Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Saiki walked through the hallway on his way to his classroom. No one had come up to bother him yet. He hoped it'd stayed that way. 

“Hey buddy” 

But God hates him so his hopes were in vain. ‘Good grief’ 

“Why are you all by yourself?” 

      Saiki chose to ignore him. He keeps walking as Nendou rambles in the background. The two made it to the classroom and Saiki sat down. Nendou stood in front of his desk and kept talking. 

“Hey buddy are you listening?”

‘No’ 

Saiki didn't respond, he just moved his eyes to look at Nendou. 

I can't wait to show Saiki what I found out about dark reunion. As a loyal member of the jet-black wings I'm sure Saiki will be thrilled to hear. 

‘God really does hate me’

    “So are you free to go get ramen after school?” Nendou asked from the side of Saiki’s desk. On cue Kaido walked in with his hand over his left eye wearing a smile. “Saiki, I have something top secret to tell you.” 

“Oh hey little buddy, me and Saiki were just talking about going to get ramen, wanna come?” 

‘I never agreed to that’ 

“Oh sure” 

I'll have to tell Saiki during lunch then

—--

Saiki was walking down the stairs, avoiding Kaido and his dark reunion delusions. 

Where's Saiki? I wanted to invite him to sit with me during lunch, he won't be able to resist saying “Oh wow” when I do. Teruhashi giggled to herself. I really am the perfect girl. 

‘How troublesome’ 

Saiki sighed to himself and went the opposite way she was coming from. But he wasn't free from the various troubles coming his way. Where's Saiki? I was going to invite him to do bunny hops with me and some of the other guys. 

‘Does he ever get tired?’ 

Saiki hid behind a corner, avoiding an encounter with Hairo. Luckily for Saiki, Hairo got called away. ‘Good grief’ 

“There you are buddy” Saiki flinched at the sudden voice. “Little buddy has been looking for you.” Saiki turned to look at him, wearing his usual face. “C'mon let's go tell him I found you” Saiki internally sighed, he had lost yet another quiet lunch break. 

Nendou led Saiki to a classroom, where Kaido resided. “I found him” Nendou wore a proud look. “Ah Saiki, I've been looking for you everywhere!” 

‘I know’ 

The trio sat down in a circle. More so Kaido and Nendou had chairs around the desk Saiki sat at. “Saiki, you'll never believe what I found out about dark reunion.” 

‘I never do’

Kaido glanced at Nendou who wore a stupid look. “I'll have to tell you later though, it's top secret. You know how the jet-black wings are.” 

‘I don't’ 

“Are you guys excited for the school festival coming up?” 

Kaido lightly chuckled. “A perfect place for dark reunion to strike, better keep a lookout.” Kaido wore his confident smirk and had his hand over his eye. Nendou laughed at him. “Yea right.” Kaido exploded “what do you mean yea right!? Dark reunion is a dangerous and evil force that only the jet-black wings can stop!” Nendou began laughing at Kaido’s delusions. Saiki simply watched the scene play out. 

“You crack me up” Nendou said while wiping a tear from his eye. Nendou let out a few more chuckles before he stood up “I'll be right back, don't you two leave without me.” Kaido waved him off. 

Finally me and Saiki are alone, now I can finally tell him

Kaido lifted a hand and cuffed it near his mouth before he started to speak in a hushed voice. “Saiki, someone we know at school is apart of dark reunion” 

Saiki raised his eyebrows slightly 

‘What?’

Saiki was somewhat shocked, that wasn't what he had expected to hear, he thought he was just going to say how he got scammed out of his money again and blame it on dark reunion like usual. 

‘Where had he gotten this idea?’ 

Saiki thought for a moment.

‘Alright I'll bite’ 

“Who?”

Kaido glanced around the classroom and squinted his eyes.  

“Well at first I was just suspicious, but the more I looked at the evidence and thought about it, the more it confirmed everything. It's so obvious, how could we have missed it? Its-” 

“Im back guys” 

Kaido jumped and leaned back in his chair with a sweat on his face. Saiki turned to look at him and furrowed his eyebrows. 

‘Damnit Nendou he was just about to tell me’ 

Did he hear me?

Nendou stopped, he had his arms behind his head and glanced between the two. “What were you guys talking about?” 

“Weaah! N-nothing!” Kaido moved his arms rapidly and shook his head. His voice high pitched and frantic. Saiki sighed and went back to wearing his normal look. “D-did you hear anything?” Nendou was using his pinky to dig in his ear. “No” Kaido let out a sigh of relief and relaxed. 

The bell rang throughout the building, ending their time to chat. 

                                    ***

Saiki was packing his stuff up when Kaido and Nendou approached him. He looked at them. “You ready?” 

‘Do I have a choice?’ 

The three walked out of the school entrance side by side. Nendou was rambling about something that Saiki paid no attention to. He looked over at Kaido who stood on the other side of Nendou. “Kaido” 

Kaido quickly looked over at Saiki. Like he had just seen a ghost.

 Saiki never starts conversations, this must be important. 

Saiki decided to ignore his thoughts and continued. “Earlier before Nendou came in, who were you going to say?” Nendou was still talking in the background, too focused on what he was saying to notice that Saiki was talking. 

Kaido’s eyes sparkled and he wore a bright smile. 

Wow Saiki really does care about dark reunion, he wants to know more!

‘...’ 

Kaido wore a proud look before covering an eye, “I'll have to tell you later Saiki. We don't want dark reunion hearing.” Kaido was trying to hide his blaring smile.  

‘good grief’ 

“Hey are you guys listening?” Saiki paid him no mind and went back to looking forward. “What's there to listen to? All you were talking about was ramen!” This caused Kaido and Nendou to bicker back and forth. They did this all the way to the ramen shop. 

—-

“Finally we're here,” Kaido said with exhaustion. “Oh hey it's closed.” Kaido popped up. “What!? We came all the way here and it's closed?! Why did you choose such a faraway place!!”

“It's not my fault it's closed.” “Well it's your fault you chose somewhere so far!” Nendou looked around. “Well there's an arcade over there” 

“An arcade? You're supposed to choose another place to eat! An arcade doesn't replace ramen!” 

Saiki was already walking away, ignoring their bickering. “Saiki! Where are you going?” Kaido called out to him. Saiki sighed before he turned around to face the two. “Yea where are you going? We’re going to the arcade.” Saiki walked back and joined their group. 

Yes! Now I can show off the true power of the jet-black wings. Kaido laughed to himself. Saiki will be so wowed. 

Saiki just wanted to go home, but things never went his way.

Finally they decided on a game while Saiki watched. The two had fought about who was the better arcade player and they asked Saiki to choose a game. Saiki chose at random and really didn't care for the two's rivalry. He wanted a way out. Saiki looked around the arcade looking for an opportunity. 

‘If I can't find a way i'll make one’

“We should leave” Nendou and Kaido looked at him confused and slightly shocked. 

