[They're similar in that department, as Bakugo refuses to trust anyone at first. Even his current interaction with Chobe stems of their initial one and still builds from there. But what you see is what you get? Yeah, down for that. Look at his hero name!
Feel free to threaten the arcade machine. It won't give a damn.
Bakugo arches a brow. He half expects Chobe to take a sniff as he scans over the square paper stubs in his hand. But hey, if he's not gonna use them, waste not want not. He accepts the offer, deftly folding them up into a thin stack and pocketing them with the others.]
Fine. [Not sure what for, considering the clothes and all, but if Chobe's holding it all even, go for it. Technically he owed the man a shirt and got him a whole outfit, so this brings them square. He'll put the tickets to good use.]
Hope? Don't fuck with me! The thought never crossed my mind. You'd need a shitload more practice to even consider it.
[It really doesn't make any sense, Chobe simply is just a petty man. How dare he have normal civilian fun. He can't let Bakugo go thinking he appreciated the gesture.
But ah, this is more his speed, back to teasing. The hero's loud as fuck and makes his ears ring, but every over-reaction is comedy gold to him. Will he practice and play more later. . .? Maybe. He'll think about it.]
Awww, really? You weren't lookin' for a buddy to hang at this fancy playground with ya~? Guess you must have pleeenty of friends that can keep up with ya.
[The brat's abrasive and has a literal explosive personality, but Chobe wouldn't be surprised if he had a little gang or admirers. Some people naturally flock to the strongest dog in the yard. Or, sometimes, they'll leave it to become an unstable monster, he supposes.]
You're right though, I fumbled bad. Welp, best never to try ever again!
[At least he played once. Better than then clashing in the middle of the arcade and blowing everything up with a cacophony of explosions and vines. Bakugo isn't here to force Chobe down one path or another (blatant crime in his face notwithstanding) but if he shows him that path and the man chooses to say "fuck off" towards it, all the blame's on him. At the very least he's still responding to taunting. Bakugo can get behind the petty gestures and words.]
What?! Hell no! I'm not making "friends" in this shithole! [The dreaded f-word thrown at him by a punk! How dare he! Takes more than a few interactions to even remotely suggest such a thing!
"Allies" are what he prefers to call them, even though Chobe's not wrong. He has a few, uh... not!friends in the resort. Though only two of them ever occasionally join him in the arcade. It's fine. He gets along well enough, and he's the lone wolf type anyways.]
Che, bullshit and you know it. [The man's not the kind to give up so easily if he's intent on something. Bakugo crosses the arcade again, this time aiming for what looks like a soccer net and tiny patch of turf. He doesn't step up though, instead pausing nearby. Dragging Chobe around the arcade's not necessary.]
Are you sticking with me here or do you wanna hit another area? [Food court for a meal, Talon or Beak for training, shopping district for something stupid and potentially getting into another fight. At least he's making the offer!]
A lonely hero that doesn't want friends?? Tsk tsk, that feels so wrong.
[A faux gasp, looking shocked and offended. It's genuinely funny to him--for as empty as his trust reserves are, Chobe has zero problems calling a friend a friend when he gets that far. Friends and family keep him going (well. mostly family honestly), there's no shame in it. Being in an unfamiliar place like this, it's all the more important. Gotta figure out who you can trust and who you can throw under the bus if need be. Bakugo is firmly in the "push in front of a bus" category for Chobe at the moment, but unfortunately he suspects the guy could simply blow up the bus.
A surprised chuff at the offer. Is the guy just looking for company?? He's not wrong, Chobe will probably slink around the arcade later to acclimate himself more, but likely in the off hours, when there's less of a crowd. He looks over to the soccer area. Kickball. . .He hasn't played shit like that in literal decades.]
Hooh? So you DO wanna hang? You could just say that. [He'd wink if he didn't have his dead eye covered.]
[Don't put words in his damn mouth! Or worse, emotions on his head! Those are his decisions to make for himself, dammit! Chobe's lucky Bakugo doesn't kick him right in his shitty balls for this crap! He grew out of his childhood friendships, his swollen ego and aggressive pride striving to render all his victories and accomplishments his and his alone. Friends were people who got in the way and threatened to distract him or drag him down. Admitting you "need" someone else is a weakness he didn't ever want levied at him. And there's a risk when it comes to friendships. Caring about someone else can be used against you...
Unfortunately, this place is a perverted match maker that likes shoving people together and prattles on about forming "bonds" by people getting to know each other. Intimately. Bakugo has a hard enough time inviting someone to eat with him, let alone do the kind of fucked-up crap the hotel wants him to do. And yet, he's aware he can't topple this damn place, or even exist inside it long, without some interactions. At the very least, he'll decide for himself who he wants to be around and who he opts to trust.
Word of warning, Chobe. Once the arcade switches to "night mode" all the games and prizes become hella perverted. So if you don't wanna earn tickets seeing how far down Dildo Digger you can go or shooting winged vaginas with penis guns, stick with the day mode.]
Haa?! You're the one who ran away last time! [Excuse him for making sure that's not on the proverbial table!]
[NGL, Chobe would find the night arcade hilarious, unfortunately. He is not above a crude sense of humor.
Having such a strong reaction to the jab has Chobe choking back a laugh. Anyone who protests that badly really needs to look within themselves. He wonders though, maybe due to his natural strength, Bakugo just naturally isolates himself? Can't realize you're lonely if you've always been alone. Couldn't be Chobe, he thinks.
But oops, there he goes, turning the tables. Chobe's smile fades at the implication that not hanging out would be "running away." What kind of logic is that? He clicks his tongue, cocking his head.]
Hold up now, I didn't "run away," idiot. You let me escape. I just took the opening.
[That's right, he's flipping it back on Bakugo. A tactical retreat because the hero failed their mission. It totally wasn't because he calculated that he couldn't beat Bakugo head on at the time, no way.]
[Bakugo, to no surprise, avoids the night arcade. He doesn't need dicks shoved in his face or motorcycle games sprouting something questionable from their seats. Plus he uses the arcade to sustain himself in the resort. Doesn't need to waste his time for stupid rewards like lube and mini sex position books.
