Chapter Text
"...Just try not to stress too much about it." Saitama can see a bit of himself in this kid, and pats him on his head. "And maybe, maybe you'll be okay. Then life won't be so troublesome, so boring, so... so lifeless."
"Like you?" He looks at Shigeo, who is intently looking at him, concern in his eyes. "You're lonely. ...You don't want to be stuck in this loop."
“...Shigeo?”
“I can tell that you’re trying not to let me know what will happen if I keep having these powers.” The young esper glances to the hero, “You told me having a lot of power was boring, that you don’t have a challenge.”
“Well-”
“I know how it feels. A… bit,” Shigeo muses. “I got my brother and my friends out of trouble. My mentor was about to sacrifice himself- all because he didn’t want me to use my powers while everyone else did. ...I guess you can also say they were also expecting me to take up a challenge that I might not have wanted to deal with since I’ve had to do it… a few times before.” Shigeo recalls the fight with Teruki- his powers had overspilled. He didn’t know what had happened, but he was upset. Then the fight with Ekubo- it had taken a lot of his anger to defeat said God. But-
“A few times- look, Shigeo, I hate to ask or bring up any bad memories…” Saitama winces to see Shigeo look at him with a nervous look in his eyes. “...How exactly did you beat them?”
“I don’t know. With Ekubo, it was with one punch. ...Or a few. With Teruki- I don’t recall. All I know is that I can’t use my powers. Then… well, Reigen just took those guys head on.” He stifles a laugh, recalling how the sword got snapped in the fair haired man’s hand, “It… was amazing. Seeing how I can deal with things without killing anyone. I just- maybe I just wanted that challenge- to see what I can do- by myself.” Then he faces to Saitama, “Didn’t you tell me people can’t tell me when and how to use my powers?”
Saitama nods, vaguely recalling that (but it’s familiar).
“Can’t you tell that to the other people you know?” Shigeo asks-
-to see Saitama shake his head.
"It’s… not that easy to tell a hero how to use his powers." Saitama lets out a small, bitter chuckle as he looks down at the ground. "I can't say all of that to anyone. ...They won't think the same after all of that. Not even to Genos. He looks... up to me, expecting me to teach him so much. What can I teach? Whatever I say or do, he does it... but he's nineteen, he should be looking up to others, not someone like... Well, what the hell am I doing? I'm of no influence to him."
"Saitama-san?"
"Genos is a nice kid. ...Though he can be rash, he's now in my life- he puts up with a lot of my crap." Saitama sighs, “...He knows how I got strong, but he swears it’s something else. I don’t know how to say it-”
“It is real.” Shigeo frowns, “Your powers aren’t manipulated.”
“I’m glad to know you can tell.” The hero places his hand against his arm- “That- I’m happy to know. And for you to understand. Your powers- you were born with them, right?”
Shigeo nods.
“It’s really hard to explain… if it’s naturally infused as your only mechanism. The powers we have- the limits we both have to place on ourselves. It’s really hard at times-” He looks at his hands, “-to restrain my own strength. I really envy you for having a cap, Shigeo. You know when you’re about to release it all- on an enemy. Me…” He pauses before sighing. “I’m just someone who just wants a challenge. Instead- what do I have?”
“From what you told me earlier,” The hero looks up at Shigeo. "You have Genos, right? And- Who else do you know aside from Genos?"
"Ah..." Saitama muses before looking back down. "...Well, for one, you remind me of a more- contained Fubuki. The one I asked about the first time we met-"
"Who is she?" Shigeo asks. "I know you mentioned she's another esper..."
The bald man nods, "A powerful one too. ...And she's a bit like you- in a way. Trying to get stronger, though in her own way, which is different from yours. She’s trying to be as strong as her sister- who is a really powerful esper. ...Don’t try talking to her, she’s a real brat.”
“Oh.” Shigeo blinks, “Why?”
Saitama stares. “...Kid, there are certain people you do not want to talk to. If you want to talk to an esper, talk to Fubuki. She’s much more fun to prod than that older sister of hers. That green-haired esper is just hell to deal with.”
“...Oh.” From the sound of it already, this Fubuki is strong. ...But this Tatsumaki sounds like an absolute threat. If someone gives off a really dangerous vibe to Saitama, then… well, is the best cue for Shigeo to avoid said esper at all costs. “...So yes to Fubuki- no to Tatsumaki?”
“Yup.” And hopefully said green haired brat won’t argue with Shigeo about being a good esper… Saitama might not want to admit this, but something tells him Shigeo might be… on a lower par than Tatsumaki if the two ever meet.
(He really… really hopes it’s not going to happen!)
“...Another esper?” Ritsu stares at Fubuki, their voices really low so the two don’t catch them eavesdropping. “You’re the younger sister??”
“Tatsumaki is number two in the heroes ranking- she is in the same league as Genos, King, and Zombieman.” Fubuki waves to the three men. “She is more powerful than you and me combined.”
“...Well, small world then,” Reigen muses with mild interest before staring at the others. “Say, have any of you met this Tatsumaki before?”
This time, Genos narrows his eyes, recalling how he was slammed against a concrete rubble for insulting her. “...I’d rather not like to talk about it.” Tatsumaki has the temper to boot- “All I can say is that she is rather biting and insulting despite her great powers.”
