Author's Message:
Hello there, I know you're here for the story so if you want to get to that, feel free to skip ahead.
For those who chose to read this, thank you for your attention, I just want to say that with the threat of the Coronavirus nowadays. I'd just like to wish everyone to stay safe out there and be mindful of what you touch with your hands in public.
Now don't get me wrong, I'm no medical professional. I'm just trying to share what I've heard people commonly do to prevent infection. Such methods consist of washing hands, social distancing, rubbing alcohol and Masks. If there's more than this, I have no idea but I advise you to find out if there is, just in case.
And if possible, please take care of those who are more at risk of being infected by the disease. I know it seems much for a complete stranger to ask this of you, but think of it as a way of sparing someone from experiencing the disease and increasing the risk of spreading it. As well as preventing unnecessary panic in the public, because we all know that panicking causes more harm than good.
And with that, stay calm and keep each other or yourself safe.
KOTA'S HIDEOUT
Snapping out of his shock, Muscular began laughing maniacally. ''You'll definitely save him?'' he mocked as he took off his cloak. ''You sound like a damn hero.'' He spat with a vicious smile as more muscle fibers sprouted from his arms. ''Your kind show up everywhere, talking about justice.'' He stated as he cracked his neck making Izuku tense up with a serious expression while Kota whimpered at the display.
''Kota,'' Izuku suddenly called out getting the kid's attention. ''go inside the cave.'' He ordered gently while gesturing to the nearby cave making Kota frantically look between Izuku and the cave. The latter keeping an eye on Muscular while said villain looked amused by the gesture.
''Better do what he says kid,'' Muscular interjected making Izuku glare at him while Kota stiffened. ''because things are about to get…messy.'' He warned darkly making Kota whimper while Izuku inwardly cursed at the villain for scaring Kota.
Kota looked lost until he saw Izuku looking back at him with a reassuring smile and a nod. He then swallowed before nodding in return and made his way to the cave while Izuku kept his eyes on the villain with a serious expression. Said villain watched Kota runaway with a bored expression.
Once Kota safely entered the cave, Muscular smiled viciously. ''Now that that's taken cared of…,'' he trailed off before leaping towards Izuku with a powered-up fist ready. ''LET'S PLAY!'' he roared as he brought his fist down towards Izuku. The latter reacting by quickly charging Full Cowl and zipping to the side as the fist got close.
*CRASH*
Thinking that Muscular was stuck, Izuku dove in to deliver a 16% punch. Unfortunately, despite having his hand jammed in the ground, Muscular ran around and delivered a powerful kick towards Izuku. The later reacting by quickly raising his left arm in an effort to protect his head.
*SMACK*
*CRACK*
Sadly, Izuku didn't have enough time to increase his bone density much as his left arm cracked on impact and to make matters worse, the force of the kick was strong enough to send him crashing to the side of the mountain. He then stood up with a grunt and looked to his bruised left arm as a bit of blood dripped from it.
''Good thing my bones heal over time.'' He thought with gritted teeth as he flexed his left hand. Sadly though, his arm wouldn't be in fighting condition tonight so he made a mental note to be more cautious with his remaining limbs.
Muscular was laughing maniacally at the site. ''Blood! That's what I want to see!'' he declared as he freed his arm while Izuku glared at him. ''Come on! Where's that earlier bravado huh!?'' he taunted as he spread his arms wide making Izuku react by going into his stance again.
Muscular grinned evilly as he took a step forward, only for him to suddenly stop himself. ''Whoops.'' he stated suddenly while Izuku and Kota looked to him curiously. ''I almost forgot. If you know, tell me…where's the kid called Bakugou?'' he asked in a more demanding tone, looking ready to just get an answer and get back to fighting. While Izuku paled at the question as his eyes widened.
''What the hell does the league want with Bakugou?'' Izuku thought in panic as he stared at Muscular in shock. His brain then went into overdrive as he tried to understand what the league could gain from finding Bakugou.
His thoughts were stopped abruptly when Muscular had enough and lunged at him with a fist ready. Izuku reacted by quickly charging Full Cowl and jumped over the charging villain. He decided to think about the villain's intentions after the fight.
*CRASH*
While his fist is still planted on the rock wall, Muscular looked over to Izuku with a manic expression. ''Can I take the silence as an 'I don't know'?'' he asked as he pulled his arm free and fully turned to a tense Izuku. ''I can right!?'' he asked excitedly as he prepared to lunge at Izuku again.
''This guy's a nutcase.'' Izuku thought with a serious expression as he prepared himself again. ''Whatever floats your boat.'' He dismissed with a growl, while Muscular laughed gleefully at the response.
''WONDERFUL!'' Muscular roared as his leg muscles bulged before quickly lunging at Izuku with a fist ready while laughing manically. The latter reacting by barely dodging the swing and gaining distance from the hulking villain.
Once he found his footing, Izuku charged 18% and flashed his eyes, sending bone projectiles towards Muscular. The latter seeing this with a semi surprised expression and countered by using his quirk to form a muscle fiber shield on his arm. While Izuku could only look on in shock as Muscular merely stood his ground as the bones created small shock waves as they hit the shield.
''That's one heck of a quirk!'' Izuku thought in shock as he watched Muscular deconstruct his arm fiber shield. He could only imagine how tough those fibers must be or how well experienced Muscular is in fighting overall.
''Let's see…I can't stay too close for long and I certainly can't keep dodging forever. And using the blasters right now could risk me being taken out of the fight early.'' Izuku reasoned as he started feeling his fatigue from training. His eyes then flared as he came to one conclusion. ''A game of cat and mouse it is then.'' He concluded as he tensed up.
