Chapter 16: Gone

~Tadashi's PoV~

The bedroom always seemed so abandoned every time Hikari wasn't at home. And under normal circumstances, I would only feel bored. Especially, when even Mary wasn't at home. Usually, I would leave the house then, wandering around while watching people living their lives. And when I was done, I would come back to her room, sitting in her armchair while waiting for her return. I never needed to worry about her whereabouts – the times where she disappeared for several hours at night to hang out with my brother were excluded. I always knew that she would return home safely.

But this time, when I saw how she left together with Hiro the house so that they could change into their super-suits – as he called it – before heading out to find the person who was responsible for hacking into my friend's computer, it was different. And I could understand her reasons, I really could. And since Hikari was not the type of a person to lean back and let others figure out her problems, I knew that there was no talking her out of it. And even though she had ensured me at least a thousand times that she was able to protect herself, I couldn't stop worrying.

So, instead of sitting calmly in the armchair, she had declared as my sitting spot, waiting that she would step through the door, I was pacing through her bedroom, not even bothering to leave the house for a little walk. I wanted to see the moment she would come back that she was alright. Preferably, with Hiro at her side. The hours passed and though I knew that they wouldn't attempt to pay Mr. Burakku a visit before the sun would set, I still got anxious while the hours only crept forward. I really wished I had told her to let the TV on. At least then, I would have known if something happened on the news.

I didn't know how long I was standing at the window – I didn't dare to look at the clock for I'd probably got mad – but I could watch how the shadows in the room started with retreating while light flooded it, returning the color which the night had drained previously. And there was still no sign of Hikari nor Hiro. I had looked out various times in the hope to see a slim figure walking along the sidewalk to get back inside the house. Or even floating, since her suit could do exactly that.

I turned around only to see how the sun was climbing higher in the sky and while a rising sun was a symbol of hope and new beginnings, my concerns only grew. I dreaded what the lack of appearance could mean. The sound of the front door opening and closing caused that I turned towards the open door and before I could even think twice about my actions, I already hurried out to the hallway and ran the stairs down – forgetting my ability to dematerialize and appear right at the front door.

But the little hope of my friend returning home safely got crushed when I saw that it wasn't her who had entered the house. Like it seemed Mary came back quite early from her trip. She turned around and pulled her suitcase with her and walked right through me, I had been too shocked to actually move out of the way. I followed her with my sight, and I noticed that she had intended to head to her room, when she stopped at the telephone, a red light blinking. She hesitated for a moment and pressed then the button to play the message on the answering machine.

?One new message from seven-thirty pm: 'Hikari? Seems like you are busy or not home yet. I only wanted to let you know that I most likely won't make it home this evening. Gabriel hasn't shown up for his late shift today and I have to jump in. Just order yourself something for supper and don't wait up. I'll probably be at home tomorrow morning. I'm sorry, that you have to be alone this evening.' End of message. To delete the message, press one.?

I had heard that message already, exactly then when Hikari's father had left it. I remembered that I had approached the phone while waiting for the call to go to the voice mail. I had thought that it was a message from Hikari who was informing me about something. Like the last time when she told me that she would be home later after the tournament. I hadn't been that disappointed that it hadn't been her at that point since it still had been quite early for making some serious worries. But as the hours grew longer I had hoped for another call. But the phone hadn't rung once since then.

I hadn't paid any attention to what Mary had done with the message – it wasn't important anyway since her protégé wasn't home.

?What? Already after eight??, she muttered when she laid her eyes on the clock and I could see in her face that she had hoped for some rest before starting the day. I watched how she was putting the suitcase to the side before hurrying to the staircase, walking them with swift steps up. ?Hikari!?

I followed her, knowing fully well that she wouldn't receive an answer from the girl since the room was empty.

?Hikari! It's time to get up! You don't want to be...late...? I stopped right behind her when the brunette came to a halt in the doorway between Hikari's bedroom and the hallway and I saw how blue eyes scanned the room. It was too tidy for someone who might have just gotten up. The bed was still made and everything seemed to be...untouched. And I could confirm that nothing had been touched in hours.

Mary entered the room then, walking to the closet, knocking at the shut door. I followed her.

?Hikari? Are you in there?? When no answer came, she opened slowly the door only to be met by darkness and many shelves filled with clothes. But no Hikari. She bit her lower lip and I could hear the gears in her mind turn. It was painful to watch. I could see that she was slowly starting to worry but the hope that her absence was explainable was still too big to give in to her fear. She turned then around leaving the room only to head to the bathroom but this room was just as empty as the one before.

I noticed how her steps became quicker, more panicked after each empty room she encountered. By the time I was standing at her side again, she was in the middle of the hallway in the first story, standing between the kitchen and the living room. Her chest was rising and falling rapidly. And with her growing anxiety, mine grew too. The nanny reached then out to get something out of her pocket and as soon as she was typing on its screen, I could see that it was a mobile phone. I got then, what she was intending to do. Calling her.

?Come on, Hikari. Pick up...? I heard the beeping noise from her device since the volume was pretty high and while the woman was waiting for the girl to pick up, she looked one time around, her eyes dropping on an item she hadn't noticed before. Something I knew that would concern her. It was then that a faint vibrating sound filled the air and her breath hitched. I closed my eyes for a brief moment. The noise came from the backpack at which she had been looking and when I opened my eyes, I saw how she was approaching the item in question, unzipping it only to pull out the phone she was currently calling. Hikari had forgotten her phone as it seemed.

