Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Himiko Toga regretted nothing. 

Even as heroes pried her body away from her closest and only friend. 

Even as she was sentenced to life in prison despite saving a hero’s life. 

Even as she sat in a cold cell in Tartarus, looking up through the one and only window she had. 

She regretted nothing. 

She had saved Ochaco, and both her and Izuku had testified positively at her trial. But it wasn’t enough. 

Because they were there. 

Her parents had pushed for a death penalty. 

A death penalty, for a teenage girl. Granted, she was a particularly malevolent teenage girl, but still! They were her parents. Shouldn’t they love her? Try to save her? Instead, they saw her as a demon, a monster who had crawled out in place of their perfect daughter. And she resented them for it. 

Instead, everyone else had to do what her parents wouldn’t. Izuku, Ochaco, Tsuyu, heck, even Hawks and his wife Mirko showed up to try and help. But her parents had climbed the ranks since she ran away, and now they were the Wardens of Tartarus, the very prison she was in. They had intentionally made life extremely difficult for her. While every other inmate at least had 3 daily meals, she instead had only one. 

But that didn’t matter! She was happy, knowing that because of her, Izuku and Ochako could live happily. She would die a thousand times to ensure that future for them. 

“Hey, you’re the girl from the Paranormal Liberation Front, right? The one who turned on everyone at the last minute.” A voice behind her said. She turned around and saw a stocky guard, maybe about 5 feet tall, looking down at her. She smiled, and nodded. “Guilty as charged.” 

“I, uhh, wanted to thank you. You did a good thing, saving those heroes. The wardens would never allow me to do this, but, here.” He said, discreetly passing a note to her. 

“The person who told me to give it to you said that you’d want to read it. Said it would maybe cheer you up a bit.” 

Himiko took the note and nodded in thanks. “Thank you. This is very kind.” 

“Nothin much. Just a little something.” The guard said, before walking away. Himiko unfolded the note and sat down on her bed. 

Dear Himiko Toga.

My dearest granddaughter, I’ve longed to see you for years. What used to be a mere instant for me has suddenly felt like a lifetime. 16 years, but it’s felt like 1600.

You have a great burden, as I do. The need to consume blood isn’t pretty, but it comes with a great gift. You will soon receive that gift, I can feel it. 

Remember to keep your spirits lifted, trust your gut, and hold your loved ones dear. 

Good Luck, and remember that I Love You,

Sincerely,

         Your Great-Great Grandfather

Himiko looked at the letter with a confused expression, then reread it. 

“Great gift I’ll receive soon? What could that be?” 

She sat and read the letter a few times, before the buzzer blared outside, signaling dinner time. She got up and walked out of her cell, into the cafeteria. She took a tray of food and sat down by herself, before slowly eating. As she did, she pondered what that letter meant. 

“Great gift I’ll receive soon, huh? Maybe I’ll be set free, and be allowed to be with Izuku and Ochako.” 

Her thoughts were interrupted when the TV screen in the cafeteria blinked to life, with a news reporter on screen. 

“Breaking News! A meteor shower is coming from the north, and is predicted to hit a majority of Japan. These are small meteors, so as long as you stay inside, you will not be harmed. Please report any meteors that impact your area. Thank you.” 

The cafeteria was suddenly filled with murmurs and whispers about the impending storm. Himiko also worried about the storm. 

“What about the heroes who are out on patrol? What if they get hit? What if Ochako or Izuku get hit?” 

She smacked herself in the face. 

“Focus! They’re probably fine. I should worry about myself. My cell is the only one with a window facing the north. Maybe I should-“ 

Bzzzt! 

The buzzer sounded again, signaling that dinner time was over and all inmates needed to return to their cells. Himiko sat up and walked back to her cell, the door closing as soon as she stepped inside. She sat on her bed and looked up through her window, waiting for the meteor shower to start. As the first one fell, it glowed a brilliant green, before exploding midair, like a firework. The next one was red, and it made contact, disappearing into the city. More and more fell from the sky, glowing all kinds of colors. Red, blue, green, purple, even black. They awed Himiko, as they streaked across the sky, leaving behind beautiful trails. 

“I hope Ochako and Izuku can see this. They would love this.” 

She kept watching with a soft smile, when all of a sudden, a meteor, glowing gold, appeared in the sky, heading right for her. She ducked out of the way as the meteor burst through her cell window with a massive 

CLANG! 

It landed in the middle of her cell, smoldering with golden embers. Surprisingly, however, it radiated no heat at all. She looked at it curiously. It seemed to speak to her. 

“Himiko Toga…” it whispered. 

Himiko looked around, seen if anyone was watching, before leaning forward and replying. 

“Yes?” 

“You have been chosen.” The meteorite whispered back. 

“Ch-chosen?” She stammered. “Chosen for what?” 

She received no answer. Checking once more to ensure no one had taken notice of what was happening in her cell, she reached out and touched it. The golden light faded, and the meteorite crumbled. Almost immediately, Himiko’s face heated up, and her nose started running. She felt awful, like every illness was afflicting her at once. She threw up on the ground, then she laid down on the bed with an awful cough. 

“What is- cough cough- Happening to me?” 

She felt her heart being squeezed by some phantasmal force, like it was trying to feel its shape. She gasped for air, then called for help. 

“Help! Help me! Something happened!” 

Suki and Oji Toga, mother and father to Himiko Toga, and wardens of Tartarus, watched in disgust from their monitoring room as Himiko rolled around in bed, coughing, sniffling, and showing other signs of illness.

“What do you think happened to her?” Oji asked his wife, as she looked at their daughter in disgust.

“The universe finally decided to give her what she deserves. A slow, painful death.” Suki said. She grabbed a guard by the collar as they walked by her. 

“And just what do you think you’re doing?” 

“Ma’am, we have orders to assist any inmates who are suffering from illness.” 

“Not that one. Definitely not that one.” Suki said with a deadly tone. 

“Ma’am, it’s protocol, we have to.” 

“Not if you value your job.” Oji said, pressing a finger into the guard’s chestplate. 

“Now, go back to your business.” 

The guard looked from the two Wardens to the camera feed displaying Himiko writhing in agony, before reluctantly saluting. 

“Of course.” He said, before walking back the way he came. 

The two parents looked back at the screen. 

“How long do you think it’ll last before she dies?” Suki asked

“As long as possible. That brat needs to feel all the pain she’s caused.” Oji replied, sitting down, watching his daughter cry out for help to no avail with a malicious smile on his face. 

Himiko continued coughing, sniffling, and vomiting until midnight, when she finally cried herself to sleep. When she woke up, she felt weird. Not sick anymore, but she didn’t feel normal. She felt… calmer. Less anxious. She stood up, then walked to the mirror and looked at herself. Her hair had transformed, and was no longer pale yellow tied up in two messy buns. Instead, it was a brilliant gold, and had three circular swirls in it. It was also braided and longer, reaching about halfway down her back. 

“What the… I didn’t do this.” 

“No, that would be my doing.” 

A voice rang through her head. It sounded similar to Himiko’s, but more echo-y. She looked around for the source.

”Who’s there? Where are you? Who are you?” She said, her head whipping around. 

“Here.”

Suddenly, a floating humanoid burst out of Himiko’s back, floating behind her. It had a similar build as her, and was colored a pale gold,  with purple highlights, designed like ladybugs, on it’s chest, elbows, hands and knees. It wore a sort of helmet-like dome on its head, and had bright purple eyes. It also had white wings on it’s shoulders 

Himiko shrieked. 

“WHAT ARE YOU!?” 

“Relax, Himiko. I am you. Or rather, I am a manifestation of your soul. I am what is called a “Stand”, named that way because I always stand next to you.” 

Himiko looked at her “Stand” quizzically. 

“And… what do you do?” 

“Whatever you wish for me to do. I am your companion, your servant, and your friend. I am Gold Experience, and you are my mistress.” 

“Well that’s… kinda cool. Do you have cool powers?” 

”I have the ability to infuse life into objects. Allow me to demonstrate.” 

Gold Experience reached for Himiko’s toothbrush, and grabbed it. The toothbrush was bathed in golden light, before it was transformed into a lizard that rested in the stand’s hand. Himiko’s jaw dropped. 

“That’s… so… COOL!” She squealed. But then, she paused. 

“Wait. You said you were the manifestation of my soul, right? So, why is your power giving life to things? I’m a villain, I hurt people, I’ve killed.” 