Tch. He hopes Chobe chokes on his stupid laugh. Violent protesting is SUPPOSED to make it even more obvious how stupid someone is for asking such a dumb question! Ironically, Bakugo used to be a lot friendlier as a child, albeit still with his pride, but growing up with everyone praising him and always being amazing at everything with no one coming close to him, plus a certain incident, really sent him into a foul disposition amid his glowing golden mountain top.
Chobe's smile drops and Bakugo's smirk cranks right up. Very much "gotcha!" spread across his lips. Damn right he's calling the guy out on running away! He called up a fucking hedge and bolted! Even heard the sound of his feet picking up speed and gaining distance!]
Yeah, I let you escape cause you ran away, Zombie. [What opening? He literally invited him to go shopping with him! That wasn't an opening to leave! Still looking smug about it because he thinks he's got the upper hand in this petty spat.]
Maybe you were too chickenshit to chase after me, Sparky!!
[Nah he's absolutely right. Even if it was the most logical move for the moment, Chobe knows it probably looks cowardly from an outside perspective. But even still he can't admit that! Fuck! How dare this brat try to play on his pride??]
You don't get to call me out when you're the one that can't just ask someone a straight question!
[If nothing else, Chobe is honest about his wants and desires, even if they're petty or silly. If that means literally lifting someone up over his shoulders and taking them out to eat, he'll fucking do it. Or teaming up with someone to do some petty crimes. Shout out to Akira (though he refuses to do murder with him, but hey, he's got the spirit.)]
Baaaka, I don't like kicking people when they're down.
[Complete with mature drone of voice and tongue sticking out. Look how mature he is! Truthfully, Bakugo's mostly taunting him for cowardice; he doesn't believe Chobe is. The man made a retreat for his own reasons and it was far more deliberate than running off in fear. He's pretty sure the guy simply had enough of him or didn't want to risk another fight.
It didn't put Bakugo out any. Just meant he dropped off Chobe's clothes at a later date. Honestly, he was kind of relieved he didn't have to go awkward clothes shopping with him.]
I asked you a straight question five minutes ago, dammit!
[Even if Chobe pointed out the simpler question hidden inside it. Bakugo's very honest about his feelings, but only certain ones, as this guy's probably sussed out by now. Anything sappy, mushy, soft, tender, emotional, shit that feels like "weakness" to him, gets locked up behind his bristly walls out of embarrassment and pride.
(Shush. He's currently learning what kind of thief Akira is and we'll see where that goes...)]
The hell you don't!! What kind of King Explosion Murder Dynamight God has mercy?! BULLSHIT.
[Of all the things he's heard so far that's what tips over into disbelief. THIS GUY? NOT KICKING SOMEONE WHEN THEY'RE DOWN? No fucking chance this little bastard would give anyone an inch for fear of them taking a mile. You get the job done no matter what!! Of course, Chobe savors kicking people when they're down. If they didn't want to incur his wrath, they should have known their place from the start!!
There's a twitch of his manic smile at the other implication as well. This brat is just calling him weak with extra steps. The fucking nerve. He takes an overly aggressive step forward, and when his foot comes down, the arcade shakes slightly, causing some slight confusion to the other patrons before they continue on with their games. There's some cracks in the floor where he stands.
This is all due to pride. Awful.]
You talk big for a damn pup, you know that? Alright, how about we play a real game? None of this dancing to lights bullshit like we're fucking moths, pick somethin' that needs some actual skill!
DON'T TELL ME WHAT TO DO, BAKA!! THAT KIND OF SHIT IS PATHETIC!! Beating someone who's already down's a waste of my time!
[There's a difference between kicking someone when they're down and getting the damn job done! Oh sure he'll lord over a victory and trash talk someone he's defeated, even threaten them if they try to get back up. But burning resources when he's already won? He has better things to do. Besides, Bakugo focuses on absolutely crushing his opponents during a fight, defeating them so soundly, they won't even try twitching when they lose. Victory absolute.
Definitely makes his opponent know their place. And rue the day they ended up with Great Explosion Murder God Dynamight as their enemy!
Chobe takes one heavy thunderous step forward, enough to rattle the machines nearby. What the hell kind of weight is that? Was it a shockwave he put out or pure heft alone? Bakugo turns to face him fully and walks right the fuck up to him, a wicked sneer and challenging light plastering all over his face.]
Hoooh? You wanna go, Zombie? Interesting! I'll kick your ass! [Something that has actual skill, huh?] You're not gonna find it in this place. Lets go to Talon and I'll set us up with a real test. Unless you're gonna RUN AWAY halfway there.
The only thing that's gonna run away is gonna be my run away victory!!
[He is not beneath crude humor OR stupid puns, he really shouldn't be criticizing Bakugo's hero name.
He's talking big, and truly has no reason to comply other than he's tired of this wannabe executioner sniping at him so thoroughly. A grin, and he gestures widely, giving Bakugo a mock bow, ready to follow him.]
Fine, lead the way, oh great hero! I'll show you something reeeally pathetic--your sniveling ass once you taste dirt! And unlike you High and Mighty types, I ain't gonna waste any time not kickin' ya down further!
I'll hold you to that. Give me a shit showing, and I'll bury you.
[Should he mention that stupid pun makes Chobe sound like a teenager for a brief moment? It's enough to make that smirk brighter. Look, the guy's not the first one to chide Bakugo for his hero name; even his own classmates did. Two villains did! His own MENTOR did! ONLY ONE PERSON THOUGHT IT WAS AT LEAST FUNNY!!
Chobe's in good company.
That mock bow has Bakugo punching him right on the top of the head. That's for being a goddamn shit!]
As if I'm gonna let a Low and Wussy type get me down! [Bastard. He stalks past Chobe, muttering to himself and bristling the entire time. Whether the guy wants to chat on the way or not, Bakugo's aiming to for Talon. Specifically the training rooms where he intends to set up a customizable training course.
[Heck?! You hit Chobe?? You hit Chobe like punching bag?? JAIL. It's strong, but it's not a fucking blast, so that just gets a cackle out of Chobe. He'll let that slide for now--don't get goaded into a random fight with a brat, bandit king!!
He'll get goaded into a game though. But that's his choice. Totally different. ]
I don't think it takes much to get you down. You're already beneath me, after all!