“Ugh. And don’t mention her size.” King mentally recalls that- how most heroes tend to be on the brunt end of Tatsumaki’s wrath. “I’m just glad Saitama hasn’t tried to fight her.”
“But what about her abilities?” Reigen pesters on. “How- is she compared to Mob?”
“It’s Shigeo, idiot!” Ritsu hisses.
“Whatever!”
“She’s pretty strong.” Zombieman responds, recalling seeing her powers live in person. “...To the point where she claimed that she summoned a meteor from space just to get rid of a monster.”
Ekubo and Reigen nearly drop their cigarettes after hearing that. Ritsu stares at him, really baffled.
Fubuki sighs, shaking her head in second-hand embarrassment as King warily stares at Genos, who groans. The cyborg knows the story’s been confirmed (one associate cracked that maybe Tatsumaki summoned that meteor shower- the one Saitama destroyed).
Then King mutters, “...Yeah, let that sink in, and know that Saitama might be right about dealing with Tatsumaki.”
"Then there's that Zombieguy-”
“Zombieguy?” Shigeo asks before scrunching his face a bit. “Is that his real name?”
(Within hearing distance, Reigen and Ekubo are trying not to stifle their laughter as Zombieman shoots a dirty glare at a certain bald hero for getting his name wrong. Genos, Fubuki, and King are trying not to laugh either (Genos is just smugly relieved Saitama doesn’t know his name). Ritsu stares at the adults and just sighs, mentally hoping he isn’t going to be that… immature.)
“...No, I think he’s one of the heroes- I think the real name’s Zombieman.” Saitama pauses, “Oh! The one who can regenerate! Every time he gets severely injured, he manages to reform his limbs and heals-”
"Whoa!" This kicks Shigeo's attention into gear. "Regeneration? I don't think espers can do that-”
“...Espers can heal?” Saitama doesn’t want to get into that branch of… confusing medical logic. (Not that he’s seen one.)
“But- really? That’s… awesome!” Shigeo is in awe over hearing about the new esper, a possible hero to Saitama, and then this guy- “How? How can he do it?"
“It’s… I don’t know, maybe some mutation thing. I don’t know how he got the regeneration ability.” He sees Shigeo still in awe, murmuring about that possibility of a regenerating esper.
“That’s- really cool!” Shigeo pauses, “Just like some of the animes that I watch- that ability must be awesome to have!”
“I really don’t think so, it takes a couple of minutes just to grow this damned arm back.” Zombieman groans at the amount of adoration coming from the young esper as this time Fubuki titters in amusement and Genos warily stares at King (since said duo had seen Zombieman fight- once).
“So, how did you get your powers, anyway?” Reigen is that curious. Ekubo also gives the pale man a wary look before grumbling about no way in hell was he going to try and possess the hero to sate his curiosity. Ritsu warily stares at the possessed man in turn.
“...Tch. Don’t want to talk about it.” Zombieman grumbles.
"Eh. I don't know, but it's awesome having regenerative abilities." Saitama smiles, feeling the worry lift off the young boy's shoulders for once, "I saw him fight once- it wasn't bad compared to... well, Genos is strong in his own way too. I mean- he does have to get repairs since his arms and legs keep falling off and all-"
"Wait, what?" Shigeo stares, "Is Genos- human?"
"What? He is!" Saitama then blinks before sighing, "...Well, he is. To me. Genos is a cyborg-"
"A cyborg too?" Shigeo gasps, earning Saitama's look of surprise, "Aside from another esper- you know an actual zombie- and a cyborg? And you fought an actual alien??"
"Um." All the bald man can do is to slowly nod, "...yeah? I do know another awesome guy- King, you… Ah, wait, you don’t live here. I forgot that.”
“What does he do?” Shigeo asks.
"He... is a good friend of mine." Saitama muses before he chuckles, recalling despite having a lack of physical fighting and no courage, "Oh! He does have great gamer skills- actually, do you like video games?"
“Yeah?” Teruki offered him time and time again to play games at his place. Those were fun. (It’s mostly fighting games, but Teruki seemed really excited when Shigeo asked for help in controllers and all). “Is he good?”
"King's literally the best- at every game. ...and actually I can't even beat him. Not once." Saitama warily laughs, "Man, I think I owe him lots of controllers."
“You- whoa, seriously? Why?”
“He’s just that good!” Saitama pauses before groaning, “Arrrggghhh, I think I owe him about twelve controllers…”
“Twelve!?”
“...Twelve controllers.” Ritsu stares at the man before staring back at King. “...What do you do that makes him break that many?”
“Yeah. ...That happens on occasion when I beat Saitama in any fighting game.” King chuckles, recalling the amount of frustration in Saitama’s face when King ekes out a combo at the very last moment to save his skin. “It isn’t that bad.”
“...You beat us in a contracted game when I tried making Saitama join.” Fubuki murmurs, recalling how humiliating that experience had been- Zombieman does a double-take at that along with Reigen. “That was already a part of your powers, King.”
“....You think?” The otaku grumbles, not wanting to get into the entire mishap about Saitama should be rewarded with the things King has been hailed for, his actions being mistaken for someone else’s.... “Genos, you’ve seen it in person, right?”