“That is true, but that part of you is gone now. When I manifested in your body, your old powers were destroyed. Now all that remains is you. Your personality, your essence, your soul, has a deep desire to love and be loved, to bring life, and ensure that everyone else can have that life. Therefore, my powers are what they are.” 

“Transform is… Gone?” She asked. She experimentally bit her lip, drawing blood. It tasted warm and metallic, not sweet and delicious like she was used to. She spat it out. 

“Ew! Is that what blood tastes like to everyone else?” She asked. “That’s gross.” 

But it was true. Her old quirk was gone. She wasn’t craving blood anymore. She didn’t feel like a rabid animal. She felt… good.  

“Well, what now?” She asked her stand. 

“Now, Himiko Toga, let’s show the world the real you. The savior that you were born to be.” 

“Alright then. But, I should probably make a few changes. The world will always remember Himiko Toga as a villain. My name is now… Himiko Giorno, since I used to be a creature of the night, a vampire, a monster. But now, now I will spread light, like the Day.”

Chapter Text

“An Excellent choice, Himiko Giorno.” Gold Experience said. 

Himiko smiled. “Thank you! Now, do you mind explaining how your powers work, exactly?” 

Gold Experience nodded. “I do not mind. I have the ability to infuse life energy into inanimate objects. I can transform any object into a plant or animal, and then reverse it at any time. You, being my mistress, have control over what life I create, but any animal I create will behave like that animal, so you cannot control them.” 

Himiko nodded. “I see. So, could you turn my cell door into a swarm of flies?” 

“Yes.”  The stand said, and when Himiko walked over to the door, Gold Experience placed its hand on it, and, in a flash of golden light, the cell door became a swarm of houseflies. They flew everywhere, swarming the building. Alarms rang, and guards began running into the cell block.

“Thank you.” Himiko said, as Gold Experience disappeared back inside her. She ran outside, and looked around for directions to her parents’ office. Suddenly, a man’s voice got her attention.

“Hey! Prisoner 7370! Stop right there!”

Several guards faced Himiko, pointing firearms and various quirks at her. 

“Get down!” One guard said.

”You caused this, didn’t you?” Another one said.

”How’d her hair change like that?” A third one asked. Himiko looked at them fearfully, waving her hands frantically.”

“No, you don’t understand, I…” 

The harpy-like voice of Himiko’s mother screeched over the PA system. 

“She escaped! She’ll kill you all! Shoot her!” She shrieked. The guards hesitated for a moment. 

“Ma’am, she hasn’t made any confrontational comments or movements. We have no reason to…” 

“SHOOT HER!” She screeched once more. The guards aimed through their guns’ sights, and activated their quirks. Himiko covered her face, and shouted. 

“GOLD EXPERIENCE!” 

The golden stand burst out into the open, and began punching the bullets and projectiles out of midair. 

”MUDA MUDA MUDA MUDA MUDA MUDA MUDA MUDA MUDA MUDA MUDA MUDAAA!”

Gold Experience shouted, as all the bullets fell to the ground with a pinging noise. The guards froze in shock. 

“H-how?! Our bullets just… stopped.” 

Himiko looked up with a questioning look. 

“Huh? You mean…” 

“People without stands cannot see me.” Gold Experience said quietly.  

“Oh…” Himiko said. Suddenly, she stood up, braver than before. 

“I am Himiko Giorno. I do not want to, nor will I  harm you, if you will not harm me. I wish to speak with the Wardens of this prison.” 

The guards muttered amongst themselves, before slowly lowering their weapons and deactivating their quirks. 

“Alright, fine. We’ll let you talk to them.” The one in charge said, before they stepped aside. Himiko walked up several flights of stairs, until she reached a door with a wooden plaque that read 

Suki Toga, Co-Warden of Tartarus Detention Center. 

Oji Toga, Co-Warden of Tartarus Detention Center. 

Himiko took a deep breath, before opening the door, there she saw her mother and father, staring at her, both with furious expressions. 

“Go back to your cell, young lady.” Her mother said. “Right where you belong.” 

“Why do you think I belong there, Mom?” Himiko asked. 

Her father’s hand slowly drifted to his hip, where a holstered gun was. 

“Because, you’re a monster. You were born to kill, to hurt, to torture.” 

Himiko felt tears welling up in her eyes. She had already heard that a thousand times, but it still hurt like a branding iron every time. Worse, even. She had felt the sting of a branding iron before. It was nothing compared to the feeling of her own parents hating her just for how she was born. 

“No.” She said, clenching her fist. “You’re wrong. I wasn’t born to kill. I was born to love. To give life. I saved someone’s life not two weeks ago.” 

“One life against a thousand.” Her mother snapped. “And what ever gave you the idea that you were meant to give life? All you’ve done is take it.” 

Himiko closed her eyes, and felt a hint of a smile  on her lips. “You wouldn’t believe me if I told you.” 

Her mother looked at her with a burning hatred. “You’re right. I wouldn’t. I’d never believe you were spawned to do anything other than cause misery.” 

“The only reason why you weren’t given up is because we needed to keep a leash on you, to make sure you wouldn’t get these idiotic ideas in your head.” Her father said, slowly unclipping his gun. 

“Alright, first of all, if you’re gonna shoot me, just know a whole squad of guards just tried that, and as you can see, I’ve got no wounds.” 

Her father’s expression didn't change. “It doesn’t change the fact that you deserve it. I’m done letting you-“ 

“No, I’m done letting you tell me that I’m a monster, and my only purpose is to kill. I’m done calling two miserable excuses for human beings my parents. I’m done being the villain in this story.” 

“When will you-“ her mother started, but Himiko glared at her. 

“When will you realize that I’m the hero here. Not you. I’ve been given a great gift, something I could never have gotten from you two. I’ve been given more love from a person I haven’t even known for a year than I’ve gotten from you two my whole life!” She said, turning her back to her biological parents. 

“I’m not your daughter. I am not a Toga anymore.” She said, before walking out of the office while holding back tears. 

“That was brave.” Gold Experience said. 

“I know.” Himiko said. “Now, I need to make a call.” 

She walked to a telephone, and dialed a number she knew by heart, despite only hearing it once. 

Izuku Midoriya was in the hospital when he got the call. He was still recovering from his battle with Tomura Shigaraki. He had applied Gear Shift to Tomura’s body at such a high caliber, it accelerated him into dust in an instant. That much power had taken a toll on his body, but it was better than the alternative, which involved him losing One For All. He was resting in bed, when a nurse came in holding a phone. 

“It’s for you, Izuku.” She said, handing the phone to him. He took it and pressed it to his ear. 

“Hello, this is Izuku Midoriya. 

“Izuku…” The voice was instantly recognizable. Himiko Toga. The girl who has attacked him and his friends time and time again. The psychopath who thought love meant butchering your boyfriend up and drinking his blood. But… she was also the girl who had saved his girlfriend’s life at the last moment. And she was… crying?” 

“Himiko Toga?” He asked. 

“Giorno.” She said. 

“Huh?” 

“It’s Himiko Giorno now. I don’t go by that monstrous name anymore.” She said through tears. 

“Ok, Himiko Giorno, then. What’s going on? How did you reach this number?” 

“I remembered it when you called that explosive boy’s phone back in summer.” 

“Oh… wow, that’s a long time.” 

“I need your help. I’ve got… a lot to explain, but I promise not to hurt anyone or do anything bad. I promise, I’ve changed.” She said. “Could I maybe… come visit you?” She asked. 

Izuku thought about it for a moment, then sighed. “No tricks?” 

“No tricks.” She assured. 

“No knives?” 

“No knives.” 

“No blood?” 

“Definitely no blood.” 

“Definitely?” Well that’s a bit odd, but ok. 

“Ok then, you can come visit me. I’m in the Musutafu General Hospital.” 

“Ok, thank you, Izuku.” She said, sniffling a bit, before hanging up. 

Izuku lay in bed, wondering why he had agreed to letting a convicted serial killer visit him in the hospital.

”I should probably tell Ochako to meet here too.” He said, before sending a quick text to her. 

Izuku: Hey Ochako. Do you mind coming to visit me in the hospital this afternoon?

He waited a moment, before a reply appeared on the screen. 

Ochako: Sure, but why? Usually it’s me asking to visit you. 

Izuku: I… may have invited Himiko Toga to visit me.

Izuku: *Giorno. She goes by Himiko Giorno now. 

Ochako: Alright, I’ll come. Did she promise no tricks? 

Izuku: Yes. No tricks, no knives, and “definitely no blood” for some reason. 

Ochako: Alright then, I’m omw.

