TnBuddy Week

You're lucky to spend time with your hear, Kaede. HIT and his sister are going to be at the ball. I wish I could go, but tickets were sold out and underaged guests need an adult with them. Maybe next year.

Kotetsu: I can bring a plus one, you know.

Barnaby: Usually, but it's too late now. Everything fancy to wear has already been bought or rented for the day. Don't worry, Saroja, I'll be sure to buy tickets for you and Kaede next year.

Saroja: (happy) You mean it? Thank you.

Barnaby: Don't thank me yet. There's a chance Thomas may not come to the ball next year.

I know how you feel, Saroja. What I time for me to be down with bad case of food infection, all because of one bad piece of sushi. I was hoping to go because Agnes will be there.

Kotetsu: But you see her everyday at work.

Antonio: That's just it. That's work. This is casual. (suddenly groans in pain) Uhh...

Take it easy, Antonio. The doctor said you need to rest for a couple of days. You're not gonna get any better by complaining all the time.

Antonio: I know.

Kotetsu: Just relax, buddy. Just watch the parade on TV or something.

Antonio: Or the ball, since that's gonna be on TV, too. (groans in pain) Oh... I'll call you back. (hangs up)

Is he going to be okay? Maybe we should check up on him on the way.

Either that or we should notify his next-of-kin... I'm just kidding. We'll check on him.

Kotetsu: I should check up on him. Maybe even spend the rest of Justice Day with him.

Barnaby: (laughing) Nice try. You're still going. The announcement they're making there actually involves you.

Kotetsu: So, you should be coming with me.

Barnaby: As much as I like to see the look on your face, I already promised these kids I would take them to the fair and the parade.

Kotetsu: (in defeat) Oh boy.

Muramasa: You'll be fine. Besides, we already have your tuxedo cleaned and pressed and your ride will be here very soon.

>Reluctantly, Kotetsu goes to the bathroom to get dressed.

>A little later, Keith and Nathan arrived.

(this was the only picture I could find) We're here! Is he ready?

Barnaby: He's getting ready now.

A Happy Justice Day to you all!

Nun: Thank you.

Saroja: Hey, guys! You think you can ask He Is Thomas to give me an autograph for me? I'm a HITer. That's what me and his fans call ourselves.

Nathan: We'll see what you can do, sweetie.

Kotetsu's voice from the bathroom: Okay, I'm ready.

Muramasa: Come on out, you're ride's here.

>Kotetsu comes out of the bathroom.

Okay, here I am.

Mattia: I think you wore that some time ago. But did you have to bring the flowers?

Kotetsu: They came with the suit.

Muramasa: It's true. They're plastic.

Kotetsu: I don't dress fancy often. Are you sure you want me to go to the ball?

Nathan: Don't be like that. We know you'll love it. Especially this one.

Keith: So, shall we be off?

Kotetsu: Seeing as I don't have a choice now.

Barnaby: So, we'll see you later?

Kotetsu: If I don't die of awkwardness.

Muramasa: Just enjoy yourself there.

>With that, Kotetsu, Nathan, and Keith get into Nathan's car and drive off to the Mayoral Mansion.

>At the Mayoral Mansion, the Justice Day Ball was now beginning. Kotetsu, Nathan, Keith, and many other guests, including Ryan, Dragon Kid, Magical Cat, He Is Thomas, and Ruby, waited in the wings until the Mayor's assistant comes in.

Assistant: The grand hall is ready. Let the Justice Day Ball begin.

>In the ballroom, it was completely decorated with ice sculptures of the Goddess and her Crab, golden flowers and streamers, and a buffet table on the side. There were also TV monitors showing the route where the parade was to take place as well as the Spring Fair and many other places where the celebrations were taking place. On a stage at the end of the hall, the Mayor was at a podium with Agnes and Alexander Lloyds.

Welcome, everyone! Happy Justice Day! We are so thrilled to have you here tonight. Please, enjoy yourselves. Don't worry about the parade, we won't miss it.

And don't forget, before the parade, we have a big announcement.

This announcement refers to a very special guest we have here tonight.

>For some reason, Kotetsu can feel that Lloyds's eyes were on him.

>Throughout the night, Kotetsu mostly hung next to the buffet table watching his fellow heroes interact. Nathan (as Fire Emblem) and Keith (as Sky High) were just talking with some people from Helios Energy, Ryan was talking with someone Kotetsu recognized as one of Sterbild's famous movie directors, Dragon Kid and Magical Cat were posing with some fans, and Thomas and Ruby were talking to Carlotta about Ruby becoming an intern at Jungle to be more closer to her brother.