“Well,” Genos muses, “While I understand why Sensei sticks to you as a friend and comrade in gaming, and due to a mutual understanding when it comes to all things normal- or what you define as normal- it still bothers me that you haven’t unleashed your full potential as the hero you are rewarded with and most likely you’re still hiding your abilities just like Sensei-”
“Okay, forget I asked.” King groans. As much as he is mentally thanking Saitama for keeping his real cowardly side a secret, maybe he should let Saitama know it’s a good idea to let some select people know too so there are no misunderstandings. “...Beats fighting for real. Really.”
“So you’re the grandioso in video games, eh?” Reigen smirks smugly, “So- how about we both try a round of a fighting game- mano a mano?”
King lifts up his hand, not looking forward to fighting with the man who tried to talk his way out of fighting. “No thanks. I think I’ll let Saitama have that chance against you.”
“Ah come on-”
“SHHH!” Ritsu and Ekubo forcibly silence the duo. Genos, Fubuki, and Zombieman frantically hush King as they had just heard-
“Um, did you hear something?” Saitama stares at one area in the park- Shigeo stares at it too before shaking his head. “...Nah, it might be something that lives here.”
“In a public park?” Shigeo stares before responding, “...That’s awesome.”
“...That something is living in the park!?” Saitama is baffled- but Shigeo shakes his head, stifling a soft laugh.
“Noooo… your life! You- your friends and everything! It sounds like you are literally living a hero’s life in a television show!”
Saitama stares at the esper going, “What. ...Wait a sec, what!?”
“Because you’re a hero, right?” The young esper blurts out with excitement, making Saitama stare at the esper. “You actually live like the heroes I see on television every day! You are just like the heroes I see- and then you have people who have these awesome abilities that can help!”
Saitama stares- before he bursts into laughter at the irony in this, earning Shigeo’s stare. “...Please tell me you just… you didn’t just say that you actually want to live my life. Do you have any idea… what it’s really like to live from my perspective?”
“Is it like what you did when you first punched that monster?” The hero shakes his head, making Shigeo lost. “...Then…”
“I think it’s like what you said earlier, about what you really see coming from me.” Saitama responds, looking at the sky this time, “I… don’t have anything going for me- a challenge. Anything that’ll- well, make what I do for a living exciting. Those people I just mentioned? They're all heroes." Saitama gives a small, gentle smile. "All of them have better chances of being known.”
“Saitama-san?”
“I don’t know what Zombieman’s reason is. King- well, let’s just say he’s misunderstood. Fubuki wants to be strong in her own way. Genos is the way he is because he wants to get back at someone who destroyed his village. I know plenty of other people who could have a better reason than me to be an actual hero. Me? ...I’m a guy who wants to be a hero for fun.” The bald man has been musing on these facts a few times in his life- especially when he joined the Association. “I don’t get it- are those guys with me because of how strong I am? If that’s the case… then, well, I should’ve figured that from the start. I mean- that’s why Genos wanted to be my student. He just wanted to get strong. I told him how I did- but he thinks it’s something else.”
Shigeo blinks before processing this, then-
"...I think they know who you really are, Saitama-san," Shigeo hums. "You're nice. Gentle, kind, and really strong. But you're also humble."
"Shigeo?"
"I think," Shigeo beams a small smile, "They sound like good people. You should be with them more, Saitama-san. You might need it. And you don't say it- but you worry about them since you come and fight with them. Care for them too- I mean, you do care a lot for this Genos guy- you just don't like to say it." Then the boy tilts his head a bit before musing, "Which reminds me- Saitama-san, you talk a lot more about Genos than everyone else."
"...And?" So he talks a lot about Genos. He lives with the brat, damn it. "What's your point?"
“You also mentioned that he gets hurt a lot- and you looked really sad when you mentioned that he needs to get repairs a lot.” The esper continues his slow trail of hearing. “Then when you said that Genos is a cyborg and that he’s more human to you than anyone else. You look like you want to say that to him, but you can’t. Then when you told him how you got strong, you look frustrated and-”
"Okay, I get I said all of that! Shigeo, what are you trying to say?" Saitama has this really bad feeling about what direction Shigeo could be thinking-
The young esper blinks, reaching his conclusion. "So, Saitama-san... based on all of that…. and the way you sounded when you told me all of this…”
…
...
...Uh oh.
Maybe… Saitama might’ve blurted more than he would’ve liked. The hero pales a bit, sensing that perhaps there is another reason why Shigeo reminds him so much of Fubuki-
Shigeo tilts his head, a small grin reaching him as he senses how suddenly frightened Saitama looks. “Does this mean you like-"
"S-Shut up, brat!" Saitama huffs, turning away from Shigeo to hide his real expression before that kid can say anything else. The hero is honestly scared about confirming that since- okay, it could possibly be true, it might be true, it- oh for fuck's sake, is he just confirming this right now!?
(What's worse is that he's really scared Genos might reject him- thinking of him only as a teacher- as someone to help him find his strength. ...Why does this make his life a bit harder than it needs to be?!)
"J-Just don't repeat this to anyone else, okay!?" The hero covers his face with his right hand- his left forcing Shigeo to not look at him or pry his hand off with his powers. "I-I mean it!"
