant to their escape. From more directional words, ship terminology, tech systems and any related words. While Izuku was improving his understanding of the language, he still couldn't say more than a few words without losing his voice. Izuku couldn't understand how what was supposed to be a common and universal language, was impossible for him to speak. A’zawa told him there were other species that couldn't speak Common due to biological restrictions and that he shouldn't be too upset about it. Izuku was still upset about it. It’d be weird for him to be able to understand everyone else and have almost no one understand him. Yam’da said they’d try and get him a translator as fast as possible.

Either way, Izuku was taking a break from learning words to ease his headache. He didn't want to incapacitated before their grand escape. Right now, he was playing rock paper scissors with Eri. She was winning every time and Izuku couldn't tell if she was cheating or not, he didn't think so but didn't care either way. It was just nice to spend time with his new siblings.

At what Izuku assumed was noon they were delivered their food. A’zawa got his usual ambiguous raw meat, Yam’da and Eri got a fruit of some kind, and Izuku got his usual pellets. The guards still refused Kacchan his own serving so Izuku and Eri took to sharing their own meals with him. Izuku could tell he was grateful even when he vehemently denied it. Guess pride is just natural for Draconics. I really need to learn more about everyone’s species… and teach them more human things.

The three sat huddled in a circle, everyone's meals in front of them. It was less everyone having separate meals and more so a pile of food where anyone can take whatever they want. Izuku’s never been to a potluck but he imagines it's similar to this. 

“Izu?” Eri’s voice broke the quiet of their meal. 

“Yes, Eri?” She held out a piece of her fruit, so far Izuku was avoiding unknown foods. Since humans never made proper contact with the GA their dietary restrictions are entirely unknown to aliens. Even now A’zawa, Yam’da, Eri and Kacchan currently know the most about humans but that knowledge is still very limited. Izuku doesn't have any way of testing food other than eating it and hoping he doesn't die.

“Umm… I don't know if it's safe.” Kacchan leaned over and took a small piece of Eri’s fruit and ate it, Eri didn't seem to mind at least. Kacchan hummed. “I think it's Revenex. It's from a safe planet so I think it's fine for you.” Izuku tilted his head. He knew of the planet classification system but he wasn't sure he entirely trusted it. Eri held it out again, she even went so far as to make her eyes watery. Izuku regretted teaching her that tactic.. he grabbed the fruit and sniffed it. It smelled exactly like oranges. He takes a small bite of it, it tasted like.. coffee? Izuku stuck his tongue out. It didn't taste bad per se, but solid coffee was certainly er- interesting. I wonder if it actually has caffeine in it?

He ate the rest of it, now that he had more it actually tasted great. “It’s good…” He gave Eri a thumbs up. “I dunno if it's safe, but it does taste good.” 

“Eh, you'll be fine.” Kacchan flicked his tail to hit Izuku in the arm. Izuku groaned. “I guess. At least it's not raw meat.”

The three went back to their meal, sharing their food and talking. Everyone needed their strength for the escape later tonight. Yam’da flapped a wing to get Izuku’s attention. “Hey, ——– ———–! Be sure to rest up, it could help your wound.”

A’zawa gave an ear flick of agreement. “Yam’da’s right. We’ll wake you when we’re ready to leave.” Izuku hummed in thought. I’m tired but… I think suddenly waking up to something like escaping our kidnappers would be way too much of a mood shift. I don't think going from half-asleep to adrenaline fueled and ready to fight would be good for me… “Uhm, I’m really not tired, a-and my head doesn't hurt much. I’d rather stay awake, is that okay…?”

Izuku knew he shouldn't be nervous, it was just A’zawa and Yam’da, but he'd had far too many bad experiences with adults to confidently try arguing against an adult.

Yam’da’s feathers drooped but he didn't raise his voice or get upset. “If you’re sure… but still, take it easy.”

Izuku nodded with a close lipped smile. He could do that at least.

With their meals finished the three pushed the tray to the door. Izuku really wished the traffickers would just give Kacchan his own serving but he knew it was just hopeful thinking. 

Eri and Izuku walked to their usual huddle corner while Kacchan sat by the bars, still talking to his teachers. Eri sat cross-legged beside Izuku. “We’re gonna leave? Really?” He gave her a smile and thumbs up. “Yeah! I think we can do it. We’ll have to be really careful though, okay?” She nodded. “When we leave you have to stay close to us so we can keep you safe.” She nodded again.

“You look after me, because we are family?” He ruffled her hair. “That’s right! A’zawa and Yam’da will look after us too. We’ll all get out together.” Eri smiled and swished her tail side to side. Izuku was happy to see her happy. No kid deserved to be in this situation so if he could make her feel better then he would.

Kacchan crawled back over to them after talking to his teachers, a scowl on his face showing he probably lost some kind of argument. Since Izuku wasn't paying attention, all he heard was something about ‘the cubs not being reckless’. Kacchan crossed his arms, another human gesture to add to the list. “Ugh, teach says we can't fight when we leave.” Izuku thought it made sense, but he also kinda wanted to beat up his kidnappers, Sure he wasn't usually a violent person but he could make an exception this time round. 

“I’m sure they have their reasons, plus we’ll need to look after Eri. Really we should avoid fighting at all costs.” 

“Blah, blah, blah,” He opened and closed his hand as he spoke. “I just wanna fight awful people!” He groaned and leaned back to lay on the floor. Izuku could see his chest heaving. The gravity was still affecting him, it'd be stupid to try and have him fight.

“It’s really for the best that you don't fight, Kacchan. You still don't get full meals and the gravity weighs you down so-” Kacchan cut him off with a growl. Izuku crossed his arms. And he calls me dramatic. Eri stood and trotted over to Kacchan who closed his eyes. She patted his head with a ‘there, there’. He lazily swatted her hand away but she continued anyway. Izuku smiled at the sight. He hoped their escape went well.

Kacchan and A’zawa were teaching Izuku words in Common when the lights suddenly flickered off; everyone tensed. A’zawa called to kids while he went to wake Yam’da up; “Everyone ready?”

Izuku and Kacchan nodded. The dragon motioned a tail to Eri who was asleep at the moment. Izuku nodded and went to wake her up. He shook her slightly and whispered her name. When she opened her eyes to the dark room she tensed as well. Izuku put his pointer finger in front of his mouth in a ‘shh’ motion. Eri nodded and copied the gesture. The two walked back to Kacchan who sat by the bars. Yam’da and A’zawa were talking hurriedly. The panther addressed him first. “Izuku? You said you could ———– the bars?” Izuku nodded. Kacchan grabbed Eri’s hand and walked backwards towards the wall. 

Izuku himself walked to the back wall and crouched down. Hope this doesn't hurt too much.. Before either adult could reconsider what he was about to do, he sprinted towards the electrified cell door which earned a surprised squeak from Yam’da. With his shoulder aimed towards the door he rammed himself into it. Izuku had expected himself to fall backwards but instead found himself falling face first into concrete.

He stood up and looked down, he was standing on top of the bars, without it being connected to the bars the electricity fizzled out. He kicked the door to the side, it went surprisingly far. He looked over at the adults, both with confused and/or surprised faces. He suddenly felt self conscious even if he didn't know the reason why. He shook the feeling away and told the two to make way for him. Each stood at an opposite wall while Izuku walked backwards and kneeled again. Like last time, he sprinted forward with his shoulder aimed for the cell door. He would've face planted again if A’zawa hadn't caught him in time. He thanked the panther as everyone gathered in the hall.

“Everyone stay quiet. Not just ———- but ————- as well.” Izuku looked to Kacchan for help who whispered back a translation. Got it, Need to keep our voices and footsteps quiet. Eri shuffled behind him and grabbed onto his and Kacchan’s hands. Yam’da stepped forward and A’zawa cracked the door open to glance through, all four of his ears were twitching in every direction. He flicked his two tails which apparently meant ‘go’ as Yam’da and Kacchan started forward, dragging Izuku and Eri along with him. The five walked down the hall, it was empty and silent as far as Izuku could tell. A’zawa and Kacchan though had been flicking their ears every second or so. So far Kacchan, Izuku, and Eri are sandwiched between A’zawa and Yam'da, with A’zawa in front and Yam’da at the rear.

They reached the end of the hall and A’zawa cracked open the next door, all his ears pointing forwards. 

“Four guards. No weapons.” He whispered and glanced back; everyone except Yam’da nodded. The panther tapped a foot impatiently. “We should wait…”

So everyone waited with bated breaths. For ten minutes give or take the five waited in silence. The only sound being Kacchan’s strained breaths.

Eventually the guards all moved on to an unknown part of the ship. Right now the five we're aiming to find the common area, as risky as it was, it was likely close to the cockpit. The five followed Izuku and Kacchan’s directions until they made it to an open room filled with large desks and chairs. From the corner they were hiding in they could see three guards lounging around and talking. Yam’da walked to stand near A’zawa, the two shared a look. A’zawa turned to face the three others. “Stay here and stay quiet, got that, cubs?” The three nodded and shuffled closer into the darkness as the two adults walked into the room. Izuku could feel Eri squeezing his hand even tighter. He leaned down and held his arms out. Eri grabbed onto him and he lifted her up to place her on his hip. She was incredibly light and Izuku wasn't sure if it was because of the poor living conditions, just a part of her species, or Izuku’s strange amount of strength he had in space.

Kacchan wrapped his wings around the two and listened for his teachers. A ways away the sound of chairs falling and something large falling to the ground was heard. There were a few grunts and a muffled shout. Izuku thought he heard a few curses in Common too, of which Kacchan had gladly taught him. 

The two adults returned, both having their fair share of dark purple blood staining them. Izuku knew the blood was the Arachids but he still checked if the adults had any wounds of their own. It looked like there were a few scratches but nothing else. Izuku sighed in relief. A’zawa turned and flicked his tail towards himself. Kacchan started forward and Izuku followed, Eri in his arms squeezing him tightly. Yam’da took the rear again and the five pushed onwards. Izuku figured everything was going well so far but didn't want to jinx it.

They passed through the common area, the three guards were unconscious and pushed beneath the tables. Small pools of purple blood littered the floor. Someone was bound to discover the scene, they'd have to find the cockpit soon. There was a problem though, none of them had been in or passed the common room, which meant from here on it was a guessing game as to where the cockpit was.

A’zawa and Kacchan strained their ears and went down the left hall. They passed plenty of doors and rooms, most doors had talking on the opposite side. Izuku was tense with anxiety, if a single guard thought they heard something, or even just decided to leave the room then they'd be caught! Izuku shuddered as he imagined everything that could go wrong. He fidgeted with his suppression sleeve, repeatedly pulling on it then letting it go. Eri tightened her grip on him. He hoped he wasn't making her worry either.. he focused on steadying his breath as the group tuned right down another hall.

Halfway through the hall A’zawa stopped. Izuku held his breath and waited; did A’zawa hear something? 

The panther stepped silently towards the door and pressed his two right ears to it. He whispered back to the others. “This is it. Be ready for anything.” Izuku tightened his grip on Eri. He knew he shouldn't fight, but what if A’zawa and Yam’da needed help? As Yam’da walked forward he ruffled Izuku’s hair with his wing. “Don’t worry —--- —-----! It’ll be okay.” Izuku just nodded shakily. Still, he slowly placed Eri back on the floor, she still kept a grip on his hand. The three watched as the adults counted down before heading into the room. Izuku winced as heard yelling immediately. Along with yelling were various crashes and a muffled scream. Kacchan and Izuku shared a glance. Note to self: Never get on A’zawa and Yam’da’s bad side…

Suddenly the door flung open and without thinking Izuku closed his eyes and punched with full force whoever tried to leave. It felt his fist hit them and heard as they fell to the floor. He opened an eye to see an Arachid dressed in white with a hat. Yam’da arrived at the door in a hurry and motioned for them to come inside. Izuku picked Eri up again and hurried inside with Kacchan just behind them. A’zawa dragged the unconscious pilot inside and Yam’da hopped over to a large console, putting the ship in lockdown mode. A hiss and locking sound could be heard from the door they just walked through.

Izuku’s breath hitched in his throat. There was a large window spanning the entire room's length. Outside, nothing but outer space, trillions of stars and galaxies overlapping. His hold on Eri faltered. He blinked quickly when he felt tears. It was hard to believe how far from home he was, but now that he realized it he was probably light years, maybe even more than that, away from home. Izuku thought getting home was possible, now that he's able to see the empty vastness with his own eyes, though? God where would he even start? A’zawa and Yam’da recognized his species at least, maybe they could get him home… Izuku sniffed and wiped stray tears from his eyes.

Eri patted his head with worry in her eyes. “Izu okay? Why are you crying?”

Izuku wiped the remaining tears with his compression sleeve. “Yeah, I’m okay. I just realized.. I'm really, really far away from home.” Eri squeezed Izuku in a hug. He chuckled and squeezed back. Kacchan walked over and set his head on top of Izuku’s, he was still breathing roughly.

“You’ll get home. Quit worryin’.” His voice was unusually quiet. Izuku might even say he didn't want his teachers to hear. Izuku’s breath steadied. Yeah, he was far from home but he’d get back and he even has new family around him to help! With Yam’da working on getting a distress signal out, everything will be okay.

Izuku walked over to the large console and stood beside Yam’da. Kacchan sat down beside his teacher as well. A’zawa was poking and prodding around the room, looking through lockers and side rooms. Izuku let out a long sigh. He was glad it was so easy but it almost felt.. too easy? He shook the thought away. I should just be grateful.

A’zawa walked back in the room, piles of folders tucked under all of his arms. “‘Zashi, you can send the distress signal now.” Yam’da chirped a response and turned his attention back to the console, surprisingly enough he was able to navigate perfectly without hands. 

A’zawa set the folders down and tapped a tail against Kacchan’s snout, he looked half asleep, all the movement wearing him down. Why couldn't he get one of those… what were they called? Calibrative devices? This just seems cruel…

A’zawa flicked his tails in front of Kacchan again. “Stay awake, cub.” Then he looked to Izuku. “Stay alert, Izuku.” Izuku nodded shakily. He could understand Kacchan feeling tired after wandering around the ship for however long, but his mind refused to relax. 

Izuku set Eri down and watched Yam’da send out the distress signal. It was mostly written words that Izuku couldn't understand but there was an interesting holographic display of the.. solar system? -galaxy?- they were in. Izuku looked at the holographic planets, none of them were the memorable mix of blue, green, and white. Izuku frowned. Yam’da looked over at Izuku. “Looking for home?”

Izuku nodded.

“We’ll find it. I’m sure U.A knows the ——— and ——— ———— your home’s in!” Izuku smiled. At least someone knew where his home was. Yam’da returned to the console and Izuku looked out the window.

There was a shiny dot in the distance, Izuku squinted his eyes. Is it getting closer? He looked at Yam’da, he had his eyes focused on the holographic screen. A’zawa was looking through the files he found, Kacchan looked like he was unconscious sitting against the console on the floor, Eri sat beside the dragon but even if she weren't, she wasn't tall enough to see over the console. He looked back at the dot, it was definitely bigger..

He raised a finger to point at it, “Uhm, Yam’da sir, what is tha-”

His words were cut off by a flash of light and a falling sensation. His body was thrown to the side, rolling along the floor and crashing into a wall of metal lockers. Izuku got to his hands and knees, hissing air through his teeth in pain. He thought he heard a large crash past the ringing in his ears. He opened an eye, the room was filled with red lights and a blaring alarm. He stood on shaky legs. W-what just happened? He looked from side to side, there was a large crack in the ship’s window. Like him, everyone else was thrown around the room. Eri was laying by the door rubbing tears from her eyes with Yam’da trying to help her up. A’zawa was similarly trying to help Kacchan up. Izuku wobbled over to Eri, nearly tripping over himself. He leaned down to sit beside her and looked up at Yam’da.

“Yam’da! What happened?!” Yam’da messed with a keypad beside the cockpit door.

“Sorry —--- —----! We got bad —---- I’m afraid.” Eri wrapped her arms around Izuku’s neck and he lifted her up into his arms.

“W-what do we do then?!”

A’zawa and Kacchan walked over to them, Kacchan looked like he was on the verge of passing out.

“We need to leave; now. We can’t wait for U.A. There should be ————– escape pods.” 

There was a click as Yam’da got the door open, A’zawa hesitantly let go of Kacchan and walked over.

Yam’da chirped anxiously. “I know where they are! I made sure to look at the ships —–.” A’zawa flicked his ears in acknowledgement. Outside the door Izuku could hear yelling and crashing. Between the red lights filling the entirety of the ship and the alarm that just won’t stop. Izuku couldn't even hear his own thoughts. Eri was a sobbing mess, Kacchan looked like a walking corpse and Izuku was done with everything.

Yam’da put a wing around the three and nudged them forwards. Izuku shifted Eri to place her on his hip so he could grab Kacchan’s hand. With his arms full, he trailed behind the adults as they left the room. When they got to the hallway they saw upturned furniture, broken down doors, and shattered windows. Yam’da led everyone through the maze of a ship, taking turn after turn.

The five were running through the halls when something slammed into them. Izuku turned his body so he wouldn't crush Eri as they fell. Over the sirens Izuku could hear someone yelling in Common. He opened his eyes, so much adrenaline was rushing through him that his vision was blurry, his breaths short. He held Eri close and stood up. Kacchan stood, leaning against the wall.  Through the red light Izuku could see a panther pinned by a large beetle looking alien. Izuku set Eri down by Kacchan’s feet and charged at the alien. He had no idea what he was doing or why he was doing it.

Izuku slammed his body into the alien and rolled across the room, he stood back up and blinked to clear his vision. A’zawa was back on his feet but Yam’da was nowhere to be seen. A’zawa ran towards Izuku and couldn't help but flinch, he wasn't even sure why he did; A’zawa would never hurt him. He felt paws rest on his shoulder.. “Listen cub, I need you to take Eri and Ka’s’ki and get to the escape pods. Do you think you can do that?” Izuku glanced behind the panther to see the alien from before getting back up.

“Izuku."

His wide eyes flicked back to the panther, four glowing red eyes with slit pupils stared back. Izuku shakily nodded, Yeah, he could do that..

A’zawa flicked his tails to a hall. “Head down that way, it's right there okay? Me and Yam’da will come back, I promise you. We will not abandon you, understand?” He turned around to face the alien from before. Izuku eyed his sibling, Kacchan had his wings and tail wrapped around Eri, at some point an Arachid had cornered them.

Izuku balled up his fist and ran forward, jumping up to hit the Arachid in their jaw. Izuku fell to the ground after the impact but got back to his feet in seconds. Izuku picked Eri up and grabbed Kacchan’s hand, same as last time. He ran down the hall A’zawa instructed him to, he saw the panther fighting the beetle alien once more, Izuku mentally wished him luck as he ran down the hall.

He ran down the hall, over the alarms he could hear the heavy footsteps of Kacchan and lighter footsteps behind him. Who’s behind them? Is the Arachid still chasing them? Izuku didn't look back, he just had to go where A’zawa told him to.

The three ran past a few open doors, blood splattered on the floor and walls as screams echoed throughout the ship. Izuku saw a room filled with aliens fighting, through the mess of teeth, claws, and blood he could see the numbers above each door. Those have to be the escape pods!  He couldn't just walk over to them with the free-for-all going down in the room. It looked like everyone was fighting to determine who would be able to escape. Izuku turned in circles looking at everything in the room, a group of three fighting, two others fighting each other, a couple bodies laying on the floor, two empty escape pods, three already ejected. The body of an Arachid was tossed towards the group, Izuku was quick to duck, dragging Kacchan down with him. Izuku scurried to a corner of the room to hide behind a table flipped on its side. In his arms Eri had a death grip on him and Kacchan was dry heaving and coughing every few seconds.

Izuku tugged on his hair with his free hand. Can’t anything just go right for once?! He took in several shaky deep breaths and peaked his head around the table. Out of the three that were fighting one was knocked out, the other two were still fighting. The other pair of unknown aliens were also fighting in a mess of claws and fists.

Izuku chewed on his cuticles so hard they started to bleed. 

Should I rush in as well? We need to make sure we have one of the escape pods. He peeked over again. Four people fighting, only two escape pods left. He handed Eri over to Kacchan and put a finger over his lips. Kacchan nodded and watched as Izuku left the safety of their hiding place.

Everyone’s distracted fighting each other, none of them look like they’ve been held captive like us… maybe we can sneak last and get to the escape pod without fighting.. He crouched to the floor and walked behind and under any furniture he could to remain unseen. He reached the escape closest to the hiding place and fiddled with the hatch. Right as he heard the click signaling it was open he felt a sharp pain in his ribs. He felt the ground and felt large segmented hands squeezing his neck.

He looked up to see an Arachid snarling above him. Oh, god damn it!

Izuku squirmed in their grasp, he brought his leg up and kneed them in their stomach area. They coughed up purple blood and fell to the side. Izuku looked at them, they were folded over themself with their hands over their stomach.

Should I… kill them? I don't think they’ll stop killing me. What about the others still fighting, will they try to kill me too? This is just the fighting arena with more people in the ring! I-I have to. The Arachid was starting to stand again. Izuku stood and kicked their legs out from under them. He had to, he had to. With them on the floor again Izuku lifted up his foot and brought it down on the Arachids throat. He had to. He repeated the motion over and over until their head rolled a few inches away from their body. He refused to look at it.

When he looked back over the room there was one person left standing, it was another large beetle alien. Izuku looked around the room. When had the second escape pod been ejected?! Then… Izuku looked behind him to last escape pod, the one he was guarding. He drew in a breath looking at his next victim; He had to.