>Out at the Blockus Spring Fair, things were in fully swing. Barnaby and the others were taking in the sights, the booths, and the food. In a dressing room at the start of the parade route, Blue Rose was getting ready for when the parade begins with her friends (still not knowing that she's Blue Rose) in the next room. In an open-air cinema, Ivan was watching a film documentary about past Justice Day celebrations with some of his old classmates, including Edward Keddy with special permission from the prison and is being watched by the police. Not too far from them, Subaru with parents and his friend, Rodrigo, were also watching.

>Back at the ball, night was now arriving. Kotetsu looks at the monitors as everyone was now ready for the parade to start.

Kotetsu: (to himself) They sure look like their having a good time.

>The clock chimes to let everyone know the parade would begin soon.

Lloyds: It's time. Everyone, come gather. It's time for our announcement.

>Then, one of the servers came to Kotetsu.

Server: Excuse me, I was asked to tell you to join the others on stage.

Kotetsu: What for?

Server: It's for the announcement. That's all I've been told to tell you.

>With that, Kotetsu follows the server to the stage where the Mayor, Agnes, and Lloyds were waiting while Kotetsu puts on his mask.

Agnes: (unimpressed) Do you really have to wear that? Everyone knows who you are.

Wild Tiger: Why not? I still like it.

Lloyds: Just take the damn thing off already. We need you to look dignified.

Kotetsu: (taking his mask off in defeat) Okay, okay.

>As everyone, including OBC cameramen with the cameras rolling, gathered at the stage, Lloyds goes to the podium and begins the announcement. The announcement was now being broadcast all over the city, including the fair where Barnaby and the others were.

Lloyds: Ladies and gentlemen, as of last night, the Justice Bureau has just named me the new CEO of Apollon Media. Which mean, the Hero Division will be in need of a new head. At first, I thought about asking Benjamin Jackson to take the job, but he turned it down. But after giving it a lot of thought and me and the Bureau have come to an agreement. We have decided to give the position to someone who knows Heroes and NEXT better than anyone. Someone who's been on the field and knows how they think. Someone who showed that no matter what may happen, power or no power, the heart of justice will never fade, a lesson well known for Justice Day. Ladies and gentlemen, I now present my successor... Kotetsu T. Kaburagi, Wild Tiger.

>Kotetsu was speechless as everyone in the ballroom applauded. Out in the rest of the city, everyone was cheering Kotetsu Even Barnaby and the others saw it.

Barnaby: (impressed and smiling) Who would have thought of that?

>At Antonio's house, he nearly chocked on his on his water with his medicine when the news came.

Antonio: Well, talk about your lucky break.

>Back at the ball, Kotetsu was ushered to the podium.

Kotetsu: (still reeling) I don't understand.

Lloyds: You said you wanted to still be involved with the heroes, even without your powers. We're giving you that chance... Fair warning, we're not taking no for an answer.

>Lloyds steps aside to let Kotetsu speak. Kotetsu did not know what to say. He was looking at the people, but then, he notices something shining bright out the window. Despite it being the city and the ballroom was brightly lit, the full moon could be seen clearly... He knew Yuri and Mr. Legend were watching as well... He finally knew what to say.

Kotetsu: Ladies and gentlemen, I'm not usually one for speeches, especially since this got me by surprise, but I think I can make something up. When I was only 10, I was inspired to become a hero by my hero, Mr. Legend. Since then, I trained until I managed to get my big break. Then, my wife, Tomoe, got sick. Before she died, I promised her that I would continue being a hero. And I did just that, But then, my powers started to decline, and now, they're gone. I don't know if they'll ever come back or not, but I knew I still wanted to keep my promise. And now, thanks to everyone, I might still be able to do so. So if I must become the new head of the Hero Division, I will do so. I will come being a hero, though, it will be different kind of hero. (At least until they decide to make a Tiger & Bunny 3 or a movie.) Thank you all for your support.

Mayor: Ladies and gentlemen, the new Head of Apollon Media's Hero Division, Kotetsu T. Kaburagi, Wild Tiger!

>Everyone, not just in the grand hall, but all over Sternbild, and even in Oriental Town, were applauding and cheering so loudly that you could hear it all the way on the moon.

>Then, the fireworks go off and the parade begins. Everyone watched as on a float, Blue Rose and her friends perform their songs.

Thanks, Mario. Though I wish you wouldn't have used my real name. I may not have my powers anymore and no longer a hero, I still have to hide my identity. Anyway, I'm still trying to find a way to keep busy. I still want to be involved in Hero TV.

