The Freedom to DREAM (Angel!)

Even though his senses tried their darndest to warn the tall man who loomed over most of his peers, it seemed as though getting lost in a day dream once more had thrown the peculiar fellow in for a loop! That's right, though he heard a small voice of doubt in the busy crowd get closer, it was melded into the passing thought. This thought, fluttering about in the beat of the moment represented some of his dear listeners who took the time to write and other times call. A bad idea...there were quite a few who feared their own hopes, dreams and aspirations residing in what they felt was a hopeless future. Don't lose hope, keep holding on, change your perspective, shift the angle of your view...you'll find the missing piece to your puzzle, my lost one.

[break][break]

A shame, pity even...

[break][break]

At least someone like him managed to be something for these people and animal quirkers to hold on to, being there while they felt weak and cheering them on as they got stronger. That's when his thoughts scheduled programming came to an abrupt end and there were a pair of wings attached to the petite, suited young lady which aided her in a plight of balance. A little wiggle of his fluffy deer tail and a subtle twitch of his ears as one directed itself to her and the other as it took in the sounds of their peers. The poor thing, taking a deep bow of remorse as she requested forgiveness, as he listened to her voice...it was the same one that chimed true with self doubt not too long ago...

[break][break]

It was truly flattering that she recognized him somehow...then again, boogle searches and those new billboards seemed to be making him a little easier to pick up in a crow. Honestly, he was still getting used to people recognizing him! Something about this girl's face, the scar beneath her eye and those wings rang as little bell of familiarity...

[break][break]

U.A...

[break][break]

...wasn't she that brave young lass that held her own quite well during that televised broadcast? The one of the sport's festival...? Furrowing his brows slightly as a smile reside across his lips, he held up one hand and spoke in a gentle tone, coated by his constant radio tinted vocals, "Now now, my dear, I should have been paying better attention, myself, Miss Angel of Mercy~" Though she thought he might work here, he couldn't help but let a bemused, low chuckle escape him before continuing his words, "I'm afraid not, but it's admirable that you're trying to face your fears rather than simply run from them~! It's much like your time during the sports festival your prestigious school hosted, is it not~?"

[break][break]

Hn...some of their peers, as delighted as they were to bare witness to a suited duo making their own respective splashes in society, were being obstructed. Right, it wasn't exactly polite to just stand in a walkway...was it? Time to remedy that in a polite fashion~! "Let's move our delightful little conversation, shall we~?" Motioning for her to follow him, he pivoted on his heel and strolled on through the crowd with care. The Deer Hatter was making sure not to leave the young lady behind since he wasn't about to simply abandon the poor thing in a place out of her comfort zone.

Oh? Just Angel...? This was rather reminiscent of when he met Hanako in this very place and requested him to be less formal and look at them now, they were wonderful friends and he was even invited to for her baby's first birthday not too long ago! Perhaps he'd manage to find another friend in this young lady? All in all, he certainly wasn't opposed to converting strangers into friends or business partners, the more the merrier, right? Oh and the mention of this castle siege challenge sounded rather interesting! He hadn't too much time on his hands back then while they were televising all of these events and exhibitions, it was a bit of a miracle with the timing for him to even catch that U.A sports festival.

[break][break]

Who would have thought he'd have met one of the students who made so many strides on this fine day? From what he could gather, these upcoming heroes were certainly going to build a bright future ahead of them. "Oh? I'll be sure to watch it when I get home this evening~!" Walking along with her to the side, making sure that no one gave her a hard time, so far so good and thus the conversation continued out of their lovely peers' way. A win/win since that meant they could talk more freely rather than rush a conversation. In fact, it was pretty surprising that it was so busy today!

[break][break]

But she intervened with a cult rampage as well? Honestly, for someone who was still a student, she was sure keeping herself busy with acts of heroics! Looks like the little pink haired starlight was going to have a rather bright future ahead of her! Of course he was more than willing to hear her tale...but how curious it was that he was being offered an opportunity to assist others. Well, how could he honestly find himself saying no? After all, he was in the process of adopting a child with a rough past and in need of a brighter future. Who knows, maybe it was something he could get involved with...?

[break][break]

Between Marceline Labelle and Ketsujo Corp being on his side of the ring, he was certainly in far better financial standing for the studio. Thankfully that meant far more time to himself rather than hustling like crazy to get as many sponsors and business partners as humanly possible. Such a task that would run anyone ragged...everything was falling into place bit by bit. He'd have enough time to be a good father figure and possibly even sort out this new offer? Besides, the young lady was actually dressed in a suit as though she'd been ready to make such a proposition!