He was then snapped out of his thoughts when Muscular looked to him with a laugh. ''So…that's your quirk huh?'' he stated in an amused tone. ''I'll admit it's pretty damn weird, but it's nothing compared to MINE!'' he declared as he powered up and charged towards Izuku. The latter reacting by sprouting a triple layered bone barrier in an attempt to block or stop the villain's advance.
Muscular didn't seem to care as he charged towards the barrier with his powered-up arms which resulted in him breaking through the barrier, much to Izuku's surprise. The latter snapping out of his surprise and avoided a quick kick from Muscular.
''My quirk lets me power up my muscles!'' Muscular continued as he looked to the panting Izuku in amusement. ''I can increase my speed and strength by increasing the amount of muscle fibers so much that they can't be contained in my skin!'' he declared proudly as he demonstrated his power as his arms grew larger. While Izuku watched in a mixture of awe and disgust whereas Kota watched purely in fear.
Not even bothering for a response, Muscular continued. ''What am I trying to say?'' he stated before standing taller. ''I'm bragging!'' he declared before running towards Izuku. The latter bracing himself as he created a bone club.
Once close enough, Muscular attempted to hit Izuku with a furious swipe, only for Izuku disappear and reappear to smack the villain's head with the club. Only to be forced to dodge and gain some distance when Muscular tried to counter with a backhand.
''In other words….,'' Muscular trailed off as he looked to Izuku with a manic smile. ''YOU DON'T STAND A CHANCE!'' he roared as he continued his assault making Izuku continue his hit and run tactics as he threw his bone club with great force with Muscular countering by forming a fiber shield with his arms and simply bulldozed through it. Laughing maniacally while doing so.
While this happened, Izuku appeared above him to deliver a downwards kick, only for Muscular to block it with his arm and flung Izuku away. The latter quickly recovering and went into his stance as the bloodthirsty villain charged at him again.
HIDEOUT CAVE
Kota watched on as Izuku and Muscular fought with ferocity. The latter looking like he was enjoying the game of cat and mouse. Compared to the times he saw heroes and villains fight on T.V., this fight right now is nothing compared to it. Every time Muscular viciously swung he could feel the wind from the powerful attack. Every time Izuku sent bone projectiles with Muscular blocking with his quirk, Kota could hear and feel the powerful impacts.
He wanted to nothing more than to run and call for help, but with the risk of running into another villain or the chance of getting caught up in the crossfire. All he could do at the moment was stay where he was and watch Izuku fight on. The latter being someone who managed to make his situation better, someone who managed to become the light within the darkness of his life.
So, the idea of Izuku dying was something that almost made him throw up at that moment. Among everyone that he knew, Izuku was the only one who managed to get through him and climb over his inner walls just to save him from himself.
So, if Izuku dies….what would be left of him?
With a breath, Izuku's eyes flashed as he sent more bones from the air and ground towards Muscular. The latter reacting by quickly jumping away from the bones from the ground and swiping his powered-up arms to disperse the projectiles with a roar. While Izuku grit his teeth at Muscular's display of raw firepower.
Muscular huffed as he grinned at Izuku. ''You'll definitely save him?'' he mocked making Izuku growl. ''HA! Don't go spouting lip service if you can't even pull it off!'' he taunted before laughing as he looked to Kota who shrank from his crazed gaze.
But before he could say more, he suddenly found himself held in place as his body was covered in a green glow. Looking ahead, he and Kota saw Izuku on one knee as he had a glowing right hand stretched out. ''You're the one who's wrong,'' he breathed out. ''It's not a matter of whether or not I can do it!'' he roared before standing up with a serious expression making Kota look to him shock while Muscular was still focused on his current position.
''A hero's job…'' he continued with a growl as his eyes flared up while charging 18% Full Cowl. ''is to risk their life to make lip service into reality!'' he declared with a roar making Kota jump slightly from the sudden energy.
Muscular looked at him blankly before laughing at the statement. ''So, what are you gonna do huh?'' he asked with a manic grin. ''Throw a bunch of bones until I cry for mommy?'' he taunted with a laugh, obviously not taking the situation seriously.
His laughter was cut short when he saw Izuku grin. ''Not exactly.'' He stated making Kota and Muscular look at him curiously. The latter starting to think that Izuku was just trying to bluff his way out of the situation.
But before Muscular could retort, he suddenly found himself under some sort of green light. Looking up, he and Kota were shocked to see a medium sized Gaster Blaster and accompanied with bone projectiles aimed down at Muscular.
Looking back down, they saw Izuku hold up his fingers in a snapping position, feeling a small bit of satisfaction seeing Muscular's smug expression wiped off. He knew this was a risky move, but with how powerful Muscular is, he couldn't risk wasting his energy in dodging for any longer. So, with this in mind, he decided to take a gamble and use a blaster to try and end this fight faster.
''Get dunked on.'' Izuku declared before snapping his fingers, making Muscular's eyes widen. While Kota took cover, knowing from what he's seen how powerful Izuku's blasters could be.
*ZWOOOOSSHHHH*
As the blaster fired while sending bone projectiles, Muscular immediately reacted by using his quirk to cover as much of his body as possible before Izuku's attack could have a chance to inflict some serious damage.
