A Moment of Chaos

As we walked back to the restaurant, Bakugo seemed more at ease, his earlier doubts and fears momentarily forgotten. We were all famished, and the sight of the steaming hot food was like a magnet to our stomachs. I dug in with gusto, savoring the flavors and textures of the meal. Bakugo and the others did the same, and for a while, we just focused on eating, enjoying the warmth and camaraderie of the moment. After dinner, we decided to head to the baths, a relaxing soak in the hot water just what we needed after a long day. As we changed into our swimsuits, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment wash over me. The baths were always a highlight of my stay at the camp, and I was looking forward to unwinding with my friends. As we made our way to the baths, Mineta suddenly appeared, his eyes shining with an uncharacteristic fervor. "On the other side there is paradise PLUS ULTRA!" he exclaimed, scrambling up the wall with an agility that belied his awkward demeanor. Kota, who had been keeping post nearby, sprang into action, dashing over to intercept Mineta. He gave him a gentle but firm push, sending him tumbling to the ground. "Thanks, Kota!" I called out, laughing. But before Kota could turn around, he let out a strange gurgling noise and his eyes rolled back in his head. He stumbled forward, a nosebleed streaming down his face, and fell towards me. I instinctively reached out to catch him, and Deku rushed to help, his face etched with concern. The boys on the other side of the bath area erupted into a panic-stricken cacophony, their shouts and cries mingling with the sound of rushing water. I wrapped a towel around Kota's waist, careful not to expose him, and Deku and I exchanged a worried glance. "We need to get him to Mandalay," Deku said, already moving towards the exit. I nodded, scooping Kota up into my arms. Deku followed close behind, his eyes scanning the surroundings as if searching for any signs of danger. As we made our way to Mandalay, the residential area of the camp, Deku filled me in on Kota's background. I had always known that Kota was a bit of a loner, but I had no idea that he had lost his parents in a tragic accident just a few years ago. Deku's words painted a picture of a troubled past, one that Kota had kept hidden behind his usual cheerful facade. I felt a surge of compassion for him, and my grip on his body tightened. As we reached Kota's quarters, Deku helped me lay him down on the bed, and we decided to head back to the baths, leaving Kota to rest. The warmth and tranquility of the baths seemed like a distant memory now, replaced by a sense of concern and unease. What had just happened to Kota, and was he going to be okay?