Chapter Text

Himiko arrived a few minutes before Ochako did, and sat in Izuku’s hospital room until the brown-haired girl appeared. 

“Deku, I-“ Ochako started, before she froze upon seeing Himiko. 

“Himiko, you look…” 

“Different?” Himiko said. 

“Happier.” Ochako said. “But you look like you haven’t eaten in a week.” 

“Well, my parents, or former parents, I should say, kept me down to one meal a day, so I’m gonna look a bit skinnier.” 

“You said you had big news for us?” Izuku said. “Or, something you needed to talk about, I think was your original statement.” 

Himiko turned to look at the boy in the hospital bed, and nodded. 

“You’re right. I need to tell you about something that happened to me. The reason I haven’t asked either of you for blood, despite not having any for a week.” 

“Oh, right, here!” Ochako said, rolling up her sleeve and presenting it to Himiko. The blonde girl smiled and shook her head. 

“No, I’m ok. I don’t need it anymore.” She said. 

Izuku was shocked. “You don’t need blood anymore? How? I thought that was an integral part of your quirk?” 

“I’m getting to that. Let’s begin where it all started. Last night, during the meteor shower.” 

Izuku and Ochako nodded and listened to Himiko. 

“When the meteors came down, one of them hit my cell, coming through the window. It was glowing this gold color, and when I reached out to touch it, it didn’t burn me. It wasn’t even hot. It crumbled, and all of a sudden I started feeling awful, like every illness was affecting me at once. I was sick all night long, until I fell asleep around midnight. When I woke up, my hair was styled this way, and I didn’t feel that constant bloodthirst I always had. Then, I… well, I found out that I was chosen to receive a new ability.” 

Izuku pulled out his notebook and began scribbling. “A new ability? How strange. People only usually get one quirk. Handling two or more will-“ 

“It’s not a quirk.” Himiko said. “It’s something else. It’s a sentient being called a Stand.” 

“A… Stand?” Izuku asked. “Can I see it?” 

“That’s the thing.” Himiko said. “Only a person with a Stand can see Stands.” 

Suddenly, Himiko heard Gold Experience whispering in her ear. 

“He should be able to see me, Himiko. I sense he has other sentient beings inhabiting him as well.” It said. 

“Ok, let’s show him.” Himiko said. Gold Experience emerged from Himiko’s body, floating beside her. Izuku’s eyes widened to the size of dinner plates. 

“Holy whoa, that looks so cool!” Izuku said. 

“What? What looks cool?” Ochako said. “Can you see Himiko’s “Stand”?” 

“Yes, I can see it. Here, I’ll draw it for you.” Izuku said, as he began to sketch the floating humanoid. After a few minutes, he presented the drawing to Ochako. 

“Whoa… it’s pretty.” She said. “Can it do anything cool?” 

Himiko smiled brightly. “Yeah! It can! It has the ability to infuse inanimate objects with life energy, transforming them into animals and plants. Here, I’ll show you!” Himiko said, pulling one of the buttons off of her prison uniform. As she held it in her hand, Gold Experience pressed a finger against it, and transformed it into a beetle. 

“Whoa…” Ochako said. “That’s so cool!” 

“You really think so?” Himiko asked. “Thank you!” 

Suddenly, the TV that was quietly showing an All Might rescue compilation changed to a news channel, with the headline 

Mysterious Meteors Bring Lethal Virus

”Turn up the volume.” Izuku said. Himiko grabbed the remote and did so. 

“Last night, a meteor shower occurred, raining meteors the size of basketballs down over Japan. These meteors do not emit any heat, but they carry a deadly unidentified virus. Anyone who touches a meteorite is infected. It is not contagious, but so far we have tallied a 98% mortality rate. Symptoms include vomiting, fever, swelling around the throat, and facial disfigurement. We have yet to find out what happens to those who survive. We’re currently compiling the names of all who were lost. Stay tuned.” 

All three of them looked at the screen in shock. 

“The virus I was infected with… the one that gave me Gold Experience… has a 98% mortality rate?!” Himiko said. 

“That’s… awful.” Ochako said. 

“Look, here’s the names of everyone confirmed dead by the virus.” Izuku said, pointing to the screen. There were hundreds of names, none they recognized, until they came to one.

Himiko Toga, reported dead by Tartarus management. 

“Himiko… what?” Ochako said, more confused than shocked. 

Himiko gritted her teeth. “Those lying wastes of oxygen!” She said as she slammed her fist into the table. 

“What? What happened? Who said you’re dead?” Izuku asked. 

“My parents. They’re the wardens of Tartarus. They’re the ones who pushed for a death penalty in my court case.” 

“That was them?!” Ochako said. “That’s horrible! We need to prove them wrong!” 

“But how?” Himiko asked. “To the rest of the world, I’m still a villain, a bloody vampire, a fiend.” 

“We’ll find a way to help you clear your name.” Izuku said. 

“Well, if you need help clearing someone’s name, I may be able to help with that.” A familiar sly voice said from the doorway. The three teenagers turned and saw Hawks, the number 2 Hero, in the doorway. 

“Hawks! You got your wings back!” Izuku said. 

“Yep, Eri and Monoma put in some real work but they were able to do it. I hear you’ve got a visitor.” Hawks said, turning to look at Himiko. 

Himiko cautiously looked at the Pro Hero. 

“H-hi Hawks. I think you know me already.” She said. 

“Fortunately I do. But what I don’t know is why you’re A: Alive, and B: rocking a killer hairstyle.” 

Himiko walked over to a chair and sat down. “Well, I can explain all of that if you don’t mind.” 

Hawks grinned and sat down in another chair. 

“I’m all ears. Well, technically my wife is, but I’m listening.”

“And now Transform is gone, and I have Gold Experience instead.” Himiko said.

Hawks scratched his chin. 

“Interesting. So this “Stand”, as you call it, does whatever you command?” 

Himiko nodded. “Yes. But it can’t stray too far from me. Only about 2 meters. Like its name implies, it always stands next to me.” 

“I see. Well, it sounds like you’ve been dealt the perfect hand for a shot at redemption. The only question is whether or not you want to take that shot.” 

Himiko instantly nodded. “Of course! I want to be a person people will love. Instead of people pulling their kids away when I walk past, I want them to push them towards me, saying “you could be just like her”. I want to love and be loved. I want to make sure people live their happiest lives.” She said. 

“That’s some pretty strong conviction. I like it. I’ll get to work on a public statement about your redemption, pardoning, and hero training. In the meantime, rest, recuperate your energy, and put some meat on those bones!” Hawks said. 

Himiko giggled and nodded. “Ok! Thank you, Hawks!” 

Hawks grinned, then walked out the door, leaving Himiko alone with Ochako and Izuku. 

“Himiko, I…” Ochako started, hesitating. 

Himiko tilted her head questioningly. “What is it?”

”Well, I know you said you loved Izuku, but I kinda scooped him up while you were in Tartarus, but if you want…” 

“No.” Himiko said flatly. “I don’t want him anymore. He’s all yours.” 

“Oh…” Ochako said. “Why is that?” 

“If my conviction to be a hero is that I want everyone to live their happiest lives, I should start with my friends. I still love Izuku, but as a friend. And you, as a sister.” Himiko said. 

Ochako was lost for words, then started to tear up. “Thank you, Himiko. You’re amazing.” She said, hugging the shorter girl. 

“I know.” Himiko said, as, for the first time ever, she felt like everything was going to be ok.

Chapter Text

“Ok, first things first, we’ve gotta get you out of this… scrap.” Ochako said, picking at Himiko’s ragged prison uniform. 

“Yeah, that’s true. I need something new to wear.” She said. “This stuff is so itchy.” 


“I’ve got some extra clothes you could wear until we can go shopping.” Ochako said. “Hopefully we can find something you like.” 

Himiko smiled. “Thank you, that would be really nice.” She said.

Ochako nodded and then left the room for about 20 minutes, before returning with a tan sweater, and white slacks. 

“Here you go, some of my smaller clothes that will fit you.” She said, handing the sweater and slacks to Himiko. The blonde took them, and her smile grew. 

“Ochako, this is… you are so kind!” She said, hugging her friend. She walked over to the bathroom and closed the door, before changing and coming back out. 

“How do I look?” She asked, smoothing out the creases in her slacks.

”Good, but we can do better.” Ochako said. “Let’s do what girls do best. Shopping!” 

“But, how will we pay for anything? I don’t have any money, and I thought you said-“ 

Ochako smirked, and pulled an orange and red credit card out of her pocket. 