[The jabs will continue as he follows. He is briefly distracted by the scenery along the way. He doesn't mind that they leave the arcade, less noise, fewer people. The training room, while modernized, instantly rings more familiar. Swords, bow and arrows, axes, all weapons he's familiar with, even if he only opts to use them for aesthetic nowadays. Of course there probably aren't any real weapons out in the open due to those with sticky fingers (like Chobe), but he can make due with practice dummies and tools instead. He eyes the targets, smirking.]
Haaah? This is your idea of a challenge? Some target practice?
[If you mean the normal shonen "gag" punches braining people's head who piss you off, then hell yes he beat him like a fucking punching bag! He didn't bother exploding Chobe's skull means it wasn't that kind of pissed off. Though he has blown up people before out of sheer frustration. Look what he did to his dorm over a shitty video game.
DID HE JUST JAB HIM ABOUT THE HEIGHT DIFFERENCE?!]
It's not even two damn inches!
[Sore spot? Hell no! But if Chobe's gonna use it as some stupid one up, he's gonna rage at it! Whack his feet off and gain those two inches for a few seconds. Criminal punk.
Unfortunately for Chobe, those weapons aren't real. Only for practice sparring and whacking around the dummies. But Bakugo's walking past those rooms and instead arrives at a small row of doors. Talon has fortified training rooms that allow guests to utilize their powers without restrictions. (World-destroying reality-warping dimensional-rift-making bullshit notwithstanding.) Damn right Bakugo's used them extensively. He pushes open the door and heads inside. Fuck it's always so white in here. (Think something like this or this.)
Bakugo looks over his shoulder at the other man.] Nope.
[He scans his watch on the control panel and the room begins to change. The far side abruptly recedes in a vertigo-inducing rush. Shapes burst from the walls, forming streets, buildings, platforms, an entire city lane within the enclosed space. One of his preset training courses. Holographic hard-light humanoid figures emerge from the ground, crouch atop roofs, peer out of windows, some armed with firearms or bladed weapons and others bare-fisted.]
[Bakugo certainly wins on the tantrum front--Chobe at least doesn't tend to destroy his own property. Others, sure, but his own? Nah, he likes his shit. He continues to snicker as Bakugo takes the bait again.]
Whatever you say, shortstack.
[Just a silly, petty thing, especially since the hero will probably have another growth spurt, unlike Chobe. His body's base stature is locked in stasis now. He can still improve it of course--taking hits to increase durability, strength training, exercise, etc. He just won't be getting any taller.
But any other playful teasing is cut off as he realizes their bypassing all the faux weaponry for the training room. He pauses momentarily when he sees it at first. So. . .blank, and sterile. It looks like a testing ground of sorts, and it immediately has him on guard, tensing up a bit. He's not about to seem afraid though, and he finally enters, watching Bakugo set things up. But once the room starts to warp, his alarm bells ring out again.]
The hell--!
[Welp, this time he can't help but startle like a cat, darting to the left and right and back as the city springs up all around, reflexively even snapping a whip of a vine at one. The most modern city he's ever been in up til now was Hong Kong, back in the 1800s after being occupied by the British. The city felt new and sleek and advanced for him then, this is a whole new level to marvel.
Once he realizes they aren't actually being warped to a new place, he tentatively reaches out to touch a lamp post. Is it solid light? He then eyes the figures.]
. . .so it's like an illusion? Huh. Folks would call this magic where I'm from.
. . .
Wait, you set this up so you can just kill fake humans? You really are a little bloodthirsty bastard, aren't ya?
[He got detention. And Aizawa banned card games from the dorm for weeks. U.A. had to suspect the risks! Have a bunch of young adults living together with superpowers?! SOMEONE'S GONNA BLOW SOMETHING THE FUCK UP!!
Anyways. He says two inches is nothing and he's sticking with it.
Good on Chobe for noting the place as a testing ground. That's exactly what it is. Bakugo wasn't fond of it when he first saw the damn place either. But once he learned what he could do in there, it became one of his "favorite" places in the entire resort. Sometimes wonders if the stupid bird realizes he's using the room it provided to train and grow stronger, with the intention of gutting the stupid peacock in the future. Damn ass perverted kidnapping bastard.
And right back to smirking over Chobe bouncing up like a stupid cat. Lucky for the criminal, nothing springs up behind them; the entrance to the room (and windows beside it) remains untouched, giving the occupants a grounded point to always come back to. Especially since the controls are located there. Plus you gotta have the perverted side so people outside can look in. In case you wanna get frisky with your powers at full.
Yeah the lamp post is solid. Push it too hard, however, and it'll crack, breaking apart into a myriad of little glowing cubes of light. (Kinda like the Pixels movie.) It doesn't reform, making the damage "permanent" until the training module's reset.]
It's probably some kinda magic. Not even my world has this advanced technology. [And his world's over a decade ahead in the future, with leaps and bounds made thanks to Quirks.]
THEY'RE FUCKING HOLOGRAMS!! I'LL SLAUGHTER THEM!! [I mean... Chobe's a little bit right? He has a setting for take downs rather than busting the hologram enemies apart, but considering the somewhat fragility of the constructs, it's almost a mood point. While a construct could definitely choke you to death, one solid punch to the head would break them apart, so... it can't cover every training possibility.
Maybe it can, and Bakugo just hasn't found or unlocked that setting. Anyways-] This good enough for you, or are you gonna bitch some more?
[He picks at his ear as Bakugo yells--he'll always have him beat when it comes to volume. But "holograms," huh? Illusions but made with science, is what he'll slot them as. But a technology that exceeds that of those from further in the future he is. . .in a way, this place is another hellish paradise. Full of mysteries and wonders and horrors all wrapped in one. It almost makes him laugh.
Well, he just has to accept it. He pats at the lamp post lightly once more, nodding in understanding.]
I guess it'll do. So what's the game? See who can kill as many civilians as possible? Doesn't sound heroic, but it sounds real damn fun. Gimme the rules, twerp.
[Bakugo cracks his knuckles into his opposite fist and rolls his head, limbering up for the challenge. Eh, illusions with science is an apt way to describe them. (He'd prefer that over "magic" despite the shit he's seen in this place.)
Tch, dammit. Of course Chobe's gonna veer in a stupid direction. Has to keep his damn criminal traits up, doesn't he? Time to yank the rug out from under this hellion.]
