Story #1

: Obvious : Superhero couldn't believe their eyes. There was Villain, perfectly carefree and strutting around the Masquerade Party as they mingled with oblivious civilians and undercover heroes. The only change to their usual attire was a blue flowing coat with silver embroidery and a similarly designed mask with extravagant green and blue feathers. But the stunning trail of shiny peacock feathers that trailed from their waist and sharp silver nails were the exact same.

The deadly talons clinked against the wine glass held in the criminal's hand, the sound drowned out by the voices and music within the large room. Villain turned, a certain shiver bothering them at the feeling of a glare creeping up their spine. Of course, they were used to the feeling of being eyed like a piece of treasure, but this look was one of a waiting predator. It wasn't a surprise to the villain when they made eye contact with Superhero, their lips curling into an amused smirk.

The sight of deep brown eyes meeting Superhero's own only confirmed their suspicions, and they only glared harder at their enemy.

Villain swirled the contents of their glass a few times before turning with a dramatic flourish, walking over to Superhero. They leaned against the table, resting shoulder-to-shoulder and leaning against the leading hero. Superhero grimaced but they didn't move away, merely stiffening their form.

"There's no need for that look," Villain purred, amusement in their tone as they adjusted their mask and set down their wine glass. "I don't hold any threat to your or the party. I'm on vacation."

"Are you?"