Work Text:
It’s not like Akane ever liked Ikki Watanabe. He spoke crudely, his shoes were always dirty, he bullied his peers and had the gall to say her pasta wasn’t good. He was not someone she’d normally get along with. Even this brief interaction through the ultimate competition Hope's Peak hosted supposedly to celebrate other countries hope felt far to long. She was eager to be rid of him when he flies back home. However, as she stands out in the pouring rain underneath her umbrella as he wobbles on crutches clearly struggling to adjust, as he elevates his broken foot tightly constrained with a cast she can’t help but feel bad for him. All things considered, this was light punishment. A petty way to get back at a bully that annoyed her master one to many times. What made this fate truly unfortunate is who remained by his side. There leading him out of the hospital was "Yuki Maeda" or more accurately, her master. Utsuro. Comforting his fellow Ultimate and trying to make light of the whole situation. But dropping a whole bowling ball on his foot? Isn't that just...Bad luck? Was this accident really just that? After all it was during the most vital part of the competition. The big game he spent sleepless nights training for...Was it really just that or was it a way to put him in his place? A way to give him a humiliation he'll never forget.
"At least it wasn't your rolling arm. Be more careful next time okay?"
Akane knew Utsuro for years, it was easy to see his true intentions. That wasn't a light hearted comment to lift spirits it's a veiled threat. She sighs as she opens the door to her humble car.
Yuki guides Ikki into the car. Ikki groaning in pain and swearing under his breath as he does.
"Be careful now, elevate your leg"
He orders before closing the door on Ikki, letting Ikki swear and rant to the air. He looks over to Akane his face giving her a small smile. Ikki can't hear them now...
"Thank you, Akane. You've always been such a help"
Akane forces a smile. Why doesn't she feel good? All she ever wanted was Utsuro's love. Why did it feel so empty? Is it because the day of action is fast approaching?
"Of course Master Utsuro. Anything for you. But...Why are you bothering with this guy?"
"Does it really matter? Despair comes for everyone. I don't need Enoshima's permission to act. Besides...Nothing wrong with some practice"
He says rolling his eyes and walks to the passenger seat. Akane follows and opens the door for him obedient, silent, and perfect. Just how he wanted her...She closes the door and sighs. In a way the sleek black of her dress and umbrella was fitting. Getting involved with a divine being such as Utsuro...It was basically Ikki's funeral.