Endless seconds long, Mary was looking at the device in her hand before she lowered her own phone from her ear only to hang up. Calling Hikari further wouldn't do anything. She dropped then the phone back into the bag and turned then around, walking to the house phone. Standing in front of it, she started typing something into her smartphone, hissing a few times – I figured that she must have typed a few times the wrong key. Finally, she managed to type whatever she intended to type and waited. I was quite curious what she had been searching for but I refrained from stepping too close to her. I knew that my presence would only cause her an icy chill and I figured she was distressed enough as she was.

She began then typing a number into the number pad of the telephone before moving the handset to her ear, waiting. I could tell that she was quite anxious since she was drumming with two of her fingers on the plastic of the phone. After what seemed like an eternity, someone at the end of the line picked up.

?Yes, hello? Am I speaking with Cass Hamada?? Wait. Did she call Aunt Cass? ?Uhm, yes, this is Mary Stuart. I'm Hikari's nanny...? She paused and I could hear some murmuring from the handset. I guessed that Aunt Cass was answering something to this.

?I was just wondering... is Hikari by any chance at your house? I just returned from a trip and she's not here.? She paused again and nodded a few times. Would my heart still be beating, I knew that it would most likely burst out of my chest of anticipation. Aunt Cass was up already – of course since she had to open the café. But this also meant that she either hadn't checked on Hiro yet and therefore hadn't noticed his absence or that Hiro was at home. Safe and sound. And if he was, then it could be that Hikari was with him. I really hoped so.

But my hopes got crushed when I saw how Mary was obviously fighting the tears in her eyes and how she pressed her lips to a thin line. She drew in a shaky breath.

?Thank you. That would be great. I'll give you my cell phone number. Just in case that I'm not at home...? The choked sound of her voice was heartbreaking. So, Hikari was not with Hiro. I got a terrible feeling that something bad had happened. ?Thank you. I really appreciate your help.?

She placed the handset back on its station but remained where she was standing. She brought her hand up to her lips, trying to stifle the sobs which escaped her throat but there was no helping it. Soon after, she started crying and for the first time, I wished that she could actually see me so that I could offer her some comfort. I knew that I needed it, as well.


~Hiro's PoV~

I was sitting on my bed when I heard the phone ring. I barely slept this night after the others and I had been up almost all night of it to find any trace of Mr. Burakku to find Hikari. But he had just vanished, disappeared into thin air and with him, Hikari as well. There were no hints of where he had gone. We were as far as before only that it was much worse this time. That thing, about what I had been concerned about since that guy had appeared, had occurred and I had found myself in a panic haze since. Even when I was lying in bed, I couldn't close an eye. It had been that bad that Baymax kept constantly checking on me and I just deactivated him, placing him out in the hallway. And though I had fallen asleep eventually, it had rather been a restless slumber.

I didn't know why, but I got up from my bed and walked out to the hallway, looking down when I had arrived at the staircase only to see how Aunt Cass had picked up the phone.

?Hello??, she answered the phone and I could tell that she was rather confused since she hadn't anticipated a call at this time of the day. ?Yes, this is Cass Hamada speaking. How can I help you??

I started descending the stairs, slowly to not make any noise. I didn't want to give away that I was listening in. I was close enough to see the expression of my aunt and I could see the confusion in it. But then something like recognition marked her features.

?Ah, yes. Hikari had mentioned you already. How can I help you, Mary?? My heart missed a beat when I heard her saying this. So, Mary had returned from her trip. I could already tell why she was calling, especially at this time of the day. My heart dropped and I gripped the railing of the staircase tightly.

The brow of hers furrowed while she listened to the words my friend's nanny was saying and she shook her head.

?I'm truly sorry, but Hikari is not here. But then, Hiro had been gone for quite some time, as well yesterday. I'll ask him as soon as he is awake if he knows something. I'm sure that it's explainable.? I saw how my aunt offered a smile, even though the other person would not be able to see it. But I could tell that she was only doing it to make Mary feel better. I saw worry shadowing her expression, as well. ?No problem, Mary. Wait, I'll get a pen and a piece of paper. Hold on a second.?

She turned around, heading to the kitchen counter to probably find the required items. I released the railing and looked that I was hurrying back upstairs. I knew that Aunt Cass would come to me in order to ask me if I knew something about Hikari's whereabouts. But...what should I tell her? I couldn't tell her the truth since I would need to start at the beginning. Way at the beginning with how my friends and I became Big Hero 6. But I also knew that I couldn't lie to her. I couldn't put a smile on my face, telling her that I had no idea and that I considered seeing her in class today. I knew I couldn't keep my face straight and would probably break down only saying those words since... well.. since I wished them to be true. I wanted nothing else than that I wouldn't need to worry about Hikari and that I would see her in a bit sitting beside me.

Back in my room, I placed my eyes on the clock to check the time. It was almost nine and I would need to get ready to head for college. Actually, I hadn't intended to go today but GoGo meant that it would cause some suspicion if we wouldn't attend our classes today. We would only need to get through the day and then we could continue with our search. The search of Hikari and the search for more evidence. We had to find her.

I quickly changed, not bothering much of what I was wearing, and picked then my backpack up. I looked then at the red box in which Baymax was resting and considered activating him. But he would be too slow to escape Aunt Cass' questions, so, I decided to simply leave him in my room and pick him up when it was time to continue with searching. By that time, my aunt would be busy in the café, anyway.

After I was done with that, I left my bedroom and shut the door – not that Baymax got activated by some sound of Aunt Cass and reveal what happened last night. He was not the most discreet being and with me not being around the possibility was quite high that he blurted out something he shouldn't. I ran the stairs down, indicating that I was in a hurry – though I really wasn't – dashing for the front door.

