ask-my-hero-maite

[ask-my-hero-maite]

Keep It Together

Maite was on her way back from another practice with Lien. A small smile was on her face as her mood had finally lifted for the day, along with a small pep in her step as she marched back to campus- seems this session went well. However, something caught her eye as she approached the stairs, wiping away her smile.

Silvia turned away, clearly upset. Her normally bright and cheery attitude was now replaced with a scowl. Upon seeing Maite, her attitude improved only slightly.

“Hey, Maite. It’s nothing, I just-“ she groaned, running her hands through her hair as her frustration finally boiled over.

“Doesn’t sound like nothing...” Maite continued to press. “Tell me...”

“It’s... ugh- it’s Guillermo! He absolutely refuses to work with me and at this point I don’t know what to do!”

“Again?...”

The same thing Silvia has complained about- over and over again- her mentorship. Billy was never cooperative with his mentorship with Silvia, leaving her to her own devices and letting her fall behind. All his responsibilities of training her, giving her tips, and guiding her as a rising hero student were completely ignored. And as nicely as she put it, as much as she tried, he never budged.

“You know what?...” A thought came to Maite. She stomped up the steps, heading inside the school and forming a beeline to the cafeteria. “I’m going to talk to him.”

Silvia, upon hearing that, quickly followed after Maite.

“No, Maite. It’s alright. I’ll just go and talk to the teachers.”

Silvia didn’t like confrontation, especially not when the one helping already had a lot on their plate. But Maite didn’t stop, she stormed into the cafeteria, scanning the tables and searching for Billy, until she finally caught the Seniors’ table. She rushed over, walking up and announcing her presence a few steps away.

“We need to talk to talk,” an uncharacteristic glare was on her face, along with a very serious tone.

Billy didn’t make much of an effort to acknowledge Maite. It was hard to tell if he even noticed her presence at all. But when he spotted Silvia not too far behind her, he frowned. He knew what this was about.

“I’m busy. Go away.” He made a shooing motion with his hand.

“If you’re too busy to get up, then I’ll explain it here!”

That definitely gained attention, several others of the Seniors turning heads and raising ears. From another seat at table, Enrique smiled and poked.

“Aaaa Memo, she’s gonna get you!”

“This doesn’t concern you,” Maite remarked.

Her agitation seemed to become a spectacle to others, earning a small chuckle from Enrique and a few snickers from others. As much as it annoyed her, her attention fixated on Billy again.

“Why can’t you do your job? As a mentor, you have a responsibility. My cousin is falling behind because you’re too lazy to do anything. If you can’t do it, then drop it! But stop wasting her time!”

He rolled his eyes. Pinche intrusa, always sticking her nose where it doesn’t belong.

“First of all, it’s none of your business. So you don’t need to go on some self-righteous crusade and come at me.” He sat up and crossed his arms.

“Second, if that bimbo needs someone to hold her hand in order to pass then she deserves to fail. Besides-“ he was side-eyeing Maite now- “She wouldn’t be the only family member failing.”

In the second, his lunch was splattered onto his face. Something completely took over in Maite, because now she was leaning close, her eyes glowing bright and her fangs bared, and Billy’s tray clenched tightly in her hand.

Now, he was thoroughly pissed. He stood from his seat, returning a glare equally as deadly.

“What are you going to do about it?”

An arm pushed her back and vines formed between the two, Vicente facing Billy now, with his nerves wracking just at the sight. Even worse, all the prying eyes made his heart spike only more.

“We don’t gotta do that!” He stammered and gripped Maite’s arm, pulling her back now. “Let’s call this a truce, yeah?”

Before any more words could be exchanged, he was fleeing with Maite begrudgingly in tow. Billy scoffed before retaking his seat, and Silvia turned to follow after the pair, sticking her tongue out at the aggressor as she left. And just as quick as the scene started, it was quelled and resettling, people looking away and resuming their conversations, but with another name on their tongue now.

“I really thought she was going to throw the first hit!”

“No way would she have won! He’s way stronger than her!”

“Nah, she looked craaaazy!”

Out in the hall, a good distance away, Vicente finally broke the silence. His vines pulled away from Maite’s back and arm and he took a deep inhale to brace himself.

“He called Silvia a bimbo and said that she deserved to fail… Threw a slug at me, too, over me failing… Thought I’d put him in his place.”

Vicente turned Maite towards him, his hold on her wrist keeping her there.

“But why start a fight? Do you want to get expelled?”

“So I’m supposed to take that crap and let him say what he wants?! That’s why he says that shit, because no one does anything!” She yanked away her hand. “Why are you getting mad at me anyways?!”

“Because you’re out of your mind! Waving blades at him!”

“If this were Valeria being insulted, you would’ve done the same, I know it!”

“This isn’t about me!”

“You’re sure making it!”

“God,” Vicente mumbled, “it’s suddenly just problems with you.”

Maite paused, her eyes narrowing as she leaned closer. “I’m sorry- what?”

“You know what?” He sighed, turning away with his hands dragging through his hair. “I’m not arguing with you, have at it.”

He began to walk away, leaving Maite in her place, stunned at all the words. She couldn’t form anything to say back, just grumbling and gritting her teeth at the air, then turning around to slam her hands down at the lockers in frustration.

“Ow-“ she winced, pulling her hand back. She noticed the red marks on her knuckles, where her blood cut through when she was… threatening Billy. “... Oh…”

Water pricking at her eyes, her lip quivering.

Why is she crying? She didn’t want to cry, she’s mad not sad! Hey, why are you crying!

“Maite...” Silvia quietly approached. She didn’t know what to say; she didn’t want Maite to know she overheard the whole interaction.

“I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have gotten you involved in my problem when you already have your own.” She sniffled slightly, feeling her own tears forming. “I don’t want to make things worse for you...”

“No, no!” Maite wiped away her tears, quickly approaching Silvia to place her hands on her cheeks. No, she didn’t want to make Silvia feel at fault either. “It’s fine! Memo is just... a real dick. Guess I should’ve known that wouldn’t have worked... But it’s fine! I did what I had to do!”

“Maite...”

“Really! Come on, let’s just... go find Mr. Calvetti.”

She pulled her cousin along, leading her down the hall in tow. Truthfully, she didn’t regret a single thing. But still… something felt... wrong about it.

[ask-my-hero-maite]

OOC: Important-ish

(( Heeeey Luna here. Just a heads up:

Updates will be coming inconsistently for here on out.

My living arrangements kinda toppled over and I’ve been dealing with a lot of adult™ things and some health issues, so I haven’t really had time for updates, nor really had the motivation 😔

But you’ll get one... soon-ish. Eventually.