“Todoroki swiped his dad’s credit card. We can buy whatever we like.” 

Fifteen minutes later, they were at their local shopping mall. 

“Okay, Himiko, let’s find something that looks cute on you.” Ochako said. “And something that goes well with your new hairstyle.” 

Himiko nodded and looked around. “Ooh! There! That one looks like the place to go!” She said, pointing to a designer clothing store. The two girls rushed over, and began perusing the stock. 

“How about this one?” Ochako said, holding up a scarlet dress. 

“No, I don’t want anyone to associate me with blood anymore. That part of me is gone.” Himiko said. Ochako nodded and kept searching. Suddenly, Himiko found one she liked. A purple suit, with ladybug shaped brooches, and a heart shape cut out over the collarbone, just below her throat. 

“This one! It’s perfect!” She said, taking it. “I want every one in stock!” She said to the man at the desk, who turned and looked at it with a small smile. 

“Ahh, our “Requiem” line. Very good choice. You want every single one in stock, you say? My, someone’s feeling fancy.” He said, taking all the suits and ringing them up. “And that comes out to ¥2,965,434.” 

Ochako wheezed a bit in the sheer price, but handed the cashier the credit card. He swiped it against the machine, then handed it back. 

“Thank you for shopping at JoJo’s Bizarre Fashion. Hope to see you again soon!” He said with a wave, as the two girls walked out of the store. 

“So, Ochako, what do you think?” Himiko said, striking a pose. She pulled the heart shape on her shirt a little to the side, which made Ochako gasp. 

“Himiko! Your shoulder!” She said, pointing. 

“Huh?” She asked, before looking down. Sure enough, emblazoned on her right shoulder, right on top of her collarbone, was a red star shaped mark. 

“Whoa, that’s weird. Is it a tattoo?” She asked. 

“I… don’t think so.” Himiko said. 

“It’s the birthmark of the Star. It means that you are one of the most powerful stand users in the world.” Gold Experience said. 

“Well, so far, I’m the only stand user in the world.” Himiko said. 

“Huh? What was that?” Ochako asked. 

“Oh, sorry, Gold Experience was talking to me.” Himiko said. “It said that this mark is “The birthmark of the Star.” And it means I’m a powerful stand user.” Himiko said. 

“Oh, cool!” Ochako said. “So, now that we’ve gotten you some cool new clothes, maybe we should-“ Suddenly, Ochako’s phone started ringing. She picked it up and answered. “Hello?” 

“Hey, Ochako! Is Himiko with you?” The smooth voice of Hawks said through the phone. 

“Yeah, she’s with me, why?” 

“I’d like it if she came to my apartment, so we can start working on her public reveal.” Hawks said. 

“Oh, right! Sure, we can come right over.” Ochako said, before hanging up the phone. 

“What was that?” Himiko asked.  

“Hawks wants us to come over to his place to start working on how to publicly reveal the new you.” Ochako said. 

“Oh, I see. Well, we’d better not keep him waiting, huh?” Himiko said, before the two girls started walking towards Hawks’ apartment. They arrived at a tall building, and stepped inside. 

“And what are you two fine ladies doing here?” A portly man with a “rich” air to him and a long thin mustache asked.

“Oh, we’re here to visit the pro hero, Hawks.” Himiko said. 

“Really? And do you have any proof that he actually wants you here? Dozens of fangirls come pouring in every day trying to meet him.” The man said. 

“Don’t worry, Mr. Seiko, these two are cleared.” Hawks said as he flew in behind the two girls. 

“Ah, well, if that’s the case, I’ll leave you to it.” He said, before bowing politely as Hawks led Himiko and Ochako up to his penthouse apartment. It was a luxurious place, and it was obvious that the Number 2 Hero lived there. 

“Now, first thing to note, Himiko, you’ve got some sweet new threads. I like ‘em!” Hawks said. 

Himiko smiled and looked at the Pro with cautious eyes. “Thank you, Hawks. But, why did you want us here?” She asked. 

Hawks sighed. “Look, I know why you’re skittish around me. What happened with Jin was… I’m sorry about that. I really didn’t want so see him gone, but… he was dangerous. A loose cannon, if you will. Just know that I have no intention of doing the same to you.” He said as he sat down across from Himiko. 

Himiko sat down as well. “I know, and I know if I hadn’t changed, I was next in line. I’m grateful to Ochako for saving what was left of my humanity before it was snuffed out. But… I still miss him.” She said. 

Hawks nodded. “I know you do. And that was my real reason for bringing you here. He was family to you, and… with him gone, you have no other parental figures in your life.” He said. 

Himiko looked up. “Wait, what?” She asked. 

Hawks was about to continue, when suddenly, a door flew open. 

“Oh, come on, you bird brain! Just get to the point!” A woman’s voice said as the Number 4 hero Mirko rounded the corner. “We want to adopt you, Himiko.” 

Himiko’s world slowed to a stop. 

“You… what?” She asked. 

“I don’t like the idea of a girl walking around with no parents, and Rumi and I were talking about kids the other day, so… why not start with you?” 

Himiko felt tears welling up in her eyes. “Are you… are you serious? You actually… want me?” 

Mirko walked over and hugged Himiko. Somehow, even her prosthetic arm felt warm. “Of course we do, sugar. Now that you ain’t all bloody and violent, you’re just one big ball of sunshine, and that’s the kind of daughter I want to kick off this family.” 

Himiko stopped holding back the tears, and cried into Mirko’s muscular shoulder. 

“You… you mean it?” She asked through tears. 

Hawks joined in the hug, and chuckled. “Of course we do, Himiko. Back during your trial, I promised I would do right by you, and now’s my chance.” 

Himiko smiled as she sniffled. “Thank you… thank you, both of you.” She said. 

Mirko smiled and patted Himiko on the back. “You’re welcome, honey. It’ll take a few days to get the adoption paperwork finished, but at least we can skip the paperwork for your bail. Now go on and get the rest of your things from the hospital. We’ve already cleared out a room for you.” 

Himiko’s smile grew, and she nodded rapidly. “Ok! Thank you, so so much, Mirko and Hawks.” 

“Hold up. That won’t do. We’re Mom and Dad now, Himiko.” Hawks said. Himiko laughed. 

“Ok, Mom and Dad. I’ll see you soon!” She said, as she and Ochako started walking out of the apartment. 

“See you soon!” Hawks said, while Mirko waved. 

“That is so nice, that Hawks and Mirko want you to be their daughter!” Ochako said as she and Himiko walked down the street. 

“I know, right? It’s like a dream come true!” Himiko said.

“So, we just need to stop at the hospital to grab the rest of your belongings?” Ochako said.

“Yeah, the only things I left at the old League base were my knives, and I don’t want those anymore.” She said.

Suddenly, they stopped, as they heard a commotion in the alleyway nearby. 

“What did you just say… about my HAIR?!” 

Chapter Text

“You heard me, punk. I said it looks like a burnt steak.” A rougher, greasier voice said. 

Himiko and Ochako looked at each other, then nodded and peeked into the alleyway. There they saw two men. One was in his mid thirties, and dressed in a stained t-shirt, cargo shorts, and carrying a beer bottle. The other looked to be Himiko’s age, maybe 16-17 years old, and he was dressed in a navy blue designer jacket and slacks, with a sunlight yellow undershirt, which was visible due to the jacket being open down to his midriff. He had two brooches on the jacket, one shaped like a peace symbol, and the other shaped like a heart. The most notable thing about him, though, was his black hair, shaped into an Elvis Presley style pompadour. 

“I’ll show you to mock my hair!” The younger man said. “Let’s go, Crazy Diamond!”

Himiko’s eyes widened when she heard that, and her jaw dropped when a stand, humanoid with angular features, and colored pink and sky blue, burst out of his back, and began pummeling the older guy. 

“DORARARARARARARARARA, DORA!” The stand cried, as it beat the man into a bloody pulp. As he collapsed on the ground, the younger man snapped his fingers. 

“Now repair, Crazy Diamond.” He commanded. Golden light shimmered around the man, as every injury repaired itself. Broken bones reconnected instantly, blood returned to where it had leaked out, even bruises were healed, all in a few moments. 

“The wounds are gone, but I’d hope the lesson stuck. Or else I’ll give you another beatdown.” The young man said. 

Himiko whispered to Ochako. 

“Did you see that? That guy has a stand too!” 

“What? That was a stand? That guy got beat up so fast! And he just got healed like it was nothing!” Ochako said. 