“Why? Scared I'll destroy you next?” Nendou laughed at his remark. Kaido stood confused for a moment. “Are you sick?” Saiki shook his head to both questions. Then he turned and looked back and forth. “Dark reunion.” Kaido gasped and frantically looked around. Nendo just bursted out in laughter. “He got you too buddy?” Saiki sighed. 

“What about dark reunion Saiki?” Kaido asked with worry. “They're using the arcade as a ploy to steal all of our money.” 

‘I made this up’

Kaido squeaked. “Good thinking Saiki! The arcade is the perfect place to carry out schemes.” Saiki’s lame excuse worked, and they left the arcade. 

“Who would've known the dark reunion would try to steal our money. Watch your back dark reunion.” Kaido had his usual pose and look while speaking. 

‘Good grief’ 

“I still can't believe you got Saiki to believe that lame stuff.” 

“Lame stuff?! Nothing about dark reunion is lame!” Kaido held up a fist. “And I didn't have to make Saiki believe it since it's true.” Nendou laughed. “Whatever you say pal heh” 

Saiki took this time to disappear while they were distracted. 

‘Good grief, I thought I'd never get away’

Chapter Text

Saiki sat eating his breakfast. His father was late for work as usual. Saiki got up and said his goodbyes to his mother before he left the house. He didn't want to be bothered about teleporting his father to work. 

“Kusuo! Kusuo? Dear, where did Kusuo go?” 

“Oh Ku already left for school” 

Saiki walked through the neighborhood. “Saiki! Hey! Wait up, let's walk together!” Saiki stopped and turned around. It was Kaido, he was running to catch up with Saiki. He stopped in front of him and bent over to hold his knees gasping for air. “You walk fast” Kaido’s breath was airy, it sounded like he was choking. “Oh hey guys” Kaido looked up and Saiki moved his eyes to look. “Oh hey Nendou.”

“Are you guys on your way to school too?” 

Saiki couldn't help but sigh at his question. 

Kaido, now standing straight, answered for both of them. “Well yea” 

Nendou bared a dumb smile. “Let's all walk together then.” Kaido smiled. “Yea sounds like a great idea.” 

There was silence between the 3. This is awkward no one's saying anything. Not even Nendou. Right on cue Nendou started talking. “Hey guys, is anyone interested in a girl?” Kaido bursted into a blush and Saiki remained unfazed. “N-no! As the world's protector I don't have time for that!” Though Kaido was telling the truth it seemed suspicious, Nendou caught this too. “haha you totally do” Kaido tensed up and shook his head. “I, I don't!” Nendou laughed at Kaido’s flustered face and his denials. “Bu-but what about you Saiki? Do you have any crush?” 

‘Shifting attention, affective but a burden to me.’ 

Saiki shook his head. “Really? That's surprising” 

‘Why?’ 

“Yea buddy i thought you had your eye on someone” 

Saiki looked over to Kaido, he didn't have to say anything for him to understand.

“W-Well you just seemed like the type to have a crush.” 

Saiki was confused. Does he really give off that impression? “Yeah, that pretty girl comes by and says hello to you so I thought you had a thing for her.” Nendou said while he was picking his nose. 

The three had made it to the school gates during their chat. “Oh!” Kaido's sudden remark caught both Saiki’s and Nendou's attention. “What is it pal?” “You go ahead Nendou, me and Saiki have something we need to talk about.” 

‘We do?’ 

“Oh alright, but don't keep me waiting” Nendou waved before he left, leaving Saiki and Kaido alone. “Follow me Saiki, there's too many people to hear here.” Saiki didn't fight and followed Kaido to an empty spot behind the school. 

“About what I was telling you before we got interrupted.” 

‘Oh I finally get to know who he was talking about’

“The person who's a part of dark reunion is-”

Kaido stopped before he quickly looked around 

‘Come on, just tell me, how is it so secretritive that you won't even think about the person?’

“Toritsuka”

‘...’

‘What’

Kaido wore a serious look, it was obvious he wasn't joking. “Hear me out Saiki” 

“He can see ghosts! Which means he can use them to get information and do his dirty deeds!” 

‘By his logic this makes sense. And he's not wrong he does do these things but it’s not the same dirty deeds Kaido's thinking of'

“Doesn't it make sense Saiki? He's definitely a part of dark reunion!” 

‘Well I don't have any reason to clear this up’ 

Saiki nodded and decided to go along with it. “When you put it like that it does make sense.” 

Saiki agrees with me, I knew I wasn't crazy!

‘Good grief, hopefully this won't cause me any trouble’

“So what should we do?” 

“Huh?” 

“Well shouldn't we try to take him down? I mean it would be bad if he started to play out his evil schemes.” 

‘Oh yea his whole hero complex’ 

A sudden thought came to Saiki’s mind, and he began to smile. 

‘Well Toritsuka has been giving me trouble, this could be a chance to pay him back’ 

“Saiki?” 

“Yea, we should do something.”

Kaido smiled brightly and put a hand over his eye. “We won't let dark reunion ruin anyone else's lives hehehe” he chuckled a few more times before he paused. “Do you have any ideas in mind Saiki?” 

Saiki smiled evilly and nodded. 

—-

Saiki and his class were outside, for gym. Kaido and Nendou stood next to him. They were going to play another game of dodgeball. Saiki wasn't going to try like usual, he wanted to stay as average as possible. He couldn't say the same for his ‘problems’ though. “I'm going to destroy the other team,” Nendou said with confidence and a laugh. 

Nendou my rival I will win this time! 

Hairo was more on fire than usual, his self proclaimed rival set him off. 

“Alright, is everyone ready to push themselves to the limit?!” 

“Yea!” 

‘Jeez what's there to get so excited about, it's dodgeball’

“Nendou you choose who'll be on your team and I'll choose who'll be on mine.” 

Nendo and Hairo chose the members for their teams, and of course Nendou had Saiki and Kaido on his. The teams were slightly different from what they were when they played last time. Now that the teams were set they could finally begin to play

Saiki held a ball, he was nervous to throw, he still didn't have his power meter under control. 

Balls flew past him and hit people. Nendou was throwing like a madman and Kaido hid behind him. Hairo was trying to hit Nendou and got even more heated each time Nendou dodged. Saiki finally decided to throw. ‘Just a little bit of power’ he threw the ball and it flew past a boy and hit someone right in their face, knocking them out. 

Saiki slightly cringed at the scene. “That's my pal,” Kaido shone from behind Nendou. “Saiki! Why didn't you put that much effort when you were on my team!?” 

‘It wasn't my intention’

The game came close to an end. Saiki had gotten out or more accurately he purposely got out and Kaido stood next to him. Saiki took the chance to start a conversation, he wouldn't usually do this but this was different. 

“Did you get it?” 

Kaido glanced at Saiki who stared at the ongoing game. Kaido nodded, he was nervous and hid it poorly. “Y-yea, it was easier to get then I thought” Saiki could have gotten the things himself, but where was the fun in that? After all, it was the “dark reunion” they were dealing with. “Uhm are we really going to do this Saiki?” Saiki nodded and wore a small smile. 