Mario: You could always try becoming an announcer... Actually, don't. I already have the job... But I suppose there's always that.

Kotetsu: (curious) What do you mean?

Mario: (smiling) You'll see when Justice Day comes. So, what are you doing now?

Kotetsu: Well, right now, I'm making my famous fried rice. My family's coming over for Justice Day. We're going to the Blorkus Spring Fair and then the parade.

Mario: I'm told you go there every year. Have you ever thought about doing anything different?

Kotetsu: I don't see why we should change a perfectly good family tradition.

Mario: That is true. Me and the old ball n' chain watch the parade every year without fail... (nervously) Not that she is a ball n' chain. She's one of the best things that ever happened to me. Well, thanks for you time, Ko- I mean, Wild Tiger.

Kotetsu: Anytime.

Mario: (Oh boy, I wonder what Agnes and Lloyds will say if he's not coming.) And now, we should check on Super Scion of the Aristocracy and the other veteran of the Buddy System: Barnaby Brooks Jr.!

Thanks, Mario. It's a pleasure.

Mario: So, what are you doing now?

Barnaby: Well, I just finished reading The Legend of the Goddess of Justice to the children here at the orphanage. I've never seen them more excited for Justice Day since that one Justice Day when we thought the legend was coming true.

Mario: Yes, that was a very memorable time. They even made a movie out of it. It just makes me wish to know if they're going to make a third one.

Barnaby: We can only hope.

Mario: Which makes me wonder, what will you be doing on Justice Day? Will you be coming to the Justice Day Ball at the Maylor's mansion this year?

Barnaby: I don't know. I was hoping to take the kids here to the fair and the parade... But I saw what happened... (wink) Don't worry, I'll make sure he comes.

Mario: (unsure) Okay. Thanks for your time, Barnaby.

Barnaby: Happy to help.

Mario: And next up, the Wondering Prince of Gravity, Ryan Goldsmith, aka Golden Ryan.

Thank you! Who's awesome? I'm awesome!

Mario: (unimpressed and whispering) I think that's mantra's taken. (back to normal and out loud) So, Ryan, how are you doing?

Ryan: Just fine. Just watched a movie with my pet, Molly. I thought it would be a nice way to spend some time before Justice Day.

Mario: So, you'll be going to the ball that day?

Ryan: You bet. I've got my tickets and my suit ready.

Mario: That's great. Will we be seeing Blue Rose coming with you.

Ryan: (laughing) You wish. She's performing at the parade. But don't worry. I have someone in mind... Jr. said so.

Mario: Oh, now we're really curious. Anyway, thanks for your time.

Ryan: Just make sure you get my good side when they show the ball on TV.

Mario: I'm sure we will. And speaking of the Icy Superstar, let's check on Blue Rose now. How are you, my dear?

Thanks, I'm fine. Just getting in some last minute rehearsals before the big day.

Mario: Yes, Ryan told us. Have you got a new song for us in store?

Blue Rose: Not really. Just some of the recent stuff, but I know some new talents that might have something up their sleeves. I just know they'll be the real show stopper.

Mario: True. But I doubt... Never mind.

Blue Rose: (unimpressed) Yeah, we better.

Mario: But still, we can't wait for any new songs you might come up with soon.

Blue Rose: Don't worry. I will. I'm actually working on one right now. It's still a working progress, but you'll hear it soon enough.

Mario: I'm sure we will. Thank you for your time.

Blue Rose: Hope to see you all at the Justice Day Parade!

Mario: Now, to check up on our Expert of Being Seen in the Background, Origami Cyclone, who, at this time, is with his partner, the Bulltank of the West Coast, Rock Bison.

Thank you.

Mario: Where's Bison?

Origami Cyclone: Probably best you don't know.

>You can clearly hear the sound of gagging in the background.

Mario: So, got any plans for Justice Day?

Origami Cyclone: Not really. I'm just going to hang out with some old classmates from the Hero Academy. Catch a movie and then finish off with the parade.

Mario: Does that include He Is Thomas?

Origami Cyclone: No. He's got plans with his sister.

Mario: Really? I would have thought you would go to the ball.

Origami Cyclone: No, but Bison is. Right?

(panting and staggering) You bet I am! I'm gonna have ball- (quickly ducks out of the camera and clearly into a toilet)

Mario: (a bit worried) I thought he quit drinking.

Origami Cyclone: Actually, we were having dinner and he eat some bad sushi. As you hear, one of the chefs is being yelled at by the manager.

Voice from outside the bathroom: YOU'RE FIRED! HOW COULD YOU SERVE SUSHI THAT WAS ON THE FLOOR!?