Those aren't civilians, idiot. Take a look. [There's a reason they're armed. Knives, guns, fists, these "people" are intending to attack. Meaning they're bad guys, dammit! ... well, heroes and villains are still civilians. Technically. But civilians aren't gonna put up as good a fight as bad guys! Hmph! He wants a challenge, not some fucking pushover store owner!]
Highest kill count wins. One point for each punk. If you get hit, you lose a point. [And gestures to Chobe's watch.] That'll keep track.
[It's not just about knocking off the targets; it's about doing it safely as well. A hero (or villain) can be strong as fuck, but still die if they're not aware of their surroundings. Training this way works on both.]
[A quick glance at his wrist as he rolls his opposing shoulder. The watch acts as some kind of tracker and score keeper? Every little piece of technology keeps surprising him. Must be able to sense their tao or muscle tension or some bullshit, he figures.
He looks to the holographic figures, all sneering, cracking their own knuckles and readying their weapons. Oooh, guns, he's just gotten used to those. He wonders if they're even more deadly now. But "not civlians?" Hah! The brat still wants to take the high road. A lazy, lopsided smile, and he begins counting the targets.]
Ah, I get ya. But just taking out punks ain't no fun--I'm not super creative, y'see, so I gotta give them a little more life. So that guy there--[He points at someone with a shiv.] He was driven to crime to scrape up money for his sick ma. And that one there? [A big guy with massive fists and an eyepatch.] Dragged into the underworld while tryin' to protect his little sister. Oh, oh, and THAT ONE! [A guy with a lead pipe. . .]
He's just in the wrong place at the wrong time, probably a plumber or somethin'. But he's gotta fight his way out of this too, or die.
[He looks to Bakugo and just BEAMS annoyingly.]
There we go! I'm all hype to kill them and crush their dreams now. Ready to go when you are!
[The watch does "everything" in this shitty place. From the key to your room to the wallet for your funds to way you call people and more. Won't come off either, fucking shackle. Bakugo hasn't even gone through all the apps and shit it can do. Mostly focuses on the ones he finds helpful and ignores the rest.
He tilts his head to the side, cracks his neck, and lowers his hands to his side. A few pops and snaps burst around his fingers and palms. Guns, knives, fists, all these thugs have something to fight with. HE'S NOT TAKING THE HIGH ROAD, DAMMIT!! What kind of civilians does Chobe hand around?! Eternally aggressive bruisers who fight all the time? Ugh. Put "civilians" in the program and they just wander around shopping or walking their dogs, etc. Mattaku...]
You need to give them backstories?! [This from the zombie who says he's not creative. Bakugo's THIS CLOSE to punching Chobe in his stupid scarred head again. He's facepalming in his mind, expression a clean scowl towards their opponents. Seriously...] What, you don't think anyone's a criminal just cause they're a shit person?
[Each of Chobe's stories gave a sympathetic light to the people intending to gun them down, cut them up, or beat them to death. It actually says a lot about the man Bakugo's standing beside. That annoying beam earns a mix of cool smirk and frustrated sneer. Go figure, but the blonde manages it.]
Sounds like you got a sappy heart under all that crap. [He wonders what Chobe's story is. Why he's a criminal. What drove him to become the way he is and do the things he does. All villains have an origin story, just like heroes.] Don't slack off or they'll crush yours instead.
[And blasts himself forward, blitzing two on the street and putting them down with an explosion to the chest and a shin to the head.]
Nah, there are definitely shitty criminals for shit's sake. Like me!
[Not entirely true, but he doesn't have to tell Bakugo that. He's made his choice and he commits to it, and would never excuse the sins he's accumulated over the years now. No need to get into that though, just focusing on this little game the hero's set up. Child's play, he thinks.]
And careful with the assumptions there, Sparky. It's just way more fun to crush folks who have a reason to live rather than some shitty nobodies!
[Can't have him thinking he's soft, gosh. With that, one of his arms splits open, two vines immediately zipping out to stab a couple thugs straight to through the chest. And, just to test how lifelike the scenery around them is, he ensnares a third lunging at them, tossing him into a storefront's window, marveling at how real the glass feels. He might actually have some fun with this!]
Looks like I'm keepin' pace, brat! Don't tell me you're gonna need me to rescue you, eh?
Uh-huh. [Chobe's trying really hard to keep up his image. Bastard's a depraved kill-happy bastard, but something happened to drive him into it. Bakugo doesn't think he's as cutthroat villainous as wants to appear. Hell if he's gonna say that to Chobe; the man would double down on all his criminal activities and be a huge pain in the ass to prove his point. Not Bakugo's deal to reform or save the man either. In his own world, yeah, he might try, but in this one? It's fucking pointless.]
Most shitty nobodies have reasons to live! [Oh now he's being petulant. And if Chobe wasn't immortal, he might have more respect for crushing people's lives and dreams. He wasn't immortal at first, given those scars, so what... did he desensitize himself to life? Tch, whatever. Bakugo has no intention of underestimating or over-assuming the villain.
BUT HE IS GONNA KICK HIS ASS AND WIN THIS!!
Con? Those thugs stabbed through stagger backwards, spilling glowing cubes of hard light from their puncture wounds instead of blood. Injuries show up as if a geode was cracked open, bodies breaking away into tiny jagged cubes forming their being. Once Chobe tugs the vines free, they'll break apart completely. Kinda like beating around a living mannequin. Pro? Very lifelike as far as scenery goes. Chobes thrown man crashes through the glass, sending shards and ubiquitous noise all over the place. He even gets up with piece of glass stuck in his arm and starts firing at the villain from the shopfront.]
You couldn't even rescue me from boredom, Zombie! [Bakugo zigzags between an alleyway, flaring up to the rooftop above, and slamming two explosions down on the opponents trying to shoot him from the top.] DIE!! [Cube shower!]
[For as much as he throws around "brat" and "kid" at Bakugo, Chobe's just as immature and petty at times. If he was told he's a softie at heart, he'd absolutely go on a murder spree just to be contrary. He honestly doesn't even have a reason to keep up this persona at the casino, but when you've been locked into a role for decades, old habits die hard.
But not as hard as these digital punching bags!!