*CRASH*
The attack was successful as beam crashed into Muscular's form, effectively covering him in the beam while the bone projectiles dove in, in the hopes of adding more damage. The attack resulted in the area around them shaking a bit as a huge dust cloud was created, scattering a bunch of debris around making Izuku brace himself while also sprouting a bone barrier in front of Kota just in case.
Once everything settled down, the bone barrier disappeared and Kota peeked from his position and saw a powered down Izuku looking at the smoking crater where Muscular once stood. ''I-Is it over?'' Kota asked in a fearful voice, hoping that the attack was enough to bring Muscular out of the picture in the villain attack.
Izuku looked to him with a tired grin. ''Should be.'' He stated while Kota felt himself relax from the statement as he slowly stepped out of the cave. ''Come on kid, let's get you outta here before-
*CRUMBLE*
Izuku stopped as he and Kota felt their blood freeze. They then turned to the sound to see Muscular emerge from the crater as he retracted his burnt muscle fibers that protected him with a grunt. His shirt was gone now, revealing minor burns on his torso. The glass eye he wore was destroyed from the blast.
''No way…'' Izuku thought in disbelief as he tried to understand how Muscular's muscle fibers protected him against a strong Gaster Blast. Any hopes of escaping went out the window as Muscular exited the crater and stretched his limbs before looking to Izuku.
Seeing their expressions, Muscular grinned evilly. ''That was a good attack Midoriya…,'' he praised with a laugh as he slowly made his way to Izuku. ''After all it's not every day I get caught off guard.'' He declared while Izuku stood his ground and scrambled to think of the best way to beat the villain in his current state.
''But…'' Muscular suddenly said snapping Izuku out of his thoughts. ''since your stronger than you appear…'' he said seriously before bringing out another glass eye from his pocket. ''It's time to get serious.'' He declared with heavy killer intent as he kept walking while his fibers slowly emerged and covered more of his exposed torso and arms.
Izuku's eyes widened with realization as he quickly powered up. ''KOTA GET BACK TO COVER!'' he ordered before narrowly avoiding a lunge from a much more powerful Muscular as he collapsed a part of the cliff with his attack. While Kota complied immediately and returned back to cover.
Upon getting his bearings, Izuku waved his hand sending more bone projectiles, only to be shocked when Muscular increased his speed drastically and spun around to smack the projectiles away with great force. Before he could blink, Muscular appeared in front of him with a fist raised in the air.
Izuku managed to roll out of the way and was knocked back by the force of Muscular's fist as it slammed onto the ground. Izuku then hastily disappeared and reappeared in a safe distance from Muscular. The latter freeing his fist and looked to Izuku with a bloodthirsty expression.
''His movements are faster than before.'' Izuku thought in shock as he looked to the monstrous Muscular. It honestly felt like he was fighting Nomu from the USJ, which was a grim description by itself. What made the situation worse however, was that his opponent can make decisions on his own in comparison to the mindless creation he fought before.
''What's wrong kid?'' Muscular called out snapping Izuku out of his shock. ''Don't tell me your planning on holding back now?'' he asked in disappointment as he fully turned to Izuku. The latter growling as his eyes flashed.
Muscular then instinctively swung his fist to the right, smashing into a medium sized bone that sprouted from the ground to try and score a hit on him. While he was distracted, Izuku appeared above him with a bone club ready to try and quickly knock the villain out. Only to be forced to hastily teleport and avoid a vicious swing from Muscular.
Izuku was about counterattack when he was met with a knee to the gut that knocked the wind out of him as he found himself launched to the rock wall. Izuku nearly found himself blacking out upon impact before sliding down to the ground. His instincts then kicked in and allowed him to become aware again to avoid a merciless punch from Muscular. Which in turn, resulted in the villain's arm being jammed into the wall.
''Damn it I got too exited!'' Muscular berated himself with a growl of frustration as he tried to free his arm. He held back his battle lust for now to concentrate in freeing himself, but once he's freed, he'll be sure to indulge himself as much as he wanted.
In the meantime, Izuku recovered in the air and created a bone blade, he then stabbed his weapon on the ground in an effort to slow himself down before he ended up falling off the side of the cliff as Muscular continued struggling to free himself.
Once he completely stopped himself, Izuku kept his eyes on the villain as he gathered his thoughts and took a breather. ''If we retreat now, he'll just follow us before we can find Aizawa. And in my current state….I doubt me and Kota can make it far.'' He concluded grimly. As he thought this, the world seemed to slow as the feeling of hopelessness increased by the second. His eyes still had power but they were slowly dimming, and combined with his exhaustion from both the fight and quirk training. He honestly couldn't see himself dodging for long or overpowering the villain anytime soon in his current condition.
His thoughts were interrupted when he heard frantic footsteps, turning to the sound he was surprised to see Kota run up to him with a scared expression. ''Let's get out of here! We should find someone to help deal with him!'' he cried out with a pleading voice.
Izuku merely gave him a sad smile. ''Sorry Kota,'' he said sincerely before standing up while Kota felt his heart stop. ''But if I run now….then someone else could die.'' He declared seriously.
Kota looked at Izuku's back as tears of sorrow fell. ''Please….I don't want to lose someone AGAIN!'' he pleaded in his head as he looked on and only saw his parents fighting Muscular. The latter freeing himself from the wall and laughing darkly at Izuku's direction as more muscle fibers wrapped around his arms.
''Kota, when it hits, I want you to run back to the camp.'' Izuku ordered seriously, he may not win the fight. But he could at least buy Kota time to escape. The kid still had his whole life ahead of him and no one deserves to die this way.