Wow Saiki’s more serious about this than I thought. 

“Do what?” 

Kaido jumped at the voice. “Aueghwaa! N-nothing!” Nendou squinted his eyes slightly. “You two have been acting suspicious since early the ‘smorning what's going on and why won't you tell me!” Nendou's raspy voice was filled with annoyance. “Saiki you'll tell me right? We’re best buddies!” 

Saiki didn't respond, simply shook his head. “You won't tell me either?!” Nendou rambled on about them being secretive but Saiki had not listened at that point. 

                                    ***

It was after school. Saiki and Kaido were together, Nendou had not joined them. Or rather Kaido and Saiki left before he could. They were in a sketchy area, right next to an abandoned building, where Kaido had wanted to make his secret hideout. Kaido had pulled out some porno magazines, Toritsuka’s porno magazines. Kaido was blushing at the covers and dropped them on the ground. 

I can't believe he brought these to school. 

‘Toritsuka’s most prized possessions, this should keep him away from me for a while’ 

“This'll stop him from doing his evil deeds?” Kaido asked staring at Saiki. He nodded and pulled out a lighter, dropping it onto the magazines. They burned as Kaido and Saiki watched. 

—-

“Where are my magazines? I was going to rank them” Toritsuka dug through his backpack. He knew he didn't have them in his room. That's when his eyes widened in fear and realization.

“Saiki!!!!”

—-

“Well that was easy” Kaido turned to look at Saiki. 

I wonder how he knew this would stop a member of the dark reunion

Ah, unless he's been looking at evidence too! What a devoted member of the jet-black wings.

‘Good greif’

Kaido practucally sparkled at the thought. Saiki began to walk away. “Hey! Wait for me!”

--if anything seems put of character or odd...please tell me! It'll improve the writing for the future. Thanks!--

Chapter Text

Saiki sat in his seat staring at the board in front of him. His blue-haired acquaintance rambled on next to him. He's blabbering about all sorts of things, though the common denominator seemed to be complimenting Saiki. Saiki didn't hate it, but he wasn't a fan either. 

“You know Saiki, you might be the only one who takes me and Dark reunion seriously.”

‘Good grief, now you're gonna make me feel bad’

Kaido smiled while he talked, not a single moment of silence or even a chance for Saiki to respond. Not that he would. “Hey, buddy!” Nendou patted Kaido's shoulder from behind him, causing him to jump. “Awughaa!” Nendou laughed at the outcome. “What're you doing, confessing your love for Saiki?” Kaido became red. “What!? No!” Nendou dug in his ear with his pinkie. “Well, sure seems that way, with all your yapping.” Kaido got heated and started yelling at Nendou who began to bicker back. 

Saiki sighed internally. 

‘Couldn't they do this somewhere else?’

Saiki doesn't think I'm weird now, does he? 

Saiki stayed silent but decided to turn to look at Kaido who looked back. He flinched and awkwardly laughed. 

The awkward moment between the two didn't get to linger. A scream could be heard down the hall, it’s Teruhashi. The boys excluding Saiki ran out of the classroom. “Teruhashi, what's wrong?” “What happened Teruhashi!” All sorts of questions flew at her. Yumehara stood next to her trying to comfort her. Teruhahsi brought her hand up to her chin and wore a pitiful look. “I lost my bracelet” she spoke with a sad tone making the boys' hearts ache. “Don't worry Teruhashi we’ll find your bracelet!” “Yeah!” others responded in unison.” Teruhashi lightly smiled. “Really? I don't know what I'd do without all of you.” Their hearts thumped at her words. “Ah well”

I didn’t really lose my bracelet, but since they offered to help, there is no way Saiki would ignore this opportunity. He’ll be like “Oh I, I found your bracelet” and I'll look at his hand and smile, and hit him with my charm! There is no way he’ll be able to resist saying “Oh wow!” My plan works out perfectly! 

‘Good grief’

Saiki sat at his desk, letting out a deep sigh. “That was kind of dramatic,” Kaido said to Nendou while walking back into the classroom. “Maybe it's really expensive,” said Nendou. 

***

Saiki walked down the hallway, trying to be unbothered by the school's boys scampering around looking for Teruhashis's bracelet. Of course, Saiki knew where she put her bracelet but he wanted no part in this weird treasure hunt. “Saiki!” Kaido shouted from not far behind him. Saiki pretended not to hear him and kept walking. “Saiki!” Kaido shouted once more, but this time he sounded like he had trouble breathing. Out of pity Saiki stopped and turned around. Kaido approached him at a slow pace. “Saiki” Kaido gasped for air. “Saiki you, do you have any plans later?” Kaido had to take a few moments to catch his breath. Saiki didn't respond right away. 

What did Kaido want to drag Saiki into now? Saiki didn't want to be dragged into whatever it is, so he lied. He nodded his head. Kaido slightly frowned, he stood up straight and scratched the back of his head. “Ah, I see…” Disappointment evident in his voice. But Saiki stayed unfazed. He wanted nothing to do with his shinnangenas, he’d entertained him enough already. Kaido stared at Saiki, lightly scratching his cheek with his finger. ‘ This is getting awkward.’ Before Saiki could turn to leave, another pest showed up. “Saiki!” someone yelled, their voice filled with anger and sorrow. 

‘Great, now what?’

Purple hair came into his view. “It was you wasn't it?!” Toritsuka yelled, his eyes filled with tears and his face mellow. ‘Wow’ Saiki thought. ‘Its only been a day, yet he looks like he’s been stranded on an island for a week.’ Saiki didn't feel an ounce of pity for him though. “What did you do with them?” Toristuka’s voice dripped with desperation. Saiki, however, did not respond. Toritsuka fell to his knees. “Please!, I'll do anything, Saiki!” Saiki raised an eyebrow. “Anything?” Toristuka realized what he had just said and stared wide eyed. He gulped and hesitantly nodded. Saiki almost let himself smile deviously, but then he realized Kaido was still standing next to him and quickly waved Toritsuka off. Although confused, Toristsuka obliged and walked off. 

Saiki looked over at Kaido who slightly flinched, but he didn't say anything he simply turned around and walked off. Kaido quickly followed after. “Ah wait, Saiki!” His eyes dazzled as he looked at him. “You made a member of the dark reunion your servant? You’re so cool!” Kaido’s voice screamed with excitement. He continued to babble on but at that point, he wasn't listening. 

