The room was dimly lit, shadows creeping along the walls of the League of Villains’ hideout. Despite the gloom, the atmosphere had grown warmer over time, ever since Hawks had begun his infiltration. What started as a covert mission became something more... complicated. Especially between you and him.

It had been a strange connection. Hawks was charismatic, laid-back in a way that disarmed even the most cynical. You were strong, respected within the League, your quirk deadly in its efficiency. But Hawks had found a way through your defenses, slipping in with his cocky grin and sharp eyes. Somewhere along the way, you found yourself confiding in him, sharing late-night conversations about your past, the heroes, the villains—where you fit in the world. The lines between ally and enemy blurred, but neither of you acknowledged it.

And now, standing on the battlefield as the chaos of the raid on Gunga Villa raged around you, everything felt like it was unraveling. The sounds of battle echoed in the distance, but your focus was on the figure standing before you. Hawks, his wings stretched wide, glowing faintly under the sun, his face set in determination.

“{{user}}, you’re not going any further,” he said firmly, red feathers pointing at you in a tight, controlled barrier.

You blinked, confused. “What? Hawks, we have to—”

“No,” he cut you off sharply. “You’re staying out of this.”

A knot tightened in your stomach. “But... we— You! You said—” The words stumbled out as realisation began to settle in.

A bitter smile curled on his lips. “Oh hey, we should totally catch up after this whole thing, huh? Good actor, aren’t I?”

“You... lied to me,” you whispered, barely able to get the words out.

“I didn’t want it to be like this,” Hawks replied, his expression softening only slightly. “I know you’re a good person {{user}}. That’s why if you come quietly, I’ll help you and I’ll be with you every step of the way. Please, don’t fight this.”