I promise I’m not gone, just ~existing~ ))

[ask-my-hero-maite]

Twinkle in Both Eyes (Pt. 2- Final)

(Part 1)

Enrique made his way out of HQ, this time in his civilian clothing. Truly, it was a mark of his personality. Ripped jeans and a leather jacket; could he get more stereotypical? Once on his motorcycle, he made a short drive to a nearby subway shop where Itzayana was waiting for him. He waved from the window, swinging his helmet around in his other hand. Quickly, she made her way outside.

She eyed the motorcycle. It was a sleek black, with a few scratches from its use. She didn’t know much about them, but this one looked expensive.

“Wooow…” she whistled, “So I’m guessing you’re rich-rich?”

He chuckled, but nervously, almost unsure to confirm it, “Well, don’t say it too loud. I’m not trying to get jumped today.”

He held the helmet forth.

“Here, to protect your head.”

“What about you?”

“Eh, I’ll be fine.”

“Not very responsible of you,” she teased.

“I only have one helmet and I rather keep your head safe,” he grinned, “Besides, with the villains I’ve sicked, I’ll be damned if a concussion gets me.”

“Alright then.” She hopped aboard, placing the helmet on. Her hands reached over to hesitantly ring around his waist. This quickly incited a jerk from Enrique. “Sorry, I’ll hold onto the-“

“No! You’re good!” he laughed it off, “If you feel cozy holding on, I don’t mind.”

With the invitation, she held on.

“So, where do you live,” he asked.

Itzayana held her phone close, showing her address.

“Oh! ¡El Barrio!” he tapped in the address on his GPS, “Not too far.”

After a few revs of the engine, they took off. Even with the afternoon traffic, they were able to sneak through the cracks of it. From under the helmet, Itzayana was getting a quick glimpse of the city, and of course, a quick glimpse of on-looking eyes. It seemed like the attention never waned, even from him. Every few traffic light stops, Enrique would spur a quick conversation, much to her dismay.

“You’re new to New York, huh? Where you’re from?” He asked.

“Chicago,” a quick reply.

“Nice! And I’m guessing you just got outta school, huh? I mean,” he turned his head back, poking a little fun at the situation, “two villains tried to nab your backpack.”

She laughed a bit, “Right.”

After a few more streets, they finally arrived before an apartment building. She got off the motorcycle, handing the helmet back to Enrique. Once adjusting her backpack again, she took off to the entrance, before a “hey” called her attention again.

Enrique held out his phone, but he kept his gaze tilted away. “Umm… If it’s not too much to ask, I’d like to get your number.”

His hand covered his mouth, trying his best to keep the nervous lip quiver hidden. Pull yourself together, man!

“Just to make sure you’re safe after this. Or if you need anything- you can always shoot me a text.”

She walked back with a smile, gently taking his phone and typing in her number.

“You’re a real hero, going above and beyond for me. Honestly, if nothing else comes from this,” she handed the phone back with a wink, “I hope we can meet more on other terms.”

He grabbed his phone again, without words for a few seconds. To keep his cool, he placed on his helmet, tilting his head down lightly as a confirmation.

“Yeah, like a date,” he joked.

“A date! Yes!”

Oh. He didn’t mind the proposition, but her sudden suggestion hit him like a right jab.

He nodded again, gripping the handles tight, “I’ll see you around then. Take care!”

He sped off, leaving her to go on with her day. She ran into the building waiting and making sure he was gone. Then, a phone call was made.

“Seems like the Machado is wrapped around my finger.”

[ask-my-hero-maite]

Twinkle in Both Eyes (Pt. 1)

The elevator opened with a ding. From there, a young man stepped out proudly, a confident smile plastered on his face.

“Is that Enrique?” A voice yelled from down the hall.

He turned around, grinning at the sight. “The one and only!”

—

Agustín Fernando Romero Blanco || Nieblo Duat

Caylum Senior

Quirk: Pocketing

He can create warps to a small pocket universe he emits. He can store any item in there, but remember, the space is limited.

Status: Side character, open to asks

—

“So they placed you here today?” Enrique asked, stepping forth to hug his friend with a pat on the back.

“All week!”

Enrique crossed his arms with a sigh. “God, I haven’t been on co-op for a hot second. I miss being here.”

“Enrique?!” Another voice yelled from behind him. He turned around, a smile of shock on him this time.

—

Elena Vecellio || Sunbeam

Caylum Senior

Quirk: Sun’s Rays

She’s able to refract light into powerful beams with the tip of her hair. These beams are even able to momentarily incapacitate someone! However, the power of her quirk depends fully on the condition of her hair, so better watch out for those split ends and dirt!

Status: Featured character*

—

Enrique waved to her, “What’s up!”

“The same old-“ Elena rushed over, playfully punching his arm- “but how are you! I know they kept you out of co-op but dang! You didn’t even call us!”

“Guilty. It’s banquet and charity season so I’ve been-“ he looked off to the side with a chuckle- “busy.”

“Well anyways. You’re late. You better go get changed, unless you wanna be fighting villains in your school uniform.”

.

.

.

The trio were assigned to Manhattan for the day. They patrolled through the area, now lingering into the restaurant districts. As they walked down the sidewalk, two of them kept their eyes on the restaurant’s signs and prices.

“Damn. We should definitely get something once we clock out. I don’t really have homework today so I can stay out for longer,” Enrique suggested.

An elbow nudged into him.

“You say that as if homework would’ve held you back,” Agustín teased.

“Guys, come on,” Elena turned back. As per usual, her playful demeanor was replaced by her seriousness with heroics. She was all games until they were on the field. “Let’s focus here. We can talk about food and homework afterwards. We got a job to do.”

“I mean, it is pretty slow today,” Enrique replied.

Elena turned back, with a judging pout. “Yeah, alright.”

On that cue, a scream from a distance resounded. A loud crash followed soon after.

Agustín tsked, “Way to throw the S-word.”

The commotion gained the attention of some civilians, but no one had the courage to step forth. That wasn’t a problem, because the heroes were here.

“Come on!” Enrique ran forth, before disappearing in a blur. The two followed after.

Enrique was the first to arrive at the scene, examining it quickly before anything else went wrong.

A girl, caught up in the grip of an assumed villain. Another villain- one too familiar- stood by, holding a backpack out by the strap to inspect it. He glared at the sight, now that he noticed what exactly he was dealing with: Point Zero and company.

“Alright, scram Bucket Head and PZ!”

The two turned around, the much taller of the duo let go of their hostage. As Enrique stepped forth in his stance, they extended two blades from their hands.