He's gonna gleefully keep it up--it's not that he's desensitized, he just takes pride in being reeeally good at what he does. Honestly he'd say most thugs aren't worth using his power on but damn if it doesn't feel good to cut loose. He grins watching Bakugo zip up into the air--bastard can basically fly. Fucking annoying!! He kicks off the ground, leaving a slight crater as he does so, alternating between jumping and climbing between the buildings to propel his way up through the falling cubes. Once's he's to a rooftop, a bullet just barely grazes his shoulder--a sniper shot, but it still counts as a hit according to his watch.]
--sneaky bastards!
[A quick judge of position, tracking where the bullet came from and he makes quick work of the target hiding in a window, breaking him down with a vine. Some others rush him while he's distracted, and he simply grabs one by the neck, squeezing and squeezing, watching the illusion gasp for life before they shatter completely when their throat is crushed. It gives the other AIs just a BIT of hesitance.]
Heeeh. Hey, Hero! Can ya do anything with your hands without your fireworks?
[Old habits die hard. Some don't ever kick the bucket. Bakugo doesn't go out patrolling around the peacock looking for bad guys to beat up. He's aware this place kidnapped heroes and villains and everything in between. Damage repairs itself, death never sticks, jail's a fucking joke, who knows if stolen items simply reappear since the resort staff and vendors always seem to be stocked no matter what happens. Heroes often try to protect and improve the world, while villains often try to harm or change it. So what happens when people of either alignment are stuck in a place that refuses to change and needs no protection? Stagnant...
Shit thoughts like that randomly come to mind, fueling another flurry of blows and explosions. Something snaps past his ear and he jerks to the side, plastering his back against a nearby wall. He checks his watch; no indication he was hit, but he felt it right through his hair. Tch, some fucking sniper somewhere. Red eyes scan about the area, muscles tense and ready to move. Given the direction, the person shouldn't be able to reach him without banking or rebounding the shot.
Another shot, this one almost taking Chobe in the shoulder.]
To your left! [Even as the words leave his mouth, Bakugo sees the man already tracking the shot. A quick twist, both hands charging up, and each militant hesitating in front of Chobe's neck-crushing display is abruptly caught in a fiery hailstorm of explosive rounds. Smaller explosions build up, erupting smoke from the roof until there's nothing left. One arm swats to the side, throwing billowing clouds away in a slice as Bakugo walks from the gray vapor.]
You wanna see me punch someone in the face?
[Should've seen the answer to that question already when he had Chobe pinned to the floor in a martial artist grapple.]
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Feel free to threaten the arcade machine. It won't give a damn.
Bakugo arches a brow. He half expects Chobe to take a sniff as he scans over the square paper stubs in his hand. But hey, if he's not gonna use them, waste not want not. He accepts the offer, deftly folding them up into a thin stack and pocketing them with the others.]
Fine. [Not sure what for, considering the clothes and all, but if Chobe's holding it all even, go for it. Technically he owed the man a shirt and got him a whole outfit, so this brings them square. He'll put the tickets to good use.]
Hope? Don't fuck with me! The thought never crossed my mind. You'd need a shitload more practice to even consider it.
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But ah, this is more his speed, back to teasing. The hero's loud as fuck and makes his ears ring, but every over-reaction is comedy gold to him. Will he practice and play more later. . .? Maybe. He'll think about it.]
Awww, really? You weren't lookin' for a buddy to hang at this fancy playground with ya~? Guess you must have pleeenty of friends that can keep up with ya.
[The brat's abrasive and has a literal explosive personality, but Chobe wouldn't be surprised if he had a little gang or admirers. Some people naturally flock to the strongest dog in the yard. Or, sometimes, they'll leave it to become an unstable monster, he supposes.]
You're right though, I fumbled bad. Welp, best never to try ever again!
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What?! Hell no! I'm not making "friends" in this shithole! [The dreaded f-word thrown at him by a punk! How dare he! Takes more than a few interactions to even remotely suggest such a thing!
"Allies" are what he prefers to call them, even though Chobe's not wrong. He has a few, uh... not!friends in the resort. Though only two of them ever occasionally join him in the arcade. It's fine. He gets along well enough, and he's the lone wolf type anyways.]
Che, bullshit and you know it. [The man's not the kind to give up so easily if he's intent on something. Bakugo crosses the arcade again, this time aiming for what looks like a soccer net and tiny patch of turf. He doesn't step up though, instead pausing nearby. Dragging Chobe around the arcade's not necessary.]
Are you sticking with me here or do you wanna hit another area? [Food court for a meal, Talon or Beak for training, shopping district for something stupid and potentially getting into another fight. At least he's making the offer!]
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[A faux gasp, looking shocked and offended. It's genuinely funny to him--for as empty as his trust reserves are, Chobe has zero problems calling a friend a friend when he gets that far. Friends and family keep him going (well. mostly family honestly), there's no shame in it. Being in an unfamiliar place like this, it's all the more important. Gotta figure out who you can trust and who you can throw under the bus if need be. Bakugo is firmly in the "push in front of a bus" category for Chobe at the moment, but unfortunately he suspects the guy could simply blow up the bus.
A surprised chuff at the offer. Is the guy just looking for company?? He's not wrong, Chobe will probably slink around the arcade later to acclimate himself more, but likely in the off hours, when there's less of a crowd. He looks over to the soccer area. Kickball. . .He hasn't played shit like that in literal decades.]
Hooh? So you DO wanna hang? You could just say that. [He'd wink if he didn't have his dead eye covered.]
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[Don't put words in his damn mouth! Or worse, emotions on his head! Those are his decisions to make for himself, dammit! Chobe's lucky Bakugo doesn't kick him right in his shitty balls for this crap! He grew out of his childhood friendships, his swollen ego and aggressive pride striving to render all his victories and accomplishments his and his alone. Friends were people who got in the way and threatened to distract him or drag him down. Admitting you "need" someone else is a weakness he didn't ever want levied at him. And there's a risk when it comes to friendships. Caring about someone else can be used against you...
Unfortunately, this place is a perverted match maker that likes shoving people together and prattles on about forming "bonds" by people getting to know each other. Intimately. Bakugo has a hard enough time inviting someone to eat with him, let alone do the kind of fucked-up crap the hotel wants him to do. And yet, he's aware he can't topple this damn place, or even exist inside it long, without some interactions. At the very least, he'll decide for himself who he wants to be around and who he opts to trust.