The young esper giggles, spying that the tips of Saitama's ears are red. "Okay, Saitama-san. I won't tell anyone."
“YOU- YOU BETTER!”
Silence fell on the four heroes while-
"Did- Did Mob just...?" Reigen feels a bit proud- that Shigeo has rubbed a bit off from him on the talking part- he knew Shigeo is a bit awkward. But it seems recently his oration skills developed- especially after the CLAW incident. “...I am so proud of Mob…!”
“All because he stated what he just heard?” Ekubo dryly deadpans, but he can’t help but feel a bubble of pride that Shigeo can actually use his words to talk to someone and affect them in his own honest way. “Heh. Shigeo’s actually getting guts this time. I’m impressed.”
“Nii-san…” Ritsu softly smiles before glancing to see Fubuki look at the esper in surprise. “...what?”
“Did Shigeo- your brother- know what he just told Saitama?” Fubuki murmurs softly to the young boy, “If I heard it-”
“I can sense it too, from your friend,” Ritsu confirms that he had a felt a spike of embarrassment and ...fear? Nah, the fear will pass, but the lingering realization the bald man has just had is going to remain there for… a while. “I don’t think we should… no, not when my nii-san’s helping him.” A faint proud smile graces Ritsu’s face.
Fubuki softly smiles back, winking at the young boy, “I agree.”
“Did- did Sensei mention something that I just missed?” Genos asks in surprise- he had been (recording- no, he’s not going to admit to anyone he has been recording the things his sensei says or does because it might be a key to his unlimited power) listening to what Saitama said when he sees Saitama suddenly turn away, red in his ears and-
-Oh holy hell, what did this Shigeo do to his sensei just now to make him react like that!? Has he insulted his Sensei- or worse!?
Genos doesn’t see King perk up before silently slapping his hand against his face- Zombieman shakes his head and bows it, muttering something about ‘oblivious idiot’ and something else about a different way of getting the Teacher’s attention now. He also ignores the now interested stares from Reigen, Ekubo, and the amused stare from Fubuki-
-and the irritable whirring in his chest that began when Saitama told Genos he was meeting up with a friend this morning intensifies.
Sensei? Did- Immediately, he feels a sharp tug on himself before grimacing. Ritsu’s power is forcing him to stay put instead of rushing over to grab his sensei. He glares at the young boy and is about to push him back when-
“You know,” Ritsu bluntly states, daring Genos to break out of his mental hold. “I admire my brother. I really do. And the fact that you’re about to intervene at that one good moment when I realize why I want to be like my nii-san is getting me irritated.”
“Tch-!” Then he glances to Fubuki, who has this ‘don’t-you-dare-intervene’ look on her face, “...Fubuki-”
“I am not going to tell you what Saitama or Shigeo just said,” The esper responds. “So Saitama should let you know what he said, on his own terms.”
“What?” Genos hisses, not expecting this at all-
-and the same goes for the rest of them.
“Um. Hey, I hate to ask,” King mutters, “But… since when do you both work with each other?”
“Since now.” Fubuki and Ritsu respond at the same time, causing an immense chill to wave over the group, including Genos, who has also realized that two espers are now working with each other in some mutual communication-
Ekubo and Zombieman shoot a stare at King as if they didn’t want him to reveal that lovely information.
“...Um. It’s… official.” Reigen mutters, pale in the face. “I think hell’s crossed over.”
“Oh?” Fubuki smirks, eyes glinting at the thought of a challenge. “Would you like me to show you what hell really is?”
“Not from you! I already get that from Ritsu on a daily basis!” Reigen sputters, pointing to Ekubo in panic. “He’ll gladly volunteer-”
“Oh fuck no! I’ve experienced hell, thank you very much! It’s called being trapped in that stupid jar with evil spirits! Why don’t you try it for fun, you stupid con artist!” Ekubo barks back, feeling a vein pop from his head.
“No thank you, I’d like to keep my sanity the way it is.” The fair-haired man smugly responds, earning Ekubo’s middle finger salute.
“...Does this happen often?” King warily asks Ritsu, who just nods. “Man, what life do you all live in?”
“Oh, so do all of you want to know now?” Ritsu pipes up, a look of fake surprise crossing his face. “I mean, I can gladly give you all an idea what my Nii-san has to deal with-”
“No thanks, I think dealing with a few sadistic-minded heroes and monsters is good enough for all of us.” King and Zombieman are quick to respond, a mental image of Tatsumaki popping up in their heads at the same time. ...That along with an infuriated Genos. (Both are not good things at all.)
Reigen shakes his head, mentally clearing all fears of pissing off Ritsu and Fubuki in the same place, then turns to Genos. “So, metal boy.” He rolls his eyes over the glare at the name. "...So what are you going to tell him when you see your teacher later? He did… pretty much imply that he wants you to at least respect him.”
Genos stops in his attempts to break free from Ritsu’s invisible restraints before the words Saitama spoke flit through his head-
-then he closes his eyes. “...I chose to be with Sensei for several reasons. Strength is one, but…” He pauses, realizing the other reasons why he is still with Saitama, as his roommate, disciple, his… friend (or more?). “...Sensei has been kind. Nice. Courageous. ...Humble. Generous. ...Someone to honestly rely on. He’s someone… I have not met before in my life next to Doctor Kuseno.” There is a part of him that has gotten used to Saitama’s ticks and flaws, something that flows so easily with him despite all contrary thoughts from fans and other judgemental heroes who don’t know a thing about Saitama. “He… is a genuine hero. I have dealt with his everyday behaviors on a daily basis- yet they are normal… charming to me. I guess- you can say I’ve gotten used to him as a person… and a hero.”