Izuku didn't wait this time, he went after them first. The beetle crouched to stand on all fours, Izuku dropped to the floor and slid under them, shifting to jump onto their back and lock an arm around their throat. The large creature reached its arms behind it to tear Izuku off its back, it grabbed his arm and flung him across the room. He could hear thundering footsteps getting closer. He got to his hands and knees and moved to avoid the creature's punch, the floor shattering from the impact. Izuku jumped over a table and ran to the other side of the room. This wouldn't work, he needed a plan. He looked at the alien again, it had a hard shell over the top of its body, only having openings around its joint and its underbelly. The creature was standing on two legs again. Izuku sighed. Alright— just, aim for the weak spots.

Izuku moved from behind the wall of destroyed furniture he was using as cover and sprinted towards the beetle, they began to lower themself to the ground but Izuku was quicker. He jumped and landed a kick to their underbelly. They fell backwards on their plating and Izuku didn't waste any time. He had to. He jumped on top of their body, standing over their vitals. While they were recovering from the kick Izuku raised a fist and punched where he assumed their vitals were. After a coughing fit they stopped moving. Hopefully not dead, but either way Izuku had more important things to worry about. 

He looked back at the mess of flipped over tables and hopped off the beetle to check in his siblings. Kacchan and Eri were still alive and safe. Izuku sighed in relief. Eri was looking at him with wide shaky eyes, Kacchan looked unconscious. He grabbed Eri’s hand and set her beside him so he could help Kacchan up. 

He placed an arm around the dragon, a little difficult due to his wings. It took pretty much all of Izuku’s strength to carry, more like drag, the dragon to the life pod. Eri made sure to follow closely at Izuku’s side.

The three shuffled into the hospital white escape pod. Izuku set Kacchan on one of the chairs and turned to Eri, tear tracks running down her face. He leaned down to be at her eye level. “See, we’re okay! Everything will be okay. We just need to wait for A’zawa and Yam’da.” She nodded. “Sit with Kacchan and I’ll wait by the door for them.” She hesitantly left Izuku’s side and trotted over to Kacchan, sitting in the seat beside him. 

Before turning to look for the teachers he looked around the escape pod. There were six empty seats, a large screen by the door, three lockers lining the wall, and several boxes that looked bolted to the floor. He checked the lockers and boxes, they were filled with food pellets, lavender liquid, medical supplies and what Izuku assumed was survival gear. There was a knife in one of the boxes, just a little shorter than his forearm. It looked like a dagger, either way it’d be useful. Izuku instinctually gripped it in his right hand but with it being difficult to control, he’d have to hold it in his left hand. He’s been having to do most things with his left hand instead of his right ever since his first fight. He groaned internally. He’d just have to adapt.

Now armed Izuku stepped out of the escape pod back to the ruined room, he hadn't noticed before but the alarm finally stopped. The ship was still bathed in a red light though. He glanced at the beetle alien, luckily they were still unconscious. He eyed the hallway he ran in from. Where’s A’zawa and Yam’da? Shouldn’t they be here by now?

It's fine, that’s fine. He’d just wait. He sat down in the doorway to the escape pod and listened for any hint of the two adults. The most he could hear was random crashes and screams, same as before. As he listened closer the crashes sounded more like.. gunshots? He gripped the knife's handle tighter. Are the adults even alive? Izuku had no way of knowing. Should he risk the teachers’ lives and leave with his siblings or should he risk his siblings’ lives and wait for the teachers? Izuku chewed on his cuticle. Why do I have to make such a decision?! On one hand they could already be dead so us waiting for them would mean nothing, but what if they’re alive and they found out we left without them? Then they’d definitely die. Us or them, us or them… I-I’ll wait five more minutes, if they aren't here by then, we’ll leave.

He pulled his bloody finger away from his teeth and nodded to himself. Five minutes, that’s the most he’ll wait for.

Izuku lied to himself, it'd been around 10 minutes and he was still waiting. He couldn't bring himself to potentially doom the adults that helped and cared for him in this place. Kacchan would probably hate him if he found out Izuku abandoned A’zawa and Yam’da. Still, the gunshot sounds were getting closer and less frequent. Was someone doing a sweep of the ship? Killing anyone they find? Izuku chewed on the thumb, already a bloody mess. If someone *was* doing a sweep then the adults might've already been killed. If the shooters are getting closer then him and his siblings will be killed too, waiting is just putting themselves at risk and gaining nothing. Izuku ran his right hand through his hair, his fingers twitching occasionally.

He looked back at his siblings, Kacchan was still out but he's the only one who’d be able to read Common and get them out. Eri looked half asleep as well but clearly still anxious. 

Izuku stood and closed the escape pod. We have to leave. Sorry Sho’a A’zawa. Sorry ‘Zashi Yam’da. Eri sat upright in her chair. “Where’s A’zawa and Yam’da?”

Izuku sat beside Kacchan and leaned over to look at her.

“S-sorry Eri, I don't know where they are. We need to leave though, without them.”

She tilted her head. “But why? Can't we wait?” Izuku sighed. “I don't know if they're still coming, Eri. It isn't safe to stay, we have to leave now and hope they're okay.”

Tears filled her eyes and she stared down at her hands. He stood to ruffle her hair. “I personally think they’ll be okay. You know how strong they are!” She sniffled slightly and gave a quiet ‘mhm’.

He turned to Kacchan, the dragon was still out cold. He placed a hand on Kacchan’s shoulder and shook him. “Kacchan? You need to wake up, we’re leaving and I can't navigate the escape pod myself.”

He slowly opened his eyes and looked at Izuku.

“Huh? We’re leaving?” Izuku nodded and Kacchan stretched, his wings blocking Izuku and Eri’s view for a second. “Where’s A’zawa and Yam’da?”

Izuku rubbed the back of his neck. “I- I waited a long time for them but they didn't come back, so we're leaving. I hear gunshots getting closer, we can't stick around for that.”

Kacchan looked at the escape pod door and flicked an ear. “Gunshots?”

Izuku nodded and made a finger gun. “Yeah, pretty sure at least.” 

Kacchan stood, careful to not hit Eri with his wings. “If you’re sure, Izu..”

He walked over to the screen by the door, it looked like he was able to walk easier in here, if only by a little bit. Izuku followed the dragon over and Eri, not wanting to be too far away from them, also trotted over.

It was a tense and silent 10 minutes as Kacchan fiddled with the touch screen.

“Is there anywhere we can go? T-that's safe at least?” Kacchan huffed.

“There’s a few planets nearby, most of our kidnappers will go to the class 4 that's nearby. If we go there too they’ll find us.” 

Eri’s soft voice spoke up. “What about other planets?” 

Kacchan’s claws tapped against the screen. “Tch, the only other in range is a class 7.”

Izuku ran through the lesson he’d been given on planetary classifications, if he remembered right class 7’s were difficult to survive on without knowledge or preparation, but not impossible. 

“If that's the only other one. We need to avoid our kidnappers at all costs.” Kacchan groaned but seemed to comply. “Get to your seats.” 

The three sat on the far right side of the circular escape pod, Eri sandwiched between the two boys. An electronic voice spoke in Common over a speaker.

“Navigating to class 7 planet “223-269-BA” now. Send off in 10, 9, 8…”

Izuku closed his eyes, ill with anxiety once again. He foot tapped against the floor going a mile a minute. Now that the decision was made he was feeling wave after wave of doubt. He really didn't think he made the right choice. He felt he just doomed A’zawa and Yam’da to death, doomed his siblings, doomed himself. He managed to choose every worst option, didn't he…?

“3, 2, 1… Leaving ArachiSector 07. Estimated wait time: 2 Solrunes. Automated gravity and atmosphere activated. Have a safe flight.”

Izuku noticed the shift in gravity and atmosphere immediately. He coughed a bit before catching his breath, the air felt thinner, not terribly so but enough that Izuku’s breaths became more frequent. The gravity though, felt like it'd been turned to zero. He could feel himself floating despite the straps keeping him in his seat.

The ship shook as it separated from the main ship, he looked out the window to see the silvery shape of his prison slowly get farther and farther.

He looked at Kacchan and Eri. Kacchan was snarling under his breath for a reason Izuku didn't know, Eri had a death grip on Izuku’s hand and had her eyes closed.

Izuku leaned his head back against his chair. He wished and hoped with all his might that everything turned out okay. Who knows what would happen after this.

Chapter Text

Izuku peeled his eyes open to be faced with white metal. He pushed against the wall(?) and rubbed his eyes. As he pushed away from the surface he found himself floating in the middle of the room. Now thoroughly disoriented and a little dizzy, Izuku flipped himself around to see Eri looking up at him.

“Why are you up there Izu?” Izuku flailed his limbs, trying to move through the room, it.. didn't work.

“U-um, not too sure. I didn't think the gravity would be this low.” He looked down at Eri, her dress and hair seemed a little more flowy than usual but her hooves were still on the floor at least. Izuku reached his arms out to her.

“Can you pull me down please? I don't wanna stay up here forever.” 

“Okay! I’ll make sure you won't fly away again.” She hopped up, jumping a foot or so higher than she usually could and grabbed Izuku’s hands, bringing him back to the floor with her. Izuku oriented himself so his feet touched the ground, but it didn't last. He was stuck floating inches off the ground still. Ugh, my bad luck never ends. Isn't it bad for people to be in zero gravity ‘cause it weakens their muscles? I hope we get to the class 7 planet soon.

He snickering to his left and turned to glare at the dragon.

“Something funny, Kacchan?”

He muffled his laughs with his hand, his tail flicking in amusement.

“No, no...” He said while muffling a laugh.

Izuku rolled his eyes, using Eri as a starting point he pushed himself through the life pod over to the screen by the door. There was an image of the escape pod moving along a dotted line to the planet. The escape pod hadn't gotten very far of course, but Izuku was glad to have a visual indicator how close they were to their destination.

“It’ll be two Solrunes.” Kacchan said from behind.

“That means…?”

“For Terrans I think it's around 7 solar cycles.” Ah, so two weeks. That's not as bad as I thought it'd be if I'm being honest.

Eri walked over to sit beside Kacchan. Izuku noticed the dragon wasn't breathing heavily anymore, this gravity and atmosphere was better for him, then. He was glad, even if floating sucked at least Kacchan could move around easier.

Eri’s gaze flicked between her two brothers, she fidgeted with her hands; a habit she picked up from Izuku. “Um, what do we do now?”

Kacchan huffed and crossed his arms, Izuku was growing concerned at the amount of human gestures the two were subconsciously using but filed the thought away for later.

“Wait.”

Eri hummed sadly. “Just wait? Izuku, I don't wanna just wait!”

He pushed off the wall to float closer to where she and Kacchan were sitting.

“Sorry, Eri. I can't make time or the escape pod move faster. That doesn't mean we have to sit in silence though! We can still talk or play games, how about that?”

“Okay! Um, do you remember that time when I asked you a bunch of questions? I wanna do that again!”

Izuku thought it was an odd choice but kids were strange like that. He shrugged and agreed anyway.

“Sure, what about you Kacchan? You wanna join in?”

The dragon stretched in his chair and leaned closer to the two.

“Sure, why not. I do have a lot of questions about Terrans.”

Izuku slumped in the air. I guess I underestimated how much of a mystery Humans are to aliens.

“Alright… who wants to go first?” 

Eri eagerly raised her hand and kicked her feet back and forth. “Me! Me, please!”

Izuku shifted to sit criss-cross, despite floating in mid-air he might as well get comfy for the questioning. “Go for it.”

“What are those, and that?” She reached a paw out to point at his freckles and the bags under his eyes. 

“Oh, the little dots are freckles, not every human has them. The purple under my eyes just means I haven't been sleeping well.”

“Well I like freckles. Do I have any?” She pointed to her face and looked at Kacchan who shook his head, Eri wilted at that, almost literally with the flower on her tail.

“Kacchan? Your question?”

The dragon hummed in thought before pointing a claw at him.

“You’re short. Why?” Straight to the point, huh?

“Just genetics I guess, I might grow a few more inches but I doubt I'll get that much taller.” The two tilted their heads. Right, there's no way they know the word genetics.

“Uhm, what i mean is, my mom is short, so i'm short too. If my parents were taller then I probably would've been taller too.”

Kacchan hummed.

“What about other Ter- Humans? Are they taller?”

“Eh, it depends. If you’re asking if any Humans are as tall as you or A’zawa then no. You’re likely around 7 feet, there technically are people who are 6’8 or more but it's generally not a good thing.”

“I think I get it, Eri, you're next.”

“Oh! Um, um… are all Humans hair your color?”

“Nope! Humans have all kinds of hair colors, there used to be way less but Humans evolved to have hair of all colors.”

“Oo! Is there a Human with my hair color?” She played with a few strands of her hair as she spoke.

“Yeah definitely! Kacchan too, there's lots of people with blonde hair.”

The dragon gave a thumbs down. “Boring. I have a better question, are all humans as strong as you?” Izuku was taken aback by that. Him, strong? Maybe in another universe where he had super powers.

“Uhm, i'm not strong though? N-not by human standards at least! I haven't worked out a day in my life!” 

Kacchan scoffed in response. “No way! I'm pretty sure you could kick an Arachids head off no problem. It's gotta be a Human thing then.. damn Humans.”

That sounded weirdly personal? “Um, okay then, whatever you say. I do mean it when I say I'm not strong by Human standards though. I wish I could show you other people.” If only I had my phone, it was in my bag when I was taken so Mom must've found it.. I hope she doesn't think I’m dead and gets rid of all my hero movie merch.

Eri raised her hand and pointed at Izuku. “I think you're strong, Izu! You beat up all the bad guys and saved us!” Izuku beamed at the praise, he *did* help save his siblings, he could be proud about that! 

“Yeah, you're right Eri! I'm glad you two are safe.” Eri beamed at his words. Kacchan managed to cross his arms further somehow.

“Do all Humans bond as easily as you? ‘Cause I'm not gonna make every Human my sibling!”

“I’ll make every human my sibling!”

“No! That’d be way too many, nobody needs that many siblings. You’ll live with just the two of us.”

Eri ‘hmphed’ and crossed her arms too.

Izuku smiled at the bickering. To be fair, it was a good question.

“No, not everyone is like me, I doubt all dragons, er- Draconics are like you, right?”

He growled under his breath as he spoke. “Tch, I’m the worst example of a Draconic.”

Eri patted his wing, he raised an eye in confusion. “I think you're a good dragon, Kacchan.”

“Uh-huh?”

Eri pointed to herself. “I think all Preciturs have the tellapattic thingy.”

“Telepathic! I guess telepathy is just a part of your species then, but I'm sure every Precitur still looks different right?”

“Ohh, mhm! Everyone has different colors and flowers!”

“See? That's what I mean by everyone's different. Humans are all the same species but things like hair, eyes, face, skin color and body type differ between people.”

The two nodded along. Izuku clapped his hands together. “Okay! Any other questions? I probably should've put a limit on this..”

Eri raised her hand again, where did she even pick that up from? Izuku couldn't remember raising his hand before.

“This is kinda for both of you.” She glanced between him and Kacchan.

“Are you both okay? Does it hurt?” She poked the scarred over branding on Kacchan chest, he growled and moved her hand away using his wing.

“I’m fine! Izuku’s the one that broke all his bones!”

“Wha- huh?! You did? Oh no!”

Izuku glared at Kacchan and waved his hands back and forth.

“No, no, no! I didn't break all my bones! Maybe just my arm..?”

“That’s still not good though.” Eri stared at him blankly.

He sighed. “No, it's not. My right arm still feels numb and hard to move. Plus i still have a little bit of a limp, but other than that I'm fine, I promise!”

Neither of his siblings believed him. “Uhm, anyway, next question!”

Eri spoke up again despite it technically being Kacchan's turn. “Why are you so sad all the time?” Kacchan held a paw over his snout, muffling a laugh.

This is gonna be a long day…

By the time the ‘question game’ ended Eri and Kacchan knew an alarming amount about human psychology. Izuku had gotten into psychology when he was younger and had hyper fixated on it for years, he never thought it'd be useful.

After their question game the trio realized being stuck in an escape pod with nothing but the bare essentials was almost as bad as the cell. Izuku especially hated the zero gravity, it was alright at first but now he was almost perpetually dizzy and disoriented. Anytime he went to sleep he’d wake up at weird angles and usually face first with the ceiling. 

He eventually convinced Kacchan to hold on to Izuku when they slept in a pile on the floor (which unfortunately just led to Izuku getting buried in Kacchan’s wings and tail as a way of preventing him from floating around)

The escape pods lights had dimmed, they had their own day/night cycle that differed from the Arachids ship which put everyone’s sleep cycles out of sync.

Somehow, Kacchan and Eri managed to fall asleep easily, Izuku had no such luck. He laid on the floor, a pair of tails wrapped around him to keep him literally grounded. Izuku felt a little.. distant at the moment. It felt like time wasn't moving. The escape pod was a dark pale blue with the lights turned off, the only light being from the trillions of stars that shone through the glass window on one side of the pod. He could hear faint humming from the ship, and every once in a while heard the creak of its systems.

At first the atmosphere was calming, now it's suffocating. He didn't want to be in the pod, or wrapped in tails, or in the dark, or even *awake*, for another second. He calmed his breath, nothing bad was happening despite what his brain tried telling him. He just needed to calm down.

He squirmed out of the pair of tails and slowly floated up from his resistance to the gravity. He placed a hand on the ceiling and pushed himself into the small bathroom that was attached to the right side of the escape pod. The lights were automatic so he couldn't turn any on, but the glow from the window reached the bathroom slightly.

He placed his hands in the sink to stop himself and looked into the mirror, his mind felt fuzzy and far off. He ran his fingers along his scars. In the darkness of the bathroom his face was tinted blue, his hair nearly black instead of the once vibrant green. His eyes were duller too, the cursed bags beneath his eyes still hadn't gone away. He covered his cheek branding with his hand, his thumb bandaged after he'd chewed it so hard it bled. He couldn't help but reflect on everything that had happened in the moment of silence. He felt vaguely sick just trying to recount all of it.

Currently his mind was still stuck on A’zawa and Yam’da. Try as he might, Izuku couldn't get rid of the guilt and stress that had been building, constantly thinking that his decision got them killed somehow.

Izuku’s hand slumped down to his side. He hugged himself tightly and brought his knees to his chest, curling up into a ball in midair.

It’s fine. They’re not dead, I shouldn’t give myself doubts. Just breathe… breathe.

He ran a hand through his hair and pushed himself out the bathroom. Izuku realized a bit too late that he let himself float into the middle of the room, where all sides of the life pod were out of reach meaning he couldn't push himself back down to the ground. He sighed and shifted in the air to lay on his side. At least Kacchan and Eri are sleeping okay, I shouldn't bother them.

He closed his eyes, he'd be fine sleeping in the air one more time.

Izuku brought his head up from the desk, when had he fallen asleep? He looked around, he was at the kitchen table. Maybe he just took a nap while waiting for his mom to make dinner. Speaking of…

“You’re finally up, sleepyhead.” His mom placed a hand on his head. Izuku chuckled.

“Yeah, sorry for dozing off. There’s just been a lot of assignments at school.”

She planted a kiss on his forehead.

“Look at my smart boy! Always working so hard.” He nodded sheepishly.

“But,” She cupped her cheek with her hand and tilted her head. “I’m not sure why you're trying so hard, hun. You aren't coming back.”

Izuku did a double take at that. What is she talking about? Why wouldn't I come back home?

“W-what do you mean, mo-”

He blinked and suddenly found himself in a dull grey room, strapped to a table. H-huh? What? What just…

Creatures walked around him, a distant chattering noise filled his ears. What was going on? Wasn't he just at home?

His head was stuck facing left due to whatever restraints were around him. Izuku was so confused and lost, nevermind what's happening, how did he get here in the first place? From the angle his head was stuck at Izuku could see a furnace of some kind, an array of shining silver tools beside it.

Izuku felt a sense of guttural dread.

This reminded him of something, he remembered something like this happening but, no, that doesn't make sense. He was at home… he's never been in a place like this! There's nothing to remember, nothing happened. He had to…

The being got closer, one was holding something, one of the metal pieces. It was glowing red, getting closer to him.

Izuku remembered, he fought and tried so hard to get away but it didn't work.

Sizzling hot pain and the smell of burned flesh engulfed him before-

He found himself standing in a sandy arena, there was something heading for him. Before he could move the creature snapped its jaw around Izuku’s arm. He screamed in agony. His eyes flicked frantically around. Again? What’s happening? Wasn’t I just…

All he could hear was the cheering of crowds, an enthusiastic voice commentating about the creature mauling him, the growling of the beast above him.

His arm felt like it was on fire, blood gushing out in every direction as it splattered over him. He could hear snapping, feel his bones begin to crumble under the things bite force. He remembered something, about, taking its fang? Right, he had to.. he has too, he tore the fang from the creatures mouth and brought it above his head, stabbing it into the creatures ne-

He was hanging feet above the sandy floor of the arena. Glowing blue-magenta tentacles were wrapped around his throat. His chest burned as he desperately tried to intake any air he could. He chest squeezed, begging for a single breath. Drool pooled in his throat, a line of it trailing down his chin as his vision started blurring. His mind was blanking, he knew he was dying, but he remembered living. He killed them, he knew that, he knew that he had to. He flailed and kicked his legs, able to hit the being arms. It dropped him and he fell to ground with a thud-

There were arms around him, holding his arms to his chest. A rough voice growled words that Izuku couldn't comprehend at the moment. His immediate instinct was to try and squirm out of the attacker's grip. It proved useless, they were bigger and stronger than him, he opened his jaw and before his attacker could doge bit down on their scaly clawed hand. They shook their limb, trying to get him off. They moved their body to restrain him further, wrapped their legs around him and stuck their other hand in his mouth to try and pry it open. The unknown individual was able to free their hand and to Izuku’s dismay, covered his mouth so he couldn't bite anymore. He just lost the only upper hand he had! If he could just sink his teeth in them again he could survi-

“IZUKU!”