Other voice from outside: (nervously) Three second rule...

>More gagging could be heard from Bison. Origami is not happy with what he sees in the bowl.

Origami Cyclone: (serious) And there's blood there. Sorry, we'll have to cut this short, gotta get this one to the ER. Thanks for checking in.

Mario: Sounds like the hospital's going to have their hands full. Here's wishing Bison a speedy recovery. Next up, the Wind Master, Sky High, and his partner, the Bourgeois Open Flame Broil, Fire Emblem!

We're so happy that for the interview. Thanks, and thanks again!

Mario: Do I see fancy wear in the background? Are you two going to the ball?

(this is the only picture I could find) You bet! I know we'll be the stars of the ball... Until the surprise. I'm told this year's Justice Day Ball at the Mayoral Mansion promises to be a memorable one.

Mario: Really? What is it?

Sky High: We're not sure ourselves at the moment. We're just as excited about this as you are.

Mario: No doubt. Thank you for your time.

Sky High and Fire Emblem: You're welcome, and you're welcome again!

Mario: And now, to see the Lightning Bolt Kung-Fu Master, Dragon Kid!

Thanks, Mario. I was just doing some last minute training. I'll be back.

Mario: So, got any plans for Justice Day?

Dragon Kid: It took a while, but it looks like my parents can come for Justice Day. We're even going to the ball at the Mayor's house.

Mario: That's wonderful. Got any plans for the rest of Justice Week with them?

Dragon Kid: Well, mostly we're just going to do some sightseeing until it's time for them to go home. But I'm sure it won't be so bad. There might be some places in Sternbild we might not even know about.

Mario: You mean... Everlasting Life? You don't really believe that, do you?

Dragon Kid: Who knows, Mario. Who knows. Well, better get back to training. See you at the ball.

Mario: (whispering) It takes all kinds of people. (out loud) Anyway, let's move on to the Magical Girl Carnivoran, Magical Cat!

Hello, everyone!

Mario: So, what are you up to?

Magical Cat: I convinced my mother to play tennis with me. She's just taking a break right now.

Mario: So, what do you have planned for Justice Day?

Magical Cat: Me and Mama usually spend it with a big dinner and watching the parade on TV. But this year, my boss gave me a ticket to the ball. I'll be going. I wanted to bring Mama with me, but she says it would make me stand up more to the fans if I want by myself. Of course, she doesn't mind I share the spotlight with Dragon Kid. I can't wait to see what will happen.

Mario: Neither can I. Or the fans.

Magical Cat: (hearing a flushing sound nearby) Sounds like Mama's coming back. Hope to see you later!

Mario: Same here. Now for the One Adorned in White Light, He Is Thomas!

... Hello. I'm just here with my sister.

(this is the only picture I could find) Hello, everyone!

Mario: How sweet. Spending time with you little sister. I guess you two have plans for Justice Day?

Ruby: Yes. First, we're going to visit the Spring Fair and then we're going to a ball.

Mario: Does this mean we'll be seeing you at the Mayoral Mansion on Justice Day?

He Is Thomas: Yes. It was Carlotta's idea.

Mario: Even Mr. Black?

He Is Thomas: He says he already has plans for that day... Carlotta was really upset.

Mario: I can imagine that. But I hope you two will have a fantastic time.

Ruby: I'm sure we will.

He Is Thomas: Thank you.

Mario: Just one Hero left: The Literal Man in Black, Mr. Black!

What was that?

Mario: Oops! Caught you at a bad time?

Mr. Black: (just realizing he failed to acknowledge the camera again and pulling the towel up) Holy shoot! When did you guys get here?

Mario: We're just checking up on our Heroes and asking what they have planned for Justice Day. Thomas said you're not going to the ball.

Mr. Black: I'm not. One of my friends from Panjourney's coming over to visit for Justice Day. We're just gonna do some sightseeing, hit up the fair, and finally end it with the parade.

Mario: That sound nice. Having a friend over from when you were Hello Goodbye.

Mr. Black: No kidding. (starting to get embarrassed) Now could you please leave? I was just about to take a shower.

Mario: Right, thank you for your time. (whispering) I wonder how many fans he'll earn from that interview? (out loud) Well, that's all the heroes we can interview. Before we end tonight's program, a word from the famous NEXT, Little Aurora.

Thank you, Mario. It is wonderful to know that our heroes find some time outside of being heroes. These days, we hope to celebrate Justice Day knowing that for this day, and, possibly now, Justice Week, we are reminded that we all carry a heart of justice. For when all is said and done, we are one people. Thank you.