“That must be his stand’s ability.” Himiko said, before walking up to the man. 

“Hey! Hi!” She said. The man turned around and looked at her. 

“Hey! Who are you?” The man asked. 

“I’m Himiko! And I’m like you!” Himiko said. 

“You’re… like me?” The man asked. Himiko nodded. 

“Mhm! Look! Gold Experience!” She said, calling her stand out. It emerged, and the man’s eyes widened. 

“Whoa… you have a stand too? That’s awesome!” The man said. “I’m Josuke. Josuke Higashikata.” 

“Himiko Giorno. My stand lets me infuse life energy into inanimate objects, turning them into plants and animals. Look!” Himiko said, pulling one of her ladybug brooches off of her jacket. Gold Experience tapped it, and it transformed into a real Ladybug. 

“Whoa… that’s neat!” Josuke said. 

“Yeah, and I can turn them back whenever I like.” Himiko’s eyes said, turning the bug back into a brooch and attaching it back onto her jacket. 

“Cool. Mine is called Crazy Diamond, and it lets me repair anything it touches. Like this!” Josuke said. Suddenly, Crazy Diamond punched a wall into smithereens, before the golden light encased the rubble, returning the wall to brand new. 

“Whoa, that’s awesome!” Himiko said. 

Josuke turned to Ochako. “I know you, you’re Ochako Uraraka, from Class 1-A.” 

Ochako blushed and nodded. “That’s me. It’s still strange when people recognize me.” She said. 


“Well, since we’re the only two so far that have stands, shouldn’t we be able to contact each other in an emergency?” Himiko asked.

“Good idea.” Josuke said. The two swapped numbers, before Josuke looked up curiously at the two girls.

“So, are you doing here?” Josuke asked. 

“Oh, we’re just here to grab some stuff from the hospital and move it into Himiko’s new home.” 

“Oh, well, good luck. Actually, you probably have all the luck you need, you survived the Virus.” Josuke said. 

Himiko laughed and waved. “Bye!” 

Josuke waved back, and the two girls continued down the road. They arrived at the hospital, and grabbed all the things Himiko owned that the guards at Tartarus had sent back with her. It was mostly her casual clothes, but she also found an empty photo album in one of the boxes. 

“Guess I need to start filling this up.” Himiko said. “With photos of my real family. Not my biological one.” 

“Need some help carrying them?” Ochako asked. 

“Nah, I’m ok, it’s just these two boxes.” Himiko said.

”Alright, if you say so.” Ochako said, before walking over to the elevator. “I’m gonna go back to Izuku’s room. Take care.”

“You too.” Himiko said, before picking up the two boxes and walking out of the hospital. The walk to Hawks’ apartment was calm, and once she arrived at the building, she was greeted in the lobby by Mirko. 

“Heya, sugar! Is that all? I’d think you’d have more to your name than that!” The rabbit hero said, walking up to her new daughter while eyeing up the boxes. 

“Nah, most of my stuff was either given away or destroyed by my biological parents after I ran away.” Himiko said. 

“Aww, that’s a real shame. Come on, let’s get you all settled in. Keigo is filing for your adoption as we speak, so he’ll be here later tonight.” 

Himiko smiled at that. She would have a family, a loving family that loved her for herself. “That’ll be nice.” She said as the two of them walked into the elevator and ascended upwards to the apartment. When they got there, Mirko pointed to a table in the living room area. 

“Put your boxes over there for now, hon. We’ll deal with them later. For now, my momma instincts are screaming at me to put some meat on those bones.” She said. Himiko did so, then followed Mirko to the kitchen. 

“So, Keigo told me you ain’t cravin’ blood anymore. That right?” She asked. Himiko nodded. 

“That’s right. My new abilities replaced Transform, as well as my desire for blood. They didn’t overwrite my physical features, though. Except for my hair, of course. 

“Aw, yeah, them cute lil fangs of yours are here to stay.” Mirko said as she opened the fridge. “So, if it ain’t blood you’re hungry for, what is it?” She asked. 

Himiko thought about that for a moment, before answering. 

“Salmon, I think. And rice. That sounds good.” She said. Mirko nodded, and pulled the required foods out of the freezer and pantry. 

“Alrighty, Salmon and Rice for my new lil honeybunny.” Mirko said. It took a few minutes to prepare it, but soon enough, a plate of steaming rice and salmon was placed in front of Himiko. Mirko sat down with her own plate, and smiled at her daughter. 

“Well, what’re you waitin’ for? Dig on in.” She said. 

Himiko shook her head. “Sorry, I was just thinking about this boy I met.” 

Mirko’s smile turned sly. “Oh? Care to elaborate?” 

Himiko made a disgusted face. “Not like that, mom. He has a stand too. Like me.” 

Mirko’s smile disappeared and was replaced by an interested look. “Oh really?” 

Himiko nodded. “Yeah, his name is Josuke Higashikata, and his stand, Crazy Diamond, allows him to repair whatever it touches. He beat this drunk guy up because he insulted his hair, and then healed him like nothing happened!” 

Mirko looked impressed. “Wow, he seems like a cool guy.” 

Himiko nodded again. “He’s super cool. We swapped numbers in case of an emergency.” She said. As if on cue, her phone buzzed and Josuke’s number appeared on the screen. She swiped to answer. 

“Oh, Hi Josuke! What’s up?” 

“Himiko, you’re not gonna believe this, but… oh, this has got to be a one in a billion chance!” Josuke answered.

”What? What is it?” Himiko asked. 

“I found another Stand user.” 

Chapter Text

Himiko gasped. 

Another person with a Stand? Already?

”You sure?” Himiko asked. 

“Yeah, I’m sure, come to Nakayama Racecourse, quick, before he leaves.” Josuke said. 

“Alright, I’m on my way.” She said, before hanging up. 

“What’s that about, Himiko?” Mirko asked. 

Himiko wolfed down the last of her food. “Sorry Mom! I’ve gotta go! My friend just found another one like us!” She said as she ran out the door. She made her way to the racecourse, and found Josuke. 

“Hey, Josuke, what’s up? Where is he?” Himiko asked. 

Josuke patted the seat beside him. “Come here, the next race is about to start.” 

Himiko sat down and looked at the racetrack curiously. 

“Where is he?” She asked. 

Josuke pointed to one of the stalls, where a dozen horse heads poked out. 

“Jockey number 19, riding the white horse.” Josuke said. Just then, the starting horn blared, the doors opened, and the horses took off running. 

Himiko scanned the horses and their riders, before she saw it. There, beside the guy in the light blue shirt with stars on it, wearing a similarly colored beanie with a horseshoe emblem on it, was a small pink thing, about the size of a soda can. 

“That’s the Stand User?” Himiko asked. 

“Yep, he’s got a smaller stand than us, but it’s definitely a Stand, not a quirk.” Josuke said. Himiko continued watching the man race around the racetrack. When they got to about halfway through the first lap, a clay pigeon was launched into the air. The man made a finger gun, aimed at it, and Himiko could see blue spirals forming around his finger, before his fingernail launched itself off of his finger, and shattered the clay pigeon. 

“Whoa!” Himiko exclaimed. “That’s a cool ability!” 

Josuke nodded. “He’s done it six times already. I think his nails grow back fast.” 

The little thing next to the man cried out in celebration as he took the lead. 

“Chumimi-in!” 

Himiko looked up at the scoreboard, where she saw the man’s name. 

1st: Johnny “Jojo” Joestar 

“Johnny Joestar…” she said, running the name through her head a few times. 

“Heh. What are the odds that someone named “Joestar” gets a Star Mark?” Josuke said, chuckling to himself. 

Johnny completely 3 more laps, shooting the clay pigeon each time he came around to it, and winning first prize. Himiko watched as he and his horse walked over to a stable, then stood up and started walking up to them. 

“Himiko? Where are you going?” Josuke asked. 

“To meet this Johnny guy.” Himiko replied matter-of-factly. Josuke stood up and followed her. They walked over to the stable, stopping at the fence. 

“Excuse me, Mr Joestar?” Himiko said, calling out to the man. Johnny looked up from petting his horse on the head. 

“Huh? Oh, hi. Can I help you?” Johnny asked. 

“Hi! I’m Josuke Higashikata, and this is my friend Himiko Giorno. That was some awesome horse racing, man. How do you race your horse so fast without it getting tired?” Josuke asked. 

Johnny shrugged and patted his horse one more time. 

“Oh, ol’ Slow Dancer just likes to kick it into high gear. I barely control his speed, I only steer, really.” 