Word of warning, Chobe. Once the arcade switches to "night mode" all the games and prizes become hella perverted. So if you don't wanna earn tickets seeing how far down Dildo Digger you can go or shooting winged vaginas with penis guns, stick with the day mode.]
Haa?! You're the one who ran away last time! [Excuse him for making sure that's not on the proverbial table!]
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Having such a strong reaction to the jab has Chobe choking back a laugh. Anyone who protests that badly really needs to look within themselves. He wonders though, maybe due to his natural strength, Bakugo just naturally isolates himself? Can't realize you're lonely if you've always been alone. Couldn't be Chobe, he thinks.
But oops, there he goes, turning the tables. Chobe's smile fades at the implication that not hanging out would be "running away." What kind of logic is that? He clicks his tongue, cocking his head.]
Hold up now, I didn't "run away," idiot. You let me escape. I just took the opening.
[That's right, he's flipping it back on Bakugo. A tactical retreat because the hero failed their mission. It totally wasn't because he calculated that he couldn't beat Bakugo head on at the time, no way.]
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Tch. He hopes Chobe chokes on his stupid laugh. Violent protesting is SUPPOSED to make it even more obvious how stupid someone is for asking such a dumb question! Ironically, Bakugo used to be a lot friendlier as a child, albeit still with his pride, but growing up with everyone praising him and always being amazing at everything with no one coming close to him, plus a certain incident, really sent him into a foul disposition amid his glowing golden mountain top.
Chobe's smile drops and Bakugo's smirk cranks right up. Very much "gotcha!" spread across his lips. Damn right he's calling the guy out on running away! He called up a fucking hedge and bolted! Even heard the sound of his feet picking up speed and gaining distance!]
Yeah, I let you escape cause you ran away, Zombie. [What opening? He literally invited him to go shopping with him! That wasn't an opening to leave! Still looking smug about it because he thinks he's got the upper hand in this petty spat.]
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[Nah he's absolutely right. Even if it was the most logical move for the moment, Chobe knows it probably looks cowardly from an outside perspective. But even still he can't admit that! Fuck! How dare this brat try to play on his pride??]
You don't get to call me out when you're the one that can't just ask someone a straight question!
[If nothing else, Chobe is honest about his wants and desires, even if they're petty or silly. If that means literally lifting someone up over his shoulders and taking them out to eat, he'll fucking do it. Or teaming up with someone to do some petty crimes. Shout out to Akira (though he refuses to do murder with him, but hey, he's got the spirit.)]
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[Complete with mature drone of voice and tongue sticking out. Look how mature he is! Truthfully, Bakugo's mostly taunting him for cowardice; he doesn't believe Chobe is. The man made a retreat for his own reasons and it was far more deliberate than running off in fear. He's pretty sure the guy simply had enough of him or didn't want to risk another fight.
It didn't put Bakugo out any. Just meant he dropped off Chobe's clothes at a later date. Honestly, he was kind of relieved he didn't have to go awkward clothes shopping with him.]
I asked you a straight question five minutes ago, dammit!
[Even if Chobe pointed out the simpler question hidden inside it. Bakugo's very honest about his feelings, but only certain ones, as this guy's probably sussed out by now. Anything sappy, mushy, soft, tender, emotional, shit that feels like "weakness" to him, gets locked up behind his bristly walls out of embarrassment and pride.
(Shush. He's currently learning what kind of thief Akira is and we'll see where that goes...)]
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[Of all the things he's heard so far that's what tips over into disbelief. THIS GUY? NOT KICKING SOMEONE WHEN THEY'RE DOWN? No fucking chance this little bastard would give anyone an inch for fear of them taking a mile. You get the job done no matter what!! Of course, Chobe savors kicking people when they're down. If they didn't want to incur his wrath, they should have known their place from the start!!
There's a twitch of his manic smile at the other implication as well. This brat is just calling him weak with extra steps. The fucking nerve. He takes an overly aggressive step forward, and when his foot comes down, the arcade shakes slightly, causing some slight confusion to the other patrons before they continue on with their games. There's some cracks in the floor where he stands.
This is all due to pride. Awful.]
You talk big for a damn pup, you know that? Alright, how about we play a real game? None of this dancing to lights bullshit like we're fucking moths, pick somethin' that needs some actual skill!
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[There's a difference between kicking someone when they're down and getting the damn job done! Oh sure he'll lord over a victory and trash talk someone he's defeated, even threaten them if they try to get back up. But burning resources when he's already won? He has better things to do. Besides, Bakugo focuses on absolutely crushing his opponents during a fight, defeating them so soundly, they won't even try twitching when they lose. Victory absolute.
Definitely makes his opponent know their place. And rue the day they ended up with Great Explosion Murder God Dynamight as their enemy!
Chobe takes one heavy thunderous step forward, enough to rattle the machines nearby. What the hell kind of weight is that? Was it a shockwave he put out or pure heft alone? Bakugo turns to face him fully and walks right the fuck up to him, a wicked sneer and challenging light plastering all over his face.]
Hoooh? You wanna go, Zombie? Interesting! I'll kick your ass! [Something that has actual skill, huh?] You're not gonna find it in this place. Lets go to Talon and I'll set us up with a real test. Unless you're gonna RUN AWAY halfway there.
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[He is not beneath crude humor OR stupid puns, he really shouldn't be criticizing Bakugo's hero name.
He's talking big, and truly has no reason to comply other than he's tired of this wannabe executioner sniping at him so thoroughly. A grin, and he gestures widely, giving Bakugo a mock bow, ready to follow him.]
Fine, lead the way, oh great hero! I'll show you something reeeally pathetic--your sniveling ass once you taste dirt! And unlike you High and Mighty types, I ain't gonna waste any time not kickin' ya down further!
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[Should he mention that stupid pun makes Chobe sound like a teenager for a brief moment? It's enough to make that smirk brighter. Look, the guy's not the first one to chide Bakugo for his hero name; even his own classmates did. Two villains did! His own MENTOR did! ONLY ONE PERSON THOUGHT IT WAS AT LEAST FUNNY!!
Chobe's in good company.