Izuku blinked. Huh? I don't— they, they never called me by my name did they?

Izuku took in exactly where he was. He looked in every direction, he couldn't hear anything over the drumming of his heart beat but he could see everything well enough despite the dim lighting. When he looked up, he found a dragon staring back at him with wide, worried eyes.

“H-huh?” Not realizing he said that out loud he didn't expect a response.

“Are you… okay?” Izuku blearily looked around the room, he was so confused. His chest was heaving up and down quickly, each breath only lasting a second. Where was I just now? What happened to mom, is she okay?

“What..” From the corner of his eyes he could see a little girl hidden behind the dragon's wings. His mind began to clear and his breaths slowed. Right.. Kacchan and Eri, but then what was all that before? Was I just dreaming? It felt so real though.. Mom’s voice sounded so close.

A second pair of arms wrapped around him. Eri’s okay, that’s good.. He looked down to see a scaled hand wrapped around him and covered in orange blood. Izuku snapped back to reality pretty quickly at the sight. That was Kacchan i bit?!

Izuku quickly sat more upright and turned to face the dragon, Eri had to let go at the sudden movement. Izuku shifted to sit in front of the other boy, Eri keeping an arm around Izuku to keep him tethered to the ground instead of floating up again. He eyes Kacchan’s bitten, bloody hand. They’d have to bandage it at least, Izuku remembered seeing first aid kits in some of the metal storage boxes.

“Shit! Kacchan are- are you okay?! Sorry! I- uhm, i dunno really why I bit you but it wasn't on purpose I swear!” 

Kacchan had an odd look, somehow angry and relieved and blank all at once. Izuku was about to apologize again when the dragon brought his arms around Izuku and Eri, and pulled them into a hug. Izuku struggled to try and get out of it.

“Ugh, Kacchan! We need to tend to your hand first!” The dragon huffed. Why now of all times to be stubborn?

Izuku accepted his fate and sank into the hug, his two siblings practically bear-hugging him into oblivion.

The three sat in silence until Kacchan sighed. “Yeah, let's get my hand fixed. You have a nasty bite despite how dull your teeth are.”

The three stood, Kacchan keeping an arm Izuku to keep his feet on the ground. Eri similarly clung to his side, her eyes looked watery, had she been crying? He hoped he wasn't the cause.

The three shuffled into the bathroom, Kacchan getting a first aid kit from a container and tending to his hand. Meanwhile Eri insisted on being held so now Izuku had her hoisted in his hip. Luckily, it was enough to keep him on the floor without Kacchan’s help. Eventually while Kacchan was taking care of his wound Izuku moved to sit on the sink's countertop. Despite apparently having slept he was still utterly exhausted. The dragon kept glancing at him every once in a while. Izuku was dreading the upcoming conversation, not to mention Eri kept patting his head and reassuring him; he couldn't tell if he should be worried by that fact, considering her empathic abilities.

Kacchan glanced at him. “So, what was that?”

Izuku kicked his legs back and forth anxiously which made Eri hug him tighter.

“Um, just a nightmare… I guess.”

“Nightmare?”

“Ah, yeah, y’know? A bad dream?”

“Dunno what dream means either, Izu.”

Izuku thought about how to word it. “It's uh, you know when you go to sleep and when you wake up you remember random thoughts, or images, or memories that never happened?”

“No. Humans are just crazy and weird.”

Izuku sighed, he should've seen that coming. He isn't sure why he thought dreams were a universal experience. Unexpectedly Eri’s voice was heard next, she’d been surprisingly quiet thus far so Izuku was glad to hear her talking again.

“I dunno what it is but I felt it! It was so scary!” Oh, that's worse than what I was expecting.

“Sorry, Eri. I uhm, don't know how to help you from that..” She wiped a few stray tears from her eyes.

“It’s not your fault, I felt you were scared so I wanted to see why so I could help.”

“Still doesn't answer what happened.” Kacchan said as he wrapped his disinfected hand in bandages.

“Well, it was like a usual bad dream, except more uhm- real? Usually dreams don't really make sense but this nightmare was all bad memories. Except for the first part when I was with my mom, that was the only good party.”

Eri hummed in thought. “The human with long green hair?”

“Oh, yeah, You saw her?”

“Only a little.”

Kacchan put the first aid kit away and walked over to the two on the counter. “And you didn't know where you were when you woke up?”

“N-no, I guess not? I didn't uh, recognize you for a bit, I thought you were one of the Arachids or something? I'm not sure, sorry.”

He puffed smoke from his nose. “Do you ever stop apologizing? Whatever, d’you think it’ll happen again?”

Izuku shrugged. Eri tapped his forehead with her paw. “I’ll wake you up if you feel bad again, Izu!”

“Alright.. thank you then.”

Kacchan stepped out of the bathroom and turned his head to watch the two others follow, Eri still in Izuku’s arms keeping him tethered to the ground.

“Let’s just sleep, for real this time.” Izuku chuckled nervously. “I’ll try my best.”

With that, the three piled back into the main room, without sleeping quarters the siblings settled into sleeping in a pile in the main room, facing the window that showed the endless space around them. Kacchan and Eri clinged to Izuku even more than last time, last time it made Izuki feel trapped, this time it made him feel loved.

He let out a shaky sigh and closed his eyes. I’ll be fine, I have my siblings with me, we have food, first aid, we’ve escaped our kidnappers. It’ll be okay, we’ll be okay.

Chapter Text

day 2

Izuku opened his eyes and stretched, he was pleasantly surprised to find he was still on the ground. Eri was curled up on his stomach like a cat and Kacchan was lying beside him, the dragon's wings curling around Izuku like a sleeping bag. Izuku muffled a laugh at the sight. Seems sleeping alongside his siblings really did help with the nightmares.

Izuku carefully wiggled out of the dragon's wings, floating back up towards the ceiling. This unfortunately caused the two others to wake up.

“Haah..? Ya ‘kay Izu?” Kacchan’s voice slurred sleepily. Eri’s head peeked over the dragon's wings and Izuku could see her rubbing her eyes.

“Yeah, I’m fine, really!”

Eri jumped up to bring Izuku back to the ground. “Are you going to go back to sleep? I’m still kinda tired.”

Kacchan placed an elbow on Izuku’s shoulder, still looking tired too.

“Ah, probably not. I'm not really tired. You two should go back to sleep though.”

Eri made a shocked face at this. “No way! That’d be boring, Izu.”

“Um, okay? What else can we do then… Oh, how about I braid your hair?”

Eri tilted her head at that. “It's like um, here, can I just show you?”

She nodded and sat down in front of him, her head slightly tilted to look at him. “Will it make my hair look pretty?”

Izuku smiled, remembering when he'd braid his mom's hair. “Yeah, I used to braid my moms hair a lot and she always liked it! I couldn't do complicated stuff though.”

Eri tapped her paws against the floor and waited patiently as Izuku took strands of her hair and braided them loosely. Kacchan laid his head on Izuku’s and watched too.

It was only when he got to the end of the braid he realized he didn't have anything to tie it with.

“Oh, oops. I don't have anything to tie it with, so it’ll probably unravel.. still I think it looks good, What do you think Kacchan?” 

The dragon shrugged. “Looks.. neater, I guess?” Izuku chose to interpret that as a compliment. Eri was spinning herself in circles trying to look at the braid. “You’d have better luck looking in a mirror, Eri.”

She stopped spinning, wobbling slightly to regain her balance. “Oh, right!”

The three walked to the bathroom and Izuku sat Eri in the bathroom sink so she could see her new braid, it was already starting to loosen, not only from Eri walking around but also the low gravity.

Eri smiled brightly as she looked in the mirror. “Wooow! It’s really pretty, Izu, thank you!” Izuku smiled proudly. “It’s no problem, Eri. When it comes undone later, just tell me and I'll rebraid it for you!”

Beside them Kacchan huffed.

“Sure, whatever, you guys just have fun and bond without me then!” The dragon crossed his arms and turned away as much as he could without letting Izuku float to the ceiling. 

Izuku hugged the other boy tightly. “Oh don't worry Kacchan! We’ll be sure to include you too.” 

Kacchan groaned as Izuku hugged him and whispered under his breath. “Rib crusher…”

day 3

The three siblings were sitting in a circle and eating when Izuku suddenly remembered something. “I think I missed my birthday.”

“Birthday?” Eri placed her food down to focus on Izuku. “Yeah. It’s like.. a day to celebrate when you were born. Do either of you have birthdays?”

Eri stared at the ground for a moment before shrugging. “Um, I dunno! I don't remember anything like that.” Her and Izuku looked to Kacchan next, who huffed and growled but answered anyway.

“Kinda? It’s probably worse than whatever a “Birthday” is.” I don't know what to make of that but, okay?

“Alright, well, a birthday is just a day celebrating your birthday. Usually people throw parties with family and friends but some people don't like parties so they just spend time with their loved ones instead. Oh, and birthday cake! You at least need a birthday cake.” Izuku put a hand to his chin and nodded to himself.

Eri played with her braid as she asked a slew of questions. “Why a party? Is it fun? What's a cake, is it food? What does it taste like? Are there games?”

Eri and her questions..

Before Izuku could go on listing the answers to all her questions Kacchan spoke up. “So, you missed your birthday? When was it?”

Izuku counted on his fingers, trying to double check the days.

“Um, well my birthday is July 15th and I think I was taken on the 10th and it’s been a week at least since then. So yeah, my birthday would’ve already passed.”

The two looked at him, confused. Right, I don't think I've gone over months or counted past 10 with them..

Kacchan hummed and tapped a claw against the floor. Eri raised her hand. “Can we just have your birthday day now?”

“Just ‘birthday’ Eri, not ‘birthday day’ and uhm, maybe? It's not like we have cake or anything, plus my moms not here..”

Kacchan leaned against Izuku and crossed his arms. “So what! We’re here, you’ll just have to make do. I wanna celebrate a human thing anyway.”

Eri trotted over to them and sat beside Izuku too. “Yeah! I wanna do the birthday thingy too!”

Izuku tapped his cheek with his finger. “A-alright! If you guys really want to then I can't refuse.”

My first birthday away from home, I really miss mom but at least I have my brother and sister here.

The three spent the rest of the day going over human party games and trying to make the food pellets and lavender liquid taste like anything other than dirt. Even without having much to do in the cramped escape pod, Izuku still enjoyed his late birthday. He couldn't wait to tell his mom about it when he got home.

day 5

The three were huddled by the escape pods window, with the lights off the glow of space was the only light source. Izuku was mesmerized by the dazzling swirls of purples, pinks, and blues. While he liked the calm atmosphere, it also brought forth his habit of overthinking, and his overthinking tended to spiral into dark thoughts. So it was here with his siblings beside him that he found himself thinking of home once again. He and his mom only had each other, he really worried how she was doing without him.

He didn't know if she thought he was dead. It’s been over a week, he’d most likely been declared missing at the very least.

Eri tapped his cheek and tilted her head. “You feel sad again, what's wrong?”

Izuku had a bad habit of forgetting that Eri could feel emotions.

“Um, I’m just homesick is all..” Kacchan groaned beside them. “Ugh, you're sick again? What is it this time? I thought humans were supposed to be stronger.”

“N-not literally sick! Homesick is just a saying, it means I miss home ‘cause I'm so far away from it.”

“Oh.” The dragon huffed smoke and turned his head. Izuku would have to learn more about Draconic body language to have any hope of understanding Kacchan.

“I miss home too..” Eri fidgeted with her hands, staring out the window to the stars outside. “I don't really remember a lot of it, but I remember it was nice.”

Izuku placed a hand on her head. “Do you wanna tell us about it? I can tell you about my home after?”

Eri nodded, her flowered tail swaying side to side against the floor. 

“Um, it's kinda fuzzy but I remember my mom would take me to this really, really pretty lake! She liked making stuff out of Kochi’o wool, she’d make me hats and stuffed animals and stuff. Uh, there was also this man by our house and he had a huge garden! He’d give me and mom fresh fruit and we’d bake stuff with it. It was really nice, but I can't remember much other than that. I don't remember moms face..”

Her lip wobbled as she spoke, Izuku wrapped the girl in a hug.

“I'm glad you're able to remember the good times though! Maybe when we get through all this we can start our own garden? I know me and mom tried growing stuff before but neither of us were that good at taking care of plants, haha.”

“What was your mom like, Izu?” Izuku felt a wave of pride when he thought of how to answer that. 

“My mom’s amazing! She always tried really hard to provide for me to make sure I lived a good life. She’s a really hard worker and really nice. She’s really just the best.” Looking out into the space outside he felt confident that his mom would be okay, she was strong willed after all.

“Wow! She sounds amazing! If you're my brother, then does that mean she's my mom too?” Izuku nodded eagerly. “Of course, Eri! Y’know she’s your mom now too, Kacchan.” The dragon simply nodded, a distant look in his eyes. He glanced down to Eri who shared a similarly worried expression but she shook her head. Guess I won't pry then, but I'm still worried.

“Will I ever get to see my new mom?” Eri leaned closer to the two boys and Izuku hummed. “Sorry, Eri, I don't know the answer to that. I hope you do though, she'd love to meet you.”

The wings around the two squeezed closer as Kacchan leaned towards them. “Do ya think… she'd be happy to meet *me*?”

Izuku wrapped his arms around the other and pulled them into a group hug. “Of course she would Kacchan! She’d be really proud of you.”

The three returned to silent stargazing after that, only the sound of Kacchan’s wagging tail tapping against the floor being heard.

day 8

The siblings were once again sitting in a circle, but instead of eating they were having a very heated discussion over whether or not Kacchan could beat a bear in a fight, despite still now knowing exactly what a bear is. Izuku and Kacchan going back and forth while Eri’s head turned from person to person like she was watching a ping pong match.

“I’m telling you, Izu. I could grill that thing!”

“You absolutely could not, Kacchan! It’s a bear, a bear!

“Tch, it’s probably weak.”

Izuku ran a hand down his face.

“Whatever Kacchan but if you ever go to earth and end up getting eaten by wildlife it won't be my fault! I'm sure tourists would go crazy over it though… dragon versus beat.”

“What even is that?”

“A bear? We went over this Kacchan a bear-”

“No! You've already told me about those, I mean a dragon, you always call me that.”

Eri spoke up at the mention of dragons.

“Oo, yeah! I wanna know what a dragon is too, Izu!”

“Oh, I haven't told you before? I thought I did..” He was met with two head shakes.

“Alright then, dragons are mythical creatures. They look just like you Kacchan! Well, most do. Most are reptiles with wings and horns that can breathe fire! Humans really like dragons.”

“Hah? Why?”

“Uhm, ‘cause… they're cool?”

Eri clapped her hands quietly. “If Kacchan is a dragon, then dragons are definitely cool!” 

Izuku nodded at Eri. “Yeah! You get it!”

“Yeah but I'm sure there's way cooler animals on uh, what was it, Earth?” Kacchan waved a paw in circles aimlessly.

“Yeah, Earth. But no, dragons are just different y’know? There’s no animal as tall as buildings that can fly and breathe fire..”

“No, Izu. I don't know.” 

“I get it, Izu! There was a creature like that at home too, I only heard about it in stories but it was really cool.”

“Yes! Exactly, Eri! It’s because it's not real that makes it even cooler.”

Kacchan gave a small scowl. “I think you two are just nerds obsessing over something that doesn't exist.”

“Dragons do exist though.” With a blank face Izuku pointed at Kacchan. The dragon had a confused face for a second before huffing smoke out of his nose.

“I don't count!”

“Yes you do! Eri, tell him he counts!”

“You count, Kacchan! You're a real dragon!”

“Grah! You two are just being annoying now!”

With that, another debate started. Instead of arguing about whether or not Kacchan could win a fight against a bear, it was about whether or not Kacchan counted as a real human depicted dragon. With it being two to one though Kacchan easily lost..

day 11

Izuku was currently sitting on the floor, Eri in his lap to keep him tethered to the ground, the two watching as Kacchan practiced breathing fire. Since he'd gone so long without proper meals he didn't have enough fuel to ignite his fire, now though he could breathe fire to his heart's content. With every burst of fire the dragon produced the other two would applaud and cheer him on.

After a while though, the dragon got tired and joined the other two on the ground. Izuku stared intently at him, he'd had a question on his mind he'd been wanting to ask but wasn't sure if he could. He looked down at Eri, she seemed to have caught onto his mental dilemma but could only offer a shrug. She glanced at Kacchan then whispered to Izuku. “It’s kinda hard to tell what he's feeling. It's all mushy and kinda scary.”

Izuku didn't know what it meant for someone's feelings to be ‘mushy and scary’ but figured he'd ask anyway. 

“Hey, Kacchan?” The dragon responded with a ‘hm’ so Izuku continued.

“What was your home like?” Immediately, he started growling. Izuku sighed internally. *I dunno what i was expecting to be honest..*

“Right, n-nevermind. Sorry Kacchan…”

Izuku instead turned his gaze to Eri, nervously twirling random parts of her hair.

“Ugh. Bad.”

He and Eri glanced at the dragon, he was laying on his side, his back turned to the two. Izuku frowned but also understood. Izuku didn't want to be invasive so he didn't ask anymore questions. Eri on the other hand decided it was the perfect time to ask questions.

“What was your mom like, Kacchan?”

The two waited in silence for a few minutes before they got another single word response. 

“Bad.”

Eri hummed and Izuku mentally pleaded with her not to ask anymore questions, if she felt his nervousness then she must've disregarded it since she asked another question.

“What about your dad?

“... Not as bad.”

Eri smiled at that, Izuku really wished he could even begin to understand her thinking.

“What aboouutttt… your house?”

“Awful.”

“Uhm, is there anything you liked about home?”

Izuku carefulled shifted himself and Eri closer to Kacchan, waiting for his answer.

“Eh, I guess there was this one spot in the forest I liked. I think you two would've liked it. Got burnt down though so good luck with that.”

The two frowned at that. Izuku had a rather silly thought but decided to say it out loud. “Uhm, well, if we’re already gonna start a garden, what if we grow a forest too? That way we all have something that reminds us of the things we liked about home?”

Kacchan didn't respond but the slight wagging of his tail let the other two know he was happy with the idea.

How are we gonna grow an entire forest though? I didn't think that far ahead…

day 14

Izuku floated aimlessly to one side of the ship, only to push off it to float to the other side, Basically the zero gravity version of pacing. Kacchan and Eri were laying on the floor side by side. Kacchan glanced at the screen by the door, there were only a few hours left until they touched down on the class 7 planet.

“We’re gonna be there soon, anything you guys wanna do before then?” The dragon stretched his wings and sat up, Eri doing the same.

“Um, I don't think there's anything we need to do. Right, Izu?”

Izuku stopped his zero gravity pacing and hummed in thought.

“Uhm, maybe we could organize all our supplies before we leave? Other than that I think we’re all good!”

Kacchan nodded and trudged over to the various boxes of supplies that were in the escape pod while Eri brought Izuku back down to the floor. Izuku picked her up, an easy way to keep his feet on the ground.

For the next hour or so the three sorted everything into separate, non-bolted down, boxes and storage containers. Taking stock of how much food, lavender liquid, and medical supplies they had left. While the food and liquid were running low they still had a lot of medical items left which Kacchan said would be a necessity in a class 7 world. 

For the hour after that, Kacchan used what little technical knowledge he had to check to escape pods' integrity, they hadn't run into any obstacles during their course but it's better to be safe than sorry.

And the hour after that, they had their last meal in the escape pod and situated themselves into the escape pod's seat. With everyone settled in, a robotic voice from overhead rang out, announcing their arrival and subsequent landing.

“Attention all ship passengers, the pod has arrived at class 7 planet 223-269-BA. Landing will occur in approximately 3 Rekliks. Due to no docking station being detected, the pod will land in wilderness. Is this an acceptable outcome?”

While Izuku couldn't understand all the words spoken in Common, especially with so many big words, but he understood the base message. Kacchan responded to the voice. “Yeah, it's whatever.” Kacchan huffed out. The robotic voice continued in Common.

“Understood. Landing procedures initiated. Brace for impact.”

Izuku gripped the restraints of his seat, feeling just as nervous as when they first took off. He looked at his siblings, Kacchan looked mostly calm, save for the constant twitching of his ears. Eri looked nervous but determined. Izuku took a deep breath in. We’ll be fine. We made it out of that hellhole alive, I'm sure we can survive this.

The three looked out the window to see a planet, mostly covered in blue, purple, and yellow, getting closer. The escape pod shook as they entered the atmosphere, the lights above flickering off. Izuku wasn't sure if that was normal or not but started panicking anyway.

He closed his eyes and gripped the restraints tighter, making his knuckles turn white. It’s fine. It’s fine. It’s fine.

A few agonizing minutes of turbulence and a concerning amount of creaking later, the pod shook with impact as it made contact with the planet. Izuku squinted his eyes open and rubbed his neck, he felt like he could've gotten whiplash from that..

His siblings were okay though, Eri was a little dazed and Kacchan pretty angry, but still okay nonetheless.

Kacchan was the first to undo his restraints and stand up, he tested the planet's gravity by flapping his wings and hopping a few times. 