?I'm leaving!?, I called so that Aunt Cass knew that everything was normal. I heard steps approaching me and I knew that she would try to catch me in a conversation.

?Hiro, wait. I have to ask you someth-...? But I didn't allow her to end her question.

?I'm sorry but I'm in a hurry. Love you!? I opened the door before she had another chance to step in.

?But...!?, she tried it once more but I was already out, closing the door behind me. My heart was racing in my rib cage and I took immediately off, running along the street to get enough space between her and me. I would need to think about something to explain the whole situation to her. Maybe the others had an idea.


I arrived quicker than usual at SFIT, something I hadn't intended to do but my restlessness was probably the reason why I kept on walking at a fast pace. And having a direct target on which I could concentrate helped me to not lose my posture. I wasn't allowed to show how deeply worried I was – it would only lead to questions. Questions I didn't want to answer since I didn't know how.

The classroom was empty when I was taking my seat on my chair, looking at the empty chair beside me, knowing that it would remain like that. Empty. After some minutes, the room got filled with other students with Professor James stepping to the front, to her desk, setting down her bag. Papers got taken out of it and by the time she was prepared to start with her lesson, she looked one time through the class, noticing something.

?Has someone heard about Hikari? It's the second day she's missing.?, she asked. Oh, yeah. I totally forgot that she had been missing for them yesterday as well. When no one responded to her question, she just dropped the topic and went on with holding her lecture.


It had taken ages until Professor James' lecture was over and I wasn't paying much attention either. Luckily, she decided to not ask me any questions and didn't notice my strange behavior. As soon as the bell rang, I had packed my stuff into my bag and escaped that room before a knot of people could form themselves right in front of the door. I hurried through the corridors and stumbled out of the building. While I was walking across the campus, I was texting the others to meet me in my lab – I wasn't really hungry and would grab something to eat before we left for our search. Quickly, I made my way to the building and almost ran through the corridors since I didn't want to see anyone or speak to someone. I had more important matters on my mind.

I unlocked the door to my lab and entered it, sitting on my chair while waiting until the others would show up. Luckily, I didn't have to wait too long since about ten minutes later, they all walked in, closing the door behind them.

?So, are there any news? Perhaps, a note or something from the guy?? GoGo, like she was, came straight to the point. And I was glad about that. I wasn't in the mood of talking around the topic trying to avoid the difficult part of this. But I shook my head.

?No. Nothing. But... but I know that Mary, Hikari's nanny, is back from her trip. And has noticed her absence. She even called my aunt...? That seemed to surprise the others.

?What has Cass said about that??, Honey asked, worry glittering in her eyes. I knew that she must be as devastated that one of us got missing, just like I did. Like the rest of us. But I just pulled my shoulders into a soft shrug.

?I know that she's intending to help her. I escaped before Aunt Cass had even the chance to ask me if I knew something about Hikari's whereabouts. I didn't know what to answer to this without revealing our secret.? I sighed, my shoulders slouched. I had hated that case since the beginning and now I was hating it even more. ?And I knew I wouldn't be able to lie. Not if Hikari's safety is demanding on it.?

I felt a hand resting on my shoulder and when I looked up, I saw GoGo's determined but soft eyes resting on me, a small but reassuring smile was gracing her lips.

?Don't worry, Hiro. We will find this man. And we will find Hikari, I promise.? I returned the smile she was offering, though it wasn't as pure as hers.

I drew in a deep breath, ordering my thoughts so that I would be able to come up with a good plan. Different than before, we couldn't just wait until Mr. Burakku would strike again. Kari's safety depended on us.

?I think if we collect as much information about him as possible, we'll be able to find him. I was already considering him to be the business partner of Kari's father. Maybe we should check him first?? I looked at my friends when I told them my thoughts and they looked then at each other before facing me again. Honey Lemon pulled her shoulders into a soft shrug.

?I think that this is a good idea. Especially, since this is the only lead we have. But...? She paused for a moment. ?...but where do we start? Do we know anything about him??

That was a good question. I knew that Gabriel Mittens was working with Kuro Sunō. But this was it. Was there a possibility to get any information without breaking into the office of SnowElectronic Industries?

?Do you think that Hikari's father will answer some questions about him?? I looked up when Wasabi asked me that question and I grasped my chin in thought. I wasn't so sure, though if it was about the safety of his daughter, he might talk. Although, the possibility was quite high that he would prefer it to talk with the authorities. Perhaps, we would be forced to reveal ourselves as Big Hero 6. But honestly... I didn't care at this point. Alistair Krei knew about us and he never mentioned anything to the public. I was pretty sure that Kuro Sunō would act in the same way.

?The possibility is there... Alright. Let's ask Mr. Sunō for some information. We should meet after school at Fred's so that we can head together to SnowElectronic Industries.? They all agreed to this plan. It was the only thing we could do at the moment.

?I think we should head back. The break is almost over.? I checked the clock which was hanging on one of the walls after I heard Honey's words and I nodded. The faster we got over with the afternoon classes, the faster we would continue our search.

Together we exited my lab only to get out of the building, walking in silence until it was time to part. With quick steps, I was heading the building with Professor Raven's classroom and it didn't take long until I reached my destination, taking my seat on one of the chairs in the room. Heartlessly, I took my stuff out to prepare myself for the upcoming lecture. Although I was certain that I wouldn't pay much attention here either. Hopefully, Professor Raven wouldn't pick up on my odd behavior...