That mock bow has Bakugo punching him right on the top of the head. That's for being a goddamn shit!]
As if I'm gonna let a Low and Wussy type get me down! [Bastard. He stalks past Chobe, muttering to himself and bristling the entire time. Whether the guy wants to chat on the way or not, Bakugo's aiming to for Talon. Specifically the training rooms where he intends to set up a customizable training course.
With targets.]
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He'll get goaded into a game though. But that's his choice. Totally different. ]
I don't think it takes much to get you down. You're already beneath me, after all!
[The jabs will continue as he follows. He is briefly distracted by the scenery along the way. He doesn't mind that they leave the arcade, less noise, fewer people. The training room, while modernized, instantly rings more familiar. Swords, bow and arrows, axes, all weapons he's familiar with, even if he only opts to use them for aesthetic nowadays. Of course there probably aren't any real weapons out in the open due to those with sticky fingers (like Chobe), but he can make due with practice dummies and tools instead. He eyes the targets, smirking.]
Haaah? This is your idea of a challenge? Some target practice?
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DID HE JUST JAB HIM ABOUT THE HEIGHT DIFFERENCE?!]
It's not even two damn inches!
[Sore spot? Hell no! But if Chobe's gonna use it as some stupid one up, he's gonna rage at it! Whack his feet off and gain those two inches for a few seconds. Criminal punk.
Unfortunately for Chobe, those weapons aren't real. Only for practice sparring and whacking around the dummies. But Bakugo's walking past those rooms and instead arrives at a small row of doors. Talon has fortified training rooms that allow guests to utilize their powers without restrictions. (World-destroying reality-warping dimensional-rift-making bullshit notwithstanding.) Damn right Bakugo's used them extensively. He pushes open the door and heads inside. Fuck it's always so white in here. (Think something like this or this.)
Bakugo looks over his shoulder at the other man.] Nope.
[He scans his watch on the control panel and the room begins to change. The far side abruptly recedes in a vertigo-inducing rush. Shapes burst from the walls, forming streets, buildings, platforms, an entire city lane within the enclosed space. One of his preset training courses. Holographic hard-light humanoid figures emerge from the ground, crouch atop roofs, peer out of windows, some armed with firearms or bladed weapons and others bare-fisted.]
This is my target practice.
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Whatever you say, shortstack.
[Just a silly, petty thing, especially since the hero will probably have another growth spurt, unlike Chobe. His body's base stature is locked in stasis now. He can still improve it of course--taking hits to increase durability, strength training, exercise, etc. He just won't be getting any taller.
But any other playful teasing is cut off as he realizes their bypassing all the faux weaponry for the training room. He pauses momentarily when he sees it at first. So. . .blank, and sterile. It looks like a testing ground of sorts, and it immediately has him on guard, tensing up a bit. He's not about to seem afraid though, and he finally enters, watching Bakugo set things up. But once the room starts to warp, his alarm bells ring out again.]
The hell--!
[Welp, this time he can't help but startle like a cat, darting to the left and right and back as the city springs up all around, reflexively even snapping a whip of a vine at one. The most modern city he's ever been in up til now was Hong Kong, back in the 1800s after being occupied by the British. The city felt new and sleek and advanced for him then, this is a whole new level to marvel.
Once he realizes they aren't actually being warped to a new place, he tentatively reaches out to touch a lamp post. Is it solid light? He then eyes the figures.]
. . .so it's like an illusion? Huh. Folks would call this magic where I'm from.
. . .
Wait, you set this up so you can just kill fake humans? You really are a little bloodthirsty bastard, aren't ya?
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Anyways. He says two inches is nothing and he's sticking with it.
Good on Chobe for noting the place as a testing ground. That's exactly what it is. Bakugo wasn't fond of it when he first saw the damn place either. But once he learned what he could do in there, it became one of his "favorite" places in the entire resort. Sometimes wonders if the stupid bird realizes he's using the room it provided to train and grow stronger, with the intention of gutting the stupid peacock in the future. Damn ass perverted kidnapping bastard.
And right back to smirking over Chobe bouncing up like a stupid cat. Lucky for the criminal, nothing springs up behind them; the entrance to the room (and windows beside it) remains untouched, giving the occupants a grounded point to always come back to. Especially since the controls are located there. Plus you gotta have the perverted side so people outside can look in. In case you wanna get frisky with your powers at full.
Yeah the lamp post is solid. Push it too hard, however, and it'll crack, breaking apart into a myriad of little glowing cubes of light. (Kinda like the Pixels movie.) It doesn't reform, making the damage "permanent" until the training module's reset.]
It's probably some kinda magic. Not even my world has this advanced technology. [And his world's over a decade ahead in the future, with leaps and bounds made thanks to Quirks.]
THEY'RE FUCKING HOLOGRAMS!! I'LL SLAUGHTER THEM!! [I mean... Chobe's a little bit right? He has a setting for take downs rather than busting the hologram enemies apart, but considering the somewhat fragility of the constructs, it's almost a mood point. While a construct could definitely choke you to death, one solid punch to the head would break them apart, so... it can't cover every training possibility.
Maybe it can, and Bakugo just hasn't found or unlocked that setting. Anyways-] This good enough for you, or are you gonna bitch some more?
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Well, he just has to accept it. He pats at the lamp post lightly once more, nodding in understanding.]
I guess it'll do. So what's the game? See who can kill as many civilians as possible? Doesn't sound heroic, but it sounds real damn fun. Gimme the rules, twerp.
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Tch, dammit. Of course Chobe's gonna veer in a stupid direction. Has to keep his damn criminal traits up, doesn't he? Time to yank the rug out from under this hellion.]
Those aren't civilians, idiot. Take a look. [There's a reason they're armed. Knives, guns, fists, these "people" are intending to attack. Meaning they're bad guys, dammit! ... well, heroes and villains are still civilians. Technically. But civilians aren't gonna put up as good a fight as bad guys! Hmph! He wants a challenge, not some fucking pushover store owner!]
Highest kill count wins. One point for each punk. If you get hit, you lose a point. [And gestures to Chobe's watch.] That'll keep track.
[It's not just about knocking off the targets; it's about doing it safely as well. A hero (or villain) can be strong as fuck, but still die if they're not aware of their surroundings. Training this way works on both.]