“Just the hero we were waiting for.”

They ran forth but Enrique didn’t recoil. He ran forth as well, in a lightning fast blur that hardly let anyone else keep up. He landed one kick to their chest but spun back around when his foot met armor. As he swileved around them, Cavaliere turned their blades into attack, but they left an opening-

BANG

A solid rapid kick to the head sent them hurdling off to the side. By the time they even realized what happened, the hero was jogging backwards with a confident grin.

“Oh, buddy. If you’re gonna threaten me, you might as well land a good hit on me.”

From behind, Zero swooped in for an attack. In a split second, they were tossed towards their partner and were both back on the ground in shock. From a distance, Agustín and Elena were catching up.

“No way! Cloaks and Daggers!” Agustín’s pace started to slow down in hesitation. “We can’t just abandon this fight, but we’re on strict orders, too.”

“No time to sound the alarm, we can’t leave him to fight alone,” Elena’s stride moved with greater haste now.

Zero had regained a solid stance, winding up their hand to possibly land a hit on Enrique, but a bright beam of light fired from the tip of Elena’s braid. The beam sent Zero colliding back to the far wall with a wail, leaving Enrique to watch another failed attempt at him play out.

“Took you guys long enough!” Enrique boasted.

A rope was launched towards him and he grabbed hold, knocking down Cavaliere with a surprise tug from below. Agustín smirked as he pulled the rope back.

“Maybe give us a ride next time.”

He swung forth the rope again. This time, the rope was tied into a lasso, aiming for Cavaliere. They narrowly dodged and bee-lined for their partner, grabbing their hand before they ran off into the dark corner. Enrique winded up, ready to chase after them until the lasso grabbed hold of him instead.

“Not so fast, Flashpass. We can’t go after them.”

“Yes we can! They won’t get far!” He tugged on the rope.

“All Cloaks and Daggers are S-rated now!” Elena yelled out.

His eyes widened in shock and he froze. Has he really been gone for so long? This was news…

Villains were ranked according to their level of danger. Because they were only Junior Heroes, they could only deal with A, B, or C rated villains: The common burglar or petty theft, maybe the occasional big fight. But beyond that... was too much of a risk. At that point, they could only pass off the fight to the pros. The Cloaks and Daggers were all just a mismatch of alphabets before... but with their rising threat, it made sense for them to be bumped up in the ratings.

No, his mind recalled something else. Point Zero was an independent villain, they weren’t associated with the Cloaks and Daggers… right?

“But I thought PZ was independent?”

“Not anymore apparently,” Agustín replied as his lasso disappeared into the depths of his pocket realm again. “Seems they switched.”

“Huh…”

Elena sighed. It should’ve been big news, something Enrique could’ve easily read up on before getting back with the program. For someone who boasted as much as he did about being the next big thing, he sure didn’t take things seriously sometimes. But nevermind, she walked over to the girl who was huddled on the ground. She retrieved the stolen backpack, holding it up to her as she held out a hand.

“Are you okay? Are you hurt?” Elena asked

The girl stood up. She dusted off her knees and fixed her hair, adjusting her bang over her eye again.

“Yeah, I’m fine… Just startled I guess.”

Enrique stepped forth, now moving to check on her status, too. As he did, she looked up and gave a quick grin before she spoke.

Stop.

He stopped in his tracks.

‘Now is not the time, Enrique. You’re on the clock. She’s just thanking you, like any other civilian would.’

“Yeah, of course. Just doing my job,” he guided his fingers through his hair, composing himself again, “Hey, but… what did those guys want with you? Did they ever say?”

“I don’t- I don’t know- I’m just someone…” she turned back, “But I think they wanted my stuff… I hope they don’t follow me.”

The trio looked between each other. Zero was often into theft, and not much was known about Cavaliere other than them being involved in the FHA incident. Perhaps they weren’t much? Maybe the Cloak and Dagger name was for clout. After all, it was becoming a popular villain group. It would make sense for any bottom-scraping villain to want some prestige on these streets.

“Hey, I can give you a ride home if that makes you feel better,” Enrique stepped forth, hand extended, “I got my motorcycle back at HQ, if you’re fine with that.”

He turned to Agustín and Elena.

“You guys don’t mind I leave it to you, right?”

“Well, I don’t think we’ll be doing much more today. It is really… you know,” Agustín grinned at the implication. It really was a slow day, but he dared not say it again.

“It’s important to keep a civilian safe, so if you have to take her home, that’s fine by me,” Elena gave a thumbs up.

Enrique turned to the girl again, “Well?”

“I really would appreciate it! Thank you!”

He motioned his hand to the side, inviting her on their walk. The two walked together, Enrique waving to his teammates as they left and turned the corner. People eyed them, some murmuring. It wasn’t every day that an on-duty hero lingered too much with a civilian.

“You must be popular… Everyone seems to be looking at you,” the girl commented as she shrunk into herself to avoid the glances.

“You don’t know me?”

“No? Sorry but I'm new to New York. I don’t know all the heroes here yet.”

“Oh!” Enrique felt the punch in his gut. This was new. He was so used to being… recognized. “I’m Enrique Machado aka Flashpass. I’m kinda a big deal, but… let’s not get too far into that.”

She looked to be nervous from the attention. It was a bad idea to stir her wrong by explaining just how big of a deal he was. Instead, he moved to get the topic off him, another rare occurrence of today.

“What about you? I didn’t even ask your name.”

She looked at him, stalling on her response “Itzayana.”

“Well, nice to meet ya, Itzayana.”

(Part 2)

———

(( Special thanks to @frosty-talks for letting me use Elena! ))

[ask-my-hero-maite]

Keep Your Enemies Close

Quiet.

Absolute silence...

Creaking...

Something moving...

Point Zero focused on their surroundings. Every sound, every moving shadow, every crevice around them. As the silence was cut with another ricketing, their heart raced. For what reason? They didn’t know...

“I didn’t think you’d show.”

That voice.

Zero looked up. From the shadows, a figure stepped forth. The light gave detail to the silhouette, revealing... a person. They removed their hood to reveal a half-covered face and mask. Zero squinted at the sight of the mask... the image of the bared fangs that etched into it was familiar.

Daniela stepped forth, hands hidden behind her back.

“I take it you didn’t recognize me without my usual getup.”

“No, I’m afraid not,” they bit their lip, thinking, “Why the disguise change?”

“Oh, it’s really more personal. I hated the original look. It was really just to make sure no one found me out but...” she scoffed, “not like it helps me now.”

She turned to a more casual attitude, acting like another other friend.

“So I thought I might as well look good for the job, you know?”