Eri and Izuku followed, well, Izuku tried. When he went to stand up he face planted onto metal, his legs not used to carrying his weight after all his time in zero gravity. He sat up on his knees and cursed internally, he knew this would happen but he was still upset over it. It shouldn't be too bad, he still used his legs to push himself around in zero gravity.

Eri seemed fine with the gravity as well, Izuku was glad. She trotted over to the green haired boy and offered a hand, Kacchan walked over to the two as well.

“Ya alright, Izu?”

“I’ll help you!”

“Thanks Eri, thanks Kacchan. I’m fine, it's just I was in zero gravity for so long that my legs aren't used to carrying my weight.”

Kacchan lifted Izuku up and placed the human on his shoulder, Izuku flailed his arms a bit to hold his balance. “That was not zero gravity! That was normal gravity if anything.”

Izuku rolled his eyes. “Zero gravity to me, you get the point.”

Eri looked up at Izuku, now the tallest in the room thanks to Kacchan's own height.

“Will your legs get better?”

Izuku nodded. “Yeah, I'll just have to work at it slowly, I'll be back to normal soon though!” Eri nodded and Kacchan started for the escape pod door.

When the three got closer it automatically opened with a hiss, they all carefully peeked their head through to look at their new surroundings.

It was morning, the sky being a bright baby blue color, the sight of a blue sky felt painfully familiar to Izuku, but he pushed the homesickness away for now. The ground was a deep purple color, glistening slightly under the sun's light, kinda like stars in space except beneath your feet instead of above your head.

The trees had golden yellow leaves that were shaped like stars, with a long dark pink trunk connecting it to the equally starry forest floor.

The planet was gorgeous, Izuku could compare it to any number of fairytale books he'd read when he was little. It was quiet, almost eerily so. Only the slight howl of wind could be heard, the breeze ruffled Izuku’s hair.

The place felt so calming and welcoming… Izuku also brushed it off as some sort of trick to lure in unsuspecting prey. It was a class 7 deathworld after all so it couldn't be completely harmless.

Still, the three awed at the sight, this was their new home after all. They'd better start getting familiar with it.

Chapter Text

Ka’s’ki stepped out of the escape pod into the forest, the starry grass crunched beneath his paws. He kept his senses sharp, acutely aware of every sound in the forest. He could hear Eri’s soft hoof steps behind him.

The three stood on the center of the clearing they'd landed in, atop Ka’s’ki’s shoulders, Izuku craned his head in every direction clearly taking note of their surroundings as well.

Ka’s’ki set Izuku on the ground next to the crashed escape pod meanwhile Eri wandered around the clearing. Eri walked towards the edge of the clearing, Ka’s’ki was going to tell her to stay close but Izuku beat him to it.

 “Not too far, Eri! We don't know what’s out there.” Eri looked between the boys and the forest before nodding and trotting back over to them. “Right, sorry. Uhm, what do we do now?”

Ka’s’ki looked around the clearing, tapping a paw against the grass. Well obviously we’ll need to find food and liquid that’s safe for consumption. We can stay in the escape pod at night, it's sturdy enough to keep most animals out; assuming the wildlife here aren't why this planet is considered a deathworld.

“I think food should be our first priority. We still have a lot of the pellets left but that won't last forever.” Izuku and Eri nodded at his words. Izuku added his own thoughts, “Fruit would be best, we know nothing about the animals here. Granted we know nothing of the fruit either, but it's less likely a plant will harm us than an animal! Unless there's something like Deadly Nightshade or Winter Hemlock here.. uhm, let's just be careful.”

Ka's'ki tilted his head at that. Plants? Deadly? What kind of living death sentence is the Terran planet? Whatever.

Eri pointed at Izuku’s legs. “Are your legs better yet?” Ka’s’ki’s eyed the terran sitting criss-crossed on the starry grass. *Probably not.*

“Uhm, no, not yet. It’ll be a while but I'll work on it while you two look for food. I’ll be right here when you get back, okay?”

Eri’s ears drooped and her tail dipped lower, Ka’s’ki felt a growl bubble in his throat. *He’ll be fine!* He ruffled Eri’s hair with his paw. “He’ll be fine, Eri. You know how he is. We have work to do though, come on.”

“Okay…”

Ka’s’ki grabbed a few supplies from the escape pod and walked straight forward to the opposite side of the escape pod, the dragon turned to Izuku. “We’ll just be heading forward that way it's easier to find our way back. We shouldn’t be out for any more than a br- ah, an hour.”

Izuku gave two thumbs. “Got it! Good luck you two, be safe!”

Ka’s’ki stomped and waved his hand in the Terran’s direction. “Yeah, yeah.. let's go Eri.” Eri trotted to follow the dragon, waved at Izuku as she did.

“Bye, Izu!”

Ka’s’ki and Eri trudged through the starry woods, only a few rekliks in Eri grabbed onto his hand and he couldn't find a way to make let her go. 

So far, the two hadn't seen much change from the clearing they landed in. Same starry leaves and grass, still eerily quiet, the only animals they saw being a few small avians and insect-like creatures.

Ka’s’ki stopped, growling quietly. Why is there literally nothing here?! This is ridiculous. Izu’s bad luck must've rubbed off on me.

“Ugh. Eri, get on my shoulders, see if you can see anything higher up.” She nodded and held her arms up, Ka’s’ki lifted her up and set her on his shoulders like he did with Izu.

With Eri keeping an eye on the trees and Ka’s’ki keeping his eyes on the ground, they continue.

After more rekliks of walking Ka’s’ki stopped and flicked his ears. He could hear something… sounded like a river, a rushing body of liquid at least. Ka’s’ki tried to hone in on the sound to find which direction it was in when he felt a tap on his shoulder. He looked up to Eri who was pointing to the two’s left. “I can hear it that way! But if we go off the path, won't we get lost?”

Ka’s’ki hummed, there was an easy solution. He walked to the nearest tree and dug his claws into it. Five claw marks now ran along the wood. “Nah, we won't get lost.”

“Woah! Good idea, Kacchan!” 

Ka’s’ki huffed smoke but couldn't push down the pride he felt.

With a landmark down, Ka’s’ki headed left and soon enough, a rushing river came into view. He stopped at the river bank and eyed every direction. Animals were bound to be nearby a source of hydration. At the far right of the river stood two quadrupedal creatures. He set Eri on the ground and made a ‘shh’ gesture to Eri and she nodded. 

He turned back to the animals. They were fairly small, taller than Eri but shorter than Izu. Quadrupeds with long hooved legs, their bodies covered in short purple fur that resembled the grass of the forest. Their eyes were pure white with no irises or pupils and they had two long antlers pointed forward, sharp enough to stab through most beings. Ka’s’ki took note of them but wasn't too concerned, their scent was similar to herbivores. He’d be careful not to antagonize them but otherwise the two should be fine.

No need to mess with them unnecessarily. Ka’s’ki leaned down, placing his hands on his knees to reach Eri’s height. “Let’s leave ‘em be and keep looking ‘kay? With a river nearby we’re bound to find somethin’.” Eri nodded and pointed to her nose, smiling proudly. “I think I smell something close by! We should look.”

Ka’s’ki tilted his head and stood at his full height to try and catch whatever scent Eri had. Closing his eyes he could catch a whiff of something sweet smelling.

“I’m picking it up too. Ya wanna lead the way?” Her eyes lit up as she nodded her head, quickly turning behind her, walking in the opposite direction of the two herbivores. Ka’s’ki followed and made sure to keep adding marks along the trees to guide them back. He wasn't dumb enough to get lost in an unknown forest.

Eri trotted excitedly through the woods, with Ka’s’ki trailing behind her. Eventually the two came to the base of an enormous tree, taller than the rest. Golden yellow leaves fell around them, illuminating the place in a starry glow. A few small critters ran along the massive tree trunk and buried themselves in the cracks of the aged wood. Ka’s’ki’s eyes trailed up the tree, near the top were hanging vines, at the end there was a crescent shaped fruit, or something fruit-adject going off the scent.

“How are we gonna get it, Kacchan?”

The dragon held back a scoff. “Pfft, you think the wings are just for show? Not like I'd even need them though, this tree is nothing; I could climb it even with my claws cut and eyes closed!” Ka’s’ki felt pride rush through him as Eri stared at him with awe in her eyes. Ka’s’ki huffed smoke out his nose. “I'll get it for us no problem, just wait down here and get ready to catch some ‘kay?”

Eri nodded eagerly and took a few steps back as Ka’s’ki prepared to scale the tree.

The draconic himself took a few steps back before sprinting towards the massive fruit tree. He dashed forward and pushed off the ground, flapping his wings to get some added airtime. He flew circles around the tree, inching higher and higher with every flap until he was nearing the top. He slowed his wings, clawing himself onto one of the many sturdy branches and steadying himself. He flapped his wings a few more times, just to burn off the excess energy. 

I have to admit, it's nice being able to fly again after so long in that damn cage.

The dragon wedged himself through branches and leaves, he was close enough to get a good look at the fruit now. He took one in his hand, it fit in the palm of his hand snugly, it'd be huge in Izu or Eri’s hands though. He brought it up to his nose, the scent is the same as the one they tracked, the issue was figuring out if it was safe. Sure, it didn't have any outward indicators that it was dangerous but what may be safe for one species could be deadly for another. Ka’s’ki wasn't deterred by this and promptly took a bite out of the crescent fruit.

It didn't immediately set his organs on fire and it tasted good, in Ka’s’ki’s mind this means the fruit is safe, so he started to gather the rest. He began tossing them down to Eri. She insisted on saying every catch equaled a point, and that she was winning. Despite there being no way for Ka’s’ki to gain points himself, he was just glad she was having fun.

With a large pile of crescent fruit gathered at the base of the tree Ka’s’ki made his way back down, opting to climb down instead of fly this time. He landed back on the starry grass with a thud and walked over to Eri who proudly made ‘jazz hands’ towards the pile. Ka’s’ki put his hands on his hips in pride at their scavenge, Izuku would be impressed too.

“Alright, let's haul this back to Izu.” “Right!”

The two carried as many as they could, sure they still had packages of pellets left but if everyone was being honest they tasted like garbage; sweet fruit was much more preferred.

The two followed the trail of claw marks Ka’s’ki left as landmarks and soon found their way back to the clearing where their escape pod had landed. Upon seeing Izuku- who was doing some strange maneuver where he hoisted himself up and down only using his arms- Eri ran towards him.

“Look, look, Izu! We got a whole bunch of yummy fruit!” Izuku hoisted himself up again and folded his legs beneath himself. He clapped his hands together when he saw everything they brought back.

“Woah! You guys found so much. Have you tried them yet?” He took one of the crescent fruits Eri was carrying as Ka’s’ki set the one he was carrying beside the Human.

“I tried ‘em, they taste good and I don't feel sick at all. ‘S probably fine.” Izuku took a small bite of the fruit and hummed in satisfaction. “They do taste really good, kinda like oranges but sweeter.” Eri bit into one her own.

“Mhm! They taste as sweet as they smell.”

Ka’s’ki sat in the middle of the two, forming a triangle. The three each had their own stash of fruit in front of them to eat, still plenty to spare for later.

“So happy to finally have something other than dirt flavored pellets!” Izuku spoke through the chewed food in his mouth. Ka’s’ki has to agree, the fruit was pretty average all things considered, but compare it to the ration pellets? It was like a Culinrye personally cooked it for them and served it on Somniline glass.

Izuku turned back to the other two again, curiosity in his eyes. “So, what did you guys see? We need to know as much about this place as we can.”

The dragon placed his head in his paw, it really wasn't all that interesting which is what frustrated Ka’s’ki most. That didn't stop Eri from blabbering on though.

“I thought it was really fun! The forest goes on for like, ever. We saw animals too, they were like uhm, they were on all fours and have hooves like mine. They also had antlers pointed straight forward which was kinda scary… but really cool too! I wish my horn could grow that big.” Izuku nodded along as she spoke. “That sounds really cool! We shouldn't mess with the wildlife yet though, it's too unpredictable… Did you guys find water- er, uh, whatever this planet's equivalent is?”

Ka’s’ki was the one who answered this time.

“Ya, we found a river, it’s where we saw the quadrupeds too; we didn't drink any but I marked the trees so we can always find it again.”

Izuku’s hand covered his mouth as he nodded, murmuring quietly to himself. Ka’s’ki couldn’t catch every word but he thought he heard something like ‘beneficial long-term’ which sounded good enough.

“That's good, and you guys were only gone for 30 minutes so we still have a lot of daylight to burn! Actually, Kacchan, think you could check if the escape pod’s good? If it's still in proper condition we can keep using it as shelter otherwise we’ll have to work on setting something else up.”

The dragon nodded and stood to inspect the escape pod. He wasn't that good with technology but he'd learned some things from Yam’da before.

While Ka’s’ki was checking the outside panels he kept an ear focused on Eri and Izuku.

“What were you doing earlier, Izu? The up, down, thing?”

“Hm? Those were push-ups! Since my legs are still pretty much useless at the moment, probably muscle atrophy actually— I thought I'd work out my arms a little! I really should've started working out a long time ago..”

“Woah! So you’re getting stronger?”

“Yup! Well, I hope I get stronger at least. I really just wanted something to do while I work on walking again, my legs still feel so numb, I wobble every time I try to stand.”

Ka’s’ki flicked his ear, he could hear Eri humming in thought.

“I wanna get stronger too! Can you teach me how you did the push-up thingy?”

“Uhm, i can, but it might be a little difficult for you Eri?

“That's okay! I’m ready to train!”

Ka’s’ki could imagine her throwing both hands in the air. He huffed in amusement and focused back on the escape pod, heading inside for a more thorough check.

The panels outside showed the energy was running low, with no Virinin to replenish it they'd be working without electricity or locking mechanisms. That also meant they'd have to find some other way to power the thing if they wanted to lift off again.

The check inside was more optimistic. They still had plenty of supplies left and both the interior and exterior had only very minor damage. A few scrapes here, a dent there, but otherwise perfect. It’d be able to keep wildlife out which is just what they needed.

Unfortunately due to the low power the lights were already off, the most Ka’s’ki could get out of the lights were a few dying flickers before shutting off completely.

A rectangular light on the wall still lit up the room, Ka’s’ki was confused for a moment but remembered that due to a galaxy-wide mandated policy that all PDA’s needed to be capable of running without power. (due to an incident involving a highly important species ambassador getting trapped on a fully aquatic planet a few years back) If the escape pod could automatically route to the planet it might have some info on it.

The Draconic walked over to it and surely enough it lit up when he got close. He brought a clawed paw up and began tapping at the screen, navigation was easy, even an infant could understand it. The tech was a bit on the older side but not ancient.

He got to the navigation tab and selected the planet they were currently on, 223-269-BA. The PDA gave a small summary of the planet, detailing some of the harsh conditions that earned it its class 7 label.

223-269-BA / Planet Summary [As of 13.SC - 27.GLC - 276.GSR]

223-269-BA, henceforth referred to as [BA] is a Class 7 Deathworld. The planet features a large array of natural disasters and occurrences that could be deadly to those unprepared for such events. Specifications are; Harsh temperature drops that result in the local liquid (substance unknown) to freeze and fall onto the planet, covering it in a soft, white, material. Sudden and intense floods along coastal regions. Deadly flora and fauna in all regions of the planet. Meteor landings are common on this planet due to its unfortunate placement in its solar system.

While BA is considered a Class 7 Deathworld, some have made their homes here and live in small towns and villages spread across all regions [As of 13.SC - 27.GLC - 276.GSR] It is not recommended to interact with these towns as there is no extensive knowledge on their culture, they may act in unpredictable ways when speaking to newcomers.

BA is somewhat known for its dangerous wildlife, it's best for anyone going to the planet to be briefed on all common, significant life forms. If such a briefing has not been given then scanning the creature will provide you with base knowledge of the planet's ecosystem as well as identify potential dangers.

Ka’s’ki’s eyes trailed down the screen as he read, it's about what he expected. Class 7 planets usually have 3 or more deadly hazards that affect a large amount of galactic species. He’d have to tell Izu about the potential weather they'd be dealing with. He turned his head back to the door, rays of sunlight shining through. It seems Eri was able to do one successful push up before collapsing on the grass. Ka’s’ki huffed air in amusement before covering his snout, he didn't want to laugh at her, but how could he not?

The dragon stepped out and the two turned to him.

“So, how's it looking?”

He sat himself next to Izuku, Eri turned to lay on her back but stayed laying in the grass.

“Overall it's pretty good, no major damage but no power either. I did get some info on the planet though.” At that, Eri sat up and scooted closer to the two boys. “Like what?”

“Nothin’ good so don't get your hopes up. Anyway it said uh, temperature drops that cause the planet to freeze over for a bit, sudden floods, deadly plants and animals, and meteors are common. The PDA also mentioned this place having towns but we probably shouldn't mess with ‘em yet. We’re gonna have to really focus if we want to get off this planet alive.”

Izuku covered his mouth, muttering to himself again. He was muttering too fast for Ka’s’ki to catch any words. He tapped a finger against his chin then nodded to himself.

“Okay.. that's not so bad! We should be able to deal with all of that decently, except maybe the meteors. We can use the escape pod for shelter from the cold, the trees look tall and sturdy enough to survive flash floods, we’ll need to be extra careful with wildlife but that was the plan anyway… and we can check out any towns once we get our bearings. Nothing we can really do about meteors though. I think we’ll be fine.”

Izuku clapped his hands together. Ka’s’ki stared dumbfoundedly while Eri looked plain confused.

“Hah?! There's no way you hear all that and think it’ll be easy! Swear to stars, don't tell me you got all that on your own planet?!”

Izuku nodded sheepishly.

“We get pretty much all that, though meteors aren't a huge problem, freezing temperatures, floods, wildlife, all that is pretty par for the course on earth, I even remember doing a few flood drills when i was little with my mom.”

Eri looked amazed by what Izuku said, Ka’s’ki; slightly horrified.

“How did you live so long, then?” Eri asked with curious eyes. 

“Wah- huh? I guess I just.. didn't die? It's not like there were disasters every day. They happened but not enough to, like, make humanity go extinct.”

Ka’s’ki crossed his arms and groaned while Eri clapped her hands. “I still think it's cool! My planet was super, super safe so I don't know what stuff like that is like.”

The dragon leaned closer to the other two, “Deadly is what it is! It's nice that you've dealt with it before Izu but that won't help if something actually happens.”

Izuku just smiled proudly in response. “Don't doubt me now, Kacchan. While I'm not an expert, floods can happen a lot where I'm from, so kids are always taught about proper safety precautions. Trust me when I say we’ll survive, alright?”

Eri nodded enthusiastically. “I believe you, big brother Izuku will always rescue us!”

The boy laughed nervously in response. “I-i’ll certainly try!”

Ka’s’ki crossed his arms and turned his head away, not wanting to deal with their sickening optimism. 

Izuku laid out a plan for them to follow. “Let's focus on all this tomorrow, okay? We scouted a bit today but I can see the sun’s starting to go down. For tomorrow i say we try and test the water- er, liquid at the river and see if it's safe. We should also check other directions to get a better sense of where we are! That sound okay?”

Eri gave a thumbs up, Ka’s’ki huffed smoke. Izuku figured that was good enough.

“Let's head in before it gets dark then. Can you help me, Kacchan? My legs are still wobbly..”

The dragon groaned but still wrapped an arm around the human. Eri hopped up to her feet and trotted ahead of the boys and into the escape pod.

With everyone inside, Ka’s’ki forced the door shut. Without power they couldn't shut or lock it automatically. They couldn't lower the metal guards over the windows either, it wasn't too big of a problem though since when they were sorting supplies earlier, they ended up moving the boxes to the window; blocking most of the view.

With the door shut and the window blocked the escape pod was plunged into darkness.

“I didn't expect it to be so dark.” Ka’s’ki turned to the other to see Izuku looking around the escape pod. His eyes were slightly wider than usual and it was like he was looking through everything.

Eri moved to sit in front of the human, tilting her head. “Can you see?”

He patted head as the dragon sat down, leaning against Izuku.

“I *can*, just not very well. I think even when my eyes adjust I won't be able to see much. It wasn't this bad when we were on the ship since the hall light was still on.” Eri nodded slowly. “Okay then, I can see in the dark though so if you need something then I'll help.”

Ka’s’ki’s tail wagged subconsciously. “Dumb, stupid, dumb, idiot human doesn't even have good night vision.”

Izuku rolled eyes which earned more laughter from the dragon. “Not when it's pitch black! Eh it doesn't matter anyway.. let's just get some sleep, I’m tired.”

Izuku lowered himself to the floor, the two others following. After a bit of shuffling Eri and Izuku ended up laying on Ka’s’ki’s wings (which Izuku didn't think could be comfortable) but the dragon didn't mind.

It didn't take long before the siblings fell asleep in the pitch black of the escape pod, the sounds of the night time forest lulling them away. 

Chapter Text

Izuku blinked his eyes open, rays of sunlight shone through cracks in the pile of boxes piled by the window. He sat up and rubbed the sleep out of his eyes. He looked at his two siblings, Eri was laid over his lap while Kacchan was on the floor beside him curled up in a tight ball. Izuku laughed quietly at the sight. Kinda like a cat…

Using one of the boxes beside him he used it to help himself up. He stood, his legs still mostly numb, but able to hold his weight with the help of a wall. With his hand on the wall to support him, he stepped to the pile of boxes blocking most of the sunlight. We went over food and the lav-liquid, but I should probably go over other supplies too.

Using one hand to keep himself from falling to the floor and the other to pry open boxes, he checked for anything useful to their situation.