[break][break]

"Why of course I'd love to hear of your tale, Miss Angel~! Ah...and of course your offer as well, I'm not one who would deny hearing about such an opportunity~" and with those words, he was more than happy to listen to this girl speak of her past and aspirations of the future. If it were possible for him to help, then of course he would!

Watching as she changed places in being a guide, it seemed as though she found a little place for them to take a seat which was perfectly fine by him. Calmly and quietly, he took a seat beside the young woman, lacing his fingers together before resting them upon his lap. There were many tales this man had not only spun with words, but those he'd seen as shared by his lovely listeners. Not all were full of happiness, many had concerning themes...those were the ones he followed up with every now and then when time permit such a window to offer his correspondence. Especially when he hadn't heard from frequent writers...with the nature of conflict bubbling about where not everyone respected quirkers of any sort as equal individuals.

[break][break]

It was strange...the time they lived in.

[break][break]

At least he could safely say that slowly but surely, it was getting better. As long as progress kept moving itself forward, then they'd achieve a world where quirkers would have juuuuust a bit more freedom. Patiently and quietly, he waited during this little now's your chance to run off or cancel the story offer. After about nine minutes, he offered a slight smile and spoke up in a gentle tone, "I truly don't mind listening to your story, Miss Angel." Being there, even if it's just so they know someone's listening, he didn't mind being that person at any time for those who needed it.

[break][break]

See, he knew that there was a time for enthusiastic fun and others to keep calm and cool when the time called for it. But here? It wasn't about getting a scoop or good story so that he could use someone's tragedy and suffering to signal boost himself...no, not at all. Plus, there was nothing where she placed her hand near her neck...which he didn't show it, but that was a bit concerning. Finn wished that he hadn't known of the horrors some mutants faced...some were treated like tools or weapons, it wasn't right. He, himself, started off as a tool for his mother to garner money out of his quirk, but it had a happy ending of becoming more like a career.

[break][break]

This man wasn't ignorant, though, he knew that not everyone got their happily ever after. At least...he knew that when her tale would come to a close, there was something bound to be good out of it. After all, why else would she be enrolled in UA and doing so good for herself? It was clear as day that she had a rough start, especially as she started to speak up. Going along with her story...certainly sounded like a rough start and she had a father who didn't like quirkers. An anti quirk father and a daughter who ended up having a very obvious mutation?

[break][break]

It wasn't long before things would take a dark turn, that's what his gut was telling him...especially since she had a disability as a result of her quirk as well. To someone who hated quirks, it would be an easy excuse to lash out further, wouldn't it? Yet technology had a way of helping her cope and adapt, she even further emphasized it by showing her actual ear to him. This wasn't disgusting or gross to him at all, not a single cringe was spotted or seen to linger about his features. Rather, he was honestly glad that she was able to achieve her feats regardless since an auditory obstacle to sort out in one's body could be quite challenging.

[break][break]

Oh but as it went on, he was reminded of how often CPS just turned a blind eye back in the day and shrugged things off...was that the case with her? Is this why she was quite literally treated as less than a prisoner? Perhaps if he networked with enough people...he could see if perhaps the hero community could work toward making it possible to aid more of these children? Seriously, the amount of abuse some of his listeners made him wish he could do something, some even itching away at that desire to go vigilante for the right cause. Unfortunately, he knew it was crucial to be there for his radio family, listeners and co-workers alike...so he hadn't been driven to take the risk.

[break][break]

Honestly, the more he listened, he hoped this pathetic excuse of a human wasn't just left there. He was going to have some choice words if this tale didn't include the apprehension of the man who brought this young lady into the world. Oh dear...it sounded like she left him with a warning and not report him properly to the authorities or some sort of rehabilitation program. Certainly he understood that the girl was young back then and didn't want to stoop to that awful man's level...but he was a genuine danger to society. If it turns out that he was untouchable from the law...well...that's where vigilantism comes to tidy up.

[break][break]

Angel was doing her best so aid those around her and met many interesting people during her path of life, building up and improving things. All of it was admirable, but he felt a strong need to let her know that people like her father may take advantage of a mere warning. Rehabilitation was still a peaceful alternative to jailing, though his personal opinion was falling under put this danger to society behind bars. Then again, that was just preference toward the sort of person Angel's father was...or still might be. There were other abusers as well in this tale...

[break][break]

Angel absolutely dealt with the cultist sorts, so it seemed as though she was learning from the past and trying to work toward a better future over all. Why, all of that was well and good, but he felt it was important all the same to emphasize his concern in letting dangerous people off with only a warning. Every shred of paternal instinct rang true to her request and her approach, he hadn't any intention of denying the offer...but he wanted to make sure she kept on the right track. All of her enthusiasm was an absolute delight, though, she absolutely deserved to feel proud of herself! Offering her a momentary handshake before giving her a proper response.