Just then, Johnny dismounted his horse, landing on the ground on his knees, before scooting over to them. Himiko gasped. 

“You’re paraplegic?” 

Johnny scoffed. 

“Unfortunately, yes. Some psycho vegan shot me in the waist a few months back while protesting against the horse races. I’ve been on the ground ever since.” 

Himiko frowned. “I’m so sorry about that. I’ve had my own run-ins with radical vegans.” 

Johnny nodded. “I’d be surprised if anyone didn’t. Anyways, can I help you? You guys want autographs or something?” 

Josuke shook his head. “No, actually. We’re here to talk about your little buddy.” 

“My… what?” Johnny asked. Himiko and Josuke smirked, before they both summoned their stands. 

“Crazy Diamond!” 

“Gold Experience!” 

The two stands burst out, leaving Johnny wide eyed.

“You two have stands too?!” Johnny asked. “What do they do? They look more human than mine, so can they fight?” 

Himiko nodded. “Uh huh! They punch real fast, and they also have cool abilities! Mine lets me infuse life into objects, turning them into animals and plants.” 

“And mine lets me repair anything I touch that’s broken.” Josuke added. 

Johnny smiled. “Wow, you two have awesome stands. Mine’s called Tusk, and it’s like a battery, allowing me to charge my fingernails with Spin Energy.” 

Himiko gaped. “Whoa, that’s how you were able to shoot the clay pigeons without a pistol! That’s awesome! Do you have a Star Mark too?” She asked. 

Johnny nodded, before tilting his neck, showing the mark on his shoulder. “Yep, I’ve got one, what about you two?” 

Himiko showed hers on her back, and Josuke revealed his on his shoulder. 

“Neat. Anything else you guys needed?” 

“Well, we’re trying to get in contact with everyone who survived the virus and was given a Stand, so that’s why we came here. It was to find you.” Josuke said. “If you don’t mind, we’d like to swap numbers.” 

“Huh, well, I’m more than happy to find more people like me. Sure thing.” Johnny said. They swapped numbers, and after that, Himiko smiled. 

“Thanks, we’ll be sure to keep in touch!” She said. 

Johnny smiled and waved. “No problem. Anything for another person with a Star Mark.” He said, before lifting his light blue beanie off his head and nodding once at Himiko. “You seem like a kind woman, Miss Giorno. I’m grateful to meet someone like you.” 

The two smiles and waved back, before leaving the racecourse. 

“Well I think that was successful.” Himiko said, to which Josuke nodded. 

“I think so too. Johnny seems like a cool guy. And that spinning nails thing is awesome!” Josuke said. 

“Well, I’d better get home. My mom’s probably anxious about me.” Himiko said. 

“Oh, crap, mine probably is too.” Josuke said, running back to his home. “I’ll see you soon, Himiko!” He yelled as he disappeared into the city. Himiko smiled, shook her head, then started walking back to her home. 

“I wonder how Dad is doing with handling my adoption. He’s the Number 2 hero, so he should probably be able to pull some strings and make it happen faster. I wonder if…” she started talking to herself, before she heard something behind her. 

“Hey girl, ain’t you a little young to be out here by yourself?” Said a voice that sounded like it had been smoking nonstop for days. Himiko turned around, and saw a guy with a five o’ clock shadow, stained sleeveless shirt, and gym shorts, grinning lecherously at her. 

“You should come home with me, I’ll make you nice and comfortable.” 

Himiko grinned slightly. “Sorry, but no thanks. I’m going home now. 

“That wasn’t a question.” The man said, grabbing her shoulder and digging his nails into her. 

“Gold Experience!” She shouted. 

“Huh? What the f-“ was all he got out before the fist of Himiko’s stand connected with his beer belly. 

“Allow me, Miss Himiko.” Gold Experience said, before immediately launching into a barrage of supersonic blows. 

”Muda Muda Muda Muda Muda Muda Muda Muda Muda Muda Muda Muda Muda Muda Muda Muda Muda Muda Muda MUDAAAA!” The stand cried, as it beat the man senseless in a few seconds. Himiko scoffed. “I hate men like you. You’ve got no respect for a woman.” 

Unlike Johnny Joestar. That boy’s got that same Southern American hospitality and kindness that Mom’s got. 

“How’d you… how the heck did you do that?” The man sputtered between coughing up blood. 

Himiko smirked. “Let’s just say I always have a friend standing with me.” She said before walking away. Not counting that brief encounter, the walk home was calm, and when she got home, Mirko was right there, and met her with a tight hug. 

“There you are, honeybunny! I was worried when you’d come home! Come on, it’s time for bed.” 

Himiko groaned. “Moooom, I’m 17! I don’t have to go to bed at…” She paused briefly to check the clock. “… 9 PM!” 

Mirko wagged a finger. “Uh uh! No complaints! My house, my rules. Now, hop to it!” 

Himiko grumbled, but went to her room, a large spacious area with a comfortable Queen-Size bed with extra mattress padding. She sunk into it like a cloud. 

“Mmmm, ok, maybe an early bedtime isn’t so bad.” She said, as she fell asleep. 

Chapter Text

The next two weeks went by in a blur, Himiko got more acquainted to living in a normal house, and enjoying a normal life. She met up with Josuke and Johnny occasionally to chat about their Stands. In no time at all, it was Himiko’s birthday. She woke up that morning to the sound of sizzling and the smell of bacon and eggs. She pulled the covers off of her bed and walked into the kitchen, where Mirko was preparing breakfast. 

“Mornin’, Birthday girl. How’re you feeling?” She asked, as she laid some bacon and eggs on a plate. 

Himiko sat down and rubbed her eyes.

“Good, I guess, I’m still not completely used to waking up in a real bed, and not on a slab of cardboard, or a prison cot.” She said. 

Mirko smiled warmly.

”Well, I’m sure you’ll get used to it in no time. This is your real home now, sweetie.” She said, before walking over, laying the plate of food down in front of her, and ruffling her hair. 

Himiko smiled softly and nodded. “Right. Home. It feels good to have a place to call home.” She said. 

Mirko’s smile grew. “Come on, cheer up, it’s your 18th birthday! This is a big milestone in life. Come on, eat up, and let’s go.” 

Himiko looked up, puzzled. 

“Go? Go where?” 

Mirko smirked. 

“To your party.” 

After Himiko ate her breakfast, she and Mirko got in their car and drove to UA High. There, they were met by all of Class 1-A, holding a banner that read 

Happy Birthday, Himiko Giorno

When Himiko got out of the car, she looked at the banner, and began to tear up. 

“You guys… you made this… for me?” She asked. 

Izuku smiled. “Of course we did. You’ve done so much, and made it so far in life.”

Ochako grinned brightly at the older girl. “You went from being a psychopath who only cared about your next victim, to a genuinely kind and caring person who put my life ahead of hers and saved me from dying. To that…” she said, as she walked forward and hugged her. “I need to thank you, so so much. You are one of the bravest, kindest, and cutest women I’ve ever met.” 

Himiko couldn’t stop the tears from rolling down her face as she hugged Ochako. 

“T-thank you, Ochako. You’re the best friend a girl like me could ask for.” She said, before turning to the rest of the class. 

“And to all of you, I’m so grateful that you were able to forgive me for everything I’ve done, and see through my mask like I’ve been trying to get so many people to see. Thank you. I don’t know how to repay you.” 

Mina giggled. “Well, you can start by getting in here and enjoying the party we set up for you!” 

Himiko was about to go inside, when she heard two voices behind her. 

“Yo, did someone say a party?” 

“Would this party have room for two more?” 

She turned around, and saw Josuke walking up to her, with Johnny close behind in a wheelchair. 

“Josuke! Johnny!” She exclaimed, rushing up and hugging the two of them. “What’re you doing here?” 

The two boys returned the hug, before Johnny spoke. 

“Your mom slipped us an invite, and we couldn’t turn down celebrating the 18th birthday of a fellow stand user!” He said, and Josuke nodded in agreement. 

“Alright, enough chit chat! Momo spent a lot of money to make this happen, so we are NOT gonna waste it!” Mina said, before turning around and charging through the front door.

“TO THE PARTY WE GO!” 

Everyone else laughed, before following the hyperactive girl into the building. Inside, the common room was decorated with a bunch of ribbons, confetti cannons, and balloons. Several stations were set up, such as face painting, Plinko, and other carnival games. Outside, Himiko could spot a massive bounce area being inflated. 

“You guys, what is all of this?” She asked, looking around. 