The classroom filled itself as other students entered, taking their seats as well and it didn't take long until our teacher walked past the tables only to reach his spot in this room. When he was standing at his desk, he placed his bag on top of it before looking up. Something was off, I could tell by the way he was looking at us. The usual spark of excitement was gone and something like seriousness was resting in his eyes. He cleared his throat.

?Before I start with this lesson, I would like to share some information with you. I just received the information that Hikari Sunō has disappeared while no one knows where her current whereabouts are. If any one of you knows something, then please go to the authorities. This is of high importance. We can't know at this point if Hikari is in any kind of danger and it is essential that she'll be found as quickly as possible. If some of you don't want to talk directly to the police, then you can come to us. The professors at SFIT have...? My brain stopped listening at some point during his speech. So, it was official now that Hikari was missing. Of course, since she was a minor, the authorities started searching for her at a much sooner time than if she had been already an adult.

My heart was beating rapidly in my chest and I considered that the noise must be audible in this room. I wondered why no one was turning their heads in my direction to see where the sound was coming from. I heard how the blood was rushing through my ears, causing me to get all dizzy and although this room was pretty large I felt like the walls started to close in on me. Abruptly, I stood up from my chair, Professor Raven stopping in his words to look at me. I had no idea what kind of an impression I was giving.

?Yes, Hiro??, he asked, now all eyes resting on me.

?I...? The words – words I didn't even know – which I wanted to say got stuck in my throat and I felt how I started to panic. ?I...I have to go to the restroom. I'm not feeling very well.? And without waiting for the response of my teacher, I grabbed my stuff from the table and picked my backpack up only to flee this classroom. But being outside in the hallway didn't help my panicked heart either, and so I turned only to run along the hallway and out of the building only to continue running over the campus.

I didn't know why I came, here and I didn't know how I made it safely through the city without stopping once to catch my breath. But I found myself in the cemetery, breathing heavily to get some urgently needed oxygen in my lungs while I was glaring at the tombstone of the only person I knew I could tell everything.


~Tadashi's PoV~

It wasn't a nice sight. Seeing Mary sitting on the couch, her cell phone resting on the coffee table in front of her while her eyes were glued on it. Normally, she would be doing all kinds of stuff in the house. From cleaning, humming to a song on the radio, to reading or watching TV while continuing with her crochet work. But now, she was only sitting and staring which felt like an eternity, though, only an hour had passed since she had taken her seat.

She had called all kinds of people – including Hikari's father but as I heard, he hadn't been available. Mary even called the headmaster at SFIT in order to ask if they had any information about the girl's whereabouts. But unfortunately, she hadn't. And ever since she was sitting on the couch while hoping someone would call to tell her that they have found her protégé.

I had been so deep in thought that the ring of the doorbell made me jump and I turned around towards the door that would lead to the hallway. From the corner of my eye, I could tell that the brunette was doing the same before getting up from her sitting position to walk to the front door. Without thinking about it, I rose as well to follow her. Even if Mary didn't know that I was here, I wanted to give her some kind of comfort.

I stopped a few steps behind her and watched how she opened the door only to reveal a familiar person.

?How can I help you??, the nanny asked the person in front of her and I had to admit that her voice sounded tired and worn out.

?You must be Mary Stuart. I'm Cass Hamada. May I come inside?? Aunt Cass had a friendly smile on her lips and I noticed how Mary absently shook her head just like to get her thoughts back in order, to remember how to treat a visitor.

?Uhm...yeah, sure. I'm sorry, normally I'm not that...-? But my aunt didn't let her opposite finish.

?I understand and it's fine. No idea how I would react if Hiro...? She stopped noticing that saying it out loud wouldn't help the other one and entered the house. With that, she confirmed my observations a few hours ago, where I saw Hiro walking on campus to get to his first lecture. My little brother was fine. At least one good news.

I followed the two women back into the living room and only then I noticed the basket Aunt Cass was carrying with her and she took her seat beside Mary who jumped up immediately.

?I'm really sorry, I should have asked you if you'd like to have something to drink or something else and...-?, she started, though, once again, Aunt Cass cut in.

?Don't worry about it and sit down. I thought about this already.? And with that, she opened up the basked and got out two cups and a thermos flask only to pour some coffee into both cups. She also placed a plate with some sweet pastries on the table and milk and sugar. Typically Aunt Cass...she thought about everything.

Mary just glared at the items in front of them in disbelief before she met the green eyes of my aunt and a tired but thankful smile appeared on her lips.

?Thank you, though this hadn't been necessary, Miss Hamada.? The other one just pulled her shoulders into a soft shrug hearing this.

?It's really no bother. And please, call me Cass. Hikari and my nephew told me so much about you already that I'm glad to finally meet you. I actually had anticipated to meet you after the tournament last Saturday when I threw a little party for her at my café.? She added some milk and sugar to her coffee before picking the cup up to drink a sip out of it. I watched how Mary had done the same.

?Yeah, I had been out of town to visit my mother and just returned this morning...? Before she had even drunk a sip from her hot beverage she placed the cup back down before dropping her face into her palms. ?If only I haven't gone on this trip. Then I might know what happened to her!?

Aunt Cass immediately placed her cup on the table as well and scooted closer to wrap one arm around the nanny's middle, offering some comfort. And then, I saw it. The obvious worry in the green eyes of hers. She was worried about Hikari as well.

?What kind of a nanny am I if I can't even take care of my protégé? I have called everyone I could think of, even the college but no one has any idea of what happened! And worse, Hikari's father doesn't even know about it yet since he had been caught up in a meeting and I couldn't reach him to tell him about the disappearance of his daughter! What should I even tell him! He'll be devastated! She's his only daughter and the only remainder of his family! I...I can't...I can't even...? Heavy breathing interrupted the flow of words and I noticed how my aunt was caressing her back.