Kota seemed to have realized his intentions as he frantically spoke up. ''Please don't do it!'' he begged while Izuku felt guilty for putting Kota through this. ''Your attack earlier didn't work so let's just get out here!'' he continued ''Besides your too tired and injured to continue.'' He added desperately as more tears spilled out, hoping that Izuku would see reason and stop risking his life for him.
To his dismay, Izuku didn't change his position and stood firm. ''It's okay Kota.'' He responded determinedly as he charged 18% Full Cowl throughout his body. He then made his way to Muscular ignoring Kota's cries for him to run away.
Once he was sure that he was a safe distance from Kota, Izuku stopped and looked to Muscular with his hardened glowing eyes. While the latter looked thrilled from the display and began laughing darkly as he powered up more.
Izuku didn't flinch from the display and reared his right fist back. ''Prehensile…'' he started as he firmly planted his feet on the ground.
''YOU'RE DEAD KID!'' Muscular roared viciously as he launched himself while covering himself with a large amount of fibers. Effectively turning himself into a muscle fiber battering ram.
Trembling within the breeze I can feel my soul is shaking.
''SMASH!'' Izuku roared in his mind as he threw his fist forward to meet the Muscular's attack. The following clash caused all sound to be drowned out by the sheer power displayed from the two individuals. Which forced Kota to brace himself against the strong winds.
The ground below them shook and formed cracks as it slowly gave way from their immense strength.
Even with a single blow everything that is come's undone.
Muscular was loving every second of it and wanted more. ''What's wrong?'' he asked as he pushed downwards, causing the ground below Izuku to slowly give way from the pressure. ''IS THAT THE BEST YOU GOT KID!?'' he taunted as he added more pressure as he towered over Izuku, hoping to draw more fun out of the teen.
Izuku bared his teeth as he struggled to maintain his stance on the collapsing ground. ''It's fine!'' he growled back, briefly surprising Muscular and shocking Kota. ''I will not let you get past me!'' he roared as his eyes flared up more.
''SO...RUN KOTA!'' Izuku ordered as he continued his push, but sadly Kota found himself unable to move as fear had a heavy grip in his heart. He wanted to comply, he really did, but he couldn't find the strength within him to move at the moment.
Before Muscular could say anything, he suddenly found himself being attacked from behind. Glancing over his shoulder, he saw a handful of small Gaster Blasters attacking him accompanied by a few bone projectiles in an effort to inflict more damage to Muscular while Izuku kept him in place.
Using every ounce of strength just to keep myself from breaking.
With a grunt, Muscular grinned as he looked down at Izuku. ''This kid…'' he exclaimed before adding more pressure. ''YOU'RE JUST FULL OF SURPRISES AREN'T YOU!?'' he asked with a roar as he continued his assault with more force. Not even looking bothered from the attacks from behind due to the fibers protecting him.
Ignoring the agony of the situation, Izuku kept pushing even as he found himself slowly bend backwards. ''SHUT UP!'' he roared in defiance as he added more power to hold his ground. Unfortunately, this move caused the blasters and bone projectiles to disappear since all power was redirected to Izuku's efforts.
Muscular seemed thrilled by the amount of power Izuku added to the push. ''Show me…'' he called out as he started increasing power to his legs. ''SHOW ME YOUR BLOOD!'' he demanded as he pushed down with the added boost from his legs.
*SLAM*
Despite being smashed on his back, Izuku roared in defiance as he kept pushing. ''I won't let you!'' he declared in his mind as he continued his push. But even as he thought this, he became increasingly aware of how hopeless the situation was becoming.
The glow in his eyes were steadily going dimmer as his body was slowly giving out from Muscular's strength. His body was on fire from the amount of fatigue and pain that piled up from the fight. His arm felt like it was going to snap at any moment from the sheer weight of it all. And with all these factors in mind, he grimly came to one conclusion.
He was going to die.
''I'm sorry everyone!'' Izuku thought as tears of regret spilled out of his eyes. ''I'm sorry for failing you!'' he cried out in his mind as the ground behind on his back is steadily giving in as he slowly found himself sinking into it.
I can only watch you walk…
''I'M GONNA CRUSH YOU!'' Muscular roared as he gave one final push which resulted in Izuku being smashed into the ground creating a small crater that caused a cloud of dust and debris to fly around. All the while Kota felt numb as he watched someone he cared about was one again ripped away from him by the very same villain that took away his parents.
By…
IN THE CRATER
''Well this feels familiar.'' Izuku thought with an inward chuckle as he remembered being in a similar situation during the USJ Attack.
Only this time, the monster didn't leave and chose to stay and finish the job.
The pain he was currently feeling couldn't be described by words. But despite this, his mind desperately kept telling him to stand, but alas his body couldn't find the strength to comply.
Muscular pressed his weight against him again, earning a grunt of pain from Izuku as he was slowly being crushed under the monster's weight.
Izuku was screaming from within himself to stay conscious and continue the fight. But sadly, he could feel his strength and spirit fading as the cold embrace of death started creeping up on him. The shine in his eyes were none existent at this point as the power within him slowly diminished.
More tears started to form as he weakly struggled under the monster's weight. But it became increasing clear that his struggle was becoming in vain as his body was giving in to his fatigue and pain.
''I guess…this is it huh?'' Izuku thought as his eyes grew heavy while his body's strength dwindled with each passing moment.
He always knew that being Hero meant that there would come a mission that he wouldn't return from. He just didn't think that it would be so soon, especially when people's lives are at stake at the moment. He could feel shame and guilt build up within as he realized his failure to protect everyone. Not only that, he was essentially leaving people who cared for him behind.