“Kind of like Mob, all right,” Reigen quietly murmurs, recalling how only Shigeo can get him to open up at times when even Ritsu couldn’t crack him- nor even Ekubo. “...Though it sounds like this Saitama is a decent guy after all.”
“He’s much more than decent- he’s extraordinary!”
“Hence why we stick to him.” Zombieman quietly chuckles, earning King and Fubuki’s nod of agreement.
“Huh. ...I’m interested to know why my brother’s attached to him though.” Ritsu muses, hearing the two of them laugh over something- for the first time, he sees Shigeo get along with someone who looks… really normal.
Maybe that’s it…? Ritsu does sense this Saitama is hiding a bit of something-
"As great as these moments were," Ekubo calmly states, "...You all realize you missed out on the part when the two said they're going to talk about this again another time?"
Silence. Then with a more baffled-
“What!?” (Genos, Ritsu, Fubuki, King, Zombieman, Reigen.)
Ekubo continues, mentally relieved that Shigeo has a decent person to talk to- aside from him. "Meaning... we're going to have to deal with all of you. And when I mean that- I mean having to put up with the rest of you- and hopefully not when we trail behind those two again! I am going to bet if either of the two find out we heard everything they said, they will gladly kill us!”
There was a silence that overwhelms the rest as they consider what the spirit had just said… and the possible dread of Shigeo going full 100% with absolute fury and/or Saitama getting pissed off that they invaded their privacy (and time) and stalked them (for a not-so worthy cause).
(Trust King to know first hand how it feels to have his controllers broken at the brunt end of Saitama’s sheer irritation. So does Genos- who has witnessed Saitama as an angry hero while beating up a monster.)
“You know this would also mean we might be introduced to each other-” King pipes up. “I mean- if either of them decides to bring us along for whatever they plan to do again.”
“...Point taken.” Reigen sighs, a bit resigned to the fact that he’ll have to come face to face to talk to Saitama sooner or later. "Eh, I don't mind- as long as you keep all of your weapons and powers down and all, maybe… I won’t mind Mob talking to this Saitama as much. Though seriously, hero work actually exists in this city?”
“Get used to it.” Genos, Fubuki, King, and Zombieman deadpan to the fair-haired man at the same time.
Ritsu and Ekubo, on the other hand, silently snicker as they feel Reigen glaring at them for not helping whatsoever.
“Whew… thanks, Shigeo.” The esper wipes his eyes from laughter- the two were just comparing how horrible the clouds look right now- which alleviated and lightened up the mood after their talk. "...We both have crap to deal with, huh." He looks to see Saitama looking up at the skies again. "You and me- we might not look like it, but the issues we have are the same. ...A bit. Maybe."
"At least I'm not bored like you." Shigeo quirks, seeing the hero frown over that. "You're sounding like a man in a mid-life crisis-"
"Okay, I get that!" Saitama groans, tempted to smack this kid's head, but nope, he doesn't even want to think about the recuperations of that. "You don't have to say that twice!"
“And that you’re bald…” Shigeo giggles, causing Saitama to groan, but the hero hides a smile, glad to know at least Shigeo is not stressed out as much. “Wait, you’re not offended by that?”
“Not by you. You’re just a brat. ...No way in hell would I want to get offended just for your safe.” Saitama chuckles, gently patting Shigeo’s shoulders, “Thanks again for hearing me out.”
“Oh? You’re welcome. ...The same from me to you.” Shigeo then blinks, an idea coming to his head, “Actually, Saitama-san? Can I try working out with you next time?"
A pause. Then, "...Eh?"
"...Eh?" Six voices chorus at the same time.
King only facepalms, muttering about two dense people sharing the gene of not understanding what they are getting themselves into.
"You know! I want to get strong- I want to work out!" Shigeo gestures to himself. "I'm in the bodybuilder club!"
"...Oh gee." Saitama groans, recalling that Shigeo did mention he wanted to do that. "Why would you want to ask me to help? You have your club leader, right?"
“Because… well, I might need help with…” The young boy indicates to his muscles by lifting his arms. “I’m not that built for running ...even though I’m getting faster.”
“Isn’t that a good thing?”
“Well, not just that-” Shigeo muses, “I think my mentor showed me a video the other day. Of people doing some… feng shui or something- he said it can help with my powers. ...Or controlling them, at least.”
Saitama slaps his hand against his own face, muttering, “Feng Shui is not exercising, are you freaking kidding me!? What mentor do you have!?”
“...Well, it’s Reigen.” Shigeo (helpfully) quips, “I mean, I have to get my body better… somehow.”
"Ah. Look, Feng Shui is some form of art, not exercising- look, I do know a master that can help ...with the working out part." The hero mentally winces, knowing how notorious Bang is at shaping up people. "So… if you want, how about I get him to help?"
"Who?"
"Do you know Silver Fang?"