‘Good grief, I hope this doesn't cause me any trouble’ 

***

Saiki sat at his desk reading a book, boys still scampering around for Teruhashi’s bracelet, but now he’s slightly annoyed by all the disruption. The sound of quick footsteps could be heard throughout the school, girls quietly chatting from the back of the classroom and Kaido’s pencil lightly scratching against the paper. He couldn't focus on the book at all, they were just words on some paper. Saiki glanced over at Kaido and caught a glimpse of his paper; he drew a hero version of himself and Saiki fighting against the dark reunion. He smiled at his paper, admiring his work. Then he glanced over at some boys who crawled on the floor. Saiki finally sighed and quickly shut his book, standing up. Kaido noticed and looked up towards him. “Where are you going?” he asked. Saiki looked over, his green lenses hiding his eyes. “The restroom”. He said plainly. 

He walked towards the bathroom and sat in a stall. He crossed his eyes and used clairvoyance, looking for Teruhashi’s bracelet. He saw that it’s in a locker. Saiki furrowed his eyebrows, he looked around and tried to find something of equal value. Finally, he pulled out his wallet and sighed. At least he’ll know where to find it. He used his ability apport and traded it for Teruhashi’s bracelet. He stared at the pearl-beaded bracelet in his hand. He crossed his eyes once more and looked in Teruhashi’s desk. The bracelet had to be a little more than twenty dollars. He searched her desk but couldn't find anything valuable so he looked back at the locker and traded it back, he decided to simply send a message to the boys. ‘It's in the locker.’

He could hear quick footsteps and lots of lockers opening. He sighed and stood up to head back to his classroom. He sat back down and opened his book, not long after he heard a boy yell. “I found Teruhashi’s bracelet!” A few other boys yells followed. 

Terhuahsi smiled and thanked the boy but was really angry on the inside.

  Damit why didn't my plan work! I’m a girl blessed by God, there's no way this should have failed!

‘Well, i guess God was on my side today’ Saiki smiled to himself, he didn't notice the boy next to him staring. Wow I’ve never seen Saiki smile before. Saiki froze and looked over to Kaido who quickly looked away. 

***

It’s after school and Toristuka stood next to Saiki as he decided how many and which kind of coffee jelly he should buy. Toritsuka began to get impatient and kept nagging him to hurry up, in which Saiki shot him a glare. In the end Saiki walked out with two bags of coffee jelly and a broke Toritsuka

Chapter Text

It’s now the weekend and Saiki sat on the couch reading the newest volume of the silent cyborg comic. Without his father's terrible critiques, the comic went back to the way it was before. He smiled as he read the comic, turning the pages once he finished the previous. I hope Saiki’s free today. Saiki froze, ‘good grief, what now?’ Not long after he heard the doorbell. “I’ll get it,” his mom called out. Saiki sighed, his mother was definitely going to make him go. “Ah Kaido,” She said warmly, Kaido smiled, “Is Saiki here? He asked, Kurumi smiled, “Saiki, your friend is here!” She shouted. She looked back to Kaido, “So what are you two going to do?” Kaido lit up, “Ah me and Saiki are going to make a super cool hideout!” He spoke with a chipper voice. 

Kurumi smiled and clasped her hands together. “Oh that's so fun!” She squeaked with joy. Saiki sighed and placed his comic on the coffee table. He stood up and walked towards the doorway where he saw his mother and Kaido chatting. Once Kaido noticed him he smiled. ‘Good grief’ Saiki approached them and stood next to his mother. 

Kurumi smiled at the two boys, “you two have fun now.” She spoke with a warm smile. Saiki simply nodded and stepped out with Kaido. The two walked side by side, occasionally bumping shoulders. “So this place is perfect for a secret hideout, it's a completely untouched area! Just think of what we can do with it.” Kaido spoke with a bright smile and motioned with his hands while speaking. 

Saiki didn't share his enthusiasm. “So, Saiki,” he started, Kaido stared at Saiki, keeping his smile. Saiki turned to look at him. “You know, your hair pins look like antennae, is there a reason you're always wearing them?” ‘Good grief, has he ever heard the saying curiosity killed the cat?’ Saiki was going to lie but then remembered his giant hero complex and his jet-black wings delusion. “They keep my overwhelming powers contained” The answer resembled that of Kaido's. I guess you could say he drove inspiration. 

Kaido's eyes sparkled and he wore a stupid smile. Kaido quickly wiped it off and made a serious face, covering part of his face with his hand, trying his best to hide his giddy smile. “I guess you and I are one in the same.” He spoke with the voice of his persona. 

Saiki turned away and kept his eyes to the front. ‘Where are we going anyway?’ “Oh hey guys!” The two heard. They stopped walking and turned their heads to the familiar voice. ‘Nendou’ Kaido spoke for the both of them. “Hey Nendou,” A smile showed on his face. “Hey runt,” Nendou looked at the both of them. “Are you two hanging out without me?” His raspy unique voice was filled with disbelief and the tiniest bit of anger. Kaido swallowed, “What no! We're not hanging out without you!” He vigorously waved his hands in panic. ‘What are we doing then?’ “You totally are! Why are you leaving me out!” Nendou shouted, Kaido continued to shake his head and wave his arms. 

Saiki sighed, ‘I could be using my time doing better things then watching this, like reading the new silent cyborg comic.’ 

So that's how Nendou ended up tagging along with them. Nendou continued to talk and fill the one-sided conversation that had happened between him and Kaido. “So what were you two up to anyway?” Nendou asked, Kaido glanced at Saiki who didn't return it. “We were gonna build our secret hideout.” Nendou burst into laughter causing Kaido to blush. “What're you laughing at!?” 

Nendou held his stomach as he continued to cackle. “That's so lame!” Nendou laughed out. Kaido held a fist and glared at Nendou, clenching his jaw. “It's not lame! It's totally awesome! And I didn't invite you anyway!” Kaido shouted back. Nendou patted Kaido's shoulder. Kaido kept his glare on him, “Ah c'mon pal, I'm just playing” he wiped a tear from his eye. “I'll help you build your hideout, even if i think it's dumb” “It's not dumb!” 

‘good grief’

The two did this until they reached their destination, which happened to be a grass clearing between some trees. “How did you even find this place?” Nendou asked. Kaido rubbed under his nose with a finger while his other hand rested on his hip. “I know, it's totally awesome right?” He gloated. Nendou looked around and then dug in his ear. “It's alright,” His answer ticked Kaido off and caused him to burst into anger. “Alright? This place is perfect!” He shouted. 

Saiki sighed and took a few steps forward, looking around. ‘This is pretty nice, it's better than that sketchy abandoned building.’ Saiki turned around and saw the two were closer to each other's faces, still bickering. “Do you have a plan?” Saiki asked, finally breaking up the bickering. Kaido turned to him and wore a blank face. “A plan?” He asked dumbfounded. Saiki slightly frowned. “To build the hideout” he clarified.

Kaido made an “oh” face before he scratched his cheek.  “Well I was thinking we could use the wood from around here and go from there” he kept his eyes away from Saiki's, his eyes remained on the green grass. 

Saiki made a face of disbelief, ‘I was dragged from my peace with no plan, and here I thought God couldn't hate me more.’ Saiki turned to leave, taking a few steps away. “Wait, Saiki!” Kaido shouted, holding his hands out as if he were to grab someone from falling off a cliff. 