''I'm sorry everyone….I've…failed you.'' He finished as the pain subsided and he started to fall into unconsciousness as his body finally went limp.
The last thought he had, was the memories he had with his family, Mina and everyone else.
…
…
…
…
…
And then it happened.
*SPLASH*
''!?'' Izuku twitched when he felt something dripping on his body. He then weakly opened an eye when he felt Muscular stiffen as well from the sudden event.
It almost felt like…
''What the….Water?/Water?'' Muscular and Izuku concluded at the same time. The latter instantly realizing where the water came from and felt his heart slowly sped up.
''ST-STOOOP!'' The voice of Kota demanded fiercely with a small hint of fear in his voice.
Upon hearing his voice, everything stilled for Izuku as a single thought came shining through the darkness.
''Kota…'' Izuku weakly called out as he turned his head to the voice. Suddenly, images of Kota staring fearfully at the monstrous form of Muscular approaching him with a malicious expression flashed in his mind. And from within the darkness, a single thought emerged to reignite the fire within Izuku's soul to keep going.
''KOTA IS STILL HERE!'' he roared in his thoughts as his eyes slowly opened while the shine within them slowly returned with newfound determination.
OUTSIDE THE CRATER
Shaking off his shock, Muscular turned to Kota with a manic expression while he kept trying to crush Izuku. ''Later kid, I'll kill you after—
His thoughts were interrupted when he suddenly found himself being pushed back.
Muscular tried pushing downwards, only for him to struggle as the force below him kept pushing. ''Bastard…'' he growled as he continued his efforts. ''the moment I was distracted…'' he trailed off with a grunt as he kept pushing but to no avail as he was pushed further back.
''As if…''
A low voice was heard but both Muscular and Kota knew where it came from and couldn't believe it.
Sure enough, Kota saw Izuku push himself off the ground while he kept his fist planted on Muscular's fibers. The latter for once looking panicked as he continued his struggle. ''I-Impossible!'' he stated in disbelief before he was forced to stand from Izuku's powerful push. The latter continuing his push as he found his footing.
''…I'D LET YOU KILL HIM!'' Izuku roared as he effectively pushed himself into a standing position, rendering both Kota and Muscular into silent shock. Before the latter could snap out of his shock and retaliate, he was suddenly covered in a green glow.
Izuku then followed up as he steadied his footing and removed his wounded yet glowing hand from Muscular and with a mighty roar, he threw his glowing hand over his shoulder and towards the forest. Which resulted in the paralyzed Muscular being thrown into the forest below screaming.
FOREST BELOW
Muscular snapped out of his surprise and immediately started covering himself with his fibers and braced himself for the inevitable impact as he approached the ground in high speeds while destroying trees along the way.
*CRASH*
…
…
…
…
*RUMBLE*
''GRAHHH!'' Muscular roared as he emerged from the rubble and unwrapped himself from his fibers. He then looked at his arms with anger as he drew heavy breathes trying to comprehend what just happened. Somehow, someway a child, a mere child managed to overpower him. Someone with years of experience in fighting and killing, thrown aside like mere garbage.
And with this one thought, his anger skyrocketed.
''Damn you…'' He growled as he bared his teeth and clenched his fists. ''DAMN YOU!'' he roared with fury before powering up his legs and jumping to where Izuku and Kota are located. He didn't care if he risked losing strength to fight the other pro's later on, no one, absolutely no one, catches him by surprise and gets away with it.
KOTA'S HIDEOUT
*CRASH*
With a vicious growl, Muscular stood as he deactivated his quirk and made his way to continue the fight, only to stop when he and Kota looked ahead in disbelief. The latter frozen in place ever since Muscular was thrown into the forest.
Holding onto everything even when my body shatters.
Standing there with his eyes closed is a battered up Izuku. His shirt long gone, revealing his muscular torso with cuts and bruises. His left arm limp but still responsive whereas his right arm is in better condition despite its damage, his right hand firmly clenched. His face has a cut above his left eyebrow that's causing blood to run down at the side of his face. Legs standing firm despite the visible damage.
His cargo shorts and shoes dirtied up but otherwise fine.
I will never let you pass even when my tears run dry.
Despite the obvious pain he is in, a bloody but defiant grin can be seen on his tear stained face.
Beating with our hearts as one everyone I know is praying.
Despite his form, he stood tall as the green sparks returned with intensity. Any signs of earlier fatigue seemingly disappeared.
To Kota it looked like in one of those stories his parents used to tell him, stories where the Hero stood up against the monster with all the strength that he could muster in order to protect the innocents. Whereas to Muscular, it looked like something out of a bad joke to him.
I will strike you down do or…
Izuku's eyes finally opened, revealing the white parts of it have been replaced with darkness. And at the center of it is an intense emerald glow with his tears long since dried up. All accompanied by his daring grin widening.
Die…
IN ANOTHER PART OF THE FOREST
Somewhere in another part of the forest stood a panting Pixie Bob as she stared at the stationary Nomu. The area around them littered with dirt mounds and pieces of creatures that Pixie Bob created with some destroyed trees and small craters on the ground.
''This thing is a lot tougher than I thought.'' Pixie Bob thought with a grimace remembering how easily the Nomu destroyed the stone Minotaur from earlier once it found its footing. Said Minotaur was brought into a headlock before its head was crushed by the Nomu's strength.