“...Wait, who???” Reigen asks.
"Oh no." King groans, earning Ritsu and Ekubo's stare.
"Silver... Fang?"
"Ah, right," Saitama mentally kicks himself for forgetting Shigeo doesn't live here. "He's this old guy who knows martial arts. Maybe I can ask him to help you get stronger."
"Okay, sure. Wait, strong like how you are?" Shigeo asks in surprise. "You saved me that day- from the monster- and then you defeated it in one punch!"
The hero can't help but mentally think this is such... horrendous timing to point out that he hates defeating monsters with one punch. That and-
“Um. ...did I ever tell you how I actually- got my powers?” Saitama is not sure how Shigeo would take (literally) to his workout routine of the 100 pushups, 100 situps, 100 squats, and running 10 kilos every single day. “Because…. it’s really not- that easy.” Especially for a kid like Shigeo!
Shigeo shakes his head, really wanting to know.
“Um. ...No. I’m not going to tell you.”
“What!? Why not??”
“Too complicated.” Saitama quickly dismisses it. “So, how were the crepes?”
“You’re dodging the subject- what was it?” The esper is a bit… too eager to know about the source of Saitama’s powers. “Come on! Please??”
“No!” And besides- wouldn’t his training literally kill the kid!? (And get on his family's terrible side?)
...Well, maybe if he started out small, Shigeo would be able to catch up- but still, not yet!
“So, um, hey, how about we walk around a bit more?” Saitama stands up, hearing Shigeo’s indignant exclamation over not answering his question. “It’s not good to sit around the park all day.”
“Saitama-san! You’re deliberately avoiding that training question!” Shigeo pouts a bit before seeing the hero give him a slight wary smile. “I’m serious!”
“Sorry, brat, but you’re not ready for it,” Saitama chuckles. “Seriously- I’ll answer that later. I promise.”
The esper blinks, a slight reassuring moment that he’ll have his answer later- then Shigeo nods. “Okay.”
“Good. ...Wait, did you tell people I saved you from that monster and you repaired my cape?”
“No?” Shigeo shakes his head. “...Should I?”
“No! Never! It’ll- ah- wait, It’ll be a secret between the both of us!” Saitama manages to blurt out, “I mean- it’s not like anyone will find out that’s how we really met, right?”
“Just because you saved my life from a monster while I saved the people?” Shigeo is really lost on this- before seeing the genuine pleading from the hero’s face before he sighs. “I’m not sure why you wouldn’t tell anyone that you saved my life… But since you’re helping me train, I’ll keep it quiet.” The esper can’t help but smile a bit- seeing the absolute relief wash over Saitama’s face. “...You hate being thanked a lot, huh?”
“You have no idea…”
"T-That's WHY Shigeo hangs around with the baldy!?" Reigen nearly sputters- before four well-timed glares are aimed at him. "...Um. Saitama, right?"
"Correct." Genos growls, narrowing his eyes that promise much more than punches or incineration via lasers.
"...Not to mention you're on their shit list." Ritsu dryly mutters. "And mine."
Ekubo is trying his best not to bust out laughing (at the blonde's new predicament) before he sees King indicating to that it’s their cue to head out- the two are leaving, and so should they.
The two hold a few more conversations about their interests- from video games to watching cartoons to what school is like for the esper- along with Saitama’s education when he was in school, Shigeo’s actual work exorcising spirits, and the tamer stories of how he took care of the calmer and smaller spirits.
(Shigeo figures he’ll tell Saitama about CLAW another day. Not now- not since the events were fairly recent.)
By the time the two reached to the train station in M-City, it was around four in the afternoon.
“So, when do you want to train?” Saitama makes a note to call Bang and… well, he does owe the old man something for the lobster hot pot. What better way than to introduce Shigeo and explain his situation to Bang? “You can’t skip school just to train.”
“I know,” Shigeo hums before asking, “Not the afternoons- I’m sure Reigen wants me to… work.” A grimace escapes the middle schooler, “Though I’m starting to like club better.”
“Eh? Well, take advantage of club while you still can.” Saitama can tell Shigeo is not enjoying the line of work he does- exorcising spirits. “It might sound like you’re going to need every moment of it.”
“...I guess I can also ask Musashi about what he uses to work out too- if it helps.” Shigeo hums, “Are we meeting here again?”
“That’s fine. Hopefully no monster will appear in this city and cause trouble.” The hero mentally hopes to God there is one so that he’d try and challenge it- but then there’s the fact that it’s a frigging one-punch thing… “...Ah, okay, then again, let’s hope it doesn’t intervene with your training.” ...And he really doesn’t want to witness what would happen if Shigeo does overspill his bounds.
"So... say next weekend?" Shigeo timidly smiles.
“Yeah! Sure. Just call me when you’re on the way, okay? And be safe!” Saitama calls out, waving to Shigeo, who waves back before walking towards the train station.
Then after seeing Shigeo vanish into the crowds of people, the bald man lowers his hand before groaning, facepalming to himself.
"...Why the hell did I suggest Bang, out of all people…?" Saitama has a very... very bad feeling about this. Saitama groans. "....Fuuuuuuuuuuck. I think I just dig this kid's grave if that old man's going to help me get Shigeo stronger."