“We can go get some stuff from the store,” he said with a nervous tone. Nendou smiled, “yeah have some faith, pal!” Saiki sighed and walked back to join the two. ‘Good grief’ Saiki sighed and they made their journey to a nearby store. Kaido awkwardly laughed, “Uh sorry Saiki” Saiki glanced at him. He remained silent, Nendou patted Saiki’s back. “Hey pal, don't be upset with the runt,” Saiki glanced at Nendou. “I'll get you some coffee jelly.” Saiki looked at Kaido and held up a thumbs up, causing Kaido to smile. 

The three stood before many wooden planks, ranging from walnut wood to red cedar. “Oo we should do the poplar wood,” Nendou said with his usual stupid smile. “Poplar? That's so blande!” Nendou turned to him, “Well if you're so smart then what should we do!?” He shouted back. Kaido put his hand over his eye and his dramatic aura formed, “We should use the purple heart, it's perfect for the jet-black wings.”

‘And who's going to pay for that?’

“What!? That's so dark and gloomy!” Kaido's face bursted red, “No it's not! It's the perfect shade!” Saiki stood and watched the two bicker, he had no input to add. Kaido held his fist up and his light hair covered one of his eyes. “Well what about the red cedar then!” He spoke with a high-pitched voice. “It matches Saiki’s hair,” he added. 

Saikis mouth opened slightly, the sudden comment had both of them looking at him. “Saiki, what wood should we use?” ‘I don't care.’ Of course Saiki didn't say that, instead he looked at the wood and pretended to think about it. Saiki pointed at the walnut. “Ah the walnut,” Kaido held his hand to his chin. So Saiki likes the walnut, it is a nice color and it would give that ambiguity. 

‘Good grief’ 

Kadio smiled and went to grab a wooden plank. His face froze and his jaw dropped. $119!?  

They walked out with a ¾ in x 11 in board. Even this was $24. “I guess I didn't consider the price.” He spoke with a face of disbelief. Nendou was laughing, “And you wanted to build a whole hideout!” Kaido quickly turned to look at him, his face filled with embarrassment. “Shut up!”

‘I'm going home.’ 

_______

Saiki sat at his desk and stared at the activity book in front of him. He heard Kaido's chair screech and the shuffling of his bag fallow. “Sorry Saiki,” Saiki turned to look at him. “I can't have lunch with you, the jet-black wings call.” He turned around to walk away but then turned to look at Saiki. “Not-not that you're less important or anything, but I'm sure there's a reason that they only called for me!” He spoke frantically and shook his hands. ‘Good grief, you don't have to explain yourself.’ 

Kaido turned and walked off stiffly. Saiki watched him leave before he went back to staring at his work book. 

Saiki eventually sighed and got up from his desk, he walked the same path Kaido did. He turned himself invisible and saw that Kaido was with Takahashi. ‘What business does he have with him?’ 

Takahashi held a wack looking necklace. Jeez this guy is so gullible. Kaido prefrontal some wack dance. “So if I take this it will protect people from dark reunion?” Kaido questioned, Takahashi smiled deviously and nodded. He held out his hands, “But it's only a rental so to make sure you return it, give me all your valuables.” Kaido scratched his cheek, isn't this sketchy? 

Saiki watched in disbelief. ‘It's so sketchy, there's no way Kaido is this dumb’

Kaido pulled out his wallet, some jewelry and his phone and placed them in the bag. 

Saiki's mouth dropped in shock, ‘no way he is.’ 

Takahashi gave Kaido the necklace, and Kaido looked at it. It had a gold coin in the middle and was tied with a black string of sorts. Kaido smiled happily and began walking away, I can't wait to give Saiki this! 

‘What would I need that for?’ 

Takahashi walked away snickering, while Saiki followed closely behind. He stood on the stairs where he often spoke with his friends. Saiki made the lights go out, only one flickered like they do in horror movies. 

Takahashi became shocked and wore a face of fear. What the? “Who-who’s there?” He asked, voice fearful. “Dark reunion.”

“Kaido!” Takahashi ran up behind him, panting. Kaido stopped walking and turned behind him. “Takahashi?” Takahashi held out his belongings. “Here, take these back.” His voice was breathy. Kaido took his things back and his face filled with confusion. “What about the necklace?” 

“Keep it!” Takahashi said while running off. Kaido watched as he did so. Saiki came out from a hall behind Kaido and began walking back to the classroom. What was that all about? Kaido searched his cheek and turned around. “Ah Saiki!” He rushed up to him. Saiki stopped and turned around. ‘Good grief’ “Here I got this for you.” He held out the useless necklace. 

Chapter Text

Saiki was standing in a full clown beat. Of course he didn't willingly put himself in this predicament. I mean who would?

“Thank you all for coming and supporting my show!” The green haired, delusional, magician stated. 

“Today we all have the honor of seeing my master in action!” He dramatically used a hand to show off Saiki, while his other held onto his blinged out mic. 

‘Now hold on, you might be wondering just how this could happen to an ordinary guy like me. Well let me show you all of the unfortunate events that led to this display.’ 

Saiki sat at his desk, book in hand. One of the few pieces of media he could enjoy without being spoiled. His face remained his usual nonchalant look. 

“Hey Saiki!” an over enthusiastic voice called out. 

Saiki didn't lift his head, eyes glued to the words in his book. 

‘Maybe if I don't look at him he'll go away.’

But that was only wishful thinking. He must've not heard me. Then I shall say it louder. 

A sparkle appeared in Hairo's eyes. “Saiki!” He shouted from determination. 

‘Can't I have peace for one day?’ 

Saiki resisted a sigh and lifted his gaze, closing his book. “C'mon, work doesn't get done by sitting down and reading books.” 

Saiki slightly raised an eyebrow. ‘What work?’ 

Hairo playfully bumped him on the shoulder. Smile bright as ever. “Don't tell me you forgot.” 

Saiki remained still. ‘Good grief just tell me’ 

“Saiki! C'mon man, the festival!” 

‘Oh yea, I remember Nendou mentioning that.’ 

“Let's go, we've got lots of work to cover.” Hairo turned around, expecting Saiki to follow. Which he did, but not because he wanted to.

‘This better not be like last time.’ 

Hairo led him to a classroom, when he slid the door open he was greeted by many familiar faces. 

It's Saiki! Of course he wouldn't be able to resist helping the perfect pretty girl like myself! 

Teruhashi smiled warmly, bringing a hand to her face. “Hello, Saiki,” she greeted sweetly. 

Saiki nodded in acknowledgment. 

A nod? That's it!? Teruhashi’s inner voice became rugged in frustration but she held it in. 

“Hey pal,” Nendou greeted. “Finally decided to help?” 

Sasiki held his poker face. Yet his eyes wandered to what Nendou was working on. ‘All you're doing is nailing wooden boards into a support beam.’