?This is not your fault, Mary. Stop blaming yourself for what happened. Especially, since we don't even know what transpired.? The voice of the café owner was calming and I couldn't agree more. Mary was clearly not to blame. The one responsible was the one who caused that tragedy.

I heard how Mary took a deep breath before releasing it again, nodding her head while lifting it back up to meet the blue eyes of my aunt.

?I know...I just can't help it.? Another deep breath got taken. ?Has Hiro said anything? Does he perhaps know something about Hikari's whereabouts?? Now it was Aunt Cass who breathed deeply in before she shook her head as a response, apologizing eyes resting on the features of the other.

?No, I'm sorry. He had been in a hurry this morning and I hadn't even had the chance to voice my question. But I'll ask him as soon as I see him this evening. I'll let you know what happened right afterward, okay?? A reassuring smile was gracing the woman's lips and Aunt Cass rubbed Mary's back again.

?That would be great, thank you so much, Cass.?


Some time had passed since Aunt Cass had come to offer some comfort for the drenched in tears nanny and I listened to them while my aunt was trying to distract Mary a little so that she could get to other thoughts than the missing Hikari. And I watched them with a fond little smile for a while when I felt it.

It was always a strange feeling when someone was standing in front of my grave. It was like someone was watching you from afar and you turn your head to check who it was. And just like I would have done it when I had been alive, I vanished to check who it was who was visiting me. I was sure that Mary was in good hands with my aunt being around.

But it didn't surprise me to see the familiar face when I appeared in front of my tombstone. I sat down in the dirt – my clothes wouldn't get dirty anyway – to be at the same height with him since my opposite was sitting in the grass in front of the grave as well.

The familiar chocolate brown eyes of my brother were looking right at me, while a worried expression was marking his features and I could tell that he hadn't slept much at all since his eyes were resting in deep shadows. And it already dawned me what the cause of those shadows was.

?Hiro...?, I mumbled, although it wouldn't have been necessary to keep my voice that quiet. He wouldn't be able to hear me anyway.

?I'm sure that you are probably already aware of the fact that something had gone terribly wrong.? I watched how he closed his eyes for a brief moment and I had to swallow since a lump was forming itself in my throat. So, my bad feeling had been right. Something had gone wrong. ?And you had been right to worry. Heck...I know how much I was worried about the fact that Kari...?

I watched how he balled his hands into fists, the knuckles turning white. Whatever happened, bothered him a lot.

?We saw him. He was there. Mr. Burakku was there. It was like...it was like he knew that we would show up – he even had taken care of to slow us down. And all the time the media thought it was SnowElectronic Industries he was after...? My brother had lowered his sight while he was explaining and I noticed how his form was slightly shaking. ?But he had prepared this trap only to get her, Tadashi. And I was useless, only floating in midair while not being able to do anything other than rotate around myself. He easily got a hold of her and disappeared, like he always did. And with him...? His voice was shaking and it broke just before he hiccupped. A shaky breath was taken and when he lifted his gaze back up only to meet my eyes I saw how deep his concern was. He didn't need to voice it out loud, I already knew what happened. This man had taken Hikari with him. Vanished into thin air while taking her with him.

It was strange, my heart wasn't beating for several months now but it still felt like it was dropping down a deep dark hole, hearing what had happened with my friend.

?We searched the whole area, Tadashi. Until sunrise, we were looking for any trace of that man. But there was none. He's just...gone. And I have no idea where to look further. He could be anywhere and I have no idea what his plans are with her. What he is intending to do now that he is holding her captive. You should have seen her. Floating motionless in the air, her body limp. And I had not been able to help her, even though she was right in front of me.? I saw how much this affected him. Even though he didn't know Hikari for that long, it was clear that she was dear to him already. I had already known that the two of them made a great team but it was now that I saw how great of an impact she had on him. And I was sure that it was the same the other way around.

For the first time in a long time, I wished that I was some kind of help. I knew that I could look for her but what then? The only person who was able to see and talk with me was the one who was missing. I couldn't interact with any other objects to let my brother know where I was, to lead him the way. He would need to do this all by himself – once again. Though this didn't mean that I wouldn't be searching for my friend. I just had to know where she was to soothe my conscience.

?Don't worry, Hiro. I will look for her and keep an eye on her. Perhaps, I can help her escape wherever she is. She'll be back in no time, I promise you this, little bro.? And though, he would never hear my words, nor feel my touch, I reached out to place a hand on his shoulder. I wished I could do more to comfort him.


~Hiro's PoV~

I didn't know how long I had been at my brother's grave but somehow I felt – I knew – that he was there with me. I was sure that he was worried as well, especially since he had voiced it yesterday. And though I wished that I could see or hear him, I knew that he was there to comfort me as best as he could. And I was thankful for this.

But after quite some time I noticed that I needed to get going. My friends would be waiting for me so that we could continue with investigating. I needed to pull myself together, at least for a few more hours. A clear mind was needed to make any progress to find Mr. Burakku. To find Hikari. I rose from my sitting position, not even bothering to get rid of the dirt and grass on my pants, and looked back at the tombstone in front of me.

?Thanks for listening, Tadashi. I'll find her, don't you worry.? And with that, I turned around to leave the cemetery. Newfound determination filled my body – something I was really glad about since it pushed that everlasting concern away, at least for a little bit.