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He looks to the holographic figures, all sneering, cracking their own knuckles and readying their weapons. Oooh, guns, he's just gotten used to those. He wonders if they're even more deadly now. But "not civlians?" Hah! The brat still wants to take the high road. A lazy, lopsided smile, and he begins counting the targets.]
Ah, I get ya. But just taking out punks ain't no fun--I'm not super creative, y'see, so I gotta give them a little more life. So that guy there--[He points at someone with a shiv.] He was driven to crime to scrape up money for his sick ma. And that one there? [A big guy with massive fists and an eyepatch.] Dragged into the underworld while tryin' to protect his little sister. Oh, oh, and THAT ONE! [A guy with a lead pipe. . .]
He's just in the wrong place at the wrong time, probably a plumber or somethin'. But he's gotta fight his way out of this too, or die.
[He looks to Bakugo and just BEAMS annoyingly.]
There we go! I'm all hype to kill them and crush their dreams now. Ready to go when you are!
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He tilts his head to the side, cracks his neck, and lowers his hands to his side. A few pops and snaps burst around his fingers and palms. Guns, knives, fists, all these thugs have something to fight with. HE'S NOT TAKING THE HIGH ROAD, DAMMIT!! What kind of civilians does Chobe hand around?! Eternally aggressive bruisers who fight all the time? Ugh. Put "civilians" in the program and they just wander around shopping or walking their dogs, etc. Mattaku...]
You need to give them backstories?! [This from the zombie who says he's not creative. Bakugo's THIS CLOSE to punching Chobe in his stupid scarred head again. He's facepalming in his mind, expression a clean scowl towards their opponents. Seriously...] What, you don't think anyone's a criminal just cause they're a shit person?
[Each of Chobe's stories gave a sympathetic light to the people intending to gun them down, cut them up, or beat them to death. It actually says a lot about the man Bakugo's standing beside. That annoying beam earns a mix of cool smirk and frustrated sneer. Go figure, but the blonde manages it.]
Sounds like you got a sappy heart under all that crap. [He wonders what Chobe's story is. Why he's a criminal. What drove him to become the way he is and do the things he does. All villains have an origin story, just like heroes.] Don't slack off or they'll crush yours instead.
[And blasts himself forward, blitzing two on the street and putting them down with an explosion to the chest and a shin to the head.]
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[Not entirely true, but he doesn't have to tell Bakugo that. He's made his choice and he commits to it, and would never excuse the sins he's accumulated over the years now. No need to get into that though, just focusing on this little game the hero's set up. Child's play, he thinks.]
And careful with the assumptions there, Sparky. It's just way more fun to crush folks who have a reason to live rather than some shitty nobodies!
[Can't have him thinking he's soft, gosh. With that, one of his arms splits open, two vines immediately zipping out to stab a couple thugs straight to through the chest. And, just to test how lifelike the scenery around them is, he ensnares a third lunging at them, tossing him into a storefront's window, marveling at how real the glass feels. He might actually have some fun with this!]
Looks like I'm keepin' pace, brat! Don't tell me you're gonna need me to rescue you, eh?
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Most shitty nobodies have reasons to live! [Oh now he's being petulant. And if Chobe wasn't immortal, he might have more respect for crushing people's lives and dreams. He wasn't immortal at first, given those scars, so what... did he desensitize himself to life? Tch, whatever. Bakugo has no intention of underestimating or over-assuming the villain.
BUT HE IS GONNA KICK HIS ASS AND WIN THIS!!
Con? Those thugs stabbed through stagger backwards, spilling glowing cubes of hard light from their puncture wounds instead of blood. Injuries show up as if a geode was cracked open, bodies breaking away into tiny jagged cubes forming their being. Once Chobe tugs the vines free, they'll break apart completely. Kinda like beating around a living mannequin. Pro? Very lifelike as far as scenery goes. Chobes thrown man crashes through the glass, sending shards and ubiquitous noise all over the place. He even gets up with piece of glass stuck in his arm and starts firing at the villain from the shopfront.]
You couldn't even rescue me from boredom, Zombie! [Bakugo zigzags between an alleyway, flaring up to the rooftop above, and slamming two explosions down on the opponents trying to shoot him from the top.] DIE!! [Cube shower!]
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But not as hard as these digital punching bags!!
He's gonna gleefully keep it up--it's not that he's desensitized, he just takes pride in being reeeally good at what he does. Honestly he'd say most thugs aren't worth using his power on but damn if it doesn't feel good to cut loose. He grins watching Bakugo zip up into the air--bastard can basically fly. Fucking annoying!! He kicks off the ground, leaving a slight crater as he does so, alternating between jumping and climbing between the buildings to propel his way up through the falling cubes. Once's he's to a rooftop, a bullet just barely grazes his shoulder--a sniper shot, but it still counts as a hit according to his watch.]
--sneaky bastards!
[A quick judge of position, tracking where the bullet came from and he makes quick work of the target hiding in a window, breaking him down with a vine. Some others rush him while he's distracted, and he simply grabs one by the neck, squeezing and squeezing, watching the illusion gasp for life before they shatter completely when their throat is crushed. It gives the other AIs just a BIT of hesitance.]
Heeeh. Hey, Hero! Can ya do anything with your hands without your fireworks?
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Shit thoughts like that randomly come to mind, fueling another flurry of blows and explosions. Something snaps past his ear and he jerks to the side, plastering his back against a nearby wall. He checks his watch; no indication he was hit, but he felt it right through his hair. Tch, some fucking sniper somewhere. Red eyes scan about the area, muscles tense and ready to move. Given the direction, the person shouldn't be able to reach him without banking or rebounding the shot.
Another shot, this one almost taking Chobe in the shoulder.]
To your left! [Even as the words leave his mouth, Bakugo sees the man already tracking the shot. A quick twist, both hands charging up, and each militant hesitating in front of Chobe's neck-crushing display is abruptly caught in a fiery hailstorm of explosive rounds. Smaller explosions build up, erupting smoke from the roof until there's nothing left. One arm swats to the side, throwing billowing clouds away in a slice as Bakugo walks from the gray vapor.]
You wanna see me punch someone in the face?
[Should've seen the answer to that question already when he had Chobe pinned to the floor in a martial artist grapple.]
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