All the boxes were labeled, but Izuku hadn't worked on reading Common at all, it was just gibberish to him. So he just rifled through the first box he pried open.

Inside were various.. things? It looked like lab equipment. Maybe it's used for testing? I'm sure Kacchan would know more.

He pushed the box of testing items to the side and dragged over another box. This one actually had something Izuku recognized, canteens!

He pushed himself up to sit on one of the bigger boxes and put the box of canteens on his lap to look through it more thoroughly.

Canteens of various sizes and materials were in the box, beneath the canteens were flashlights, or something similar enough. He flicked one on, a bright light covered the room but not wanting to wake the two others sleeping, he quickly turned it off. He put everything back and carefully dropped the box to the floor.

The next box he grabbed was also useful, inside were things like switchblades or multipurpose knives, things Izuku assumed were fire starters or lighters, and some sort of spyglass or binoculars. 

So far these are incredibly useful! This is is an emergency escape pod so I suppose it makes sense that it’s well stocked.

Taking one last small box into his lap he opened it up to see cooking equipment. Cutlery, pans, plates, bowls and even things like a collapsible grill rack. It was essentially all camping equipment, though when Izuku thought about it being stranded on a planet is kinda like ‘surprise camping’.

He dropped the last box to the floor and hopped off the box, which in hindsight was a bad idea; since his legs were still unreliable instead of landing on his feet his legs folded beneath him and he face-planted onto the floor with a thud.

Kacchan flinched awake at the sound, going from curled up in a ball to on all fours ready to bite whoever made the sound. Eri also woke up, but didn't seem worried at all.

Izuku sat up, rubbing the bridge of his nose, he looked at his siblings apologetically. “Haha, sorry, guys...” Kacchan untensed with a groan.

“What the hell, Izu! I coulda bit your head off!” 

Izuku stood up again, using the larger boxes as support.

“I already said sorry! I was just getting some supplies from the boxes. It's mostly camping equipment.”

Eri stretched her arms above her head, her tail swaying to her side. She trotted over to Izuku. “Good morning!” Izuku patted her head. “Good morning. I hope I didn't wake you up too early, I promise I was trying to be quiet.” Kacchan slinked over to the two, pawing through the box of canteens and flashlights.

“I’m still a little sleepy but I can sleep later.” Eri leaned down to the boxes of other camping supplies. “What's all this?”

“Camping supplies basically. It's like canteens, flashlights, cooking supplies, fire starters, stuff like that! Plus we have medkits on hand in other boxes, so I'd say we’re well stocked. Oh, Kacchan, do you know what this stuff is?” He pointed to the box of lab items, Kacchan grabbed the box and picked up one of the items.

“Testers, I'm pretty sure. These are actually pretty useful. You can give some of your DNA, like saliva or blood, then the DNA of something you're gonna eat or drink, it’ll basically let you know if it'll kill you. Doesn't tell you if it tastes bad though, learned that from experience.” He growled under his breath, clearly remembering how the tester had wronged him.

Izuku nodded along. “That's really good, then! Beats randomly eating things we come across.”

Eri trotted over to where the three kept the remaining ration pellets and lav liquid. “How much food do we have left?” Kacchan walked over to the girl while Izuku remained leaning against the boxes for support. The dragon leaned down to their food, calculating how long their remaining amount will last. “This should last us another week. We’ll have enough time to gather local food. Maybe we can even try cooking.” His tail swayed at the thought. Izuku had a hard time imagining the rough, ‘kill everything’, prideful dragon cooking, but never say never.

“As long as we have enough to last while we find new food sources. We should check the river you guys found, it might be safe for us to drink.”

Eri hopped from hoof to hoof. “That sounds fun! Do you think we can take a bath there too?” She patted a bit of dust off her messy gown, reminding Izuku that the three hadn't had any access to showers, or hygiene in general, in over two weeks.

“If it proves safe then I don't see why not. We don't have any extra clothes though. We should add that to the task list, especially if the weather gets colder here.”

Kacchan nodded with a shudder. “Eugh, I hate the cold. All fire aligned Draconics do. It's the worst possible thing in the world, objectively.” Eri tapped her fingers together. “I kinda like the cold.”

Kacchan huffed in disagreement while Izuku continued speaking.“Well, we still need to find a way to protect ourselves from it. For now, let's just explore more of our surroundings, yeah?” 

The other two nodded with varying levels of excitement. Izuku pushed himself off the boxes that held him up and stumbled a few steps before regaining his footing. He grabbed a small travel bag that had been stashed with the survival equipment and put a few canteens, the testing equipment, a survival knife and a flashlight in the bag and slung it over his shoulder. 

He gave his two siblings a thumbs up and went to walk to the escape pod door, only for his legs to buckle causing him to nearly face plant again.

Luckily, Kacchan had wrapped a wing beneath the human before he met the ground.

“Ya gonna keep falling with every step?” Kacchan lifted Izuku up, keeping a wing under Izuku’s arm for him to lean on. 

“Ugh, hopefully not..”

Eri trotted past the two boys to the escape pods open door. “We’re going to the river again, right?”

Izuku nodded. Him and Kacchan followed behind her, the three stepping into the clearing.

“Yup, maybe we can check a little farther this time, too.”

The three continued through the forest, following the claw marks Kacchan left behind. It didn't take long for them to reach the river, there were more animals than before scattered around the river bank. The same starry deer-like animals from before alongside some new creatures. A few small winged mammals and avians perched in the trees. Izuku looked in awe at each of them, he was always a bit of an animal lover so seeing alien animals was certainly an experience he'd remember.

Izuku lowered himself to the river bank, dipping a hand into the light, shiny, blue liquid. That’s odd. The water was lukewarm against his skin.

Eri copied Izuku and put her own hand in the river, swishing it side to side. “It feels kinda funny.” 

Izuku hummed in thought. It does feel a bit thicker than water.

Izuku took his hand out, drying it on his pants. He reached into the bag he brought and pulled out the testing equipment, he held it up and turned to Kacchan. “You know how to use it, right? We should test the river.” Kacchan, who was glaring at any forest animal that wandered to close, stepped towards the other two.

“Ya i know how to use it, give.” He held out his paw, palm up. Izuku held it farther away from the other boy. “We say, ‘please’ when we want things.” 

Kacchan rolled his eyes. “Just give it!”

Eri tsk’s, wagging her finger. “Not saying please is mean, Kacchan!”

Kacchan threw both of his arms up for a second before letting them fall to his side. He ran a paw down his face and held out his paw again, head down.

“Please,” He said through gritted teeth. “Give me the tester.”

Izuku and Eri both grin smugly as Izuku hands over the tester to the dragon. 

Kacchan turned it around in his paws, eventually leaning down to the river, sitting between Izuku and Eri. He dipped the tester beneath the river surface, the liquid swirled inside the device. Izuku and Eri both inched closer, each laying a head on the dragon's shoulder to watch him work. Kacchan placed the device on the ground momentarily and held out his paw again.

“Can ya get me the knife?” Izuku squinted his eyes in suspicion but handed it over to Kacchan anyway. “For?”

The dragon grabbed it and grinned, causing Eri and Izuku to look at each other; worried.

“What? I said it needed DNA right?” 

Izuku crossed his arms and tilted his head. “We'll, yeah? But blood isn't the only kind of DNA.” 

Eri looked at the dragon with watery eyes. Kacchan groaned and put a paw over his face. “Relax! It’s not that weird, you two are being dramatic. It’ll only be a drop.”

Despite his siblings’ disapproving stares, Kacchan took the tip of the knife to the tip of his finger, piercing his paw pad since it was one of the few parts of his body free from scales.

The metal met his finger and a small drop of blood pooled, Kacchan tipped his finger to the side causing the drop of orange blood to fall into a vial connected to the tester.

After fiddling with it a little more Kacchan read the results aloud, Eri leaned over to read themself herself with him.

“Ugh, finally. Let’s see.” Despite saying let's see Kacchan proceeded to quickly mumble whatever he was reading. Izuku flicked the dragon on his snout. “Out loud, please? Just for your, you know, currently illiterate brother.”

Eri grabbed the tester from Kacchan and sat next to Izuku with it.

“I’ll read it for you, don't worry.” Eri said proudly. Kacchan rolled his eyes and grabbed bandages from the supplies bag to wrap his finger.

Kacchan rubbed his snout where Izuku flicked him. “Whatever! It was a bunch of boring nonsense anyway.” Eri ‘hmphed’ at Kacchan and set the device on her lap and started reading.

“Uhm, it says… that the liquid stuff is called eversea, and that it's good for healing. It says Kacchan can drink it but it’ll make him sleepy.” 

“Thanks for reading it, Eri. How about I go next? There might be some differences between us because we’re all different species.” 

Eri nodded and handed the tester to Izuku, Kacchan also handed the knife over. From there, Izuku copied what Kacchan had done. Pricking his finger and letting it fall into the vial. He handed the device back to Eri for her to read once the results appeared on the small screen while he bandaged his finger.

Eri cleared her throat, causing Kacchan to roll his eyes. 

“Okay, it says… same as before, like the eversea thingy, but it says it’ll make Izu um, what's a word for not sleepy?” She looked up at Izuku, who after a second responded with, “I’d say energetic. Or more literally, awake?”

“It makes you engergetic then.” Izuku chuckled. “‘Energetic’ and that's pretty interesting. It’s a stimulant for me but a depressant for Kacchan.”

Kacchan huffed smoke out his nose.

“No way it’d make me tired, it's probably just wrong.”

Eri pointed to herself. “My turn now?” Izuku nodded. “It’ll just be a little prick ‘kay?” She nodded and held out her hand, Izuku took the tip of the knife and made a tiny prick, letting a drop of Eri’s purple blood fall into the vial.

While Izuku bandaged Eri’s finger Kacchan read the results this time. “Yada, yada, eversea, whatever. It's the same as me, causing tiredness or drowsiness.” Izuku finished wrapping Eri’s finger and nodded. “Okay, so for two of us it's a depressant. Does it give specifics? It's not gonna knock you two out or anything right?”

Kacchan shook his head. “Nah, it says mild drowsiness. We’ll be fine.” Izuku let out a small sigh of relief. “Perfect, let's fill some of the canteens then. Just to be safe though we should still boil it.” Kacchan hummed indifferently and Eri nodded.

Together the three each took a few canteens and dunked it below the river surface. They now had 8 canteens filled with Eversea. Izuku tried to talk Kacchan out of drinking some but to his chagrin the dragon did it anyway. Izuku pinched the bridge of his nose while Kacchan commented that it tasted sweet. 

Izuku sighed. “Okay.. 1. don't just randomly drink things, 2. let us know if you start feeling tired, and 3. Let's continue forward.”

Eri tilted her head. “We’re not going back?”

“No, I think we’re safe to keep going. We woke up at the break of dawn, and yesterday had long daylight hours so we should be good.” Eri nodded, excited for adventure.

The three decided to walk along the river bank, following where the eversea flowed. Kacchan made sure to leave an abundance of clawed landmarks as they went.

The three walked through the starry forest til they saw a coastline. Eri ran toward it when she saw it, stars in her eyes. Izuku went to give chase, but had to be caught by Kacchan to avoid falling again.

The two quickly caught up with Eri, who was prancing on the shore. 

“Look! Is this like what you were telling me? A beach?”

Izuku wobbled his way closer, the thin sand-like material making it even harder for him to walk. He rested his hands on his knees for balance when he was finally beside Eri, only slightly out of breath.

“Yup! This is really close to the beaches I had at home.” Kacchan made his way over, standing behind the smaller two. “My home had somethin’ similar. They were pretty rare too.”

Izuku gleamed at that. “Really? That’s pretty cool, the similarities I mean. There are tons of beaches on earth, especially considering the fact that it's 70% water.”

Kacchan had to do a double take at that, while Eri tilted her head again.

Kacchan growled out first “Hah?! 70%? You're exaggerating… aren’t you?” He squinted his eyes at the human.

Izuku looked between his two siblings’ nervously. “Uhm, no? It really is 70%, or maybe 71%? It's why we have floods and hurricanes.” Kacchan gaped incredulously.

Eri hummed anxiously. “That doesn't sound safe… what if the water hurts people?”

Izuku sighed, preparing himself for another one of these conversations.

“It, uh, does. Not only with floods and hurricanes, but drowning and ocean currents kill people. Aquatic wildlife can be dangerous if you mess with them too.” He was met with two worried stares, he frantically waved his hands around. “But! Aha, we don't even really need to worry about that! Not like we’re on earth, haha, ha..” He cleared his throat nervously. “We should head back! It's good to know where the coast is since it's likely where floods will come from. It makes me nervous that we landed so close, if a flood did happen we wouldn't have much time to react.”

Kacchan flicked his tail. “Sure just brush off the fact your planet’s a death trap! What do we even do during floods?” He tapped his paw against the ground as he glared at the ocean of eversea.

Izuku put one hand on his hip, his other hand had his pointer finger towards the sky. Eri stood beside him and copied his pose.

“We could move all the boxes in the pod into the trees, it'd be difficult but the trees aren’t likely to fall with how thick the trunk are, and i've seen the roots of the trees spread out at least 15 feet in every direction. Our supplies won't get flooded that way. Not ideal but out options are limited when we’re stranded in an alien forest…”

Kacchan shrugged before nodding. “Whatever, you're the flood expert here apparently.”

Izuku glanced back at the forest. “Let's get going, I know we still have a lot of daylight left but we’d better not risk getting turned around.” Eri nodded in response and trotted ahead of the boys. I really wish she wouldn't run off like that..

Kacchan walked over to Izuku and offered a wing for support. The two followed Eri into the forest to retrace their steps back to the clearing.

The three returned to the escape pod, the sun starting to inch closer to the middle of the sky. Along their walk through the starry forest they picked up more miscellaneous food items, vegetables in the shape of spirals and some wing shaped plant that grew near the eversea river. 

They piled their gathered items together, crescent fruit, spiral vegetables, and “river gliders” as the tester identified them, alongside their remaining ration pellets.

After taking a look at the (kinda depressing) food pile, Eri spoke.

“Do you think we can cook something?” 

Kacchan scoffed. “I'm a great cook, I could definitely make somethin’ out of this.”

Izuku sat crossed legged by the pile, sorting the items into their own groups. “We can try! I think it’ll be fun, even if it’ll probably end up tasting terrible.” 

Kacchan growled at that. “The hell is that supposed to mean, huh?”

After Izuku separated all the ‘ingredients’ he turned to his siblings. “Can you two grab the cooking supplies?” Eri gave a thumbs up and ran inside, Kacchan huffed as followed behind her.

Izuku brought out the multipurpose knife as before and started half dissecting-half peeling the fruit and vegetables they collected. It… wasn't pleasant. The crescent moon wasn't much different at its core, but the spiral vegetable’s inside was flaky, crumbling at the touch. The river gliders had a thick, iridescent blue substance inside it. Checking it with the tester showed it was safe to consume at least, even if Izuku doubted it tasted good.

Eri and Kacchan returned with the supplies, Kacchan taking the initiative to set up a fire while Eri trotted over to help Izuku.

The three sat in warm, comforting silence as they each worked on their respective tasks, Eri and Izuku prepping the ingredients and passing them off to Kacchan. While the dragon refused to let his siblings anywhere near the food at first he relented after they used the puppy-dog eyes tactic. Eri and Izuku huddled to either side of Kacchan, giving their own input on their first scavenged meal on the planet. This amounted to Eri and Izuku trying to put more things into the pot and Kacchan diligently shoving their hands away.

As the sun fell beneath the horizon and stars began dotting the sky the three finished cooking, each having their own bowl of what was essentially boiled fruit and vegetables, with the river glider’s substance and the eversea as broth. It was basically just soup… still, they were happy with their progress. 

“Okay, now to see if it tastes good.” Izuku lifted his spoon to his eyes.

“Hey! I’m the one who cooked it, no help from either of you by the way. it’ll taste better than good.” Kacchan followed Izuku’s lead and took a spoonful for himself.

“We helped! How would you know the river plant's end part tasted bad if I didn't make you eat it?” Eri copied her brothers and brought her own spoon full of soup to her mouth, blowing to cool it down.

“Yeah, that wasn't helping, Eri. That was just making me eat disgusting shit ‘cause you didn't want to.” His tail flicked irritably. Eri shrugged. “It was for science!”

Tuning out his siblings’ banter, Izuku took the first bite. The other two stopped and leaned in to look at him. He chewed for a bit, it tasted bland but that's what he expected. It was oddly salty despite them boiling the eversea, it wasn't the worst thing ever but he'd prefer just eating the crescent fruit. Maybe if they were able to add meat to the mix it'd be a real meal, but it'd do for now.

Izuku gave a thumbs up to his siblings, Kacchan breathing out a sigh of relief and Eri happily digging into her food.

Between the banter and laughs of his siblings, the warmth of the fire, a ‘home’ cooked meal, the breathtaking view of the galaxy's stars, Izuku truly felt at peace in this moment. 

He found himself staring intently at the stars above, somewhere out there was Earth, his home, his mom, they were waiting for him. He’d find his way back, he was certain of it.

Broken out of his reverie by a tap on his shoulder, Eri was standing beside him.

“Kacchan says it's bedtime.” She pointed to the dragon who was putting away all the cooking utensils they'd used.

“Right, it is really late.” He pushed himself up, Eri helping him a bit, and walked to the escape pod. It was already dark to the unreliable power which made Izuku realize how exhausted he was. Eri must've felt the same if her yawn was anything to go, though it did cause Izuku to do a double take. 

“I didn't know you yawned? When did you start doing that?”

Eri tilted her head. “Oh, uhm… I dunno? I think it's cuz I saw you do it so much. Is that bad?”

“No! No, I was just curious since I've never seen you do it before. …You think if we both yawn at the same time we can get Kacchan to yawn?”

She pumped her fist up and down in excitement. “We should try it!” Izuku nodded, muffling his laugh as the dragon entered the near pitch-black escape pod.

“What are you two weirdos laughing about?” He shoved the box of cooking supplies back into the pile.

“Nothiiiing.” Izuku gave the most innocent smile he could muster, not a difficult task for him. Kacchan squinted his eyes but shrugged.

“Okay? Be weird then.”

The three settled into their ‘sleeping pile’ once again. Eri and Izuku were laying on either side of Kacchan. In the darkness a squeaky high-pitched yawn could be heard. Seconds after that, a deeper yawn on the opposite side. A few more seconds after that, a yawn sounded from the middle, accompanied by a small burst of fire.

“Oh god damn it, look at what you’ve done Izu.”

Izuku and Eri muffled their laughs until the escape pod went silent again. As Izuku’s mind urged him to sleep, he let out a sigh and let his body relax.

I hope tomorrow’s just as fun..

Chapter Text

The morning sun rose, and along with it rays of sunlight that shone directly into Izuku’s eyes. He rolled to his side, bringing an arm up to protect his eyes from the light. It took a few minutes but eventually Izuku was able to talk himself into actually waking up instead of just lying on the floor with his eyes closed like he wanted to. He sat up and looked at his siblings. 

Kacchan manages to twist himself like a pretzel despite being the biggest out of all of them, and Eri was laid on top of Kacchan like a potato sack. Izuku covered his mouth to stifle a laugh, if only he could take a picture.

He got to his feet, his legs were feeling better and better with each day, actually being able to support his weight without much assistance now. He walked to the wall of boxes which thankfully shielded a majority of the sunlight. They'd really have to move all this out in case of natural disasters. Having all the supplies keeping them alive in one easily floodable pod was essentially like putting all their eggs in one basket. 

Izuku figured he could at least start the process, he'd leave the bigger boxes to Kacchan to take care of.

Slowly and relatively quietly, Izuku moved as many boxes as he could carry out into the clearing. He didn't even attempt actually getting them to higher ground, Kacchan would definitely be the one to handle that task.

Speak of the dragon and he shall appear, Izuku turned when he heard the starry grass crunch behind him. Kacchan stood in the clearing fully stretching out his wings and yawning. Izuku noted that Kacchan must've yawned subconsciously, meaning he picked up yet another Human habit. I wonder if I got hiccups if they'd also get hiccups, but that might be a bit of a stretch.

He shook his head to clear his thoughts and walked over to the dragon. Kacchan snapped his head to the green haired boy. “The hell are ya up to out here?” He eyed the array of small boxes piled outside.

“Remember when I said we should move our supplies? That's what I'm up to.”

Kacchan eyed Izuku up and down before scoffing. “With… stick arms? Be serious Izu.” Izuku slumped.

“Well I got most of them. If you could get the rest and put them up there?”

Izuku pointed to an expanse of branches above them, they overlapped and tangled with each other in a way that caused a net pattern, Izuku was fairly confident whatever they'd put up there would stay up there. Kacchan shrugged and padded over to the outside pile to start bringing them up.

Izuku stepped back inside the pod to check on Eri, she was drinking from one of the still-full canteens. “Morning Eri!”

The girl put the canteen down and wiped her mouth with her hand. “Morning! What are you and Kacchan doing? Can I help?” she trotted up to the boy eagerly.

“We’re moving our stuff to a safer spot, I'm not sure if there's anything you can help out with… all that's left is getting the bigger boxes up and I think Kacchan!s the only one who can do that. Let's just give him moral support!” 

“‘Kay. I'm really good at that!”

The two poked their heads outside to see Kacchan had gotten nearly all the smaller boxes already up. For the next thirty minutes or so Izuku and Eri idled, either playing games or just sitting in the grass cheering Kacchan on as he gathered the heavier boxes into the trees natural netting. He took breaks to occasionally complain about his lack of help, to which Izuku and Eri would both dramatically try; and fail; to pick up heavy boxes. Stating their 'twig arms’ as their excuses.

