The Unlikely Return

In the quaint café, the air was filled with a mix of anticipation and melancholy as Kouko, pregnant with Banari's child, sat lost in thought. She was filled with the joy of bringing a new life into the world, yet the void left by Banari's absence was a heavy burden on her heart. She wondered about names for her unborn child, hoping to find one that would honor Banari's memory.

Akane, who had become a close friend to Kouko during these trying times, joined her at the café. The two women had found solace in each other's company as they shared their stories of love, loss, and the sacrifices their beloved ones had made.

**Akane:** (Sipping her tea) "Kouko, I've been thinking about it. What are your plans for your child?"

**Kouko:** (Smiling faintly) "I wish I knew, Akane. It's hard to think about raising a child without Banari by my side."

Akane understood the depth of Kouko's feelings all too well, having experienced a similar loss herself.

**Akane:** (Supportively) "You won't be alone, Kouko. We're all here for you, just as we are for Toshinori."

As they talked, Akane brought up the memorial statue that was being erected to honor both Banari and Toshinori. It was a symbol of their sacrifice and the unwavering commitment they had shown throughout their lives.

**Kouko:** (Nodding) "Yes, the statue... It's a fitting tribute to their incredible journey. From being quirkless to becoming unstoppable, they truly were remarkable."

With a shared understanding of the profound impact Banari and Toshinori had on their lives and the world, Kouko and Akane continued to find solace in each other's company, finding comfort in knowing that they weren't alone in their grief and determination to carry on their loved ones' legacies.As the conversation continued, Kouko couldn't help but wonder about Akane's own feelings and her plans for the future.

**Kouko:** (Gently) "Akane, I know you've lost Toshinori too. How are you coping with it?"

**Akane:** (Sighing softly) "It's not easy, Kouko. Losing Toshinori... it's like losing a part of myself. But I know he believed in me, and I can't let his memory down."

**Kouko:** (Nodding) "I understand that feeling all too well. Banari, he was... everything to me."

**Akane:** (With empathy) "Our loved ones were extraordinary, weren't they? They gave their all to protect us and this world."

**Kouko:** "Yes, they did. And I want to honor Banari's memory by raising our child to be as strong and kind as he was."

**Akane:** (Smiling) "That's a beautiful goal, Kouko. And I'll be here for you, just as Toshinori would want me to be. I'm sure he's watching over us."

**Kouko:** (Touched) "Thank you, Akane. Your support means a lot to me. We'll get through this together."

Their shared grief, combined with the determination to honor their loved ones' legacies, forged a deep bond between Kouko and Akane. As they continued to talk, they found strength in each other's presence, knowing they were not alone in their journey of healing and remembrance.

The grand party in honor of Toshinori and Banari was a poignant event, filled with both celebration and melancholy. Nezu, recognizing the immense sacrifices these two heroes had made, took it upon himself to organize this gathering as a way to pay tribute to their unwavering dedication.

As the night progressed, conversations flowed throughout the venue. Friends and allies gathered around to offer their support and remember the fallen heroes.

**Kouko's Corner:**

*Kouko, surrounded by well-wishers, smiled through her tears as she conversed with those who had gathered around her.*

Friend 1: "Kouko, you're such an inspiration. Carrying the child of a true hero... It's remarkable."

Kouko: "Thank you. Banari would have been an incredible father. I just hope our child inherits even a fraction of his strength."

Friend 2: "He or she will, without a doubt. We'll be here for you every step of the way."

**Akane's Allies:**

*Akane, Akira, and Soya sat together, sharing memories and lending each other support.*

Akane: "It's so hard to believe he's gone. He promised he'd always protect me."

Akira: "He did his best, Akane. And he left behind an indelible mark on all our lives."

Soya: "Akane, you're not alone. We're here for you, no matter what."

**The Trio's Team-Up:**

*Deku, Bakugo, and Shoto discussed their future plans with determination.*

Shoto: "We must ensure that Toshinori's legacy lives on. I won't let my grandson grow up without understanding the values Toshinori and Banari embodied."

Bakugo: "Hell yeah. We'll make sure of that. I owe that brat for saving my life more times than I can count."