“We wanted you to be able to experience everything you missed as a child due to your crappy parents.” Kirishima said, “So we brainstormed all the fun stuff we used to do, and brought them all here for you!” 

Himiko looked around in awe, before squealing in excitement. 

“Eeee! This looks so fun! Let’s do this!” She said, before walking up to the closest table, labeled “Face Painting.” Mina slid into the chair opposite to her, and picked up a small brush. 

“This is my station! I’ve got a bunch of different prints to use, so pick one!” She said, sliding a sheet of paper with different pictures of what she could paint on it. Himiko scanned the sheet, before choosing a stylish golden arrowhead. 

“This one, for sure.” She said. Mina nodded, and then gestured to a cupped pedestal. 

“Rest your head here, so I can paint steady.” She said. Himiko obeyed, resting her chin in the cup. Mina gently grabbed her chin and began painting, her strokes gentle, and somewhat ticklish. Within a few minutes, the pattern was finished, and Mina gave Himiko a mirror to look into. There, on her cheek, was a golden arrowhead, painted on expertly. 

“This is so pretty, Mina! I love it!” Himiko said. 

“Aww, I’m glad you like it.” Mina said, before turning to Josuke and Johnny. 

“What about you two? You want face paints?” She asked. 

The two boys looked at each other, before shrugging and nodding. 

“Sure, I guess.” 

“Don’t see no reason not to.” 

Josuke got a pink diamond painted on his cheek, and Johnny got a blue horseshoe. Then, they moved on to the next station, where Momo was sitting. 

“And what do you do here?” Himiko asked. 

“Simple. Throw these balls to hit the sugar glass bottles, and you can win a prize. You keep throwing until you miss.” Momo said. 

Himiko nodded in understanding, then picked up a metal ball, and threw it. It smashed one of the bottles, and Momo marked one tick on her tally board. She threw again, but missed. 

“Aww, man!” Himiko said. Just then, Johnny tapped her side. 

“Himiko, if I may?” He asked. 

Himiko quickly caught on, and nodded. Johnny rolled his wheelchair up, and grabbed one of the metal balls. He held it in his hand, and Himiko could see Tusk pop out of his shoulder, before the ball began to spin, faster and faster, until blue spirals began to encircle the ball. He then tossed it. It streaked across the distance, shattering the glass on impact, before spinning in place on the shelf the bottle was set up. He repeated this process 4 more times, hitting the bottles every time. Once he hit the fifth bottle, Momo held up a hand. 

“That’s good, you’ve hit all the bottles you need to win a prize.” 

Johnny looked up at the various prizes, before choosing a large plush horse and giving it to Himiko. She took the horse and smiled. 

“Thank you, Johnny.” She said, carrying the horse under one arm. 

“No problem, Himiko.” Johnny replied, before they moved to the next station, a large punching machine, where Kirishima stood. 

“Alright, bros and brolines! This is the Punch Out! Hit as hard as you can!” He said; before stepping away. Himiko stepped up, looked at the punching bag, before smirking. 

“Heh, alright. Let’s do this. Gold Experience!” She called, and the golden stand immediately burst out of her and threw a heavy haymaker.

“MUDADA!!!”

The bag slammed upwards into the machine, and the numbers on the screen rapidly grew, before reaching “885”

”Hey, not bad! That’s about the level of your average Pro! Anyone else wanna take a shot?” 

Josuke stepped up. 

“We’ll have a go at it. Crazy Diamond!” 

”DORAAA!”

The stand emerged from Josuke’s body, punching the bag hard enough to make it start to tip, before Kirishima stabilized it. The meter read “999”. 

“Wow, you maxed out the machine! Not bad, bro!” 

Himiko patted Josuke on the back. “Crazy Diamond? More like Crazy Strong!” 

Josuke chuckled. “Heh, yeah, I guess so.” 

The went around to the rest of the stations, before Himiko had completed every game. 

“And last, but certainly not least…” Izuku said as he opened the doors to the school yard. There, Himiko saw a massive inflatable obstacle course, where Mr Aizawa stood. When they approached, he opened the Velcro doors. 

“Have fun, but don’t pop anything and don’t trample anyone.” He said. Himiko climbed in and ran through the obstacle course, sliding down ramps, jumping over spinning bars, and landing on a comfy mattress at the end. 

“Hahahaha! That was so fun!” She said, as she lay on the mattress. “Thank you so much, everyone. This is the best birthday I’ve ever had!” 

Izuku and Ochako smiled. 

“It’s no problem. But before you go back home, there’s one last surprise.” 

Himiko sat up curiously. “One more? What could be better than everything else that you guys have done for me today?” 

“That would be my pleasure to answer” a voice from above her said. She looked up, smiling when Hawks landed beside her. 

“You know I’ve been busy these past few weeks.” Hawks said. “But now we can reap the rewards.” 

He opened his tan jacket, and pulled out a large yellow envelope, before handing it to Himiko. 

Himiko took the letter with shaking hands, gently opening it, and pulling the contents out. 

Certificate Of Adoption

Himiko Giorno. 

Paternal Guardian: Keigo Takami. 

Maternal Guardian: Rumi Takami. 

Himiko could feel tears returning to her eyes. 

“It’s… it’s real now. It’s official. I’m your daughter now…” She said through tears. 

Hawks gently pulled her into a hug. “I promised I’d do right by you, kiddo. You deserve to live a real life, and I’m proud to be the father who guides you through that life.” 

Himiko cried into his shoulder. 

“Thank you. Thank you so much, Dad.” She said. “I love you.” 

“I love you too, Himiko. Now, what do you say we eat some cake?” Hawks asked

Himiko broke away from the hug, before nodding. 

“I’d like that.” 

Chapter Text

It had been two months since his last opportunity. 

Two months since that wretched girl had been freed from Tartarus. The news had told him that she’d been adopted by the Number 2 and Number 4 heroes, Hawks and Mirko.

And it just made Rikiya Yotsubashi hate her even more. 

The man was formerly feared as the general of the Meta Liberation Army, Re-Destro. Now people just called him “Goodwill Doofenshmirtz.” He hated it. He hated being the one people laughed at, instead of the one who laughed. 

“Well, no more!” He said under his breath. “I will get out of here, and finally destroy that girl. I must avenge my dear Chitose.” 

The door to his cell opened, and two guards stepped in. 

“Mr Yotsubashi, we’ve received orders for…” 

CLANG!!

Re-Destro smashed his quirk-restricting bracelets against the crest on the man’s helmet, chuckling in satisfaction when they shattered. His body began to swell, as his quirk activated. More guards rushed in as alarms rang throughout the whole prison. Re-Destro threw a punch, sending a half dozen men flying into a wall. 

“Finally! No more will my gift be contained!” He yelled as he ran through the hall, passing dozens of cells, each containing criminals. Serial killers, human WMDs, and more, each yelling at Re-Destro to break them out. He ignored them, focusing on one thing. 

“I need enough momentum. Can’t stop running. 

He charged through the hallway, bracing himself, before smashing through the reinforced walls, landing in the water, before climbing onto a boat. 

“Hey! Get back to your cell!” The guard on the boat said. Re-Destro grabbed him, and flung him off into the water, before deflating and turning the boat on. This was it. He was finally free, and able to escape that wretched prison. He drove the boat to a secluded harbor, where he was met by some of his men. 

“Sir, we’ve secured the area for you.” One man said as the other scanned the area for anyone following him. 

“Good, good, very good.” He said, stepping out of the boat and walking into the hidden bunker. He changed out of the prison uniform he was wearing, instead donning a striped suit, before getting into his car, a luxurious sports car. 

“Secure the area, make sure this gets covered up out of sight for the news.” He said.

”Sir, where are you going?” One of the mercenaries asked. 

Re-Destro smirked. “To my house. I have  few things to take care of there before we begin to reform the Army.” He said, before driving away. 

After an hour long drive, Re-Destro arrived at a small town outside of Saitama Prefecture, called Morioh. He was easily able to spot his house, a villa in the northeast section of the small town. He felt strangely nostalgic as he drove through the streets he grew up on, reminiscing of a time before he became fanatically obsessed with the free use of all quirks. He pulled into the driveway of his house, noting the presence of another car there. 

“No matter.” He said to himself. “If the owner refuses to leave, I’ll simply kill him.” 

He got out of his car and knocked on the door. After a few moments, a middle aged man with spiky black hair answered the door. 

“Can I help you?” The man asked. 

Re-Destro smiled politely. “Hello there, my name is Rikiya Yotsubashi. May I know your name?” 