Saiki's eyes moved to Kaido, he held a paint brush, the tip stained sky blue. “Saiki, you can go help Kaido, there's a lot to paint.” 

Dang it, I wanted to help Kaido! Yumehara shot a pout towards Hairo. 

Saiki nodded and made his way towards Kaido, kneeling down next to him. 

A light sheen came over Hairo's face, before a hand movement caught his eye. “Uh, yes Mera?” 

Mera pushed up her glasses, the sheen covering her eyes. “If we help with contributing, do we get free food?” 

Hairo smiled brightly and held up a fist. “abso-freakin-lutely” 

A huge smile came over Mera's face, drool dripping from the corner of her mouth. “Let's do our best everyone!” 

“That's the spirit Mera!” 

Saiki slightly shook his head at the complete 180. ‘Good grief’

“Saiki” Kaido called out. 

Saiki turned his gaze towards Kaido, his purple meeting Kaido's red. “I've almost finished the background, could you fill in the letters?” 

Saiki nodded and picked up a medium sized paintbrush, dipping it into black paint. Saiki could easily finish this in less than a minute but he, unfortunately, had to do it like everyone else. So, he delicately painted within the boxed out letters. 

‘Good grief, when did I ever agree to this?’ 

Saiki stared at the glossyness of the undry paint. Eyebrows furrowing slightly. He stopped painting momentarily. ‘Shouldn't we have at least waited until the background was dry?’

“So,” Kaido started, looking at Saiki from the corner of his eye. Saiki’s face returned to normal and he turned towards Kaido. “Do you have anything planned for the festival?” 

‘isn't this enough?’ Saiki thought. 

Thus remained thoughts. 

Saiki shook his head. Kaido’s eyes widened slightly. The psychic went back to painting the letters. 

Does he not have anyone to do anything with? Poor Saiki. 

Saiki frowned slightly. ‘I'm beginning to wonder how these people perceive me.’ 

Saiki glanced at Nendou. ‘Best change the subject before he tries to invite me to anything.’ 

“What's Nendou doing?” Saiki asked, by now he's almost finished the letters. 

Kaido's eyebrows raised and a curious look filled his eyes. “Eh?” 

Kaido leaned closer and slightly forward to see past Saiki. His face quickly turned into disbelief. 

Oh my God! Look how close Saiki is to Kaido. I'm so jealous! What did Saiki say? Maybe I should ask him after, will it get Kaido to stand so close to me?

“What the!” Kaido squeaked. “Nendou what the heck are you doing?!” 

‘Good grief, maybe I shouldn't have said anything.’ 

Saiki turned his head towards Nendou. His face was unimpressed to say the least. 

“I'm making sure the base is secure!” Nendou spoke like it was the most obvious thing. 

Kaido's face of disbelief quickly mixed with shock. Mouth agape, eyebrow twitching. “Have you looked at your work?! It's a mess!”

Nendou's eyebrows became furrowed. “Huh!?” 

Saiki sighed. ‘We're never getting this done.’ 

“Boys” Yumehara tried. 

If it's Kaido, surely he'll listen to my concerns. Because we're destined soulmates!

Yet despite Yumehara's delusions, Kaido didn't even spare the girl a glance. 

‘Rejected’

“A mess? I'd like to see you do it!” 

Kaido stood up. “It'd look a bunch better than yours!” 

Nendou stood up too, “Says the one painting! Painting is the easiest thing to do!”

Saiki sighed. 

“Easy? You have to have talent and skill to paint! And you didn't just insult me,” Kaido pointed to Saiki, “you insulted Saiki too!” 

‘Good grief, why am I getting dragged in?’ 

Nendou brought his sight down and onto his pink haired friend. Or who he considered one. “I didn't mean you, pal” 

“Alright you two, I think that's enough” Hairo spoke with raised hands. 

“Yea, we shouldn't fight when this is meant to be a fun occasion.” Yumehara added.

“We should take a break, we can meet back up after school, lunch is almost over anyway.” Hairo said while looking around the room, earning some nods. 

Teruhashi held a clenched fist to her chest. This is my chance to talk to Saiki. Who doesn't want to be comforted by the perfect pretty girl?

Saiki stood up, following the others' lead. Nendou walked over and patted his shoulder. “Sorry about that, buddy.” 

Teruhashi walked over, pity glistening in her eyes. “Are you alright, Saiki?” 

‘Good grief, I'm fine.’ 

A spot on Saiki's limiters caught Nendous eye. “Oh hold on buddy, I think you got some paint on your hair thing.” 

‘What?’

Nendou reached up and pulled out his limiter. “Here let me get it for you.”

“Wah! Dude you can't just pull stuff out of other people's hair!” 

“I was just trying to help!-”

Saiki's face went blank and his world began to spin. His footing became unstable and the last thing he saw was the panic on his acquaintance's faces. 

Saiki hit the ground in a harsh slam. “Saiki!” Teruhashi shouted. 

Kaido froze in place.

 “Buddy!” 

Hairo, who was almost at the door, turned around. “Saiki! What happened?” He asked while rushing over. 

Kaido jumped from the sudden call and glanced around. His classmates' faces equally panicked. He noticed Nendou holding Saiki's hairpin. 

Saiki’s words echoed in his mind. “‘They keep my overwhelming powers contained”’ 

Kaido's eyes widened, he quickly turned his head towards his passed out friend, then back to Nendou. 

In a panic he pulled the hairpin away from Nendou's hand. “Give-give me that!” 

“Woah, little buddy, what's gotten into you?” 

Kaido kneeled down near Hairo. “We should get a teacher,” He said. 

Kaido nodded, placing the pin back into Saiki's hair. 

Will this help? 

“I'll go get the teacher,” Teruhashi said, worry dancing in her eyes. 

***

When Saiki awoke he stared at a familiar ceiling. His bedroom. 

His head pounded in pain. The overwhelming voice of other people's thoughts didn't help either. Saiki lifted a hand and pressed it against his forehead. 

‘Good grief, what happened?’ 

The memory of Nendou suddenly pulling out his limiter filled his brain. Saiki quickly got up and headed for a mirror. 

He breathed a sigh of relief when he saw that both of them were still diligently placed in his head. Saiki furrowed his eyebrows, his eyes becoming sharp. 

‘Nendou’ 

Saiki turned on his heels and got dressed, wearing one of those wacky sweaters that his mother had purchased for him. 

‘I have to be more careful around Nendou, if he can pull my limiter out so easily, who knows what kind of problems he'll bring.’ 

Saiki walked down the stairs, creaking as he descended. He heard the familiar clank of his mother in the kitchen. 

Once he stood at the end of the stairs he noticed his father on the couch, his mother wearing a face of worry. 

“Mom,” He called out. 

Kurumi dropped her utensils and turned around. “Oh Ku!” 

She quickly hurried over, planting a hand on Saiki's face. “Kusuo,” his father happily called, standing up. 

“How are you feeling?” 

