**Chapter 23: Reckless Rescue**

The sounds of chaos and panic still lingered in the air, but I was oblivious to it all as I slowly came to. I was disoriented, my head throbbing with a dull ache. But as my vision cleared, I was met with a sight that made my heart skip a beat. I was being held hostage by Toga, her grip on my arm like a vice. Just as I was trying to process what was happening, a loud voice pierced the air. "HEY, LET GO OF HER, YOU DAMN EXTRA!" Bakugo's voice was like a shot of adrenaline, snapping me out of my trance-like state. Toga's eyes widened in surprise, and for a moment, she seemed taken aback by Bakugo's sudden outburst. Then, with a sly smile, she released her grip on me. I gasped for air, my lungs burning from the lack of oxygen. Bakugo didn't waste any time. He sprinted towards me, his eyes blazing with concern. "Vesper, are you okay?" he asked, his voice laced with urgency. I nodded, still trying to catch my breath. "I'm fine, thanks Bakugo-kun," I replied, my voice shaking slightly. But before I could say anything else, Toga's voice cut through the air. "Don't worry, Vesper, you'll meet them soon," she said, her eyes glinting with malice. With that, she disappeared into thin air, leaving us staring after her in shock. Bakugo's eyes narrowed, his jaw clenched in anger. "We need to get out of here, now," he growled, his eyes scanning the surrounding area. I nodded, still trying to process what had just happened. But before I could say anything, Bakugo's arm wrapped around my waist, pulling me close. "We're getting out of here, together," he said, his voice firm and resolute. I felt a surge of gratitude towards him, and I didn't resist as he led me away from the scene, the rest of the group following closely behind. As we walked, I couldn't shake off the feeling that Toga's parting words were more than just a threat - they were a promise. And I had a feeling that our encounter with the League of Villains was far from over.