It took me quite some time until I've reached Fred's mansion. Not only because the way from the cemetery was quite a long one but also because I had first walked into the direction of the college to fetch Baymax only to remember that I had left him at home this morning. And there was no way I was going home now. Not until I had some answers, my composure, and an idea of what to tell Aunt Cass, should she catch me getting back home.

I walked the few steps up to the front door to ring the doorbell – I had never heard such a fancy doorbell in my life – and waited until Heathcliff would let me inside. And indeed, it didn't take long until the door swung open only to reveal the butler behind it.

?Good evening, Mr. Hamada. Please, come inside. Master Frederick and his friends are already awaiting your arrival.?

?Thanks.?, I replied with a small smile and walked past him only to be lead towards the dining hall where the rest of my friends were already waiting for me.

?There you are, Hiro! We started to wonder where you're at.? GoGo was the first to get up from her chair, addressing me directly. I scratched the backside of my head, a sheepish smile gracing my lips.

?Ah, yes. I'm sorry for taking so long. But I had been at the cemetery. Talking to Tadashi...? Immediately, all eyes turned soft and they probably understood without me having to voice it. I knew that they shared the same worries as I did, so there was no need for more questions.

I took in a deep breath, collecting my thoughts – and myself – to get into business. We had a plan and we needed to pull through with it.

?Hey... where is Baymax?? I shifted my gaze only to get Fred in my view.

?Still at home. I didn't want to meet Aunt Cass just yet. And since we are only going to question Mr. Sunō, I thought that it wouldn't be necessary for us to gear up.? I pulled my shoulders into a shrug.

At first, I just saw doubt in their eyes – something I could understand since we always gear up when we were investigating. But after considering it, I assumed, they all nodded.

?Alright. We will go just like that. But we won't get ourselves into any kind of trouble if we haven't put on our suits. Is that clear?? GoGo's sharp eyes were resting on me now and I knew why.

?Don't worry. I won't be doing anything stupid. We can't allow ourselves to slip up again – for Hikari's sake.?

?Then let's go. The car is outside.?

We all followed Wasabi outside to where his car was parking and got inside. It was weird to have enough space in the back now, thinking that one of us was missing and I knew that I would trade this comfort immediately if it meant that Hikari was with us again.

We followed the road and were lucky that the traffic wasn't too busy so that we got through pretty well and arrived at the SnowElectronic Industries headquarters in no time.

We got out of the car after Wasabi parked his car nearby and stepped in front of the door. Just thinking that this very door had been smashed just a week ago. Though, this didn't surprise me in the slightest since this building was the headquarter of SnowElectronic Industries and I was sure that Kuro Sunō wouldn't risk another robbery.

As we stepped closer to enter the building we noticed that there were a couple of people leaving and as I checked my phone I saw that it was already past four o'clock. So many employees were calling it a day, as it seemed.

Wasabi opened the door and we walked right through into the reception hall. The whole scenery was so different than last week where we had been investigating in the night. It was much more... lively. Of course, it was since many people were working, rushing through the hallways, getting to staircases or elevators carrying piles of documents, or pushing a cart with cups and large pots – probably coffee – into a crowded elevator.

With steady steps, I lead the group to the reception where a lady was currently talking on the phone, her brow wrinkled in concentration while writing down notes. It seemed to be important. But then... in a large company, everything seemed to be important. As soon as she hung up her eyes cast towards us before they landed on me and she pulled one of her perfectly shaped eyebrows.

?What can I do for you??

?We would like to speak to Mr. Sunō. It's urgent.?, I answered her question, though her response is only to pull her already risen brow even higher. I feared that it would disappear behind her hairline.

?Do you have an appointment??

?No, but it's really important that we...-? But the lady didn't let me finish.

?Mr. Sunō is currently very busy and hasn't the time to receive any unannounced visitors. I'd like to ask you to make an appointment and to return then. Thanks for your visit.?

?But couldn't we...-?

?No.?

?But...?

?I said no. Now go, before I call the security.? My hands balled into fists on the counter and I felt how my blood started to boil within my veins. Didn't this lady understand that this was a matter of utmost importance? It couldn't wait.

?Listen, lady. I don't care if he is currently busy or if he is having a break. We need to see him, now. And if you...-? I got suddenly pushed behind and I saw how Wasabi's back was blocking my way as he was facing the receptionist now.

?I'm sorry for my friend. It's just...? I tuned out his voice and huffed while turning around. Why was he going soft on her? He knew how important it was to talk to Mr. Sunō. I decided that I wouldn't care and just go anyway if Wasabi wasn't able to convince that stupid lady. But something in the corner of my eye caught my attention and my anger disappeared as quickly as he came.

I saw how Gabriel Mittens was heading the exit of the building and I saw a chance. Maybe we wouldn't need to talk to Mr. Sunō after all.

?Hey guys. I have another idea. Let's go.? And without even waiting for their approval I dashed out to not miss this lead. I heard footsteps following me and when I looked over my shoulder I saw how the others had followed me outside. Frantically, I was looking around to find Mittens to see in which direction he was heading. I only hoped he would go on foot.

?Hiro, what's wrong?? GoGo's voice reached my ear and I answered her without looking at her.

?I just saw Mittens walking out of the building. I want to know where he is heading and what he is up to.? Something was wrong. I was almost a hundred percent sure that Mittens would have to stay in the company if Kuro Sunō heard of his daughter's disappearance. I was certain that he would want to do anything possible to find her. And that meant that he wouldn't be able to stay for too long within the company.