Ken: "I'll train harder. I won't let their sacrifices be in vain."

Shoya: "We've lost so much, but we've also gained strength from them. We'll protect this world together."

The heartfelt dialogues and shared determination among the guests at the party reflected the unwavering commitment to uphold the memory and values of Toshinori and Banari.

**Deku's Declarations:**

*Deku, surrounded by his closest allies, addressed the gathering with a mix of sorrow and determination.*

Deku: "Toshinori... my son, you made your father so proud. You became a true hero, one I could never be. You've sacrificed yourself for the world, and I'll never forget the hero you've become."

Bakugo: "That damn nerd's right. He's the strongest of us all."

Shoto: "Toshinori was the embodiment of a hero. He fought for justice until the very end."

Ken: "He believed in me when no one else did. I'll make sure his spirit lives on."

Shoya: "We may have lost them, but their legacy will guide us."

Deku, Bakugo, and Shoto, each holding back tears, made a silent vow to uphold the memory of Toshinori and Banari, ensuring their sacrifices were never in vain.

The grand party was alive with laughter and music, a heartfelt tribute to the sacrifices of Banari and Toshinori. Heroes and military personnel alike shared stories, toasts, and fond memories. Kouko, holding her belly gently as she stood with Akane, felt a mix of emotions.

Kouko: "They would have loved this party, don't you think?"

Akane nodded, tears glistening in her eyes. "Yeah, they would have. It's just so unfair, Kouko."

As the night wore on, a hushed murmur swept through the crowd as two figures in black suits appeared at the entrance. It was as if the air itself had paused. Wide eyes and open mouths greeted Banari and Toshinori, who walked in with a mixture of confidence and humility. Banari had a bandage around his head and one arm was in a cast, while Toshinori's hand was similarly bandaged.

Deku, Bakugo, Shoto, Ken, and Shoya were among the first to react. Their expressions shifted from shock to sheer disbelief, and then finally to elation. They rushed forward to greet their missing friends.

Deku: "Banari! Toshinori! Is it really you?"

Toshinori, looking a bit embarrassed by all the attention, grinned widely. "Yeah, it's us, Dad!"

Banari's eyes twinkled with amusement. "We couldn't let you guys have all the fun without us, right?"

The party erupted into cheers and applause, and Banari and Toshinori were enveloped in a warm embrace from their friends and loved ones. The duo shared tales of their incredible journey back from Antarctica, of surviving the odds, and their ultimate determination to return home.

Banari: "Ultra Instinct and a bit of Banari ingenuity saved our skins. We weren't going to let some Antarctic wasteland keep us down!"

Toshinori chimed in, "We trained hard and found a way to use our powers to get back."

Kouko's heart raced as she saw Banari walk into the party. Her eyes welled up with tears, and without a second thought, she rushed towards him. The rest of the world faded away as she embraced him tightly.

Kouko: "Banari... Banari, you're back!"

Banari held her close, his one good arm wrapping around her. He could feel her trembling in his arms, and he couldn't help but feel guilty for putting her through such worry.

Banari: "I'm here, Kouko. I'm here now."

Kouko pulled back slightly, her hands resting on his chest as she looked up at him with tear-filled eyes. Her voice was shaky, her emotions overwhelming.

Kouko: "You have no idea how hard these months have been... not knowing if you were okay, if you were even alive."

Banari's eyes softened as he gazed at her. He gently wiped away a tear that had escaped her eye.

Banari: "I'm so sorry, Kouko. I never wanted to cause you pain."

Kouko looked down at her belly, her hand resting protectively over the life growing within her. It was then that Banari noticed her swollen stomach.

Banari: "Kouko, you're..."

She nodded, a small smile breaking through her tears.

Kouko: "I'm pregnant, Banari. Our child... our child is growing inside me."

Banari's eyes widened, and he gently placed his hand on her belly, as if trying to connect with the new life within her. It was a moment of pure, unspoken joy.

Banari: "I... I can't believe it. We're going to be parents, Kouko."

Kouko nodded, tears of happiness replacing the earlier ones of worry.

Kouko: "And I can't believe you're here to share this with me."