The man returned the polite smile. “I am Kosaku Kowajiri. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” 

“Likewise. I’m going to keep this brief. This is my house, and I’d like it back.” 

“Oh? Well, I’m sorry, sir, but I have no intention of relinquishing this property. I’m quite fond of it, I’m sure you understand.” 

Re-Destro chuckled. “Oh, I really don’t.” He said as he began to swell. Suddenly, the man held his hand up, and pressed his thumb to the middle knuckle of his index finger.

“What the…” was all Re-Destro could say before  small lump of clay exploded beside his head, instantly knocking him unconscious. 

When he woke up, the man had changed his appearance, removing his black wig, and revealing his blonde hair underneath. Re Destro was tied to a chair with ropes and zip ties with razor blades that bit into his wrists.

”As I said, I am quite fond of this place. It’s just what I want.” The man said. 

“What?! Who are you? What do you want?” Re-Destro asked.

The man smirked. “I’ll spell it out for you, as you won’t be alive long enough to spill my secrets.” He said. 

“My name is Yoshikage Kira. I'm 33 years old. My house is in the northeast section of Morioh, where all the villas are, and I am not married. I work as an employee for the Kame Yu department stores, and I get home every day by 8 PM at the latest. I don't smoke, but I occasionally drink. I'm in bed by 11 PM, and make sure I get eight hours of sleep, no matter what. After having a glass of warm milk and doing about twenty minutes of stretches before going to bed, I usually have no problems sleeping until morning. Just like a baby, I wake up without any fatigue or stress in the morning. I was told there were no issues at my last check-up. I'm trying to explain that I'm a person who wishes to live a very quiet life. I take care not to trouble myself with any enemies, like winning and losing, that would cause me to lose sleep at night. That is how I deal with society, and I know that is what brings me happiness. Although, if I were to fight I wouldn't lose to anyone.”

Re-Destro scowled, but he didn’t dare to move, or risk his hands being sawed off by the razor blades. “How did you make that clay explode? Is it a quirk? A bomb hidden inside?” 

Kira smirked. “Some would call it that. About two months ago, I was given the exact tool I needed to ensure my life remains peaceful and quiet. I call it the Killer Queen. It allows me to transform anything I touch into an explosive. It’s right here beside me, but I’ve learned that no one else is able to see it.”

“Why are you telling me all of this? I’m Re-Destro, the General of the Meta Liberation Army! You think these blades are enough to hold me?! I’ll break through them in an instant!” Re-Destro. 

Kira nodded in agreement. “Maybe, maybe you will.” He said, before leaning forward. “But Killer Queen has already touched you.” 

Re-Destro couldn’t get any words out before he exploded, combusting spontaneously and leaving no trace that he ever was there.

Chapter Text

Himiko woke up like any other day. She got dressed, brushed her teeth, combed her hair, and walked downstairs. She ate breakfast with her parents, like any other day. 

“So, today you’re gonna meet up with your friends to try and find more Stand Users?” Mirko asked. 

Himiko nodded. “Yep. We’re gonna see if we can find anyone else who survived the virus. Hopefully we can add at least one Stand user to the group.” 

Mirko nodded, and Hawks patted her on the back. 


“Well, good luck with that, kiddo. Be home by 10:00 PM, at the latest.” He said. 

Himiko rolled her eyes. “Of course I will, Dad. Bye. Love you both!” 

“Love you more!” Both parents said in unison as Himiko exited the apartment. 

Josuke and Johnny met her in the lobby, and they walked out together. 

“What’ve you been up to, Himiko?” Josuke asked. 

“Oh, just doing some online school, helping my parents around the house. Really just normal teenager stuff. Dad says it’ll help me get used to regular human life, as opposed to living on the streets and fighting for my life every day.” Himiko replied.

Josuke winced. “That sounds rough. Sorry you had to go through that.” He said. 

Himiko shrugged. “I’m alive, aren’t I? And my parents are absolute gems, they’re so kind to me.” She said. 

“That’s really good. I’m lucky to have amazing parents myself. My mom especially is great.” 

Johnny smiled. “You two are lucky. All I’ve got is my cousin Joseph. He’s great, but he’s also very…” 

“Dim?” Josuke asked. 

“Oh no, he’s really smart. He even invented his own martial arts technique. He’s just very… energetic. And he’s half British.” Johnny said. 

“You’re half American.” Josuke said. 

“If you remember, those two countries had a bit of a feud a few centuries back.” Himiko said. 

“It’s more of a joke between us, so it’s not really that big of a deal.” Johnny said. “He’s really great, we just tease each other.” 

The three friends continued to chat while they walked through the city, until they came to the center of the city, where screens displayed advertisements and snippets of popular TV shows all around them. 

“This place never ceases to amaze me.” Himiko said. “So many lights, so many people trying to get you to buy their junk.” 

“You really haven’t had a normal childhood and it shows.” Josuke said. 

“Hey! Let me enjoy the pretty lady trying to sell me shampoo that’ll turn my hair to dust after 5 uses!” Himiko said as she gazed upwards at the billboards. Suddenly, every single one of them turned to a news channel. The headline reads, 

Terrorist Group Leader Re-Destro Escaped, Currently Missing.

”We interrupt your day to bring you urgent news.” The reporter said, standing outside of a massive hole in Tartarus’ wall. 

“Former leader of the Meta Liberation Army, Re-Destro, escaped from prison this morning. We have police and tracking dogs out on the search as we speak. If anyone sees this man, any information given will be rewarded generously.” Another reporter said. 

Himiko’s face turned pale. 

“Re-Destro. Leader of the MLA. He was married to… Curious. That reporter who…” she said, as she fell to her knees, her PTSD kicking into high gear. Johnny immediately put a hand on her back. 

“Are you ok? Does this guy mean anything to you?” He asked. 

“He’s coming. He’s coming for me. Because I killed her…” Himiko muttered frantically. 

“You killed who? What’s going on?” Josuke asked. 

Himiko breathed deeply, calming herself, before answering. 

“Back when I was… confused about life, there was this woman called Chitose Kizuki, also known as the MLA general Curious. She had the power to turn whatever she touched into an explosive. She wanted to interview me, twist my story… she tried to kill me, make me a martyr. That’s what sells good. I turned the knife on her.” She said, shuddering violently from the memories. 

“Oh… I’m sorry. I didn’t know.” Josuke said. 

“If he comes for you, I’ll make sure he doesn’t lay a finger on you. If he does, Tusk and I will gun him down where he stands.” Johnny said. 

Himiko looked up at her friends. 

“Thank you, you guys. You’re… you’re good friends.” 

“Hey, what’s the saying? Birds of a feather flock together. We protect our own when they can’t do it themselves.” Josuke said. 

“We’re here for you, Himiko. You aren’t alone anymore.” Johnny added. 

Himiko smiled gently. 

“You’re right. I’m not alone anymore.” 

Just then, a new reporter appeared on the screens.

”This just in. A device implanted in Re-Destro’s body has revealed that he was killed by an incendiary device. That’s right. Re-Destro was killed by an explosion just outside of Saitama Prefecture, in a town called Morioh. The assassination lines up 15 other disappearances in the past two months, located in the same town. You heard it here first, folks. We have a serial killer on the loose. One who leaves no trace of their murders.” 

Himiko’s eyes widened even further. 

“Wait… he was killed by an explosion?” 

Josuke was also shocked 

“Hey, that’s my hometown! That’s where Mom and I lived before we moved here!” 

Johnny looked up at the two of them. 

“A serial killer who leaves no trace of their murders? That sounds incredibly dangerous.” 

Himiko thought to herself for a moment. 

Could it be? No, no it can’t… I watched her fall to her death. She’s definitely dead. It has to be someone else with explosive powers. 

“What are the chances it’s a Stand user?” Josuke asked. 

Himiko paused. That was a plausible answer. If the serial killer was using a Stand, then no one would be able to see them committing the murders. To anyone else, they’d just be a regular person walking by. 

“It’s possible.” She said contemplatively, still running things around in her head. 

“I want to investigate.” Josuke said. “If the killer resides in Morioh, I want them taken care of and fast. That’s my town. Those are my friends. I can’t allow it.” 

Johnny put a hand on his shoulder. 

“Your determination is honorable. I’ll come with, in case you need a backup shooter. Himiko, you coming with?”

Himiko looked at her friends’ determined faces. They wanted to do good, to help others. That was admirable. She clenched her fist and nodded twice. 

“You bet I do! Let’s go to Morioh and find this Faceless Serial Killer!