I caught sight of our target when he was about to round a corner and without any hesitation, I followed him to not lose him out of my sight again. Luckily, the road was busy so that it was pretty easy to walk in the same direction as him without seeming suspicious. And though I was indeed happy that he wasn't taking a car, I had to admit that I was wondering why he didn't take one. There had to be plenty of company cars that could drive him anywhere when he was the partner of the owner but then... maybe he didn't want to be seen by any people that could report back to the boss?

?Where do you think he is going??, I heard Honey ask and I shrugged to this.

?No, idea. But I want to know. And I think it's something shady...?

?Are you sure??, Wasabi cut in. ?I mean, what if he is just grabbing something to eat? Or he has something to pick up??

?But why not take a car? You guys haven't met him but he is suspicious. After all, he had been in Kari's bedroom without her consent. And now he's leaving early?? For me, this all screamed guilty.

Lucky for us – and Wasabi's nerves since we had left his car at SnowElectronic Industries – the walk wasn't a long one and we witnessed how Mittens entered a small café. We stopped at the corner of the building, looking at each other.

?And what now? Shall we go inside?? I turned to look at Honey Lemon before glancing back at the door. We were too many so that it would go unnoticed if we went inside. But we had to know what he was doing here.

?Watch out.? I felt a pull on my shoulder and before I could make anything out, we disappeared behind a corner only to peek back to the spot where we just had been standing a few seconds ago. And then I saw, why Wasabi had pulled me back.

Alistair Krei just got out of his car and walked up to the café before he swiftly opened the door to get inside. Huh... now that was either oddly convenient or just simply planned. I signed the others to stay where they were and walked then back to the front door to peek through the glass. Luckily, Mittens had decided to sit not too well hidden so that I could still see him. Well, a part of him.

But therefore Alistair Krei was well visible sitting in front of him. I turned away from the door and ran my hand through my hair. So, Gabriel Mittens was meeting up with Alistair Krei. But why? I couldn't see a plausible connection between both of them. After all, Krei Tech and SnowElectronic Industries were rival companies.

I felt how my jaw clenched and my hands tightened themselves into fists while my eyes were resting on our subject. The urge to storm inside and confront him about the facts rose in me again and it was almost overwhelming.

A firm grip on my shoulder pulled me out of my raging thoughts and I noticed that I got pulled back behind the corner where the others were hiding.

?What are you doing? You can't just go inside and blow our cover! You would play into the cards of this guy!?

Turning around, I noticed that GoGo's stern eyes were watching me.

Slowly my mind calmed again and my thoughts ordered themselves so that I could think a little clearer. She was right, I almost ruined everything. I hadn't even noticed that I was about to enter the café.

If Mittens knew that we were on to him, he would leave with Hikari. Or worse…

?I'm sorry guys. I don't know what came over me.? I lowered my sight, ashamed that I almost lost myself in my emotions.

?No, it's okay, Hiro. We understand.? I looked at Honey and saw in her eyes that she indeed understood.

And of course, she did – just like the others. Hikari was also their friend. She was part of our team now.

?And what now? Are we going to wait until he leaves again??, Wasabi asked, causing me to hold my chin in thought. I wasn't so sure if waiting would be so wise – no idea how long this little meeting was going to take and I didn't want to feel useless again while sitting around.

?No, I think it would be easier if we ask Krei what their meeting was about. Perhaps he can help us.?

Thinking about it for a moment, they all nodded to my suggestion, agreeing to it.


A few hours had passed and after Wasabi had brought us back to SFIT, I had returned to my lab. I told myself that I wanted to get some progress done with the project in Professor Raven's class but actually, I knew that I was hiding from the world. Instead of working, I couldn't stop thinking about yesterday and how Kari was kidnapped right in front of my eyes.

I checked my phone and found that Aunt Cass had tried it again – she had called at least fifteen times during the last hour. I knew I couldn't ignore her for much longer but first I had to do something else.

I gulped as I looked at the entrance door ahead. I had been walking for quite some time while with every step my heart dropped a little inch deeper. And now, looking at that door I found myself not able to move.

I decided to visit Mary to check on her. I knew that she was feeling awful and I knew that my aunt had tried to ask me this morning about some information about Hikari's whereabouts. And even though I couldn't tell much, I felt obligated to pay her a visit.

Plus, perhaps I was lucky and Mr. Sunō was at home…

I took a deep breath to calm my nerves and scrambled my courage together to push the doorbell button. I listened to the welcoming sound of the bell and waited. It didn't take long until the door got opened and a pair of tired, worried eyes met mine.

?Hiro…?, Mary almost mumbled and I could see that her eyes were puffy and red. She had been crying a lot. I felt even guiltier. ?If you are looking for Hikari, I'm sorry but…-?

I stopped her right there.

?I'm… I… know what happened.? Indeed, and I knew everything… ?I came to see you.?

Her surprised face changed immediately and she stepped aside, signing me to come inside. I stepped right past her and I couldn't believe that I had been here with Hikari yesterday, enjoying our time. It was so weird to be here when she wasn't.

?Who is it, Mary?? A male voice sounded from the living room and as we stepped inside I could see Mr. Sunō sitting on the couch. He looked tired as well.

?It's Hiro. Hikari's friend.?, the nanny answered and dark brown eyes cast toward me.

?Ah, Hiro. How can I help you?? I felt terrible standing in front of Kari's father, knowing that I had failed.

?I… came to tell you that I'm sorry. And I'm feeling terrible about the fact that I don't know where Hikari is…? I lowered my gaze.

?Oh, Hiro. This is not your fault. You can't blame yourself for what happened to Hikari. It wasn't you who took her.? I looked back up when Mary answered me and I couldn't do anything but nod. She didn't know that I had allowed Hikari to tag along. Right into this bastard's arms…

My sight found Mr. Sunō again and I tried to get rid of that awful emotion.