Banari leaned down and kissed her forehead, his lips lingering there for a moment. He spoke softly, his voice filled with emotion.

Banari: "I wouldn't have missed this for the world, Kouko. I love you."

As they stood there, wrapped in each other's arms, they knew that despite the challenges they had faced, they were together again, and a new chapter in their lives was beginning.

Toshinori approached his parents, Izuku and Ochaco, with a mixture of relief and exhaustion on his face. His injuries were evident, but there was a determined look in his eyes.

Izuku: "Toshinori! You're back!"

Ochaco rushed forward to embrace her son, her eyes filled with tears of joy. Toshinori hugged his mother tightly, feeling her warmth and love.

Toshinori: "Yeah, Mom, Dad... I'm back."

Izuku: "We were so worried, son. We thought..."

Toshinori cut him off, his voice filled with gratitude and love.

Toshinori: "I know, Dad. I'm sorry for making you worry. But I had to do it. For all of us."

Ochaco wiped away her tears and looked at her son with a mixture of pride and concern.

Ochaco: "You've become so strong, Toshinori. But at what cost?"

Toshinori glanced at his fractured hand, then back at his parents.

Toshinori: "Sometimes, sacrifices have to be made. Banari Sensei taught me that. And I'm proud to be his student."

Izuku nodded, understanding the weight of Toshinori's words. He put a hand on his son's shoulder.

Izuku: "Banari... he is like a son to me, and you're like a son to him. You both have grown so much."

Toshinori nodded, grateful for his parents' understanding.

Toshinori: "I couldn't have done it without his guidance, without your support, Mom and Dad."

Ochaco hugged her son again, a mix of emotions in her eyes.

Ochaco: "We missed you so much, Toshinori."

Toshinori hugged his parents tightly, cherishing the moment of reunion.

Toshinori: "I missed you too, Mom, Dad. But now, we're together again."

Izuku and Ochaco nodded in agreement, their hearts filled with pride for their son and gratitude for the return of their family.

As they greeted Todoroki and Bakugo families, there was an air of warmth and camaraderie among them.

Shoto, with a soft smile, turned to Banari.

Shoto: "Banari, you've been a part of our family for a long time now. You and Kouko are going to be married soon. It's about time you start calling me 'Dad.'"

Banari, touched by Shoto's words, nodded with a grin.

Banari: "Alright, Shoto. From now on, you're 'Dad'."

Bakugo, who was standing nearby, couldn't resist chiming in.

Bakugo: "About time you showed some respect, you brat."

Banari chuckled, feeling a genuine sense of belonging and happiness.

Banari: "Yes, sir, Bakugo."

The families shared a hearty laugh, relieved to have Banari and Toshinori back and looking forward to a brighter future together.Shoto, always one to seize an opportunity, continued with a mischievous grin.

Shoto: "And don't forget, Banari, you can call me 'Dad' during the day, but when it comes to sparring or missions, it's 'Sir' again!"

Banari laughed heartily, his eyes showing a newfound warmth.

Banari: "Of course, Shoto, 'Dad,' I'll be sure to address you properly in every situation."

Bakugo's signature scowl softened, and he spoke with sincerity.

Bakugo: "Glad to have you back, you brat. It's been too quiet without you and Toshinori causing a ruckus."

Toshinori nodded in agreement.

Toshinori: "Yeah, I've missed this place, 'Uncle' Bakugo."

Their playful banter and laughter filled the air, a testament to the bonds they shared, stronger now than ever before.Ken and Shoya couldn't believe their eyes when they saw Toshinori and Banari. Their expressions shifted from disbelief to pure joy. They rushed forward to greet their returning friends, smiles stretching from ear to ear.

Ken: "Toshinori! You're back!"

Shoya: "And Banari too! We thought we'd lost you guys!"

Toshinori, despite his injuries, couldn't help but grin at their enthusiastic welcome.

Toshinori: "Yeah, we're back. Missed you both."

Banari ruffled their hair with a paternal smile.

Banari: "You two took good care of things while we were gone, didn't you?"

Shoya: "Of course! We held the fort down."

Ken: "But we're so glad you're back."