[break][break]


"Why...Miss Angel, of course I would love to lend my aid and contribution~! New Oasis is absolutely a missing necessity in the world we live in. I know that they've gotten a good start with Busy Bees, but they unfortunately leave out a fragment of the quirker community. However, New Oasis appears to remedy that for those who feel as though they don't have a place in our growing society. Now, this isn't to say I don't approve of Busy Bees, I'm grateful for their efforts and strides, however not every quirker has a choice as to whether or not their appearance may be upsetting...yet not having an alternative community for them to integrate may lead them down a dark path in life..."

[break][break]

Bringing his hands up together, he closed his eyes for a moment and lightly tapped the tip of his clawed index fingers up to his chin thoughtfully. Reopening his eyes, he tried to sort out all the words buzzing about in his head, "...though not every quirker will become a hero, there are many that become villains as a result of feeling forsaken and shunned by society. With a safe, welcoming environment to be nurtured, that should lessen the crime rate...thus, I am more than happy to do what I can for your New Oasis project. However, I do have a suggestion which will benefit your path to becoming a true hero, one to inspire those through your actions and efforts to live up to the name of being the Angel of Mercy..."

[break][break]

There was no such desire to kick down her past choices...but to improve on them, rather. Finn remained calm, cool, collected and his words were gentle like a father trying to warn their child of the dangers lurking about, "...when you come across someone who has attempted murder or other crimes, it's dangerous to leave them with a warning. There are many people out there who will abuse such an act of kindness, my dear...they may very well see it an an opportunity to bring harm rather than a chance to be better. My only request is that if you face individuals in your line of heroic work that you do all within your power to turn them into the proper authorities. I'm unsure if there are rehabilitation programs, but perhaps with the aid of other pro heroes and the authorities, they can work toward making such programs a reality? Seeing that you are a firm believer in the acts of mercy, second chances, a merciful act is also one which provides the help one needs to truly become better."

[break][break]

"Such as taking criminals with a heart to reform and become better members of society, as an example, a chance for them to prove through their efforts. A way that provides the passage of time a way to show whether or not they are truly sincere. If program such as this doesn't exist, perhaps you can help be the one that changes that? Not everyone deserves to live the rest of their days out behind bars, yet such a program could possibly aid in such a sorting process..."

Stubbornness, that was certainly a thing he wasn't necessarily a stranger to. Boy oh boy did he have some qualms and disagreements over this approach since to him, taking her father into custody as quickly as possible would have been a far more merciful approach than just leaving him unleashed on the masses. It is what it is, he wasn't going to argue with someone relentlessly since he had far better things to do with his time. Perhaps he should simply dismiss himself and touch base with her when the New Oasis project was closer to requiring his assistance? Though she did mention being a bit claustrophobic, did she not?

[break][break]

Hn...that was certainly an issue that would need to be resolved for the quality of her own life to at least make some sort of stride in making it a little more tolerable? Either way...he respectfully and silently agreed to disagree with the approach she was taking regarding her father. The girl was lucky he didn't have enough connections to pin point the man who brought her into this world and tormented her, otherwise he'd have been tempted to underhandedly manage the situation himself in one way or another. No matter, such a thing was neither here nor there and out of his control. "Oh ho, I see~! An astounding plot twist~!" Upbeat and positive, he just played along as though it was just fine. After all, he was an experienced actor and had a knack for knowing how to hide his emotions and successfully put on a mask.

[break][break]

That's precisely what he would do.

[break][break]

Besides, she seemed to take a bit of an improved approach, so lesson learned and applied...? Well, she was getting there, he supposed! Though he had some reservations about just assuming someone could be won over so easily from a life of crime...her methods weren't 100% agreeable, but eh. He'd just keep up with the show so that the girl wouldn't get on the defensive again. Time would tell if he was wrong about the way she aimed to have a fairy tale solution for her thief.

[break][break]

"Ah, about myself, Miss Angel~? Let's just say life offered me the reigns and I decided to take them so I could lead myself to where I am now~" His tone was gentle with an upbeat spirit as he slowly stood to his full height and flashed off a bright grin. "Which is why I believe it would be best to perhaps save that tale for another day, you came here to face your fears, so let's tackle that as an impromptu team, shall we~?" Oh why yes, he was absolutely bubbling and brimming with excitement over this!

There was absolutely more sincerity to that grin of his when she mentioned how the world's a stage, which it truly was~! A large, unscripted play for the masses to partake in! Nothing more than one big ol' improvisational theatrical performance, really! "Why, certainly, I'd love to meet this dear Miss Miyami~" Whether this Miyami girl was being placed upon some large pedestal or not, who knew for certain, but the Deer Hatter was always more than happy to meet new folks, so why not?