(It couldn't have come at a better time since the two of them had some stress to vent out.)
He sighs, shaking his head before taking out his cell, noting that there’s still time for him to go to the sale before looking around and begin heading to the nearest store- "Well, might as well get shopping out of-"
"Sensei!"
"Eh?" Saitama perks up before seeing Genos run towards him- a relieved smile on the cyborg's face as he joins him. "Genos? ...What are you doing here?"
"Just running some errands," Genos responds before hearing King call for him- with Fubuki behind him along with Zombieman as the three wait for him across the street. "...Then I encountered King and Fubuki along the way. ...And Zombieman."
"...Whoa," Saitama mutters in surprise. “...Since when did you decide to get out?”
“Since you asked me to get some of the sale items.” Then Genos sees Saitama confused. “...Is something the matter?”
“Where are the groceries? Ah, forget it,” Saitama shrugs, “I was going to grab some anyway- wait, did you say King and Fubuki are with you? ...And Zombieman?”
The cyborg nods.
“...Huh.” Saitama’s lips flit a small smile, catching Genos’ attention before feeling his hand pat the cyborg’s shoulder, “Genos, I’m glad to see you try and get out more-”
“Though I was engaged in other matters that had to be addressed, including how and what was taking you so long-”
“-Never mind.” Saitama lets out a slight exasperated groan, seeing that… barely anything has changed with the cyborg. He gently taps Genos, indicating they should join the others, “Ah, whatever, so Genos-”
"Sensei." Saitama stops when he feels someone grab onto his jacket, and makes a surprised face when he feels Genos holding him tighter. "...I still want to get stronger.” The words Saitama told Shigeo about him- Genos still recalls them. Then he recalls what he told Reigen- why he still sticks to Saitama despite being there for training- to be strong. “You know why. I want to make sure if you still understand my motivations- for being your student.”
Saitama blinks before letting out a small huff, closing his eyes before he turns around to the cyborg. "...Genos, I know-”
"I know I want to be strong," The cyborg continues, "But I think I know your strength within rivals your physical strength-”
"...Eh?" O-kay...? What… was Genos going on about?
That fear that Saitama had when he talked to Shigeo about Genos comes back-
"I would still like to stay- disciple or not- for other reasons!"
Saitama blinks- before a clear laugh was heard from the other man, causing Genos to blink in surprise over hearing his teacher laugh genuinely for the first time. "G-Genos... man, I'm not going to lie- I know you'd like to get strong and all-"
"But also to be with you, Sensei!"
That catches the bald man off-guard before glancing at Genos- his eyes widen a bit before he asks, “...What?”
“I can’t bear the thought of you alone. The days you had to wait for my repairs- everything you did for me… the things we do in turn in our home-” The cyborg continues, not hearing Saitama squawk over the ‘our home’ comment. “The days I can’t stand being apart from you-”
“Okay, okay, okay!” Saitama cries out in surprise, “Genos, what is your-”
“You are the best person anyone can ask to be with.” Genos manages to respond quickly, “I don’t want you looking depressed or upset.” Then he sighs. “Sensei… I have a favor to ask.”
“...Um, sure?” ...If it’s another round of training-
“The next time something troubles you- please… tell me. Tell me- so I can at least help. Listening… would do. Anything- to ease your stress. Please, Sensei.” Genos gently asks- knowing Saitama has accumulated lots of stress in the duration of his time as a hero- not that he would show it. No, Genos knows Saitama hides it all with his carefree look, the smile that hides a thousand words, the lifeless eyes that need to be lit.
And Genos would do anything to make his Sensei happy.
(Even if it involves talking to this Shigeo and finding out what exactly that boy said to his Sensei that made Saitama react so strangely.)
“Genos…” Saitama manages to murmur in shock- before sighing. “C’mon. ...Don’t want to keep the others waiting, right?”
“Sensei-” He feels Saitama tug on his arm before the two cross the street to the other three heroes, who are patiently waiting for them (though Genos spies the glare Zombieman shoots the cyborg at Saitama holding Genos’ hand- Genos smirks back, a small bubble of pride whirring in hs chest).
"Genos, thank you." Saitama quietly murmurs, causing Genos to face him as if he heard this right. “...I’ll let you know. If… I can talk about it- my troubles. ...One day.”
Sensei… Genos fights the urge to drag Saitama away and let him do it now- but he knows when to be patient. Eventually, the right day will come.
Then Saitama sighs, clearing all thoughts about earlier before facing the others. "So... what are you all up here for? I haven’t seen you all in a while." To Zombieman, he nods. “Yo.”
“Yo yourself.” Zombieman smirks back, lighting up a cigarette. “It’s been a while, Teacher.”
“What!? I’m not your teacher!” Saitama groans.
"Oh! There was this one meeting that you actually missed..." Thank GOD for King's well-timed memory kicking in. "And it was somewhat mandatory- though S-Class Heroes had to come in- hence why he was with us."
"Hmph. And how are you, Teacher?" Zombieman smirks, seeing Genos' glare aimed at him.
"...The hell are you calling me teacher for? I'm fine, by the way," Saitama shrugs before glancing to a giggling Fubuki. "What?"
"Just... thinking of other ways to meet again like this." The esper hums with amusement.