Their laughter echoed through the room as they shared stories, their friendship as strong as ever.Toshinori's reunion with his family continued, and it was a heartwarming experience. As he embraced his little brother Yu, a sense of pride and love filled his heart. Yu's eyes were filled with admiration and gratitude.

Toshinori: "You've grown a lot, Yu. I'm proud of you."

Yu: "Thanks, big brother. I've been training hard."

Their bond as brothers was stronger than ever, transcending their roles as teacher and student.

Next, he encountered his twin sister, Izumi. She was clearly remorseful for her past actions, and Toshinori could see the sincerity in her eyes. He couldn't stay mad at his sister, and forgiveness came naturally.

Toshinori: "Izumi, the past is behind us now. We're family, and that's what matters."

Izumi's eyes teared up as she hugged her brother, relieved to have his forgiveness.

The family reunion was filled with laughter, tears, and the reaffirmation of the unbreakable bonds they shared.

Toshinori's eyes met Akane's from across the room. Their gazes locked for a moment, and in that instant, they seemed to communicate a world of emotions. But before Toshinori could approach her, Akane excused herself and headed towards the balcony.

Toshinori watched her retreating figure, uncertainty gnawing at him. He felt a sudden rush of nervousness, unsure of how to bridge the gap that had formed between them during his absence.

Banari and Kouko, who had been enjoying the party, noticed Toshinori's concern. Banari, helping Kouko walk due to her pregnancy, exchanged a knowing look with his lover. Without a word, they encouraged Toshinori to follow his heart.

Banari and Kouko exchanged soft smiles as they watched Toshinori approach Akane on the balcony. They could see themselves mirrored in the younger couple, a reflection of their own enduring love.

Kouko: (whispering to Banari) "They remind me so much of us, Banari."

Banari: (smiling) "Yes, they do. Love knows no bounds, Kouko."

Toshinori and Akane stood together on the balcony, the cool evening breeze washing over them. Akane's eyes glistened with tears as she looked at Toshinori, who bore bandages on his head and a cast on his arm.

Akane: (tearfully) "Toshinori... I thought... I thought I had lost you."

Toshinori: (softly) "Akane, I'm here now. I promise, I won't leave you again."

Akane: (voice trembling) "But you're hurt, Toshinori. You're always putting yourself in danger. I can't bear the thought of losing you."

Toshinori: (taking her hands in his) "I know it's hard, Akane. But I need you to understand something. I became a hunter to protect the people I care about, including you. I've trained to become strong enough to keep you safe."

Akane: (sniffing) "But it's not just about being strong, Toshinori. It's about being here with us, with me. I don't want you to sacrifice yourself for others."

Toshinori: (gentle smile) "I promise to be more careful, Akane. I don't want to see you cry like this again."

Akane: (a mix of emotions) "You idiot... You better keep that promise."

Toshinori: (leaning in and wiping away her tears) "I will. And I won't ever leave you, Akane."

As Toshinori gently wiped away Akane's tears, Kouko couldn't help but shed a few of her own. She understood the depth of Akane's emotions, having experienced a similar heartache during Banari's absence.

Akane's eyes widened slightly as she noticed Toshinori's injuries. The sight of her beloved injured tugged at her heartstrings. She reached out to touch his bandaged head gently, concern and relief mingling in her eyes.

Akane: (softly) "Toshinori, you're hurt..."

Toshinori: (with a reassuring smile) "It's nothing, Akane. I've been through worse."

Akane's worry began to dissipate as she realized that the most important thing was that he was there with her. She leaned in and kissed him softly.

Kouko and Banari shared a knowing look as they observed the scene. They were relieved to see that the younger couple's love was as strong as their own.

After their emotional reunion, Toshinori and Akane returned to the party hand in hand, their smiles brighter than ever. Banari and Kouko were content to see them happy.

As the night wore on, Kouko turned to Banari with a twinkle in her eye.

Kouko: "Banari, we have so much to celebrate and so much to look forward to. What should we name our child?"

Banari: (grinning) "I think we can decide on a name later, my love. For now, let's cherish this moment and enjoy being together again."

Kouko nodded, squeezing Banari's hand affectionately, and together, they joined the festivities, grateful for the reunion and the promise of a bright future ahead.