Though it was rather unfortunate that this Miyami girl seemed to struggle with herself due to her quirk. Yet he didn't feel as though it was his place to get into all of that, but hey, Angel felt as though he could assist that young woman somehow...so he'd let that girl tell him on her own terms when the time came. After all, he figured that the reason Miss Angel over here told him about it was in confidence, mostly so he could perhaps figure out the right approach. That's the logical conclusion he came to anyway! Which, of course, would absolutely be at the back of his mind to sort out among the other things the tall fellow had to sort out.

Lightly twitching his ears when she used her wings to get closer to his own obnoxious height, he was wondering if maybe it would make her feel better if he duck walked around? Huh...maybe, then he could work out his legs at the same time! Now she absolutely had a grand ol' question, didn't she? How to help her face her fears...ahhhh yes...he had a plan, a grand plan! Or...you know, he thought it was grand.

Hmmm grand enough, perhaps?

Anyway, he absolutely had something in store all the same! Though...were his eyes playing tricks on him? It seemed almost like her smile flicked away for a moment there....ah well, no matter! Finn was on a mission to try his best to help her out! Though he wasn't sure if they might upset their peers with her using her quirk...ah...some people just constantly had their panties in a freaking bunch about that. Before he could get back to her about his grrrrrand scheme, she expressed her own concerns and inquiries about himself which were all fair and reasonable. When she gave him a little hug, he gently pat her arm for a moment as a way of being receptive as well as trying to offer her a bit of comfort. More so because she was genuinely reaching out for help and of course he wasn't the sort to turn someone away when he could be of assistance!

PHEW...plus she was on the ground once more which was good since HAH...he really didn't want to have to deal with quirkist behavior. Returning the bow with one of his own that had a flare of showmanship behind it, he smoothly spoke as he began walking along... "Oh ho ho~! Why it's very thoughtful of you to run through that list, my dear Miss Angel~! However you don't have to worry about any special accommodations for me, the only special request I can think of is more a personal preference for you, really~" Waving one hand about in the air, he elegantly moved his hands behind his back, his fluffy deer tail wiggling with a couple of gleeful flicks, "A little area where I can broadcast, that's if you'd like the residents to learn that area of expertise I have as well~"

An ear was swiveled in the young lady's direction as he fixated his gaze ahead with a path in mind, "As for facing your fears...how would you like to see or even be part of a show~?" That's right, he had connections and it wouldn't hurt to use them for a fun little experiment, wouldn't it? See if perhaps enjoying a musical of some kind would help her tolerate that awful claustrophobia of her's! Well, even if it was for a moment or a little while, it could be a pleasant attempt...

A smile that one may easily see as amused played across his lips as he was her silent, looming guardian through the crowd, aiding as a space bubble of comfort in a sea of civilians. Perhaps it was enough...or maybe it wasn't, as far as he could tell...it seemed as though he was doing something right by the young girl. The tall man wasn't exactly a therapist or anything of that nature, all he did was try for others within his capabilities...that's all he could do and keep learning as he made his way through life. "Wonderful~! That sounds like a fantastic little offer, now...shall we take over the stage~?" Guiding her toward the stage like a true gentleman, it was hardly an issue, at least not one he couldn't resolve with words and money had a problem managed to arise.

The young hero to be would find that sometimes...dreams do come true and the pair would overtake the stage so that they would take the spotlight, music and song playing though mysterious means! Where it came from, how it started was a mystery to all as the pair carried on their little impromptu musical moment...however, there was a little plot twist to consider, wasn't there...? A request for him to handle it...well...there were ways, people he could reach out to with the right words and price. Hn...perhaps he could...?

As their whimsical antics rocked the place, he took advantage of the auditory and visual distractions, carefully and softly saying his words to the young miss who requested merciful retribution, "I'll give you no promises as to whether or not I can solve your problem...but we shall see what the future holds..."

. . .

It was rather a twist of fate, using a series of channels and efforts to apprehend the man through various sources, but it didn't work out quite as he planned. Though both of their identities would have been safe and secure, not leaving so much as a bread crumb to either of them, the girl's twisted father would have slipped past the grasp and fingers of fate through means unknown to him. Not everything would go according to plan and that only meant he would have to do much more in the near future to pick up his own slack. Personally...he felt it would have been easier to rid the world of that trash...but alas...because she requested him alive, that made things tricky and that man was slippery.

Where he was, only Angel's father knew, but he wouldn't know what got him stranded...no matter how hard he tried.

At least wherever he was...it was more difficult for him to bring harm to others and that would have to suffice, he supposed...