From that point, the battle developed into a game of chess. Pixie Bob would send a creation/s to battle against the Nomu. The latter reacting by countering the creations with its superior strength and additional abilities. And from what Pixie Bob could observe, the Nomu possessed enhanced strength and minor regeneration. Combined with its lack of speed, this Nomu is indeed a formidable tank.
On the plus side, the Nomu appears to be focused in a defensive mode instead of focusing its efforts on the offensive and actively attacking Pixie Bob. This in turn gave the pro time to formulate attack strategies as well as make stronger creatures to take on the abomination.
Which bring us back to the current stalemate, even with its lack of speed or commands from its superiors. The creature is still able to hold on its own against Pixie Bob's creatures with relative ease. When the Nomu itself went to randomly attack Pixie Bob, she would react by using her surroundings and overall speed advantage to avoid the hulking monstrosity.
''Aim for the brain, it stuns them and temporarily stops them from using their quirks.'' Izuku's earlier words came into her mind.
Pixie Bob grit her teeth at that. ''Easier said than done kid.'' She thought back with a growl. No matter what creature she sent, the Nomu would always overpower it or outlast it with his regeneration. And when she tries to make more powerful creations, the Nomu would instinctively charge at her and interrupt her quirk process.
Now knowing that Izuku managed to defeat something similar at the USJ, she couldn't help but let her respect for Izuku grow. She couldn't even begin to imagine the amount of power or skill Izuku must have pulled off to defeat the Nomu at the USJ.
She was really regretting not claiming him sooner.
With a huff she quickly created two stone Minotaurs and sent them to attack the Nomu. The latter reacting by roaring as it pushed it's palms onto the stone beasts' faces, effectively holding them in place. As this was happening, Pixie Bob quickly made a stone Golem with stone blades for arms to tear apart the Nomu.
The Nomu noticed this and increased his strength, which resulted in him crushing one of the Minotaurs faces before tossing it aside and focusing on the other one. As the two struggled, Pixie Bob sent the stone Golem to try and deliver a quick blow to the brain while the Nomu was preoccupied.
Unfortunately, once it got close enough with its blades ready, the Nomu reacted quickly and wrapped its arms around the Minotaur and tossed it towards the Golem. The latter reacting by slicing through the Minotaur in an effort to reach the Nomu faster. Sadly, the Nomu charged ahead and delivered a double punch to the Golem's head, effectively killing it.
As the Golem's body fell, Pixie Bob hissed in frustration as more sweat dripped from her forehead. At this rate the battle would end with her being too exhausted to fight back. As far as she is concerned, the only way to get a direct hit on Nomu's brain, is to somehow distract it long enough for her to do just that. So, until then, she can only hold out and continue this endurance match while keeping an eye out for the golden opportunity.
At this point though, she can only hope that said opportunity will make itself known soon.
WITH MINA
As the silence within the room progressed, the students found themselves getting restless as the situation continued. They know that what Aizawa said is final, but they were all aspiring to be heroes, so they couldn't help but feel the need to just get out there and help anyone they could.
Reaching his limit, Kirishima huffed before standing up. ''We need to get out there.'' He declared seriously while everyone else was surprised by his sudden outburst. Mina especially was surprised, wondering what could have set off her usually optimistic childhood friend.
Before Vlad could speak, Mina interjected. ''Didn't you hear Aizawa?'' she stated while everyone else turned to her. ''he said that we need to stay here and let the other pros handle it.'' She stated seriously while some were surprised by Mina's willingness to follow orders. The latter studying her friend to see if she can find out the cause of his attitude.
Kirishima however was having none of it. ''Someone could die if we don't help!'' he fired back with a glare but Mina knew he wasn't angry at her so she stood her ground and wore an analytical expression. Meanwhile the other students looked back and forth between them worriedly, thinking that they were going to start a fight.
But before Vlad or anyone else could say anything, Mina spoke up first.
''Look,'' Mina started calmly. ''I'm just saying that maybe we should let the pros handle it for now and use our quirks when we need to.'' She offered calmly while everyone else silently agreed. After all, there was no point in blindly charging in without a plan.
Not caring for his tone, Kirishima suddenly slammed his fist on the desk making his classmates jump. ''How can you be so calm about this!?'' he accused with frustration as he looked to Mina. The latter remaining calm and still trying to understand her friend. ''Someone could be getting hurt out there and your acting like nothing is wrong!'' he stated angrily making everyone recoil from his tone and accusation. Vlad however saw where his train of thought was going and was about to make an interjection.
Sadly, he was too late as Kirishima spoke up first. ''Don't you care if Midoriya gets hurt?'' he asked with a hint of anger while the rest of his classmates froze from the statement. Vlad on the other hand internally cursed for being too slow.
Almost as soon as the words slipped out, Kirishima immediately had an expression of regret as he saw Mina's expression become blank. The students held a bated breath, worried that a fight will break out while Vlad prepared himself to separate them if necessary. And considering that there is an ongoing villain attack, everyone is understandably worried with how things will turn out.
But to their immense surprise, Mina merely closed her eyes and took a few breathes before opening them again and wore an unreadable expression. ''One: I do care for Izuku,'' she stated while her classmates flinched from her serious tone and opted to listen intently. ''Two: Of course, I'm worried for everyone, but panicking will not solve anything.'' She added while everyone just kept listening. ''Finally: Like I said, unless we have the authorization from Aizawa to use our quirks, then we'll be at risk of expulsion.'' She finished seriously while everyone else digested everything she pointed out.