Zero nodded slowly, but still unsure. Something... unsettled them about her.

This was their benefactor for a while now: Zero often did break-ins or insider information gathering for Copycat, all in exchange for a pretty penny. However, word spread about the girl behind the mask: Daniela Xochitl, daughter of the famed Awilix. A child from great heroism, but now a villain... and a formidable one. 17, and has already put FHA in a death grip; she spread fear amongst all the hero schools; she managed to stay in good favors with the highest ranking Cloaks and Daggers, too; and from other hand information, she was now overlooking bigger operations.

Copycat clawed her way up from petty missions to high command, so why did she still entertain herself with them?

“Alright,” Zero took a slight defensive stance, “What’s the deal with me? Here to hire me for another supply run?”

Daniela squinted. She stepped forth, hand extended as she waved it around, walking around her invitee “No. Actually, I have bigger plans for you.”

“I thought you wanted nothing more with me. You said I was becoming too well-known for your tastes.”

Daniela stopped, turning slowly to them.

“Well... that concerned me more when I was more,” she paused, trying to find the right words to say, “lowkey.“

“I don’t think I’m catching on.”

“Aka, I’m not worried about hiding in the shadows anymore, so you don’t have to either. At least...” she bumped into Zero lightly, “not in the shadows of the Underground.”

No reply from Zero.

“Sure, I got a couple dozen answering to me now, but those I hold closer are only going to be a select few,” her hands clasped together as she closed the distance between the two of them, “Your main mission will be staying on the DL, but your first one will involve a little more dirty work.”

“I’m no Cloak and Dagger. I’m independent-“

“For now. We don’t plan to leave the independents alone. Too many faces, not enough turf in this city.”She rested her hand on their shoulder, trying to feign sympathy. “You’ve been a valuable ally, and I’d hate for you to be a target. The least I can do is offer you immunity under my wing.”

“Now hold on.”

They stepped back, holding a hand between them. They knew tricks, they knew plans with conditions, and if she knew anything about Copycat, this was not a person you wanted to walk with uncertainty with.

“I hope you don’t plan that I reveal my identity, too. Or that I’m going to just take a load of shit from you! I got kicked around there, and it certainly won’t happen here.”

Daniela scoffed, seemingly annoyed by this accusation. Valid to think, but still an annoyance.

“No. It suits me better to not know who you are. Say I get captured and they force the information out of me? It’ll jeopardize everything.”

“... That’s... true...”

“I don’t care who you are. I care about what you can do. And disrespect?” she raised her arms, “I don’t do that, unless you start with me. Besides, I know just enough about you to know you don’t like strings. You don’t like to be on a leash.”

She held her hand out.

“Are you onboard?”

Zero extended their hand. Then froze.

Think. This is a lot more than larceny. A lot more than that. Get caught, and it’s your whole life that you’ll kiss goodbye. The Cloaks and Daggers are no joke, this could be dangerous... But... win the war, and the playing field will be leveled out. Win the war, and you’ll reap the riches.

“I’m in.”

Instead of a hand shake, an object was placed in Zero’s hand. A burner phone?

“We’ll keep in touch with these. Once I do reach out for your first mission, you’ll destroy it with your quirk.”

“You really don’t miss a beat...”

“Nope,” Daniela continued her stride into the hidden, “Now I would keep a close eye on that if I were you. The next mission is soon.”

[ask-my-hero-maite]

Who would win? Vicente or Venus McFlytrap?

(( LET IT BE KNOWN: I ACTUALLY THOUGHT ABOUT THIS. You summon my Monster High phase? You’re gonna get an answer-

Okay so.

Abilities speaking, Venus McFlytrap wins. She can make plants, communicate with them, and has that mind control pollen thing.

Vicente is just. Half plant- ))

[ask-my-hero-maite]

Bump in the Road

The email. It was the first thing Maite noticed in the morning on her commute to school. It shocked her to the point she didn’t even accept it was true. Maybe it was her mind playing games? Sleep deprivation does a lot to a person, after all... She just needed the confirmation from someone else.

Isabela turned around, arms crossed and eyes wide.

“About Kiralyno?”

“Yes!”

“Yeah?” she replied, holding her hand under her chin now. “I wonder why she would leave... and in the middle of the year.”

“Right before the Permit Exam, too...” Vicente cut in with his own opinion.

This made Maite nearly grumble. It seemed she was still bitter from their last interaction.

“God, you still act like freshmen.”

The loud chatter from inside the classroom died down at the sound of Mr. Calvetti’s voice. He walked in, examining the room and the students in there. Without a qualm, he leaned onto the podium, still with his crossed arms and bitter glare.

“Let me know if you’ll be keeping this attitude next year-“

Maite raised her hand meekly.

“Mr. Calvetti... Do you know why Kiralyno left?”

“She’s fine if that’s what got you all worried. She decided to focus on the Cloaks & Daggers threat and she couldn’t do that and babysit, too.” Such a quick reply...

Vicente stepped forth, his vines twisting in nervousness.

“But... we have no teacher to train us for the Permit Exam now-“

“Did anyone read the email?” Lazzaro sighed harshly. His hand lifted up to pinch his nose bridge. Then, he looked into the crowd of the still baby-faced Juniors. Harsh words would not work on this crowd. He fought back the urge to be completely blunt then. “At the end of it, it said you will be reporting to my classroom. For the rest of the semester, I will be your Heroics teacher. On the days I don’t have the Seniors, I will be dealing with the lot of you and your... Permit Exam training.”

The class murmured. Some students checked their phones to sheepishly notice they did miss out on that information. Even worse, some noticed how some of their peers weren’t even there. Seemed like some did get the message.

“Alright, grab your stuff. Let’s go.”

[ask-my-hero-maite]

CHARACTER PAGE

Here you will find the characters in my story, listing their name/alias, title, quirk, and status.

Status Guidelines:

A main cast character is always open to asks. They play a pivotal role in the story.

A side character is open to asks. They play a supporting role in the story.

A minor character is a recurring character but not one open to asks.

A featured character* is a character I have borrowed from friends. They play a supporting or major role in the story, but are not open to asks.

A character’s status is flexible and might change as the story progresses, save for featured characters*

This page will be updated periodically.

Maite Itzcoatl García || Red Heart

FHA Junior

Quirk: Hemokinesis

She can manipulate her blood to her own will, forming various shapes and attacks, all depending on her own creativity. She can even manipulate the blood of others with enough focus. It all takes just a prick of a finger, and no worries- she heals!