By the end of it Kacchan was a huffing mess. Izuku offered him some of the eversea to which he happily chugged. Is chugging it even a good idea? Hopefully the drowsiness isn't too bad.

With the supplies safe from any potential flash floods, Izuku suggested they visit the river again to continue their exploring. 

Back at the river Izuku and Eri looked around, deciding on which direction to check out first. While the two were discussing where to go, Ka’s’ki had other plans in mind. While the ‘soup’—as izuku had called it—was fine enough, Ka’s’ki is a carnivore. Sure he'd be able to survive off other stuff but if he wanted his mind and body to be at its best (and he’s always supposed to be at his best) he’d need meat in his diet. So while his siblings did their thing he was keeping his senses sharp on the lookout for prey.

His best bet would be those ‘alien deer’—again, named by Izuku—They looked prey enough for Ka’s’ki’s taste. Side facing eyes, dull teeth, herbivore, it was perfect for him. So when he saw one sipping from the river he couldn't help the grin that spread across his face. It’s been too long since I've properly hunted.

Unfortunately, Izuku caught sight of his smile. “Kacchan? Why are you snarling like that?” 

*Smiling.* Ka’s’ki internally corrected. Not his fault his body doesn't allow him to perfectly mimic Human’s facial expressions.

“Not snarlin’ and don't worry about it.” 

Izuku and Eri shared a glance. “Well now i'm more worried about it. Is something wrong?”

Ka's'ki nudged the human with his wing. “Everything’s fine! Be quiet!” He resorted to whisper-shouting when the alien deer lifted its ears up, he didn't want it running.

Luckily Izuku whisper-shouted back despite protesting against what Ka’s’ki was about to do. “Kacchan don't tell me.. absolutely not!”

Ka’s’ki glared at the human.

“Why not? Survival of the fittest and all that. You’re an omnivore, what's the big deal?”

Izuku took a minute to respond.

“Yeah but… I don't know! I just don't want to, it reminds me of something... And what if it's not even edible?”

Ka’s’ki scoffed.

“Don't be wasteful Izu, every part of prey can be used from the meat, to the fur, to the bones.”

The two boys argue back and forth for another few minutes, Eri’s eyes flicking from one to the other with every sentence. She looked to the alien deer, which would occasionally walk along the river bank but it never went too far. She knew what her brothers were talking about. Eri didn't like death, with her ability to connect with others on a more emotional level, death always meant more to her, sometimes she could even feel it. But she could also feel how hungry Kacchan was. 

Turning her attention back to her brother, Kacchan ended it with a flick of his wing.

“Does. Not. Matter! I’m hunting it, just stay here and don't sabotage the hunt.” Izuku ran a hand down his face as Ka’s’ki leapt across the river, the prey noticing his movement fled, before Izuku could tell Kacchan not to chase it the two were already out of sight. 

Izuku stood and began pacing, mumbling curses under his breath.

“Is he gonna be okay? What if he gets lost?” Eri shrank when Izuku’s intense eyes met hers, but he quickly calmed his expression.

“He’ll be fine, he can fly remember? He’ll find his way back.” The two stared into the dark forest on the other side of the river. Izuku sighed again. 

“Let's head back so he’ll at least know where to find us.” Eri nodded silently and the two gathered the bags of supplies they'd brought yet hadn't gotten to use. I was actually looking forward to exploring too…

They turned away from the river and started following the marked trees back to their escape pod, occasionally looking behind them or to the sky for any sign of their Draconic brother.

Footsteps pounded against the floor, leaves crunched beneath his paws as Ka’s’ki chased after his prey on all fours. The thing was fast, typical for prey, but Ka’s’ki was determined to eat any kind of meat by the end of the day. Ka’s’ki was growing tired and for a short moment he thought it might actually be able to beat him in a test of endurance, that is until its long spindly antlers got caught on some branches that were unusually low to the ground.

Ka’s’ki took the opportunity immediately, pouncing on it as it tried to untangle itself. Ka’s’ki made its death quick, sinking his teeth and claws into its neck, fatal for nearly every species.

The alien deer’s body went limp in Ka’s’ki’s grasp, his tail wagging subconsciously with pride as he looked at his hunt; even if it took longer than he would've liked and he was breathing like air was a rare commodity. Now the problem was dragging it back to the escape pod. He set the prey down and took to the tree, all he'd need to do is find out which direction he needs to go in then take to the sky.

The task felt more daunting as Ka’s’ki started to take note of how exhausted he felt. He ran a lot sure, but he's hunted plenty of time for his pack before and he's been fine. His eyes close without his permission, he lowers himself to the forest floor.

What the hell?! This is stupid, what's wrong with me?

The only reasoning he could come up with is chugging a whole canteen of something that'd make him drowsy then sprinting non-stop to hunt prey wasn't a good idea. 

Note to self, don't chug eversea and then hunt. Ugh, a nap couldn't hurt, Izuku and Eri can wait a while longer.

He curled up in a ball, exhaustion filling his body, he still kept an eye and ear out as long as he could. He realized it was stupid, there could be a predator waiting to pounce, a scavenger could steal his hunt, but his body simply couldn't keep itself awake.

So he closed his eyes, a quick power nap, that's all.

Izuku and Eri had returned to camp, boiled more eversea, played 23 games of ground tic-tac-toe, played 4 games of 20 questions, and Izuku did a full workout routine yet there was still no sign of Kacchan. The sun was getting lower and needless to say, the two were worried.

They constantly looked to the forest or sky, pausing what they're doing to listen for him, nothing. Izuku had started pacing when the sun neared the horizon.

“We need to go out and look for him. But what if we get lost? We could make new landmarks as we go… what if he's wandered farther than we’d expect? The ocean maybe? No I don't think the chase would go that far, maybe we could…”

Izuku froze as he heard a branch snap, he turned only to find—

“Kacchan! Get that out of your mouth! That's- eugh..” He quickly turned his head the other direction to avoid the sight of a deer corpse hanging from Kacchan's jaws. Kacchan spoke with a muffled voice.

“What? You're tellin’ me you've never hunted before? Tch, I mean obviously.” Izuku gaped at Kacchan, turned to Eri and pointed at the dragon as if to say ‘are you seeing this?’. With watery eyes Eri nodded solemnly, she never liked seeing corpses no matter the animal.

Kacchan finally took it out his mouth and set it on the ground, gesturing with his wing for the others to come closer. They did, begrudgingly.

“You two are too soft, it's just survival.” 

Izuku sighed “I know. Where were you though? You were gone for so long!” 

“Turns out chugging eversea was a bad idea, kinda just passed out for a while.” 

Izuku struggles not to mumble out an ‘I told you so’ as Kacchan continued. “But I’m fine so quit worryin’.”

Eri stood behind Izuku, she made sure to stay the farthest away from the deer's corpse. Even though she wasn't there when it died she could still feel remnants of its pain and fear. Izuku patted her head.

“You don't have to stay, Eri. But if you do want to, then you could close your eyes at least?” She nodded and brought her paws to her head. Kacchan scoffed but the glare Izuku's went his way silenced him.

Apprehension leaking from his voice Izuku figured he might as well ask. “So you know how to prepare it then?” He crouched down to the animal's body, it was fairly intact aside from the gashes across its neck. It was large, plenty of meat for them to use. Izuku tried to shake away the lingering feelings of disgust he felt. Kacchan was right; this was survival. Maybe if Izuku had been more familiar with hunting it wouldn't have bothered him, but he'd only ever seen hunting through a TV screen, never in real life.

Kacchan pointed a thumb at himself. “Master chef, remember? We’re gonna be eating real food tonight!” Eri uncovered one eye to glance at Izuku, Izuku nodded to her, trying to offer some comfort. He was really looking forward to the food, but dreading the process of preparing it.

Kacchan brought the deer’s body closer to the center of the clearing and walked Izuku through preparing it to eat. From skinning it, to getting rid of anything they wouldn't use, to testing the meat and finding which area would have the most fat and protein. While Izuku was thoroughly disgusted, he also found the lesson very useful. As squeamish as he was he'd have to learn how to do this, he can't just go to the store and buy meat anymore. He glanced at his little sister. Eri was sitting by the fire, half asleep. Izuku’s a little upset she got left out but knew it was for the best.

With the meat prepared the two boys joined Eri by the fire to start cooking, leaving most of that task to Kacchan. Izuku and Eri still did their part, preparing the leftover ingredients they'd gathered. Izuku actually liked it, it was calming, domestic, *normal*. Working in comfortable, familiar, silence together. Until Eri insisted Kacchan needed to eat more random untested foods to which it devolved into bickering. Izuku didn't mind, even the bickering was familiar and welcome at this point.

Steam poured from the pot as Izuku watched Kacchan pour ‘new and improved’ soup into his bowl, handing Eri her own separate bowl without any meat added. She was an herbivore so Izuku and Kacchan would be the only ones to taste test the meat. The three each held their own bowl, blowing steam away. 

“Ready for the second first bite?” Izuku held the spoon to his lips.

“That sentence doesn't make any damn sense, Izu.” 

The human responded with a shrug.

Izuku and Kacchan took a bite of the ‘new and improved’ soup, Eri eyed them curiously as she ate her own. As much as Izuku hated to admit it, the meat did make it taste better. Still bland, but better. Kacchan grumbled. 

“Is it better?” Eri leaned over to Kacchan’s side, looking at his food.

“Tsk. Still needs seasoning.” 

Izuku silently agreed.

The three talked amongst themselves as they ate, Izuku nearly choking when he laughed with food still in his mouth, which led to Kacchan lecturing him on swallowing his food before talking or laughing. Izuku was just happy the day went as well as it did, minus Kacchan’s way of hunting..

By the time everyone was done eating it was well past dark. Izuku took the initiative to clean, he remembered he wanted to ask Kacchan something too.

“Hey Kacchan?” Despite not saying Eri’s name, she and Kacchan both turned to him.

Izuku pointed a finger to the sky. “Think you could fly up and kinda, uhm, survey the area? Like just see what's around us more than we can on the ground.”

Kacchan growled and groaned but agreed anyway, leaving Izuku and Eri to get everything put away.

Kacchan lowered himself to the ground, sprinted a few feet forward then lifted off a few strong flaps of his wings, causing Izuku and Eri’s hair to fly around wildly.

The two pushed hair out of their eyes and watched Kacchan fly up.

Eri pouted. “I wish I could fly!” Izuku nodded, it would be nice, but they have their own task to focus on.

Once everything was stashed away in the boxes (with Izuku having to climb up, nearly falling twice) him and Eri laid on the ground of the clearing, half stargazing-half waiting for Kacchan to return.

Might as well make up new constellations.

“Wanna make constellations with me Eri?”

She turned her head in his direction. “Constellations?”

“Uh, yeah. It's like connecting stars together to make shapes and images. Let’s see…” he trailed off, trying to find any noticeable shapes to make. He started with the brightest star and traced lines in the sky, the shape he made ended up looking like a cartoon cat.

“That’s kinda like a cat. The two stars on top are like the point of the ears, and the two on the side are tufts of fur. Get it?”

Eri awed and nodded. “Can I try?”

“Of course!”

Eri hummed in thought before pointing a finger to the sky, tracing a mental image of her own in the stars.

“This one looks like Kacchan, see? These are his horns, his spiky fur, and… that bright one is his snout.” Izuku closed one eye and followed where her hand went, it did look like Kacchan a bit, as accurate as a constellation can get at least.

“You're right! We should show him when he gets back.”

Which happened to be right then, as another thud landed behind them.

Still lying on the ground Izuku craned his head to look at a Kacchan, upside down due to the angle. 

“What are you two weirdos doing?”

Eri copied Izuku so she was also looking at Kacchan from an upside down angle. “Tracing stars! We found you in them, Kacchan.”

“What? Ugh i don't wanna know what that means, i found where that town is.” That got Izuku’s attention, he shifted to sit upright, looking back at Kacchan.

“You actually did? Where is it?” 

Eri sat up, brushing off the leaves in her hair.

“Can we go?”

“Absolutely not!” Izuku shook his head.

Kacchan shrugged. “Why not?”

“No! No. We really shouldn't, the people who took us could have landed here too. We still have our brandings to take care of as well.” Izuku poked the scarred skin on his cheek and eyed the brandings on his and Kacchan’s chest.

“If we find a way to cover ourselves then it wouldn't be so risky.”

Eri frowned but nodded anyway.

“Okay, that makes sense.”

Kacchan tapped his foot against the ground. “We could just go anyway! Who’s gonna stop us really? Whatever I think the eversea’s getting to me, let's just go to sleep.”

Izuku nodded and stood, stretching his arms above his head. He looked to Eri only to see her holding her arms out. He laughed under his breath but picked her up anyway.

“Yeah, let's go to sleep.” Kacchan rolled his eyes and the three stepped back into the dark escape pod. Izuku already had ideas of what they'd be doing tomorrow. He’d try to see if he could sew something using the alien-deer’s hide. If he and the others can find a way to cover themselves they could go into town, assuming they don't run into Arachids… If Izuku was being honest, he was just getting a little sick of the forest. It'd be better for them to go into town before it got colder too, dingy alien-deer ponchos wouldn't do much against sub freezing temperatures.

Everyone took their places in the escape pod, mostly just Izuku and Eri snuggling up on either side of Kacchan to keep the cold-blooded dragon warm. In the back of his mind Izuku noted that it had been windier today, not enough to make it colder, just enough to be noticeable.

As his mind drifted off to sleep he made a mental list of all the things they'd need to do, how to prolong their survival, how to get help, how to find his way home. He'd figure it out tomorrow…

While Izuku, Kacchan, and Eri were sleeping soundly, it was a much different experience for A’zawa and Yam’da. The two had been downright frantic after the Arachid’s trafficker ship was raided, hurrying to track the kids location, and as nihilistic as A’zawa tended to be; he thought things were looking up.

Currently, A’zawa was speaking with Nezu on the matter.

“Run it by me one more time A'zawa. I need all the facts before I can follow through with a plan.”

A’zawa sighed internally, never out loud though. Not in front of Nezu. He closed his eyes and began recounting what happened for what felt like the thousandth time.

“I told you. Me, ‘Zashi, and the kids were able to make it to the cockpit but were intercepted by another ship. Rivals to the Arachid’s if I remember correctly.” Nezu sipped his drink and hummed to show he was listening.

“We were taking the kids to the escape pods when a Greiten from the opposing ship charged us, that's about the time I lost sight of ‘Zashi as well.” He opened his bottom pair of eyes to make sure he still had Nezu’s full attention before closing them again.

“I figured I'd handle the Greiten while the kids went to the escape pod, intending for me and ‘Zashi to join them later, but as you can see, that's not how things went. I’m… not sure whether or not they made it, but I truly believe they did.”

Nezu finally decided to add his input. “I wholeheartedly agree! With what you've said they seem like the persistent types. I know it's taking longer than both you and I hoped, but we will find them.”

A’zawa nodded— before inwardly cursing himself for still using Human gestures and responding verbally instead. “Right…”

He knew even Nezu had to abide by the HPSC who, notoriously, are making things difficult for the principal. Nezu takes another sip from his warm drink. “Please, continue.”

“Once the Greiten was taken out I went to look for ‘Zashi, he was dealing with his own fight in the cockpit and I had to assist. It took much longer than either of us would've liked. By the time we *did* get the situation under control more Greitens had boarded, this time armed. We tried to rush to the escape pods but they'd already started patrolling the halls and ‘Zashi and I were held at gunpoint for another two hours as hostages before U.A ships arrived, you know how it goes from there, I'm sure.” 

Nezu hummed in affirmation. “Correct! K’yama already informed me, plenty. As a matter of fact, we’ve already begun limiting the planets they could've gone to by a considerable amount.” A’zawa flicked his upper ears to urge Nezu to continue.

“At this point there's only three planets I believe they would've landed on.”

Nezu turned in his chair to face a projecter, pulling a remote from his suit's front pocket and pressing a few buttons.

“The first, and least likely, is a small class 5 planet. The reason this is least likely is because it depends on which escape pod they went into, a majority had mildly outdated navigating systems. Those outdated systems wouldn't have picked up on this planet. Still worth checking however, just in case.”

He clicked another button.

“Second is a class 4, as you're aware, there have been multiple Arachid reports from locals. It’s the planet where most of them have fled and where we’ve sent U.A staff to apprehend. They should be checking the rest of the planet now, actually! If the kids are there, the staff will find them.”

A’zawa shifted in his chair. “If they aren't?”

Nezu pressed the button once more. 

“In that case, we’ll be checking the last planet. A class 7 where a melting pot of different species reside. There have been reports of Arachids but it's important to note not every Arachid was involved in the trafficking ship, and we’d like to avoid false imprisonments. The reports came from those new to the planet, life-long residents clarified many Arachids had lived there for years and aren't involved which is why the planet ended up as a lower priority. Once everything is cleared up on the class 4, we’ll check this one.”

A’zawa’s whiskers twitched in irritation, he leaned forward putting his elbows on the smooth desk in front of him and intertwining his upper paws. 

“Why aren't we checking them simultaneously? It'd be more efficient don't you think? Even if traffickers aren't there currently they could always hunt the kids down before we can get to them.” 

Nezu sets the remote down on the desk.

“Unfortunately, the HPSC has been borrowing more and more of my staff lately. I could never send an unprepared ship, that is the reason I'm waiting for the ship on the class 4 planet to return first.”

A’zawa grumbled under his breath. He agreed, and he hated that he agreed. However, going in unprepared is essentially what he and ‘Zashi did, and everyone's seen how that turned out. He tapped his paw against the floor.

“How long will it take?”

Nezu looked at him eagerly. “Sorry to say it’ll be another solrune or two. They will be brought back safe and sound, even if it takes longer than expected, you have my word.”

A’zawa audibly sighed. He knew Nezu, he always kept his word. He silently nodded, not bothering with a verbal response, and took his leave. Exhaustion weighed on him as he shut the door behind him. It's time like these he wished his species was able to consume caffeine. He trudged back to his on-ship room, he'd simply have to wait until Nezu sends them off. Everything better go perfectly. Stay strong, cubs, we’ll be there soon.

Chapter Text

Izuku flinches awake, the remnants of a nightmare swirling in his head. Images of a fighting ring and operating table flashes behind his eyes. Izuku shudders the images away and sits up to look around. Kacchan’s gone but Eri is sleeping soundly beside him.

He takes a minute to take deep breaths, despite having no memories of the nightmare the anxiety still buzzed beneath his skin. He ran a hand through his hair and stood up, he can't just sit around, he has things to do.

Stepping out into the clearing he shivered, the slight breeze from yesterday had gotten worse. Izuku mourned the loss of his gakuran shirt, even if it wouldn't have helped that much. 

He turned his gaze to the trees, he could see the tip of Kacchan’s tail poking through the canopy. Izuku cupped his hands around his mouth to get the dragon’s attention.

“Kacchan!”

The tail disappeared into the trees but after a bit of rustling the dragon landed on the starry grass, stretching as he walked over.

“Hm?” He stopped in front of Izuku with his arms crossed.

“What were you up to?” He pointed to the trees, Kacchan craned his head to look back.

“Scouting. That's the direction the town’s in, I was thinking of checking it out.”

Izuku couldn't help but gape at that. Is he insane?

“No way, no, no, no. Our traffickers could’ve landed here, remember? We can't just go waltzing around wherever with our literal brandings on display!”

Kacchan huffed and leaned against Izuku, putting his elbow on the green haired boy's head.

“Look, if you were in an escape pod looking to escape a ship–”

“We were–”

“Shh, don't interrupt, I'm making a point. Okay so you were in an escape pod and you have two options; 1. the safe planet where a lot of your allies probably went, or 2. the dangerous planet where you have no allies. What’re you choosing?” He grinned smugly, Izuku was convinced there had to be some kind of logical fallacy in that reasoning, he just didn't know which.

“Well, I'd choose the safer one,” He held Kacchan’s snout shut before he could argue. “-but! If even just one of them chose to come here then we’d be putting ourselves at risk! What if there aren't any Arachids here but some of the beetle aliens that took over their ship? Or even just someone who's allied with either of those aliens… point is, if even one person recognizes us as their ‘product’ they’ll call for a backup.”

Kacchan shook Izuku’s hand off him and scoffed. “Don't be like that, we can handle ourselves, we can fight back now no problem. Ugh we don't even have to do anything, we can just check the place out.”

Izuku tilted his head from side to side like a confused dog, weighing the options. 

“Ehh… we can hold a vote but i don't think Eri would—”

Eri poked her head out the escape pod door, one hand raised in the air. “I wanna go into town! Can we go? Please, please, please?”

Izuku looked at Eri in betrayal, looking between her excited smile and Kacchan’s knowing expression, Izuku sighed and sunk to the floor.

“Fine.” He mumbled under his breath. “We can go. But we need to be cautious, agreed?” He looked to his siblings, who both nodded. “Alright, let's pack some stuff then, I guess.” He walked dejectedly to where they'd stashed their supplies while Eri and Kacchan high-dived behind him. High-fiving behind my back, how cruel..

Izuku had a bag slung around him, it only had a few things; three canteens of eversea, the multipurpose knife he'd been obsessively carrying around, a flashlight and a first aid kit. The first aid kit may seem odd at first but remember Kacchan is with them.