"What's... that look for?" Saitama warily asks, a sudden bad feeling creeping up to see Fubuki plotting something-
"Oh, Saitama," He sees King lift up the game Fubuki and Genos bribed him with earlier as an idea clicks in the otaku’s mind. "Want to head back to your place and play this?"
"Dude! That's limited edition- how did you get this!?" Saitama exclaims in surprise before shaking his head, "Sure! I'll gladly kick your ass, King!"
"We'll see about that..." King muses before hearing Zombieman ask about the game to Fubuki, who beings to talk about it and how it offers a four-player option. "Say, Genos, are you up for it too?"
Genos nods, for once going along for the sake of what they heard Saitama say earlier to Shigeo. And-
Sensei. You're not lonely anymore. Keep that in mind. The cyborg's eyes narrow before he gently brushes against his teacher's jacket- Saitama tenses up a bit, earning Genos' soft smile over that reaction. ...I'm here. Everyone else is here. We're... all here. For you.
"I'm home!" Shigeo calls out, checking that the time is five-thirty. Good- at least he called his mom to let her know he was on his way. Much to his surprise, his mother is relieved to hear him and lets him know curry's for dinner. Assuming that Ritsu might have some student council meeting that’s held on some Saturdays of the month, Shigeo thinks his younger brother would be at school.
...A few texts to Musashi (who was at the club for cleanup) later, the leader of the bodybuilding club reveals there was no student council meeting today, and he hasn’t seen Ritsu. Shigeo blinks at the last part of the text message, asking how Shigeo was faring on his day off from club. Softly smiling, Shigeo texts back that he’s okay, tell the other members hi, and he’ll be prepared for Monday’s training regiment.
He doesn’t know where his brother is- it’s making him worry.
"Ah, dinner will be done at seven," His mother pauses, seeing Shigeo before a soft smile crosses her features. "How was your day out?"
"It's fine." And strangely soothing- though he knew Saitama wanted to help him with the spoon thing earlier- he must've accumulated some stress from it. But it was normal- at least for now. It’s natural for him to do it when he’s stressed. "I met with a friend of mine. He's nice."
"That's good," His mother hums. "Oh- your brother's back, by the way."
"...Ah." Really? So- where was Ritsu all day? Possibly at a friend’s home for a study session or game day.
"Oh and Shigeo?" He perks up to see his mother gently pat his head, which was strange since she normally doesn't do that. "...I'm glad you're happy."
"Thanks." Shigeo softly smiles before walking towards his room, and placing his stuff away before glancing at his ticket to the train station. He hears a gentle knock at his opened door.
"Shigeo?"
Said boy blinks, looking up to see Ritsu at the door, looking a bit terse as he enters. "Oh, hey, Ritsu. What's up?" Said brother doesn't say anything- instead he walks towards Shigeo's bed and sits down, as if he is thinking about something, earning his older brother's confusion. "...Ritsu?"
"Shigeo." Ritsu's voice is softer, "...Do you hate me?"
"Huh?" Okay, that was something he wasn't expecting Ritsu to ask, "W-What? Why... what made you think that?"
The talk you had with Saitama, how you really felt when I had my abilities... Ritsu heard how upset Shigeo was earlier when he told the bald man his worries. “I have esper abilities now.”
“I know.” Shigeo hums before facing his brother. “You’ve wanted it, right?”
“I do, but…” Ritsu then sighs, recalling the first time he showed Shigeo his powers; the look on Shigeo’s face when Ritsu was kidnapped by that tall man from CLAW. The panicked look before being replaced with determination to take down CLAW for harming him, his friends, his mentor-
Maybe… I’m not where you are, Shigeo. Fubuki is like him- in a different way. She doesn’t look up to her sister- she wants to be more powerful- in her own way. Ritsu- on the other hand- adores Shigeo. He wants to be where Shigeo is- power, ability wise so he can help, so he can stop being inferior to his brother’s powerful abilities…
...and to help Shigeo step out of Ritsu’s shadow as the more successful brother.
"...Nii-san. I want to stick with you. I just don't want to lose you. Again." Over his power, over to CLAW, over to any other sick psycho who would try to kill his brother. Ritsu will make sure of that. “Just- promise me… if you want to talk, let me know. I want to help you, too. And… I want to help you- with my powers. ...I want to be strong so I can help you. I don’t want people to hurt you, nii-san. Not again.”
Shigeo blinks before sighing, placing his bag down at his desk.
"...It's okay, I'll be fine." But Shigeo's eyes twinkle with relief, glad that there is one thing the two can resolve within time and bond over. “After all, I need to help you too, right?”
“...I guess we both need help.” Ritsu chuckles, “So, Mom made curry?”
“It’s for dinner,” Shigeo responds before unpacking his stuff.
“So,” Ritsu asks, curiosity in his voice when he sees his brother freeze a bit. “Where did you go today?”
“Do you have to ask…?” Shigeo pauses before seeing a pout forming in Ritsu’s face, letting the esper sigh before shrugging. “....Well, I went to M-City for the first time. Oh! M-City! It was awesome! ...and much different than here!”
Nii-san, I'm here when you need to talk. Ritsu's face softens when he hears Shigeo talking about his day in the most excited voice he’s heard. Know that, okay?