Status: Main character, open to asks

Daniela Xochitl Cuervos || Copycat

Cloak & Dagger Villain

Quirk: Purloin

With the smallest contact, she can steal the quirk of an individual and use it until she releases it back to the original user. She’s limited to one quirk at a time, and experiences drawbacks on a two-fold level.

Status: Main cast, open to asks

Isabela Ramirez-Muñoz || Bubblebeam

FHA Junior

Quirk: Bubblewand

She can create a variety of bubbles, ranging in durability and size. It all depends on her breath and her mind!

Status: Main cast, open to asks

Vicente Mora Sandoval || Espino

FHA Junior

Quirk: Flora

He’s basically half plant. He can manipulate the vines of his body, and can grow flowers and thorns, all depending on his mood. But since he functions much like a plant, he needs a stable environment to do much.

Status: Main cast, open to asks

Enrique Cayacoa-Machado || Flashpass

FHA Senior

Quirk: Accelerate

With simply the contact of his palms, he can accelerate the speed of objects. This can be cast back to himself. Warning: Overuse makes him crash from the adrenaline.

Status: Main cast, open to asks

Alfred Booker || Orion

FHA Senior

Quirk: Solar Flare

By absorbing sunlight, he becomes faster and stronger.

Status: Side character, open to asks

Ekaterina “Kat” Kravchenko || Lady Sterling

FHA Senior

Quirk: Forge

Her forearms and hands are solid metal, and she’s able to manipulate their shape to her will! Offense or defense, she’ll always pack a punch.

Status: Side character, open to asks

Liên Thi Kha || Phuc Sinh

FHA Senior

Quirk: Replay

She can go back in time by a minute, with all her knowledge of the future minute. It’s discreet and powerful, but she’s limited to 5 uses a day.

Status: Side character, open to asks

Ricky Cayacoa-Machado || Treblemaker

FHA Sophomore

Quirk: Decibel Break

He can project his voice up to astonishingly high volumes and pitches. Although a powerful quirk, it can easily take a lot out of him.

Status: Side character, open to asks

Lidia Zamora-Roca || Paruma

FHA Sophomore

Quirk: Magmatic

They can transform their body into an alternate magma form, manipulating it as needed. Very high power but super destructive if not careful.

Status: Side character, open to asks

Julio Zamora-Roca

FHA Freshman

Quirk: Disintegration

He can disintegrate himself or parts of his body into small particles while still remaining sentient. If he’s overworked, he might be reduced to a dust pile for a while, though.

Status: Side character, open to asks

Lazzaro Calvetti || Ematite

Pro Hero & FHA Seniors’ Heroics Teacher

Quirk: Defuse

With his gaze, he can disable any non-mutation quirk. The longer he holds his gaze, the longer it will last!

Status: Side character, open to asks

Mariel Arteaga

FHA Nurse

Quirk: X-Ray

She can see the detailed inner workings within an object, but has specialized in the medical field. She can even see when a quirk is active on a molecular level!

Status: Side character, open to asks

Agustín Fernando Romero Blanco || Nieblo Duat

Caylum Senior

Quirk: Pocketing

He can create warps to a small pocket universe he emits. He can store any item in there, but remember, it’s limited.

Status: Side character, open to asks

Point Zero

Independent Villain

Presumed Quirk: Pulverize

With the touch of their hand, they can pulverize any object. It does not appear to work on people.

Status: Minor character, locked

Cavaliere

Cloak & Dagger Villain

Presumed Quirk: Teleportation

They can create portals for teleportation.

Status: Minor character, locked

Tamara Cayacoa-Machado || Anomali

FHA Senior

Quirk: Decelerate

With simply the contact of her fingertips, she can decelerate the speed of objects. This can be cast back to herself. Warning: Overuse sends her into a shutdown.

Status: Featured character*

Guillermo Felipe “Billy” Montoya-Cabanillas || El Silbon

FHA Senior

Quirk: Tenebrosity

He can fuse with the shadows, manipulating their form and being able to travel through them. He’s most powerful when not exposed to light, though.

Status: Featured character*

Maribel Zamora-Roca || Carbon Kitty

FHA Junior

Quirk: Diamond

She can solidify parts or the entirety of her body into a diamond-like material. It packs a lot of power and perfect for defense, but can also be exhausting to maintain.

Status: Featured character*

Pilar Guzmán-Lagos || [TBD]

FHA Junior

Quirk: Invisithread

She can create invisible threads from her fingers and manipulate them to her will. However, they’re easy to lose and can be accidentally cut if not careful!

Status: Featured character*

Kai Tsai || Huo Long

FHA Junior

Quirk: Dancing Flame

He can produce flames from his body through movements. He also seems to sport some dragon-like characteristics!

Status: Featured character*

Silvia Xochitl Cuervos || Red

FHA Sophomore

Quirk: Fallen Angel

She can summon a wing of dark energy and manipulate it to her will. While powerful, be careful: Overuse could be disastrous!

Status: Featured character*

Sara Xochitl Cuervos || Blue

FHA Sophomore

Quirk: Fallen Angel

She can summon a wing of dark energy and manipulate it to her will. While powerful, be careful: Overuse could be disastrous!

Status: Featured character*

Jesús Xochitl Cuervos || [TBD]

FHA Sophomore

Quirk: Aura

He can create a field of dark energy that can completely zap anyone and anything’s energy with contact.

Status: Featured character*

Érica Xochitl Bonilla || [TBD]

FHA Sophomore

Quirk: Psy-Lift

She can telekinetically control objects. However, she is limited to the amount she could physically lift!

Status: Featured character*

Valeria Mora Sandoval

FHA Freshman

Quirk: Flora

She’s basically half plant. She can manipulate the vines of her body and even produce a variety of flowers. But since she functions much like a plant, she needs a stable environment to do much.

Status: Featured character*

Devin Cayacoa-Machado

FHA Freshman

Quirk: Circuit

He can absorb energy from practically any object. This energy can be stored, released, or even weaponized!

Status: Featured character*

Mei-Ling “Mei” Tsai

FHA Freshman

Quirk: Butterfly

She has the characteristics of a butterfly and is able to produce heavy winds with her wings. She’s also said to be a great good luck charm!

Status: Featured character*

Itzel Xochitl Bonilla || Awilix

Pro Hero & FHA Freshmen’s Heroics Teacher

Quirk: Fallen Angel

She can summon wings of dark energy and manipulate it to her will. It’s a powerful quirk to wield!

Status: Featured character*

Alessia Moretti || Cristalla

Pro Hero & FHA Sophomores’ Heroics Teacher

Quirk: Crystallize

She can form strong crystals on her body and on objects she touches. This allows her to create all sorts of weapons and armor, but they are very heavy and can slow her down if overused.