Despite the overwhelming anxiety Izuku felt, Eri and Kacchan looked excited for their upcoming ‘adventure’. He tried to ignore it but their excitement was infectious…

So, they set off. Kacchan took the lead being the only one who actually knows which direction to go. Eri insisted she walk in the middle, practically skipping with anticipation. Izuku didn't get why they weren't more nervous, didn't they know they could be willingly walking into certain death? Izuku could think of over 50 ways this outing could go wrong and it was eating him alive.

Now don't get him wrong, Izuku loved and cared for Kacchan but he didn't trust the dragon to not start multiple fights over someone staring at him funny. He dreaded thinking of how many times he'd have to chase Eri down to make sure she stayed close by.

It’ll certainly be interesting, maybe if we’re lucky we could get some money or something…

So, they walked until they neared the edge of the town, they could hear distant voices and footsteps, watching aliens of all shapes, sizes, and colors weave between each other on dirt paths. Izuku would liken it to villages seen in fantasy books only a bit different, doorways were simply open frames and unusually tall to allow species of taller heights to walk through without ducking. Beside the dirt paths were canals filled with eversea, aquatic sentients were the only ones in them from what Izuku could see.

Although he didn't want to admit it, the sight did excite him as well, but he refused to tell his siblings out of spite. It’s an alien town! I can't help but be excited… I should try and get a notebook so I can write and draw all the different species I’ve seen.

Kacchan huffed smoke from his nose and looked back at Izuku and Eri.

“Ready? And don't forget, fight anyone who pisses you off for any reason.”

Izuku could feel a headache forming…

“No, no, do not. Avoid fights as much as possible, let's at least try not to get run out of town for being public nuisances!”

Kacchan simply shrugged in response. 

Ignoring her brothers, Eri trotted past them, the two boys hurried to follow her as they all stepped onto the flattened dirt path.

Now that they were officially in the city Izuku took the chance to take it all in, and make potential escape routes while he was at it. 

There were rickety buildings lined nearly wall to wall, it stretched on for miles. Between each building were entrances to dark alley ways, Izuku made sure to note they could be good for losing anyone chasing them.

Street vendors were also set up, showing off an assortment of things from clothes, to produce, to raw meat, to odd shiny trinkets.

The three stayed huddled close together, Kacchan keeping his wings loosely around his siblings. There were people staring, of course there were, it'd be hard to ignore three random children, two with brandings burned into their skin, strolling down the streets. Any time someone would stare, Kacchan would growl, Izuku would elbow him in the side. Eri would wave and smile, then Izuku would have to put her hand down and cover her mouth. 

This is more exhausting than I thought it’d be…

Despite making it into the town and no fights happening (yet) they didn't have an exact idea of what they'd do once they got in, get supplies obviously but without money that'd be difficult. (Izuku and Eri already voted against stealing so Kacchan was out of ideas.)

Izuku motioned his siblings to follow him as he walked beneath a nearby building's awning. Izuku clapped his hands together; a few people nearby flinched at the sound.

Whoops, sorry..

“Uh, a-anyway!” He nervously held his hands at his sides and lowered his voice. “Think there'd be any chance we could get jobs here?” 

Eri raised her hand. “I’m real good at planting stuff! Could we get credits that way?”

Kacchan scoffed. “Like anyone would hire you.” 

Izuku raised a hand before the two could argue.

“That's a good idea Eri, we’ll see. I’m not sure what I could do… I guess manual labor? I don't really have any skills to write home about.” He rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly.

Kacchan pointed to himself confidently. “Well we all know i can cook, there's a ton of restaurants and shit around here, I could work at one of those, easy.” 

Izuku tilted his head and hummed. “But would they hire three kids who look like they just crawled out of the trenches?” The three looked down at themselves and weren't so sure.

“We need real food, clothes, and probably a better place to live before getting a job.” Izuku placed his hands on his hip. He always remembered reading about how it was harder for homeless people to get jobs, only now he knew the feeling as well.

“Maybe we can ask people for help?” Eri said hopefully. Kacchan seemed to disagree.

“Like hell I'm begging anyone for anything! We can take care of our damn selves just fine.”

“It wouldn't hurt to ask at least once, right? Maybe we’ll get something good out of it?”

Izuku knew the dragon wanted to argue but when Izuku and Eri agreed on something Kacchan stood no chance. So now they have a new task, ask people for help and try not to start a fight doing so. Much easier said than done.

They started walking down the streets again, Eri said she could find someone who could help. She said she'd ‘feel their helpy-ness’ and point at them, then the three would give their sob story and ask for either food, clothes, or money depending on what Eri said would be the ‘right’ thing to ask.

Eri stopped in the middle of the bustling streets, causing Izuku to bump into her and Kacchan to nearly trip over them both. She looked up at the boys with a determined grin and pointed at an alien that looked like a ball of fur with arms and legs. Izuku nodded wearily and the three walked over. Izuku’s anxiety returned tenfold as Eri started her speech in Common.

“Hi!” She waved to the individual, they glanced at Eri but stared at Kacchan. Izuku looked up to see him snarling. God damn it, Kacchan! Izuku moved his hands to cover the Draconics face and made sure to keep his smile close-lipped. The person looked back to his little sister again.

“Um, we were uh, we’re new here and we don't have a lot of stuff cause… our parents don't like us? Can you help us?” She gave her biggest puppy eyes and Izuku followed suit. Kacchan looked to the side and crossed his arms.

The pom-pom person turned to face the three.

“Well, I’m sorry to hear that. What can I do to help?” Eri smiled wide but made sure to cover her teeth. 

“Uhm! We need uh, food please.” She looked back at Izuku for confirmation, and he made sure to give a thumbs up.

The pom-pom person stood up, strands of fur floating around them. “I think we can manage something for you three, how do you feel about some Avzen? I know it’s more of a snack but I promise you it'll fill you up.” Eri nodded excitedly, but when the person tilted their head she remembered to respond verbally. 

“Oh! Yes! That'd be very good, please and thank you.” They motioned the three to follow and began walking.

Eri and Izuku each turned to each other to high-five. “It worked, Izu! That was good, right?” He nodded happily. “Yeah, perfect!” 

Kacchan huffed behind them. “Beggars.” Izuku glanced back at him. “What? You don't want real food?” 

He growled beneath his breath. “I don't want to BEG for it.”

Izuku shrugged. “We’ll be able to buy things ourselves eventually, it's just for now Kacchan.”

Eri skipped a little ways ahead of the boys. “It’ll be yummy, Kacchan! I’ll make sure you try some.”

The pom-pom person led them to a vibrant outside store front, complete with its own awning and lines of seats. The smell of baked goods wafted through the streets. Izuku’s mouth started watering just at the smell of it, it was just like a cafe at home he and his mom would frequent. The pom-pom person exchanged words and currency (credits, if he remembered correctly) and the vendor handed them three small baskets, each with a kind of pastry on it, covered in something syrupy.

They set the baskets on the vendor's stand and gestured for them to sit.

Izuku lifted Eri into her own chair and sat beside her. Kacchan sat to Izuku’s left and pawed at the food with his claws.

“There you guys go. It’s one of my favorites, I'm sure you’ll love it! Now I've gotta head back before my mate starts going on a chase trying to figure out where I went. You three stay safe.” The pom-pom person started back in the direction they all came from as Eri and Izuku waved bye.

Eri turned her attention to the cook who made their food, a lanky person who looked to be made of crystal.

“Thank you very much for the food!” She lowered her head in a half bow. Wonder if she got that from me too. Regardless of whether or not the cook would understand him, he bowed and thanked them too. “Right! Thank you for the food.”

The two looked expectedly at Kacchan, who huffed and turned away from that. Izuku and Eri shook their heads disappointedly.

The crystal person went to make food for other customers. Izuku and Eri brought their bowls closer, each picking up their pastry. Izuku tried to avoid getting the sticky syrup on his hands but it looked like Eri was trying to get it all over herself. Kacchan continued to slump in the corner like the moody dragon he was.

Eri and Izuku took their first bites at the same time, both humming in satisfaction at the pastry. It tasted amazing. The texture was soft and chewy, it was perfectly baked. The syrup, while a bit too sticky and sweet for Izuku’s tastes, was also really good and made the food taste better.

The two happily ate their portions. Izuku almost believed Kacchan was actually gonna waste his food when the dragon suddenly yelled, then shoved the entire pastry in his mouth and swallowed it without chewing. The two paused and leaned over to stare at the dragon.

Izuku raised an eyebrow, “Did you… even taste it?”

He grumbled. “Tasted like shit.”

Eri and Izuku brushed off the obvious lie and continued eating.

Once the two were done with their food Izuku gathered all the empty baskets and gave them back to the street vendor. Izuku and Eri bowed again, just to be polite. The crystal person even copied the gesture and bowed back. Izuku struggled to hide the smile on his face.

They waved bye to the vendor and now they just needed to repeat that method until they looked less like they just got out of a war zone…

The three (mostly Izuku and Eri) were able to ask more and more people for help. They'd been given lots of unused, baggy clothes, they’d gotten more food bought for them and they were even able to take a bath at a local bath house (begging hadn't worked that time, it took Kacchan threatening the owner to be let in)

Overall, their day was a pretty big success. They all had new outfits, nothing special considering it was just baggy single color clothes. Izuku had on an off-white T-shirt then went down to his elbows and brown pants that fell to the middle of his calves. Eri had on a red T-shirt dress with a black long sleeve underneath it, and Kacchan had on a reddish-brown cloak (He couldn't quite wear shirts with his wings and tail getting in the way) and his black pants fell above the bend of his digitigrade legs. Izuku mourned the fact he still didn't have shoes but pushed the thought away, he was lucky just to have new clothes.

Unfortunately, Izuku and Eri's clothes didn't cover the collars they'd tried, and failed, to pry off. Our collars and my brandings are still visible… Not sure what we can do about the brandings but surely if we find pliers we can break the metal collars?

Now, the sun was nearing the horizon. The siblings didn't go home yet though, Izuku insisted they search around for potential jobs and leave before nightfall. Kacchan thought it was a good idea, Eri was just excited they got to walk around the city more.

The three walk along the store filled streets, Eri and Kacchan asking if anyone needed more employees. So far, every single time they asked they'd been turned down, usually with the person eyeing Izuku and Kacchan’s visible brandings. It put Kacchan in a worse mood than he already was.

As the sun got lower and lower, so did their hopes of employment. Izuku would find it funny if their livelihoods didn't depend on it.

Unfortunately, the day only got worse when the siblings stumbled upon some other Draconics. Kacchan had immediately tensed and gone on the defensive which Izuku honestly found concerning, Kacchan was normally one to be offensive instead.

The Draconics spotted Kacchan and started forward. Eri hid behind Izuku, clutching the edge of his oversized shirt. If both Eri *and* Kacchan were nervous then clearly these new Draconics were the issue…

There were three, the one in the middle laughed, bearing their teeth. It was pretty obvious they weren't smiling, they probably didn't even know what that word meant.

“What's this? Looks like found the runt of someone's litter.” The middle Draconic tilted their head from side to side, looking at Kacchan from every angle then they changed their gaze to him and Eri, the girl shrinking behind Izuku. Kacchan took a protective step in front of them. Izuku desperately wanted to defuse the situation but since he was physically incapable of speaking Common, there wasn't anything he could do to help.

The Draconic on the right spoke this time. “Tch, this one must be a defect. No wonder it was abandoned.”

Surprisingly, Kacchan held his tongue. Izuku was extremely concerned, clearly something was going on but he couldn't understand the importance of it.

The left Draconic spoke. “So what are these things then? Your pets? Did you feel bad for them?” The three snickered amongst themselves like they said the world's funniest inside joke.

Izuku kinda wanted to fight them, all three of them. He could win… He was about to take a step forward to punch the shit out of them when Kacchan took the initiative. He went from standing hunched, protecting his two siblings, to pouncing on one of the Draconics and clawing at them like there was no tomorrow. All the while snarling like he'd gone rabid.

Izuku decided taking Eri and getting away from the other two Draconics was the best idea. He scooped Eri into his arms and ducked in the alley closest to where the fight was happening. He wanted to break the fight apart, tell Kacchan that starting fights would get them kicked out of town after just one day, but the dragon looked oddly vindicated as he was fighting the other Draconic. Izuku decided it was some cultural dragon species thing and that he wouldn't intervene. He covered Eri’s eyes and waited for the fight to pass.

Izuku watched as Kacchan pummeled all three, the Draconic that seemed to act as the ‘leader’ having been damaged the most. Kacchan was yelling at the three in his native language. Neither he or Eri could understand the dragon but Eri clearly felt his emotions if her expression was anything to go off of.

The fight had been broken apart by some bystanders and the three injured Draconics limped away to who knows where. Kacchan looked around and finally realized he didn't know where his siblings were, Izuku saw a brief flash of panic in the dragon’s eyes. He stepped out of the alley and waved to his brother. Kacchan physically relaxed at the sight of the two.

“There you two were. What the hell? No backup?” Kacchan sounded angry, but Izuku knew he wasn't really upset.

“You had it handled.”

Izuku set Eri on the ground, she ran up to Kacchan and wrapped her arms around him. 

“Hah?? What are you hugging me for? Do that shit to Izu, I don't need it!”

Eri looked up with watery eyes no one could deny. Kacchan begrudgingly picked the girl up and sat her on his shoulder. Izuku simply smiled at the sight.

With the fight over, the crowd that gathered had mostly dispersed. Those that stuck around were grumbling about ‘Draconics always having to start something’. Kacchan looked like he was about to start another fight so Izuku grabbed his hand and led his siblings along. He wasn't going to let Kacchan get kicked out of town on their first day.

The three decided to start heading back, the sun was starting to dip under the horizon and it'd be bad if they were caught in the middle of the forest at night. Most of the shops were closing, street stores had covers thrown over them, people started going home, the once lively town was starting to fall silent.

Izuku felt like him and his siblings were doing a walk of shame. Though with how weirdly calm Kacchan was and how happy Eri was to point out all the warm lights the town had, it didn't feel shameful at all. It felt hopeful.

They were nearly out of town when a random old lady called out to them. She was covered in a large poncho, or a dress, Izuku couldn't tell but it covered her whole body. From what he could see, she looked very insect-y but in a cute way, not a scary way.

“You, three! Could you come here, please?” She called out, her voice sounding creaky.

All three siblings turned their heads in sync. They all shared a look and silently agreed to check it out.

Kacchan led the way, Eri still perched on his shoulder. “What.” He growled out.

Izuku elbowed the dragon in the side. “Be nice…” Kacchan just sighed, Eri pat his head to comfort him.

The old lady spoke again. “I noticed you three around town today and just wanted to ask, is everything all right? You've been asking people for things all day and then goodness, that fight! Are you alright, dear?”

Kacchan growled at the concern and got defensive, as per usual. “I’m fine! Mind your own damn business!”

Eri pat Kacchan’s head and asked, “Maybe we can ask her for help too!”

Izuku nodded. “I mean, I wouldn't turn down more help.”

Kacchan grumbled. “Filthy beggars, both of you.”

Eri took it upon herself to ask. “Yes, we’re okay ma’am! But uhm, we are looking for jobs cause we need money to buy things… Do you know where we can get one?”

The lady seemed excited by that.

“Oh, how perfect! My son recently left home to pursue a new job, you see. It’s been lonely and difficult to keep the shop running without him… I could use your help? Oh, with due pay of course!” 

Izuku covered his mouth as a smile spread across his face, talk about a jackpot of a job. Kacchan looked down at him and Izuku responded with eager nodding, Eri was just as excited as he was.

“Alright… sure… When would we be working? It’s getting late so we have to leave soon.” Kacchan still sounded skeptical. 

“You may start tomorrow if you'd like? Oh and i don't mean to sound rude but are you sure you're alright? If you need a place to stay I will always have space for you, I'd hate to see youth on the streets no matter the species…” She placed a hand over where Izuku assumed her heart was. Izuku felt like he was gonna cry, the old lady had no idea how much her offer would help them. Kind old ladies are universal thing, then…

Before Kacchan could open his trap to deny it Izuku grabbed his snout and pulled him down to Izuku’s eye level. He turned the dragon around so all three’s siblings back were facing the lady while the three formed a sibling discussion huddle.

“Kacchan! We are accepting the offer!”

“Fuck no!”

Eri crawled down from Kacchan’s shoulder to join the huddle more closely.

“I wanna stay with the grandma! She’s really nice, I can tell. And her house smells like yummy food…”

Kacchan stomped his foot. “No, no! You spent the whole day begging and now you want to stay in a stranger's house?? You two are being *ridiculous*.”

Izuku sighed but he wasn't worried, if Izuku and Eri agreed to stay then Kacchan would follow.

“Alright, if you really want to then you can go back to the escape pod, me and Eri will just stay in a stranger’s house all by ourselves with no one to protect us.”

“Kacchan’s leaving us…?” Eri made her voice wobble and blinked her eyes.

“You two are manipulative! Fine, fine! Whatever, you two always get what you want, just get in the damn house!” 

Izuku and Eri high-fived before running back up to the old lady, who watched the previous sibling huddle with fondness in her eyes.

Eri ran up to the lady first. “Can we stay with you tonight ma’am?”

The lady laughed quietly. “Oh, of course! Let me know if there’s anything I can help you with. May I know your names?”

It just occurred to them that they didn't introduce themselves. Eri took it upon herself to introduce her siblings.

“Right! Uhm, my name is Eri.” She did a little spin and bowed. She then pointed to Izuku who had a close lipped smile on his face. “This is my brother Izuku, he can understand Common but he can't speak it cause it hurts him when he does.”

Izuku bowed. “It’s nice to meet you.” Yes, the lady didn't understand what he said but it was important to him that he was still polite.

Eri pointed to Kacchan next, who was grumbling and looking in any direction other than where the lady was.

“This is my brother Kac- uh, uhm, Ka’s’ki! He’s really angry all the time but he's really nice too.”

Kacchan grumbled out a quiet, “Not angry all the time…”

The old lady cooed at them. “Aw, well it's lovely to meet all of you! My name is En’yo. Now, come, come! I don't want you to get cold just standing around out here.” The old lady turned to enter her shop, or was it her house? Maybe it was both. The three followed her inside, Eri excitedly running ahead first with Izuku and Kacchan trailing close behind.

The lady’s house was warm and welcoming, the scent of a home cooked meal lingered in the art. The furniture around the house was small, likely made for the old lady’s smaller height. Izuku would say the furniture looked off, but that was him going by human standards, the furniture is probably the most normal thing ever for anyone living on the planet. The lady led them through a few rooms, one of them being the store front which had an open kitchen with seating arranged around the room. She walked up stairs, Izuku and Kacchan had difficulty getting up them due to how small and close together each step was, Eri didn't have an issue though.

On the second floor was an open hallway, doors lining each side. The lady opened one of the doors, showing a spare room of sorts. Izuku assumed it was a bedroom despite not having a bed, instead there was soft netting strung up from the ceiling that resembled a hammock. Alien bed…

The lady let them walk into the room, Eri doing circles around the open space.

“I’m sorry you all have to stay in one room, but the only other rooms are mine and my sons.”

Kacchan waved a paw. “It's whatever. We all slept in a pile on the floor before. This can't be any worse.”

The lady was obviously concerned to hear that. Izuku moved his hand side to side in front of his throat in a ‘shut the fuck up what are you doing don't say that’ gesture. Kacchan shrugged indifferently, he had no qualms about traumatizing old ladies with their tragic backstories.

“Well, now you have a proper place to sleep. I’m off to go to sleep myself but know that you can wake me up whenever you need something.”

Izuku smiled, nodded, and bowed. Physical gestures were really the only way he could communicate without being able to speak Common. 

“Bye, ma’am! We’ll sleep real good!” Eri waved a hand. The old lady chuckled and copied the gesture before leaving.

Kacchan heaved out a deep sigh. “Fucking finally. You two have gotta be tired right?”

Izuku nodded, feeling a yawn build in his throat. Eri, though, shook her head.

“No way! There's still stuff we could do for a little while, right?”

Kacchan grumbled. “No way. Sleep time, let's go.”

Izuku watched as Kacchan picked Eri up and tossed her in the net-hammock. She gasped dramatically. “Hey! That's not fair.” 

Kacchan gestured Izuku closer, he walked up the dragon and got lifted up to the hammock as well. With his siblings up Kacchan jumped inside the hammock as well. Izuku and Eri were suddenly crushed in a mess of scales and wings.

“Izu! Kacchan’s wing hit me.”

Izuku groaned and shoved Kacchan’s wing to the side. “Kacchan, you're burying us…”

It took a bit of shuffling around and Izuku almost falling out of the hammock twice but eventually Kacchan was able to get his wings beneath Izuku and Eri. Izuku was thankful for it too, he didn't like the feeling of the netting digging into his skin.

Izuku thought they were all ready to sleep but there was more shuffling in the dark, followed by Kacchan quietly cursing, and Eri rolling over to Izuku.

He laughed quietly as Eri curled up between her two brothers.

Now, they were ready to sleep. Izuku closed his eyes and let himself relax. Aside from the street fight their day went really well, now they even had a job. Izuku was excited, he always liked cooking and baking with his mom, now he could cook and bake with his siblings too. 

Things were finally looking up.

Inko sat outside on Mitsuki’s porch, staring up at the stars. Her little boy had been missing for over month now. No one knew where he was, no one even had an idea of how he disappeared. He just… vanished. Inko wiped the tears in the corner of her eyes. No matter what anyone else thought, she knew her son was safe. She knew because Izuku was strong, smart, and resilient. She’d just have to wait for him, she’d wait as long as she had to.

Izuku would find his way home, she knew that for a fact.

Chapter Text

Izuku was woken up when he was smacked in the face by a wing. He turned to his body so he was laying on his back and pushed Kacchan’s wing off of him.