Vlad was inwardly impressed with her level headedness and maturity in the situation. Instead of lashing out like he thought she would, she handled it professionally and made sure to keep her emotions in check. He wasn't the only one impressed as everyone else couldn't help but admire the amount of maturity and logic displayed by the normally peppy and affectionate Mina.
It only showed to them that she was taking her personal improvement seriously.
After digesting her statements, Kirishima paled realizing that he didn't consider the risk of expulsion in mind. Don't get him wrong, he was more than willing to get out there and help. But the thought of being expelled because he went out there was terrifying. All that hard work wasted because he simply couldn't wait and listen for a moment.
And the thought of him dragging others down with him was tragedy in itself.
Realizing this, Kirishima looked regretful as he stared at his feet. ''I…'' he started before slowly sitting down. ''I'm…I'm sorry,'' he stated regretfully while keeping his eyes firmly on his desk. ''It's just…with everything that's going on, the thought of everyone getting hurt out there while we just sit here just….just doesn't sit well with me.'' He stated sincerely while everyone looked to him with sympathy, needless to say they were all in the same boat as him. Vlad especially felt bad because he had similar feelings before he became a pro, the only difference is, these kids are experiencing these horrible things early.
''I just don't like being so…useless when someone needs my help.'' He added bitterly remembering how his efforts in the final exams resulted in failure.
He was then startled when he felt a hand on his shoulder. Looking to the arm he saw Mina looking at him with a gentle smile. ''You're not useless.'' She stated sincerely while Kirishima and everyone else was surprised that she wasn't angry at him despite his earlier outburst.
''But-
''No buts.'' Mina interrupted gently with a gentle smile, while feeling a sense of déjà vu. ''The fact that you're in U.A. is proof enough that you're not useless. And that you still have plenty of room to get better, but if you still say otherwise, just use that as a drive to improve more.'' She advised with an encouraging smile, seeing how Kirishima looked like herself when she was in the same flunk. While the letter found himself speechless and simply took in her advice.
Seeing an opening, Vlad decided to chime in. ''She's right,'' he stated while everyone else turned to her. ''I know it's hard, but you might as well wait for further instructions and use this moment of peace to reflect,'' he stated sagely before turning to everyone else. ''that goes for all of you as well.'' He stated seriously.
''Yes Sensei!'' The class stated in unison before calming down and staying alert.
Once things settled Kirishima turned to Mina with an apologetic expression. ''Hey,'' he calmly called out getting their attention. ''I'm sorry…for losing my cool out there.'' He apologized with a guilty expression.
To his surprise, Mina just waved a hand at that. ''Dude its fine,'' she stated without any malice in her voice. ''things are pretty messed up right now so I get why you'd feel that way.'' She stated calmly, while everyone else was still taken back by her level of maturity in the situation.
''You're not mad?'' Kirishima ask with surprise in his voice.
Mina rolled her eyes with a smile before wrapping an arm around him. ''Please, it'll take more than that to disband the 'horn buddies'' she stated with the happy go lucky grin that they are all familiar with. While Kirishima didn't trust his words and simply nodded with a chuckle as he wrapped arm around her as well.
Meanwhile everyone else was just glad that their friendship remained unaffected.
Once Mina let go, Kirishima looked to Vlad with an apologetic expression. ''Sorry about for the trouble Sensei.'' He stated sincerely.
''It's fine kid,'' Vlad stated calmly. ''I was in the same spot as you before I became a pro.'' He stated understandably while pointing a thumb to himself. While nodded in understanding knowing that he was once a student like them at one point.
''Just make sure to have a clearer head next time.'' Vlad added seriously making Kirishima and everyone else nod in agreement as well.
''And besides,'' Mina added while everyone else turned to her. ''if there's one thing we all know about Izu….,'' she trailed off as she grinned. ''is that he can be pretty darn determined when it comes to fighting for what's right.'' She assured confidently while everyone else felt their moral rise from the statement. They all knew or heard stories of how Izuku would go beyond his limits if it meant saving those he cared for or if it meant fighting for what is right.
So, the idea of Izuku fighting for everyone's sake was a comforting thought to say the least.
KOTA'S HIDEOUT
A few moments have passed as no words were said among them. Izuku stared at Muscular with a serious expression as he stood ready while latter continued staring at him in disbelief as he tried to comprehend how this situation is possible. Kota in the meantime was on the same boat, don't get him wrong he is more than relieved to see Izuku stand again, but even he thought that Izuku was done for.
I mean who could blame them? The teen got crushed by a freaking muscle battering ram!
Snapping out of his shock, Muscular glared at Izuku. ''What did you do?'' he asked with a growl, wondering what sort of trick Izuku used while Kota listened in as he took cover in the cave once again.
To Muscular's chagrin, Izuku merely smiled. ''Nothing,'' he stated with a shrug making Muscular narrow his eyes at him while Kota looked confused. ''To be honest….my body feels like it's splitting apart. Like any instant…I'll scatter into a million pieces.'' He stated seriously as he looked down at himself making Muscular look intrigued, obviously wanting to know exactly how Izuku was still standing whereas Kota felt fear grip his hear at the statement.
''But…,''Izuku added as he closed his eyes and put his right hand to his chest. ''Deep, deep in my soul. There's a burning feeling I can't describe.'' He stated seriously while Muscular and Kota looked more than bewildered.
Izuku then smiled. ''A burning feeling that won't let me die.'' He declared while Muscular and Kota looked surprised. One was thinking that Izuku's quirk might be mutating while the other believed that it was something more.
