A Rider Kick in Marvel Rewrite Vol 2 Ch 84

With the tension diffused, Ace, Melissa, Izuku, and Asahi wandered deeper into the I-Expo. Izuku and Asahi buzzed with excitement, their eyes darting from one exhibit to another, while Ace scanned the crowd, ever vigilant for signs of Dai-Shocker.

"Hey, Melissa," Ace asked, feigning casual interest. "You mentioned those Irminsul guys earlier. Do they have a showcase here? I'm curious about what they do."

Melissa's eyes lit up, and she nodded enthusiastically. "Oh, yeah! They have a whole section dedicated to their research. It's supposed to be pretty impressive, with live demonstrations and everything. I'll show you!"

Melissa led the way through the maze of booths and displays, her pace quickening with anticipation. Izuku and Asahi trailed behind, equally eager to see what the Irminsul Group had to offer. Ace followed Melissa, his mind racing with possibilities. If Dai-Shocker is involved, this could be where they're hiding. As they rounded a corner, a large sign came into view, emblazoned with the Irminsul Group's logo. The logo was the world tree, Yggdrasil, from Norse Mythology. This time there was no feigning an interest for Ace, and he quickened his step to get a better look.

They walked into the Irminsul Group's exhibit. Melissa began rattling off facts about the organization. "They're pioneers in biotechnology and pharmaceuticals, mainly focusing on Quirk enhancement and medical applications," she said, gesturing to a display showcasing a new type of healing serum.

Izuku's eyes sparkled as he took notes, muttering about the potential applications for hero support. Asahi, too, seemed impressed, but Ace remained focused, his gaze sweeping over every detail of the exhibit. He saw elaborate displays detailing genetic engineering, advanced prosthetics, and other medical marvels, but there was nothing about interdimensional travel or Lockseeds.

Damn it, Ace thought, his disappointment growing. They're hiding something. He scanned the faces of the scientists and researchers manning the booths, searching for any sign of deception or hidden agendas. But they looked like ordinary professionals, eager to share their work and answer questions. They must be keeping their real research under wraps, Ace mused. I'll have to dig deeper to find out what they're really up to. He decides he needed a new plan.

"Melissa Shield! Fancy seeing you here." A warm voice cut through Ace's thoughts.

A well-dressed gentleman with a friendly smile approached, extending a hand to Melissa. "It's been too long," he said. His presence exuded an air of sophistication.

"Dr. Eisuke Momochi!" Melissa exclaimed, her face lighting up. "What a pleasant surprise! It's wonderful to see you again." She turned to Ace, Izuku, and Asahi, gesturing to the newcomer. "Everyone, this is Dr. Momochi. He's a brilliant geneticist and one of my father's closest collaborators."

Dr. Momochi nodded to the trio, his gaze lingering on Ace for a moment. "A pleasure to meet you all. David speaks very highly of your enthusiasm, Melissa. Are these your friends?"

"Yes, they are," Melissa said, beaming at her companions. "This is Ace, Izuku, and Asahi."

"It's an honor to meet you, Dr. Momochi," Izuku said, bowing slightly. Asahi echoed the sentiment with an enthusiastic nod, while Ace offered a polite, "Good to meet you, sir."

Momochi chuckled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "The honor is all mine. I hope you all are enjoying your time at the expo? There's so much to see and learn."

"Melissa," Momochi said, his tone shifting slightly, "would you mind telling your father that I've been trying to reach him? I seem to be having some trouble getting through." He paused, a hint of concern flickering across his face. "Tell him it's Eisuke. I need to discuss some urgent matters."

He let out a small sigh and continued, "Also, could you let him know that our project is approaching the final stages? I'm sure he'll want to be involved."

Melissa’s expression turned serious. "Of course, Dr. Momochi. I'll make sure to relay the message. I'm sure he's just swamped with work." Dad's probably busy working on something really important, she thought. I hope everything's alright.

"Thank you, Melissa," Momochi said with a smile. "I appreciate it."

Their project? Ace wondered, his suspicion rising. What exactly are they working on? The idea that David Shield, All Might's old sidekick, was working on a project with people connected to Dai-Shocker made Ace's stomach churn. The pieces were falling into place, but it was too early to tell. He needed solid proof. It's just like Narutaki said, he thought. Appearances can be deceiving. Never trust what you see.

"Oh, before I forget," Momochi added, turning back to Melissa with a playful glint in his eyes, "are you planning on attending the gala later tonight?"

"Yes, I am!" Melissa confirmed, a smile returning to her face. "I was actually hoping to invite these guys along, if that's okay."

Momochi waved his hand dismissively. "Nonsense, the more the merrier! It's always better with good company. I look forward to seeing you there, Melissa. And perhaps getting to know your friends a bit better."

He gave one last cordial nod to the group. "Well, I must be going. I have pressing matters to attend to." With that, Dr. Eisuke Momochi turned and disappeared into the throngs, leaving Ace with a sense of unease.

"Well," Melissa began, turning to the group with renewed enthusiasm, "I think we should continue going through the Expo."

Ace held up a hand, stopping her mid-sentence. "Actually, I want to check out something on my own for a bit. You all should go ahead."

Melissa tilted her head, concern etched on her face. "Are you sure? We can all go together. It is easier and more fun if we go with each other."

Ace offered her a reassuring smile. "It's fine. I don't want to trouble you or the others. Besides, it's something I need to see myself."

He leaned closer to Asahi, lowering his voice to a whisper. "I plan to investigate Irminsul. Try to keep Melissa and Izuku from catching on, okay?"

Asahi, ever the eager sidekick, gave a discreet nod. "Got it! I'll handle it, don't you worry!"

Ace straightened up, addressing the group with a tone that was both casual and final. "Alright, I'll catch up with you guys later. Have fun!" With a final wave, he turned and walked away, disappearing into the crowd.

Asahi, remembering his role, put on a show of enthusiasm. "Alright, come on you two! Let's go see that new support item from the Ketsubutsu Academy students!" He grabbed Melissa and Izuku's arms, pulling them along. "It's supposed to be amazing!"

Melissa cast one last worried glance in Ace's direction before allowing herself to be led away. I hope he's not getting himself into trouble, she thought. He can be so reckless sometimes.

Izuku, caught up in Asahi's contagious energy, barely noticed Ace's departure, his mind already filled with thoughts of innovative gadgets and support gear.