Saiki stared at his mother's worried face. ‘Well this is dramatic. I mean it's only been a few hours.’ 

“I'm fine, I was only out for a little bit.” 

Kurumi's frown deepened as she removed her hand. “Two weeks isn't a little bit, Ku” 

Saikis mouth fell agape, eyebrows creased. ‘Two weeks!?’ 

Saiki looked to his father for confirmation. Unfortunately the look on his face confirmed it. 

‘Was I really out for two weeks?’ 

“Oh Ku!” His mother suddenly called out, walking away. She walked towards the front door and picked up a letter. 

“If you feel better this nice man came by and dropped off this letter, said it was for the school festival.” 

Saiki took hold of the letter. He stared at the name. Nakanisha Kouta .

‘And I thought God couldn't hate me more.’ 

Saiki opened the letter; a long paragraph filled his vision. 

Dear Master,

I have been informed that you have no plans for the festival. The school has requested that I perform a show. Isn't That amazing! Aren't you proud of how far I've come? 

‘I don't know if you can consider a school festival far’ 

Anyway I'm asking the greatest musician Saiki Kusuo to be honored in this show. I'll be waiting!

Your disciple. 

‘Oh good grief, can't I catch a break?’ 

Saiki sighed and then looked to his mother who wore hopeful eyes. 

“It'd be good to get out after staying in bed for so long.” She spoke, trying to lighten the mood. 

‘There's no way I'm getting out of this now.’ 

______

Saiki made his way to school, one of his hands tucked under his bag strap, casually holding on. 

‘Good grief, I hope my absence doesn't cause unnecessary attention.’

Saiki approached the school gates, the usual routine of Matsuzaki sharply eyeing each uniform. 

“Saiki?” A curious voice called out. 

Saiki repressed a sigh and stopped walking, waiting a moment before facing the culprit. 

Kaido stood a few steps behind him, curiosity in his eyes before certainty took over.  

“Saiki, it is you” 

‘Know any other psychic?’ 

Kaido's eyebrows creased and he tried his best to stop a frown, but to know avail. 

Water began to fill Kaido's eyes; he lifted a hand to catch his warm tears, eventually turning around to hide them from Saiki. 

‘Oh good grief, what am I supposed to do now? It'd be awkward to just leave.’

“Yo, buddy! You're finally back!” 

‘Nendou, hero of the day.’

Saiki turned toward Nendou. “Man, where have you been?” 

Saiki furrowed his eyebrows slightly. ‘Stuck in bed, no thanks to you’

Nendou finally noticed Kaido. “Aw little buddy it's okay, look our pal is just fine!” 

Kaido sniffed and wiped his watery eyes. He offered a warm smile to Saiki, who didn't return it. 

“C'mon we've got a class to catch!” Nendou exclaimed. 

So the three made their way through the gates and headed towards their classroom. “So we got most of the festival preparations done, no thanks to you Saiki!” Nendou's raspy and clueless voice filled the air. 

Kaido elbowed him, “That wasn't his fault!” 

I can't believe this guy. 

Kaido turned towards Saiki, eyes soft. “So what happened?” Kaido paused, glancing away for a moment. “You were gone for a while.” 

I hope this is fine to ask, I wouldn't want him to think I'm nosey. 

Saiki's gaze remained on the incoming school doors. “The excessive power makes me pass out.” 

‘This should be enough for him.’

Kaido stared, wide-eyed. Nendou on the other hand burst into a hefty laughter. “excessive power?” Another soulful laugh followed. 

Kaido jabbed him with his elbow. Giving him the stink eye. “It's rude to laugh.” 

Nendou suddenly became serious. “But seriously pal, you can tell us.” 

Kaido and Saiki stared at him in shock, Nendou's face sparkled like a shoujo love interest. 

A fist hit Nendou's arm. “If he doesn't want to say, don't force him.” Kaido said, eyebrows furrowed and eyes slightly squinted. 

Saiki's eyebrows raised slightly. 

‘Wow Kaido, I'm truly hurt, even you didn't believe my story?’

Saiki slid the classroom door open and sat down at his desk. Kaido and Nendou lingering, as usual. 

Nendou and Kaido had already engaged in a petty argument. Over what? He wasn't sure. 

Nendou had reached over to Saiki who instinctively grabbed his hand with immense speed. The two went silent. 

‘Crap’

“Woah,” Nendou said in admiration. 

Saiki felt a sweat form on his cheek, yet he kept his poker face. Slowly letting go of Nendou's arm. 

Kaido coughed, clearly trying to clear the awkward air. Nendou stared at his arm. “So what do you think, Saiki?” 

Saiki lifted his head. Kaido glanced at him, clearing his throat once more. “You know about that magician guy.” 

‘Oh, him.” 

“Heard of him.” He stated plainly. 

Kaido's eyes sparkled. “Yeah, the guy says he can do all this stuff, but it's all a sham!” 

‘Yours isn't?’

“C’mon pal, my mom likes that guy!”

“He still sucks!”

‘Good grief’  

Oh it's Saiki! I wonder if he's okay, as the perfect pretty girl I'm sure he'd be glad to see me.

Teruhashi walked over. Standing in front of Saiki, next to Kaido. She pulled some of her blue locks behind her ear.

 “Saiki, are you alright?” She asked in a sweet tone. 

There's no way he could resist that. 

Oh wow, Kaido thought with sparkling eyes. 

Saiki gave a casual thumbs up. 

A thumbs up!? That's it!? 

The bell blared on their ears, the sound of scurried foot steps and squeaking chairs followed. “I'll see you later then.” Teruhashi said with a sparking smile. 

‘Good grief’

_______

Saiki stood up from his desk, grabbed his bag and tried his best to casually leave. But has that ever happened? 

“Saiki,” 

Saiki turned his head to Kaido who smiled. “Do you want to see how the festival stuff turned out?” 

‘Do I have a choice?’

“Yea let's go, pal!” 

Thus the three made their way down the hall. “So we didn't get much done the day you, ahem” Kaido pretended to cough into his hand, keeping his gaze away from Saiki. 

“But after that we were able to get quite a bit done. I guess you could say we were motivated.” He sparkled. 

Kaido slid open the door. The first thing to come into view was the horrendous work Nendou had done. Saiki internally cringed at the sight. Kaido gestured with his hand to the balloon archway, the painted wood complementing it. 

‘Not bad’ 

Saiki glanced around the room, a few signs and posters covered the floors. Balloon decor near the walls. 

Saiki turned back to Kaido. “What do you think?” 

Saiki gave a firm thumbs up. 

“Sweet,” Kaido said with shining eyes. 

_____

The festival finally came. Much to Saiki’s dismay he stood amongst the bustling crowd of teenagers. 

‘Good grief’

Saiki glanced around, some familiar faces amongst the crowd. Some working at food stations. Saiki walked past other kids and onlookers. 

‘is there anything worth-’ 

The image of coffee jelly filled his sight. He wasted no time walking over. There weren't many people in line, a few parents. 