Status: Featured character*

Nianzhen Tsai || Queen of Flames: Fenghuang

Retired Pro Hero & Hero Costume Designer at FHA

Quirk: Combust

She can produce a flammable gas with her breath and by rubbing her hand together for heat, it can be set aflame!

Status: Featured character*

Elena Vecellio || Sunbeam

Caylum Senior

Quirk: Sun’s Rays

She’s able to refract light into powerful beams with the tip of her hair. These beams are even able to momentarily incapacitate someone! However, the power of her quirk depends fully on the condition of her hair, so better watch out for those split ends and dirt!

Status: Featured character*

Sükh Sarangerd || Tundra Khüree

Pro Hero

Quirk: Mechanical Ice

She can create machines of all types with her ice quirk. From screwdrivers and small toys, to powered weapons and slingers. She’s a force to be reckoned with!

Status: Featured character*

———

*Special thanks to!

@la-caja-de-pandoras-art who is my editor and the owner of the featured characters Silvia, Sara, Jesús, Érica, Maribel, Pilar, Billy, Tamara, Valeria, Devin, and Itzel.

@i-am-three-fish who is the owner of Kai, Mei, and Nianzhen.

@crickycrick1 who is the owner of Alessia.

@midnight-ice who is the owner of Sükh.

@frosty-talks who is the owner of Elena.

These friends of mine have been a huge help in the story and blog and support!

[ask-my-hero-maite]

OOC: Important Annoucement

For those who don’t follow me on my main ( @ask-united-mex-states-archives ), I made an important announcement.

I’m leaving the Hetalia fandom. Therefore, this blog is going to go through some changes.

I’m still technically affiliated with BNHA, as I did take many concepts from the source content. But as far as my characters and stories go, this will be mostly mine.

My original plan was always to focus on my OCs, so I’m going on a mini hiatus to fix this blog. I’m going to be dropping the canon Hetalia characters, redesigning and revamping a few (aka, my own interps who are crucial to the story need to change so I can officially claim them).

It’s nothing major that will alter the story! I just need to fix a few things before I can officially move on.

When the revamp is done, I will be posting a character sheet so you know who will be available still!

Thanks for reading, and stay tuned!

[ask-my-hero-maite]

Uh how long did it take to get maite out of the bubble?

Isabela: We had to wait for her to get pushed into a tree and then rescue her like a stranded cat...

Maite: TWO HOURS. IT TOOK TWO HOURS. ON A CAMPUS FULL OF HEROES, IT TOOK TWO HOURS TO GET ME DOWN.

Isabela: Well that’s because you didn’t want Alfred to get you down.

Maite: Oh, you’re right. I rather die than lose my dignity. Nevermind then.

[ask-my-hero-maite]

So who has been inside one of Isabella’s bubble? Has Lien or Kat, or Alfred, or etc, have been inside to use as transport or being protected inside a bubble?

Isabela: Oh well plenty of my friends and teammates have been in my bubbles.

Maite: Yeah... Like that one time you sent me up to capture the flag... and we got a heavy breeze.

Isabela: Oh, yeah... That one... really didn’t work out, huh?

[ask-my-hero-maite]

So what can Isabella’s bubbles can do? Can she use them defensively, and to protect others? Has she every used her bubbles to trap her friends, like Lien or Enrique, or Kat, as a prank?

Isabela: Well, my bubbles don’t really fit “offensive”, unless you count making small bubbles to pop in people’s eyes. I use them more defensively!

I can bubble myself and objects. Say a villain throws something at us... I can bubble it to keep it from hitting us, and even if the bubble pops, it slows it down so we don’t get hit!

I can also repeatedly pop small bubbles to make surfaces sudsy and slippery, so that helps when fighting sometimes.

Or also for transport! I can bubble my teammates and use my fan to make them go up. Or even to store stuff for a bit, like water. That is... if you’re okay with drinking soapy water.

Isabela: As for pranks... no! I’m not really a prankster.

The only time I really bubble people is to protect them!

So I’d say I can do a lot of stuff if I just put my mind to it! As long as no one has needles around, it’s pretty fair game.

[ask-my-hero-maite]

Rebound Pt. 3: Final

(Part 2)

As promised, Vicente walked Maite home. Despite how moving the gesture was, the venture had devolved into... unnaturally quiet. They hardly spoke on the train; they shared only trivial things as they walked along the sidewalk; this was not a lively conversation like other times. How strange, too. One would think they have much to share this time.

Maite kept her gaze on the ground, guiding her sight along the cracks in the pavement. Her hands readjusted themselves on the straps of her backpack again and again, trying to stave off the atmosphere’s awkwardness. She bit her lip, trying to force herself from saying anything, but the silence was becoming unbearable.

“Maite,” but thankfully, she didn’t have to start the conversation. Vicente’s voice interrupted the stillness. “Is everything okay?”

Really? That’s what he says?

“Yeah...” she kept walking forward, not bothering to turn to him, “Why?...”

A vine came around her arm and turned her towards him. With the sudden pull, she had to quickly put on a smile.

There was concern in his voice. “Have you even been sleeping? You can’t overwork yourself.”

Maite pulled herself away, marching forth again.

“I don’t really have a choice. I have a lot of stuff to do so...”

“Maite.”

“I’m fine, really. I have to deal with it anyways.”

“Damnit. You said that last time.”

Then he realized... wrong Maite.

“I mean...”

“Besides,” she got up close, with a finger pointed at him, “if you really were so worried, you would’ve been there since the beginning! You bailed out on me! Where have you even been?!”

“Excuse me?...”

“You didn’t even visit me at the hospital! You didn’t even call! Everyone else did...” the anger subsided in her eyes, replaced with hurt, “Where were you?...”

“Who-“ he took a monent to process the accusation, “who the hell greeted you when you came back? Look, Maite. I’m sorry if I effed up then, but I’m really trying to be here now.”

His vines crunched up as he regained his breath.

“So please. Don’t shut down on me, I actually want to help.”

She swung back, her backpack swaying in her hand now.

“...” she inhaled painfully, trying to fight back the words and possibly tears. What was on her mind plagued her heavily. “I’m mad...”

“Why? At who?”

“You. My friends... My family...�� she looked away, looking around as she said each word, trying to get it out, “Because... when Daniela was posing as me, she was able to get away with it for a whole month! And no one noticed!”

She choked on her words again, pulling her hand up to her eye, wiping away tears that didn’t even form.

“A whole month while I was TORMENTED. No one noticed it wasn’t me? Was she just that good or am I really just nothing? And how could you kiss and love a girl who wasn’t me, and not notice?!”