“Oi. Get up.”

Izuku groaned and sat up, opening his eyes to see Eri’s wide smile. “We’re gonna cook!”

“Huh?”

She didn't respond and instead she crawled over Izuku and Kacchan and hopped down from the bed they were laid. Kacchan followed, landing on the floor with a faint thud. Izuku rubbed the sleep out of his eyes and followed the two out the door. What did Eri say they were doing, cooking? 

He tiredly followed his siblings out, Eri was skipping down the halls with glee, even Kacchan looked excited. Izuku smiled, he should be excited too, they'd landed jobs after all!

The three made it downstairs to find En’yo waiting for them. The little old lady turned to see them.

“Good morning everyone! How are you all feeling? Better I hope.”

Eri trotted over to En’yo, all smiley and bright eyed. “Yeah! I’m really excited cause we get to cook today, right?”

En’yo laughed lightheartedly. “That’s right. You three will be my assistants from now on.”

Izuku and Kacchan stood right behind Eri, ready for any tasks to be given out.

En'yo continued, antennae twitching as she spoke. “My, you three are excited. We need to open the shop first. Izuku, did I pronounce that right?” Izuku nodded, which Eri translated for him. “That means yes!”

“I see, if you could flip the sign out front to the other side that'd be amazing, I've already unlocked the doors so dont worry about that.” Izuku nodded again and moved to the front of the store while Eri and Kacchan got their tasks.

“Ka’s’ki, if you could help me prep the breakfast foods? I can do most myself but these frail bones dont work like they used to.” Kacchan gave a swift nod before correcting himself. “Sure th- Ah, right…”

Kacchan stepped into the kitchen, eyeing an open recipe book and gathered the required ingredients.

Eri beamed. “What about my job?”

En’yo patted her head. “Don't worry dear, you won’t be left out. If you could join Ka’s’ki? There will be lots of things that will need stirring, think you could do that?”

Eri nodded and eagerly ran over to where Ka’s’ki was setting ingredients out, standing on the edge of her hooves to try and grab a bowl from the counter that Kacchan kept moving farther and farther out of her reach.

Izuku returned to the kitchen area, the restaurant now officially open for business.

En’yo turned to him again and gestured him over. “Thank you! Now, I need your help setting things up.”

Izuku nodded, the only way he could currently communicate. He followed En’yo to a small contraption, it was as tall as she was. If Izuku had to try and describe it, he'd say it was like if a pizza furnace got twisted up. There were lots of small button and knobs that Izuku didn't dare touch without knowing what each one did.

“Don’t worry dear, it’s not as complicated as it looks. All you have to do is hold this down,” She pointed to a button higher up. “So I can start the fire. Usually I'm too short to reach both which is why I need your help.”

Izuku hummed a response and did as he was told, pushing a finger to the button and holding it down. En’yo turned a knob that was lower to the floor and slowly in the center, a flame flared up. It was small at first but quickly grew, warming Izuku’s hand and face.

“Wonderful! Now we can all work on prepping the goods. I have lots of family recipes to share.”

The two walked over to where Kacchan and Eri were, random ingredients, bowls, utensils, and tools laid out on the counter.

Kacchan’s tail flicked with impatience. “We got everything. When are we getting started?”

En’yo brought a stool over and stood on it. Izuku chose to stand next to Eri, offering to hold her so she could see above the counter. She smiled and held out her arms, Izuku picked her up and placed her on his hip. All three siblings had their eyes on En’yo, ready for their next instructions.

En’yo rearranged some things on the counter, sorting them into different groups. “Right. I mostly sell premade pastries and such, but there will be times a customer will order something specific, let me handle those okay? You three can work on these recipes.” She held out a recipe book, all three leaned in to read it. Izuku sighed, it was just jumbled up nonsense to him. Kacchan tapped Izuku with his wing. “I’ll translate it when we’re cooking.” 

“Thanks, Kacchan.”

En’yo turned to face them and clasped her segmented hands together. “Alright, I think we can get started! I think you three will be amazing!”

And thus, they're first day working their new jobs began.

Izuku was kneading a doughy substance with En’yo beside him, doing the same. Izuku had tied his hair up, it's gotten longer than he thought it would within a month and he didn't want any green hair ending up in the food… He was also given an apron, though it was much larger and looser than a regular one, falling down to his ankles. Likely to account for the varying species and body types on the planet. Eri was out in the main dining area, delivering food and talking with customers, Kacchan wasn't allowed to talk to customers after starting too many arguments so he was cooking on the opposite end of the kitchen.

En’yo was currently telling Izuku about a story regarding her son. 

“Oh, and I can't forget about the time he ran over to the neighbors, rambling on about Kraxiclers, a common pet here. He knew an endless amount of fun facts about them, that boy could talk for hours if given the chance.”

Izuku smiled and laughed at the story, he was reminded of himself and how he'd always ramble about hero movies he liked, even if they were pretty obscure. He noticed En’yo went quiet so he looked over. She was staring at him, though he couldn't discern what the look on her face meant since he didn't know anything about her species. Izuku resorted to tilting his head, a near universal sign of confusion.

“Oh, I'm sorry dear. Did I upset you somehow?” Izuku was even more confused, how did she think he was upset? Oh. Ugh, damn it, he smiled.

Izuku tried to explain that he wasn't upset but that just resulted in him waving his arms around and smiling even more until he eventually ran out of the kitchen to get Eri. He slipped out of the kitchen and waved Eri over. She looked to be drawing on a napkin for some customers when she waved bye to the increasingly confused guests. The three siblings were mostly using human gestures and norms, so needless to say the planet's inhabitants found it hard to understand said gestures.

“Hi Izu! What do you need? I was drawing A’zawa for the fluffy people over there.” She pointed to the table she was just at.

“I'm sure they loved it! I- uh, I need your help. I kinda smiled on accident so I need you to tell Ms. En’yo that I'm not upset.”

Eri giggled. “I told Kacchan this would happen!”

Izuku rubbed the back of his neck and followed Eri back to the kitchen. “Yeah, I know… It's harder for me! I've always been a smiley person, it’s weirder not to smile.

Eri ran behind the counter and up to En’yo, happily explaining human mannerisms.

“Hi grandma!” 

Izuku didn't know why she called En’yo that, but the older woman didn't seem to mind.

“Hello, Eri. Are you here as damage control?” She laughed lightly. Eri responded with a proud nod.

“Yup! Izu wanted me to tell you he wasn't upset and that if you see him show his teeth that means he's happy!”

“Happy?” En’yo looked back at Izuku, who smiled and nodded, hoping to add more credibility to Eri’s words.

Eri smiled too. “See, see! I’m happy too so I’m smiling! Izu doesn't get angry a lot so you dont have to worry.”

En’yo seemed to sigh. “That's a relief, I was worried i had upset him somehow. Want to get back to kneading then?” She looked back at Izuku, he gave a thumbs up and walked back to the counter.

Eri waved goodbye and left the kitchen to go back to ‘helping’ customers. En’yo and Izuku took their places at the counter and resumed kneading the dough for the upcoming pastries.

Despite having been grounded to the kitchen, Kacchan somehow found a way to keep fighting with the customers. The dragon had finished a customer's order and sent it out, only to receive a complaint, which caused him to stomp out of the kitchen to confront whoever made the complaint.

Now, Izuku positioned himself in front of Kacchan, to prevent any physical fights, but it didn't stop the dragon from yelling…

“Tell me what was wrong with it! And no bullshit reasons like ‘there was too much syrup' or 'not enough sugar on top'. You saw what was in the picture and I made it perfectly!”

The customer, a tall and burly alien resembling a rhinoceros without the horn, shouted back.

“I already told you! You should be able to make it like how I want it! Isn't that your job? To treat the customer? You can't even do that right, damn Draconics.”

Kacchan’s ears flattened against his head as his growling got louder, he looked down at Izuku who held his arms up and stepped away. If the rhino guy wanted to say things like that, Izuku would gladly let Kacchan teach him a lesson. Kacchan let out a deep breath then leaped at the rhino guy, getting into a physical fight with the customer. The rest of the guests in the shop didn't seem too bothered by it, some even seemed happy the rhino alien was getting beat up. Must be well known for his bad behavior then… I’m not sorry.

Izuku was about to turn and go back to the kitchen when En’yo rushed out.

“What in the world is going on out here?!” Eri followed close behind, she stood beside Izuku, the two watched on as Kacchan absolutely destroyed the rhino guy before he stood up, noticing En’yo was there.

The little old lady rushed in with the confidence of someone who was invincible. “Explain this, you two.”

The rhino alien got up, wiping blue-grey blood away from his mouth.

“You have unruly employee’s, that's what!” He said pointing an accusatory nubby finger at Kacchan.

“Fuck no! This guy was asking for it!” Kacchan retorted.

En’yo clicked her tongue and turned to Izuku and Eri. “Could either of you explain?”

Izuku leaned down and whispered to Eri what to say, who in turn translated it and passed the message on to En’yo.

“Izu said the mean guy didn't like his food, which made Kacchan upset, and then the mean guy said uh, can I say that word?” Izuku nodded and Eri continued. “The mean guy said ‘damn Draconics’ which is really, really mean! He can't talk to my brother like that!”

“That's right, Eri!” Izuku cheered her on.

En’yo hummed thoughtfully. “I see. You, out of my bakery!” She pointed to the rhino alien, who sputtered.

“What? Me? Your baker hit me!”

En’yo grabbed a near empty cup from the table and threw it at the rhino alien. “And soon I’ll be hitting you too! Out! Shoo! No one speaks to my employee’s like that!”

The rhino alien huffed but gathered his things and rushed out of the store.

Kacchan huffed smoke from his nose proudly. “Good riddance.”

Izuku and Eri nodded in agreement. “Good riddance.” They said at the same time.

En’yo turned to the rest of the guests. “Spectacles over everyone, back to eating. And you three, are you all alright to continue working?”

Kacchan took offense to that, his wings flaring behind him. “Hah?! What? You think i can't keep cooking because of one measly fight?” He didn't wait for an answer and instead stormed back into the kitchen to continue cooking. En’yo laughed and looked back at Eri and Izuku.

“And you two?” 

Izuku gave a smile and thumbs up while Eri replied, “Yup! We’re okay to keep working. I have more menu’s to give out!”

With that, the commotion died down and everyone returned back to their places

Izuku waved the smoke out his face. The kitchen had a dark haze over it, the four in the room coughing and attempting to air the place out. 

“I’m so sorry…” Izuku bowed deeply to En’yo, who waved her hand dismissively.

En'yo didn't understand his words but understood the gesture of bowing. She patted Izuku on the shoulder and spoke in a soft voice. “Oh, no need to apologize, dear. It was bound to happen eventually, even I burn a Cauv’treh now and then!”

Gusts of wind made the remaining smoke dissipate, Kacchan flapping his wings to get rid of the smoke for good. “Damn, Izu. I dunno how you could fuck it up that badly.”

Izuku sulked further causing En’yo to place a comforting hand on his shoulder.

“I may not know what you’re saying, Ka’s’ki, but don’t be mean.”

Eri, who had been holding her breath to avoid inhaling the smoke, ran up to Kacchan to give him an earful. “Yeah! Grandma is right! …If you’re mean again, then I’m gonna tattle!”

Kacchan gaped at her, baring his teeth. “You wouldn’t!”

En’yo and Izuku tilted their heads at the two. En’yo because she didn't understand what they were saying, and Izuku because he didn't get what they referring to.

“Tattle on Kacchan? For what?”

Eri opened her mouth to speak only for Kacchan to place a paw over her mouth. “Nothing, nothing. There’s nothing to tattle about because nothing happened!” He growled out the last part. Eri stomped her hooves in protest but Kacchan just nudged her forward. “Now go back to uh, what was your job again?”

Eri pouted, trying her best to glare at the dragon. “Waiteressing!”

“‘Waitressing’, Eri.” Izuku absentmindedly corrected. “A-and uh, yeah we should get back to work… There’s still customers to serve!”

En’yo looked at the three fondly. “My, you sure are an interesting lot!” She said with a quiet laugh.

Izuku shrugged. We sure are something alright…

“Alright, alright! Let’s get back to baking. Burn something again Izu and I’ll throw you out a window!”

“You mean ‘denfenastrate’—” Kacchan stopped in his tracks, and slowly turned around to glare at Izuku. “—ah, sorry! I’ll get back to work!” He said before scurrying back to what he was doing before smoke had filled the room.

“I’ll go back out and draw for the customers!” Eri waved a hand and trotted out the kitchen, ready to pester- uh, help* the customers.

With the kitchen free of smoke and everyone getting back to their tasks, En’yo stood beside Izuku.

“Why don’t I help you, dear? Maybe step-by-step instructions would help?”

Izuku wordlessly nodded, stepping to the side to allow En'yo to see what he was working with. The doughy substance had already been kneaded, Izuku was just trying to get it into the right shape. He’d done it perfectly before, but he burnt the last one…

“Okay, let’s see here… just watch me, okay?”

“Mhm.”

So Izuku stood, slightly leaned over as he watched En’yo work the dough in the shape of an animal, now that he saw a professional do it, it might be one of those Kraxiclers she’d mentioned before.

“The main body is very round, with only it’s quills pointing out. Then up here, you have its snout and horns. Just pinching the dough together works for these. For its tail, just pinch, roll, and pull it out, then you can curve it upwards. Lastly, its arms and legs are round nubs. See?” 

Izuku nodded, responding in a serious tone. “Yes… I see it clearly now, thank you ma’am.”

Although not understanding his words, she chuckled at his tone and seriousness. “Now you try.”

She stepped aside and pulled out another batch of kneaded dough for his next attempt. Izuku took a deep breath and recounted En’yo’s instructions.

Uh, let’s see… Uhm, round then quills… that looks, eh, could be better. Then snout and horns, is this disproportionate?

En’yo patted his shoulder. “It doesn't have to be perfect, you know! You’ll improve with time, don’t worry about making it exactly like mine.”

Izuku sighed, his eyebrows pinched together. Yeah, it didn't need to be perfect, but he wanted it to be… Pushing the feeling aside he worked on the dough. He pulled and twisted the dough to give the Kraxicler its limbs… and… done! He moved his doughy creature beside En’yo’s to look at the two side by side.

…Mine looks deformed…

Izuku frowned at his creation. The last one he made was better, but he went and burned it. Why wasn't this one as good as the last?

As if sensing his disappointment, En'yo praised him. “Aw, I like it, dear! It's very cute, I’m sure the customers will love it. Let me help you with the Orsve’rye now.”

Izuku sighed and sulked but placed the dough on a tray and followed En’yo to the oven-like thing from before, passing Kacchan on the way. He tilted his head at the dough. “What's wrong with the second one? It looks deformed.”

Izuku sighed and was tempted to retry until En’yo lightly hit Kacchan's arms. 

“It does not! It looks lovely, Izuku. Your brother is just being mean even when he has work to do.”

Kacchan huffed smoke in defiance but want back to decorating whatever pastry was in front of him.

Him and En’yo continued to the oven, En’yo being the one to start it with Izuku’s help. Once the flame grew beneath the main part of the contraption, Izuku slid the tray of dough Kraxiclers into it and quickly pulled his hand away from the machine. En’yo closed it up and the two stepped back.

“Wonderful. It’ll be a while until they're ready to be taken out. Why don't you help Eri, and I’ll keep an eye of them?”

“Uh, okay!” Izuku waved to the two in the kitchen, En’yo copying the gesture while Kacchan dismissed him with a flap of his wing.

Izuku was excited to help Eri with the customers, though he did feel bad she'd have to act as his translator again…

Eri trotted from table to table, delivering food and refilling Crystiline cups with eversea. The people at the bakery were very nice! Most of them felt happy and content, there were a few who felt a little sad, or tired, but that just meant Eri would have to try her hardest to cheer them up!

She'd just refilled another cup of eversea when Eri spotted Izuku walk out from behind the counter.

“Izu, Izu!” She ran up to him. Her smile faltered a little as she noticed a bit of disappointment in his emotions. Not at her, just disappointed about something. Eri internally nodded to herself. That’s okay, I can cheer up Izu and the customers!

When Izuku saw Eri, he smiled and ruffled her hair. “Hey, Eri! How’s our waitress doing?”

“Good! I'll be helping everyone and I’ve only spilled 17 cups!”

“I see… uhm, let's practice not dropping cups, okay?”

Eri nodded, happy that even just her presence seemed to be helping Izu feel better.

“Are you gonna help me help everyone else?”

“Mhm, En’yo is watching some pastries we put into the oven and asked me to help out here while she waits.”

“Well, what are we waiting for? C’mon, c’mon!”

Izuku was dragged along by Eri. She led him behind the counter where a few customers had lined up. Izuku leaned down to her as she whispered. “Okay, I’ll ask them what they want, and then you’ll get them.”

Izuku nodded with a smile and stepped back while Eri stood on a stool to face the lined up aliens. Ensuring she had a close lip smile she greeted the first person.

“Hi, welcome! My name is Eri. What would you like to eat?”

The alien, who looked to be the same species as En’yo but taller, pointed to a pastry within the display case, a pastry with fruit filling and toppings.

“Okay! Izuku will get that for you!” She turned back to Izuku, who already had thin gloves on and packaging the requested food.

She turned back to the customer and idly tapped her paws against the smooth counter. “Uhm… want to order a drink too? The fruit drinks are really yummy.” She pointed to a menu laid out in front of her. The customer leaned down with a hum, before pointing to the one Eri suggested.

“Yay! I’m sure you’ll really like it! Izu- oh.”

Izuku placed a bag with the requested pastry as well as their drink of the counter.

“Wow, Izu! You got it done so fast. It takes me a long time to get the stuff into the bag.”

“I’m glad I could help, it is a little tricky though.”

Eri pushed the bag and drink towards the customer. “Here you go! That will be… uhm… 50 credits!”

The customer trilled happily and handed over the credits, a holographic semi-transparent coin made of a metal material. 

“Thank you, bye bye!”

Eri stared at the coins in her hand, she’s finally being useful. Now that she has a job she can help her and her brothers get better things. New clothes, good food, a comfy place to stay in too. Of course, Eri loved that her brothers loved and cared for her, but they always did everything. They're the ones who saved them from the bad guys, and got all the food from the forest, and cooked it too! 

Now it was Eri’s turn to help, and she'd do the best she could!

“Next!”

Izuku stood outside the shop underneath the darkened sky. Most of the shops were closing up by now, including En’yo’s. Izuku flipped the sign outside the shop's door, declaring the place officially closed for the night.

With the store closed, Izuku stepped inside and locked the door using a device En’yo had given him. He didn't quite understand how it worked, but it did keep the door from opening. 

He walked around the empty tables of the main area to the kitchen, where Kacchan, Eri, and En’yo were tidying up.

“Need any help?”

Kacchan flicked an ear in his direction but kept his eyes focused on the counter he was scrubbing. “Nah, we’re mostly done.”

Eri hopped off a stool, throwing away an empty bag of baking supplies as she trotted over. 

“Today was so fun, right?”

“Yeah, I really liked it.”

Kacchan snorted, finally looking over at the two. “Even though you filled the place with smoke twice?”

“Only once, Kacchan! …The second one doesn't count…"

Kacchan continued to laugh anyway, causing Eri to puff her cheeks in a pout. “Don't be mean to Izu, Kacchan!”

Hearing all the bickering, En’yo faced them.

“Arguing again? Oh, what ever will I do with you three? I’ll finish cleaning up here, you three go up and change into some night clothes and get some rest.”

Kacchan looked unsure of leaving a job half-finished, but En’yo pushed him out of the kitchen along with Eri and Izuku.

“Go on now, up. No one sets foot in the kitchen after dark.”

“We get it, we get it! Damn, evil old lady…”

Eri trotted up the stairs, looking down as they followed her. “Grandma is nice and you know it!”

“She’s stubborn is what she is!”

Izuku rolled his eyes at that. “You are too, Kacchan.”

“I’m a Draconic, being stubborn is our default! I didn't know Mthsic’s could be so pushy…”

Izuku held the door open to their room, motioning the two inside as he spoke. “Let’s just get some rest. I dunno about you two but today felt like such a long day.”

The three entered the room, Eri immediately booking it to the wardrobe. If Izuku was being honest, being able to change clothes daily felt like a luxury. After all the time they'd had to spend in just one outfit, he was glad.

Kacchan loomed just behind Eri, lowering his head and eyeing the clothes like they weren't good enough for him.

“Not sure why you're staring the clothes down, Kacchan. Just choose something comfy for tonight.”

The dragon looked at him but didn't respond, instead digging through the clothes alongside Eri.

After rifling through the various drawers, the three changed into their night clothes; Izuku, oversized shirt and pants. Eri, a nightgown that fell down to her hooves. And Kacchan, no shirt due to his wings and tail, and long pants that fell to his feet.

With everyone now comfy and cozy, Kacchan tossed Eri and Izuku into the netting that served as their bed, before turning the lights off and crawling up and burying them in his wings just like last time.

“Ugh, Kacchan!”

“Hey! Meanie dragon!”

Kacchan laughed as the two struggled to position themselves above his wings instead of under them.

Once everyone settled down, the tiredness they all felt was as clear as day. It’d be a long day for them after all.

Izuku let out a long yawn, the other two following with their own yawns.

Things are going pretty well for us… En’yo’s really nice to let us stay and work here. If only Kacchan didn't start any fights… and Eri stopped dropping drinks… So tired…

Izuku let his eyes close as he moved closer to his siblings; the three easily falling asleep, eager for tomorrow.