When Saiki was next in line he was met with an unfortunate sight. His eyebrows dropped and a frown covered his lips. 

“Yo, Saiki, no surprise seeing you.” The medium raised a two finger salute and wore a cheeky smile. 

“What're you doing here?” 

Toritsuka raised a finger gun to his chin, closing his eyes and bringing his head slightly down. “Woah, don't get so excited now.” 

Saiki resisted the urge of rolling his eyes. Toritsuka opened his eyes and raised his gaze, dropping his hand to lean on his booth's counter. “What? I can't see my favorite psychic?” 

“Just get me some coffee jelly.” He said plainly. 

“Right on,” Toritsuka grabbed a fancy one, the one that came in glass and cost twice as much at the store. 

The scowl immediately left Saiki’s face, and stars filled his eyes. ‘No way.’

Toritsuka placed another one right next to it. Saiki's lips slightly parted. ‘Two?’ 

Saiki raised his hand but Toritsuka pulled back. Saiki raised his gaze, shooting a sharp glare. “I'll give it to you, on the house in fact.” 

Saiki stared, not lifting the glare. 

“But I'm going to ask for a favor in return.” Toritsuka smiled brightly, not caring about Saiki’s glare in the slightest. 

Was Saiki really going to take the bribe of two expensive coffee jelly’s though? 

Saiki made a joyful face as he walked through the crowd, spoon in mouth. A small bag dangling from his arm that held the coffee jelly. 

‘Who am I to decline free coffee jelly?’ 

Some bright stage lights caught his gaze. 

‘What's going on over there?’ 

Curiosity got the best of him; he made his way over. A small stage came into view, a banister hanging above it. Saiki almost sighed. 

The great Magician Nakanishi  

‘Good grief, I forgot about this guy.’ 

Saikis tood amongst others staring at the stage. “shouldn't he be starting soon?” A feminine voice whispered. 

“I thought he already did.” A male voice whispered back. 

“What's taking so long?” A different feminine voice asked. 

A light tap took Saiki's gaze away. Saiki turned around and met eyes with said magician, a worried look on his eyes. “Master” he whispered. 

‘Oh good grief, what now?’

Saikis turned around and reluctantly followed Nakanishi into the backstage. “Master, I'm so glad you came!” Nakanishi said with clasped hands. 

‘Thank my mom.’ 

“But we have a slight predicament.” 

Nakanishi gestured to behind him, his assistant, the once homeless guy, sat with his leg propped up, face pained. 

‘Yikes’

Nakanishi looked back at Saiki. “Please, Master, I'm begging you, help me. It'll be the greatest show ever!” 

And that is how Saiki got to this unfortunate display. 

‘I wonder if I didn't lose my limiter if this would've happened.’ 

Saiki stared forward, not at anything or anyone in particular. The audience was hard to see through the blinding light anyhow. 

“I'll start off this show with” Nakinishi gestured to the two boxes on stage. 

‘This again?’ 

“My master will perform the greatest trick of all! First he'll go into this box,” Nakanishi lead Saiki to the first box, gesturing for him to get in. Saikis glanced at him. 

‘Is there a reason for the matching hair?’

Saiki stepped into the box and kneeled down, Nakanishi closing him in. 

“He'll disappear from that one,” Nakanishi walked across the stage, “and show up in this one.” 

A rush of mumbles and whispered spread across the crowd. “Isn't that really boring?”

“What's so cool about that?”

“I thought he was one of those experienced magicians.”

Despite the negative feedback Nakanishi continued to smile and put on a show. 

Saiki grabbed the latch at the bottom of the box and pulled. Yet to no avail. 

‘Are you kidding me? Again? At this point you might as well get rid of the act.’

“And tada!” Nakanishi showed off the empty box with confidence. 

“Are you kidding me?” Someone whispered. 

Nakanishi's smile faltered and he turned around. 

Saiki sighed. 

He appeared right in front of everyone, earning tons of gasps. 

“Woah”

“No way!”

“How!”

“That's my buddy!” A familiar voice shouted. 

‘Good grief.’

That's my master!

Saiki stood up and wore an unimpressed stare. 

A wave of claps erupted. 

“Woo! That was awesome!” 

Nakanishi laughed in joy. “Thank you, thank you.” 

Nakanishi turned around and walked towards Saiki. In a low voice, he said, “Great work, Master. The crowd’s going crazy.” Saiki simply eyed him in annoyance.

The bothersome magician turned around, overconfidence brewing off him. “Now let us watch as I enter this box,” he directed the crowd's gaze with his hand. “And watch as I survive a hundred punctures.” 

Nakanishi handed his mic to a stage assistant and stepped into the box, smile wide. Saiki closed the box and grabbed the first sword. ‘This better work out, I don't feel like saving you.’  

The sword went in cleanly, with no resistance. Saiki used X-ray vision and looked into the box, to his surprise, Nakanishi no longer resided in it. 

Once Saiki had all of the swords within the box, Nakanishi appeared with a poof of smoke. His hands were up in the air, and his same, dumb smile remained plastered on his face. 

 A batch of loud claps and cheers filled the festival. 

But since he started late and there are other shows that was all he was able to perform before getting cut off and ushered off the stage by school staff and students managing the festival performances. 

Saiki stood backstage listening to the rambles of a delusional magician. “That was great! The students loved it.” 

But since he was interrupted and separated from his coffee jelly, Saiki simply wasn't having it. Slight annoyance appeared through the cracks of his facade. He glanced around, looking for his delight. 

The glistening, small, white bag caught his eye, so he simply brushed off Nakanishi by shooting him a thumbs up and rushing to his coffee jelly. 

Saiki picked up the bag and peeked inside. A small smile formed on his lips. 

“Saiki.” A voice called out. 

‘Good grief, what now?’

Saiki turned around and was met by Kaido and Nendou. Kaido avoided eye contact, and Nendou wore a stupid smile. “Hey buddy, is it just me or did you get better?” 

I can't believe I insulted that magician in front of him! What if Saiki hates me? What if he doesn't want to be friends anymore!

Kaido scratched his cheek. “I had no idea you did that magician stuff.”

‘Not by my will’

“Yea the runt was totally shocked. You shouldve seen his face!” Nendou burst into a hefty laugh. 

Kaido quickly turned his head, elbowing the big airhead. “Nendou!”

Why didnt you tell me you jerk!

Kaido cleared his throat and finally brought his gaze to Saiki. “So, how’d you do that box trick?” 

Saiki held his coffee jelly gently in his arms. “Magic.” 

Kaido froze slightly, “Magic?” he questioned. 

There was silence before Kaido suddenly burst in enthusiasm. “You appeared out of nowhere! You can tell us!” 

Saiki turned around walking away, yet Kaido and Nendou followed closely behind. “C’mon you can say!” Nendou laughed, “He didnt even tell me, why would he tell you!” Kaido shot him a stank side eye, “Shut it, Nendou!”