“I...” nothing... “don’t know...”

“YOU DON’T KNOW?!-“

That look... that tone... it easily snapped her back, but most definitely not in a good way...

“You really want to know why I’m so out of it? Because I couldn’t look you in the eyes after knowing I’ve been played by someone using your face! I still felt like it was you who used me! I trusted that face because I didn’t have the heart to call it out on its bullshit,” his words met no resistance on his end, “Now here I am, still kicking my ass so you’ll feel somewhat comfortable. And for what? For this?”

[ask-my-hero-maite]

Rebound Pt. 2

(Part 1)

Whatever voice she heard completely caught her off-guard. The bot saw that she stalled and went in for a hard hit. Since she was in such a daze, she didn’t even have enough time to halt her fall.

That one hurt.

With a groan, Maite looked up, barely able to dodge another incoming hit. Without even trying to get back up, she swung her arms forth, propelling another stream of blood to the bot. It severed its leg, sending it to the ground; when her blood rebounded to its storage belt, she disabled the bot’s panel to make sure it was down for good.

She thought she was in the clear but another metallic arm grabbed hold of her arm while another grabbed her by the foot.

“Get- back!-“

She wriggled, launching another onslaught of attacks to get out the bots’ hold. The grasp finally loosened, sending her to collide with the turf below. Another wince came out of her, as she sent a spiral around herself to push back the surrounding enemies. Now, there was a beat pounding in her chest, almost like it wanted to tear out of her body. She was tired- no, she was scared.

“Come on, Maite!” Lien’s voice yelled from the stands, “They got you surrounded!”

“A little harsh, no?” Maite exhaled sharply, as her fingers dug into the ground, quite literally trying to ground herself. Her voice wavered as she closed her eyes shut, trying to steady her breath as the memories came back.

More bots appeared, swarming in a circle. Vultures around their withering prey... This felt... familiar. No. No. She had enough.

Get back...

The bots collapsed to the ground; only a husk of metal was left when the blades swiveled back. Maite stepped up from the debris, holding her shaky fist close to her face for defense. What was next? Who was next? Come and get it.

Lien stepped back, stunned by that clean move. Shaking her head out of the shock, she finally pointed to the gym building.

“You are cleared to go back inside now. Keep your eyes open because the hostage is there.”

Maite wasted no time to run back in. The adrenaline was fueling her, like she was really running for something. The gym doors slammed open with her force. She glanced around: Left, right- only to find nothing. Then her eyes snapped up, to the second floor balcony. Perhaps?

Up the stairs she went, keeping her sprint and momentum, only stopping once she found the goal.

His vines waved in his hands’ place. It seemed Maite returned to find her boyfriend hanging by the lift bars. “See, apparently I fit perfectly for Lien’s simulation, so yeah. I’m the hostage.”

“God, I wished I had my phone.”

She walked forth, confident and happy to see this simulation’s end. Her arms made circles, forming a new blood ring that could slash the rope holding Vicente up. However, before she could even do much, something came to hit her from behind, tossing her across the floor to the railing with no effort.

Once she skidded to a stop with the collision, she glanced up at the bot.

No... no way...

Daniela?

The air left her lungs and her heartbeat started to race again. Not of panic... but of raw anger. The stinging in her lower back only added to her rage. With one foot pointed out, she punched a pressurized stream to the villain.

Daniela rushed forward, about to land a solid hit on her. Maite dodged that hit easily, but a last second swivel by the counter’s other leg sent Maite back down to the ground. Now she kicked her legs forward, hitting Daniela and giving herself momentum to slide across the gym floor, gaining enough distance to push herself back up. The vision of her cousin stayed still, like it judged Maite’s every move.

When the frozen image rushed forth again, she recoiled.

“Aléjate...

“¡MALDITA!”

“MAITE!”

Vines grabbed hold of her and pulled her back. Her arms went limp as her mind was dragged back to reality. The sound of her pounding heartbeat and staggered breaths were the first sounds she took note of.

“Maite, Maite! Hey, calm down..”

Vicente had gotten free himself. He watched the entire fight, watched as Maite handled the bot with such brutality. His final straw was when Maite nearly fell over the edge of the railing because of her blind onslaught. He glanced at the floor below, where the bot shattered at its makeshift joints and where its upper body was impaled by the crystallized spear Maite formed. Lien stood by it, looking up in confusion.

Once Maite calmed down, the blood spear she constructed finally melted into a liquid state, retreating back to its host. Her eyes’ glow receded, along with her adrenaline, which brought back the pain of her bruises all together. She inhaled sharply, fighting back a small wince.

“Are you okay?!” Vicente asked.

Now, Lien was walking up the stairs.

“What happened?”

“Maite needs a break.”

“No,” Maite looked away, wiping away the sweat from her chin. There, she noticed a slight pigment in it. It seemed her concealer had dripped away from all her fighting, now revealing the dark circles under her eyes. “... I’m fine...”

“You don’t look like it,” Lien remarked. She looked between the two juniors, debating on what to say. After enough contemplation, she finally decided on a sigh. “Anyways, we’re done for today. Next Tuesday, we’ll do another simulation. You did... good for today.”

“Thanks,” Maite walked past them, not even basking in the victory, “I guess.”

(Part 3)

[ask-my-hero-maite]

Rebound Pt. 1

Friday, November 10th, 2119: Maite’s first training session with Lien.

The day was finally over and Maite has never been more excited. She could feel the life coming back to her as she ran down the main stairs to get to the Heroics building. Her current mission was to get to the locker room; she just had to make a quick grab for some of her equipment and quick change-out to her gym clothes.

After a couple more strides, she finally made it to the locker room. She walked down the rows and rows of them to arrive at her own, diving through its contents to pick out her hero outfit’s equipment. The whole thing wasn’t required, just the bands and belt. Quickly, she changed out of her uniform and into her gym garb, adding on the bands and belt that were retrieved. Once ready, she threw her backpack and other knickknacks into her locker. Those could wait while she got down to business.

Now Maite walked out with an equal pep in her step, until-

“Ah-“ Maite yelped lightly as she jumped back from the door.

“Oh sorry, I didn’t mean to startle you.”

Vicente was in the hall? Who knows if he was waiting for her the whole time, or if he followed her here.

“It’s all good...”

This felt so weird... The last few days, they have been on an emotional absence. They haven’t talked sincerely since she returned to school. Neither had the time: Maite was too busy with work and Vicente was too busy for other unknown reasons. To see him now almost felt... foreign.

“What are you doing here?” She finally asked. “What’s up? Not stalking me, I hope.”