?Mr. Sunō, can I talk with you in private for a moment??

His expression changed and he gave me a nod, getting up from his seat on the couch.

?Sure. Let's go to my office then.?

I followed him through the hallway while preparing myself for the confession that I was about to make to him. This conversation was crucial and if Mr. Sunō didn't believe me, I feared that it would slow down our progress in finding Mr. Burakku.

With silent steps, we followed the hallway until we arrived at our destination.

Mr. Suno opened the door and stepped inside, only to make me some space to enter as well. After I did as I was asked to, he followed walking right past me to reach his office chair, signing me to take a seat in front of him.

?Please sit down.? We both did so and I felt dark eyes resting on me. ?Now tell me what it is that you wanted to talk with me about.?

I drew in a deep breath, collecting my words before I exhaled again to tell him about us and the suspicion we had.

?My friends and I… we are Big Hero 6, and we think to know who kidnapped Hikari…?

A spark lit up in his eyes and he rose his eyebrows, leaning closer to me while folding his hands in front of his lips.

?I… don't know what to say. I didn't think that the members of Big Hero 6 are that young…?

?Well, it's not like everyone is the same age as me. The others are a couple of years older.?, I tried to take away his doubts. ?Plus, we have a robot which I programmed to do karate.?

Now his brow furrowed and he sighed, closing his eyes for a moment.

?I don't know Hiro. A bunch of teenagers hunting down criminals? That sounds very unlikely.?

I knew that Mr. Sunō would be tough to convince but he just needed to. If we didn't have his support, then it would take much longer to find his daughter.

?But with today's tech, everything is possible. The suits of my friends are equipped with gadgets that help us to confront and defeat those bad guys and I can fly on Baymax. You of all people must understand that there are no boundaries when it comes to science.? I looked at him with pleading eyes, hoping that the honesty in my words would convince him.

After what seemed to be an eternity, he sighed, and he nodded.

?Alright, I believe you. How can I help you??

Now it was on me to sigh in relief, and I began to explain.


Over an hour I had been in Mr. Sunō's office and after my talk with him, I decided that it was time to return home. I knew that I couldn't stay away for much longer and I didn't want that Aunt Cass got scared because I was ignoring her.

Mr. Sunō said that we were allowed to take a look at Gabriel Mittens files the next day and promised to keep our secret of being Big Hero 6 safe – about which I was glad.

I had been pretty good at pushing my thoughts away for the last few hours but while I was walking home and had nothing to do but walk, they all came back.

I feared for Hikari's safety. I feared that this Mr. Burakku would harm her in some way to get any kind of information. I was sure that he had kidnapped her to use her as leverage. For what exactly, I wasn't sure yet.

And I feared that we would be too late by the time we found her.

My heart dropped when the thought that she could be dead crossed my mind, causing me to stop in my tracks, shaking my head. I tried to convince myself that this was not the case, but it didn't really calm me.

I tried to distract myself by walking a little faster and by the time I arrived at my house, I had been running. I remained at the front door to catch my breath before I got my keys out to unlock the door to enter. The minute I got inside, I heard the voice of Aunt Cass.

?Hiro?? Steps echoed through the house until she was standing in front of me. I could see the worry clouding her eyes and I started to feel guilty. Perhaps, I should have let her know where I would be. ?Where were you? I was worried sick!?

I sighed and felt even worse. Looking down at my shoes, I answered her.

?I… I was at Hikari's place…?

My gaze wandered back up, meeting the green eyes my aunt and I could see how her eyes softened. She understood.

?Oh, honey…?, she mumbled before she stepped closer to me, bridging the gap between us just to take me into her embrace.

Thus far, I had been quite successful with holding my tears back – excluding my downpour at the cemetery – during the day since I had been so busy. But being in her arms changed everything. I couldn't longer pretend that I was fine. I knew that Aunt Cass would look right through my lies.

And so, I allowed the tears to spill, rolling down my cheeks.

?She'll be okay. I'm sure the authorities are currently looking for her.?, she tried to calm me and though I would like to do nothing more than to believe her, I just couldn't. I knew very well how difficult it was to find Mr. Burakku. He was like a shadow.

For a while, we were standing like that, Aunt Cass running her fingers through my hair – a soothing gesture. But after some time passed, I just felt so exhausted and I just wanted to lay down.

I stepped out of the hug.

?I think I'll head upstairs. I'm not really hungry and it was a long day.?

?Sure. Call me if you need something.? She offered me a kind smile and I nodded before I turned around to head to my bedroom. I knew I had a lot to do and I should inform my friends how my talk with Mr. Sunō went. But I was sure that they wouldn't mind being informed tomorrow.

I was in great need of some rest.


AN: Hey guys! I know there is no excuse to be gone for so long as I had been. And I know I had been neglecting this story for a bit.
But with this pandemic going on and the last job I had (phew, I'm glad that I don't have that job anymore) there wasn't much creativity in me.

But I managed to FINALLY end this chapter - and the next ones are on the go. My muse has finally decided to give me a tiny kiss on the cheek.

I will try to update more frequently now - especially since I finally arrived a spot which I had been eager to write since I started this fanfic, so stay tuned.

As always, I'm looking forward to hearing your opinion about this chapter - so, reviews would be great. xD

That's it for now, hopefully, we'll see each other in the next chapter!^^

Vanessa :D


Disclaimer: I don't own Big Hero 6 or any mentioned characters - except for OC's, they're mine. :D