“Haha... no. I asked Isabela if she’s seen you and she told me you’re staying after school- that I could find you here if I was fast enough.” He rubbed the back of his neck. It was that nervous tick of his. “You don’t usually stay after school on Fridays.”

“Well... I’m training with Lien today. She offered to help me catch up for the Permit Exam and today happened to be a good day for her,” she adjusted her bands around her arms, trying to signal what she was doing.

He then looked Maite up and down, finally noticing she was in gym clothes. Of course, you dimwit.

“Ohhhhh,” he laughed a bit at himself, lightly scratching his head with a vine, “That sounds... like a good reason to be here on a Friday.”

“Ugh you’re too stupidly cute.”

“Maybe Lien needs me for demonstrations or something. I can walk you home after this!”

“But I thought the dorms have an early curfew now... I don’t want you getting in trouble.”

He winked, “Eh. What’s a little trouble?”

“Uh oh, don’t go bad on me now,” she teased.

They both laughed at that.

“Seriously, though. It’s no worry. You’re heading home pretty late. Besides, I miss talking to you~”

“Aww. Okay.”

.

.

.

Lien was stern. She spoke with such clarity and confidence, but also a slight hint of no-nonsense. Truly, the best mentor for this situation.

“Combat and other stuff like that, you should already know. I am here to make sure you can hold your own at the Exam.”

Maite clutched her fists together, nodding determinedly.

That caught Lien off-guard.

“You’re... welcome...”

She crossed her arms, getting back into her energy.

“Now, I think they already said it, but I will make it clear again: The Permit Exam is a randomized test. The simulation you will be put into changes every year. My year had Natural Disaster. That is by far the least combative of simulations, but it was done to test if we had the skill to still operate in a situation where we could not fight back.” It was a typical thing to assign to such a competitive school like FHA. Sure, they could fight, but how well-versed were they in other situations? “This year, something tells me the combative scenarios are coming back. With the threat of the Cloaks and Daggers, they would be foolish not to.”

Now Maite tensed up. That was... kinda scary. Lien had a point...

“We’ve been so disconnected from big threats, they got soft on us.”

“Exactly. Which is why, I will not go soft on you,” she turned around, pressing a button on a remote, “I was able to get permission for the robot dummies. Consider this a hostage situation. You will go to the field to take down some robots, like you’re getting through the building. Then you will return here to rescue the hostage.”

Maite nodded. That sounded rather simple.

“What does the hostage look like?”

“You’ll know.”

“...”

“I’m not supposed to make it easy.”

“Right...”

A cheer from the stand echoed.

(Come on, Maite! You got this!)

She smiled. That was just what she needed. Now pumped up, she turned to Lien, giving her a nod.

“Alright, off I go then,” and off she sped.

Lien stood by momentarily, waiting for the gym’s door to close again. The ruckus of the door slamming gave her the cue and she marched back to the bleachers, glancing up at Vicente.

“Alright, you said you wanted to help.”

He looked up from his daydream, “Wait what-“

.

.

.

Maite was out on the field, bobbing and weaving around the makeshift pillars.

Up.

Down.

Behind there.

Here?

She examined the terrain, trying to find any sign of “life.”

“This would’ve been easier if these were actually real people... I could sense their blood then...” she said to herself as she walked to the stands outside.

She checked inside the stands, squinting through the metal, trying to spot anything...

Nothing.

“Damn...” she mumbled, leaning back.

But the coast wasn’t clear yet.

Down she rolled from the stands before she fell like a rag doll to the turf below.

Ouch.

Becoming too fixated on the area between the stands, she blinded herself to the rest of her surroundings. Bad idea: She needs to be constantly vigilant.

“Alright then,” she rolled back, lifting herself back up with her hands.

The bot ran forward, but Maite was quicker. She dodged to the right, clenching her fists to summon her blood.

Panel disabled: A quick takedown.

The bot collapsed to the ground. She turned to her victory with a smile. Not too bad! She wasn’t as rusty as she thought she was. Now, her gaze was forward again... but a familiar tune behind her raised the hair on the back of her neck.

(Part 2)

[ask-my-hero-maite]

How about Kat? She could be willing to help out!

(( RE: This ask ))

“That’s a great idea!”

.

.

.

“I’m really sorry but I can’t help you with Heroics,” Kat’s wavering voice easily signaled her nervousness, “I’m working part-time now and I just won’t have the time.”

“Oh... That’s okay!”

.

.

.

“As much as I need the community service hours for graduation, my next two weeks are packed. Unless you’re down to wait.”

Maite pouted, “No... not really. I kinda need the help now. Why did I even bother asking you?”

.

.

.

“My schedule is filled up. I would offer to have you group with Érica like a mentorship, but I don’t think I’ll be able to properly catch you up like that.”

“That’s alright...” she sighed, “I appreciate the thought anyhow.”

.

.

.

“Maite!!!” Silvia exclaimed, “Are you okay?!”

Finding a Senior who could help her catch-up with Heroics and the Exam was proving to be daunting. She had other options, but none of which she liked or got along with. With each new rejection, her hope dwindled more.

She let herself splat onto the floor, “No. Hope is gone. The universe hates me. I’ll be kicked out before I know it.”

As she descended further into her gloom, she noticed someone had just walked up to her. Instinctively, she cocked her head up.

Lien propped her hands on her hips once she had her attention, “Sara told me the situation. I’m here to offer my help.”

“Really?” All Maite could return was a begging look in her eyes.

“Yes.”

Her eyes beamed. She quickly rummaged through her pockets to hold up a crunched up paper, “Oh thank god! Luckily for you, this can get you-“

Lien held up a hand to stop her ramble, “Yeah, I know. But I don’t need the hours. What days are you available then?”

“Uhh... Tuesdays, Fridays, and weekends.”

“Then we can start this Friday.”

Once Maite nodded, Lien took her leave and walked away. What a to-the-point interaction... but of course, that’s how Lien was like. Once Maite was sure Lien was around the corner, she jumped up in joy. It seemed something was finally working for her! The universe didn’t hate her.

“Sara sent us your savior.”

“Definitely.”

[ask-my-hero-maite]

Have you wondered what life would have been if you just didn’t have any of your quirks? Like back then?

Maite: Oh, I have. It would be really different... A quirk is part of you! So I really wonder what it was like back then, to not have that as part of yourself. Or even- what it was like when quirks first started.

Though, the biggest thing is: If quirks didn’t exist, FHA wouldn’t exist. Heroes wouldn’t exist. I wouldn’t have met everyone like I have. So... my life would probably be on a different path.

... And maybe my family wouldn’t have fallen apart like it did...