''This isn't about Bakugou to you…is it?'' Izuku stated in an accusatory tone. Muscular didn't looked fazed by the accusation and merely listened while Kota froze at the implications. ''If you get past me, you'll….kill them all won't you?'' he accused again as he clenched his fist at the thought. While Kota froze at the thought of Muscular going on a rampage in the camp.
''The mission never mattered to you.'' He added seriously as he let his arm return to his side. ''All that matters to you is fighting and killing.'' He concluded as clenched his jaw imagining everyone else being overpowered by Muscular. While Kota closed his eyes with a whimper as he desperately tried to remove the images of anyone else ending up like his parents.
Muscular however looked pleased from the statement. ''Damn right!'' He admitted proudly as spread his arms wide. ''I'm just here to spread my wings and kill,'' he declared maliciously making Kota tense while Izuku stood his ground and remained impassive. ''So, as long as you're in my way….I'll kill you.'' He sated with a dark laugh as he imagined the number of corpses he'll be making tonight once he obliterates Izuku.
He was brought out of his musings when he heard Izuku speak. ''I won't let you do that!'' he declared loudly surprising Kota while Muscular looked skeptical from the statement. ''Because right now, everyone in the camp….'' He trailed off as he opened his glowing eyes.
''I can feel their hearts beating as one,'' he declared with a daring grin while Kota and Muscular looked surprised from the statement. ''And we all have on goal.'' he declared before pointing a finger at Muscular. ''To defeat YOU!'' he declared seriously while Muscular instinctively used a bit of his quirk to cover his arms.
Izuku then put his arm down and looked at Muscular's eyes with a serious gaze. ''Frankly I don't care how strong you are.'' He stated truthfully. ''Because I, Midoriya, will…STRIKE YOU DOWN!'' he swore with power as he placed a hand over his heart while his eyes flared and green sparks bounced erratically. Effectively making his declaration and expression more powerful.
Said declaration resulted in different reactions between Muscular and Kota.
Muscular found himself rendered speechless once again, not only is this kid more powerful than he originally thought he was. But once again, Izuku's words held more power and promise than the first time he met him. He was so stunned in fact that he didn't notice himself go still for a moment.
Kota was feeling the exact opposite, sure he's understandably stunned by Izuku's current state and statement. But rather than feeling fear from it all. He felt… a sense of comfort and warmth from looking at Izuku. It was like a someone had arrived to dispel the darkness in the world.
Snapping out of his shock, Kota moved to take cover in the cave once again.
Muscular snapped out of his shock as well as he started giving off a small laugh before he went on in full blown laughter. ''So, you think your stronger now just because you have friends?'' he mocked maliciously as he used his quirk to cover his arms with more muscle fibers. While Kota looked to Izuku and waited to see what his response will be.
Izuku was silent for a bit before he lightly chuckled. ''No….,'' he stated making Muscular and Kota look at him curiously. ''I don't think so...'' He stated with a dangerous grin making Muscular look at him cautiously while Kota looked afraid, thinking that Izuku was going to just sacrifice himself again.
His next statement though…took them by surprise.
''I know so.'' Izuku clarified confidently with a dangerous grin as he went into his stance while Muscular and Kota were taken back by the statement.
[Undertale OST- ''Battle Against a True Hero''- Plays]
Before Muscular could retort, he and Kota were left speechless again as Izuku disappeared in a blur. Muscular then instinctively looked to the right, just in time to see Izuku deliver a powerful kick with a dangerous grin.
*SMACK*
To his surprise, Muscular found himself knocked back a bit in a daze, completely caught off guard by the sudden increase of power. Before it was manageable, but now the situation suddenly became dangerous as the sudden boost tipped the scales of battle.
His thoughts were interrupted when he heard cracking sounds. Looking down he saw the ground below him was steadily forming cracks. Normally he wouldn't care and just stand there, but his instincts said otherwise and forced him to jump back.
Looking ahead he saw that bones sprouted from the ground with a strong force. If he didn't listen to instincts earlier, he would have sustained heavy damage to the ribs based on how the bones are positioned.
''Why the hell is he so strong!?'' Muscular thought in outrage before finding his bearings and glared at Izuku. The latter quickly disappearing and reappearing in front of Muscular with a bone club ready. And with a powerful thrust that destroyed the club in the process, Muscular was pushed back with a grunt as he held his abdomen where a noticeable bruise can be seen.
Izuku then formed a bone spear and prepared to throw with a serious expression. He figured that, wounding Muscular would allow him to gain the upper hand and therefore allowing him to end the fight quickly and get Kota to safety.
Seeing this, Muscular instinctively decided to go on the defensive and used his quirk to cover up his exposed torso in fibers to act as armor remembering Izuku's earlier attempts fail in inflicting heavy damage when he had his fiber armor/shield.
''How…'' Muscular thought in frustration. ''HOW THE HELL DID THIS DAMN BRAT PUSH ME BACK!?'' he thought with anger as he positioned himself to tank the hit. For as long as he can remember, he NEVER resorted in completely guarding himself with armor. It was ALWAYS the other way around; the heroes he faced were forced to go on the defensive due to his merciless fighting style and monstrous power.
The only exception to this would be All Might. Out of all the pros he fought or killed, All Might was the only who actually forced him into hiding after being on the receiving end of one the Symbol of Peace's smashes. Which resulted in him being heavily injured and forced him to retreat while he could.
Back to Izuku, he didn't seem fazed by Muscular's sudden defensive move and threw the spear with a roar. The latter bracing himself, only to find himself roaring in pain as the spear breached through his armor and pierced his shoulder as it pushed towards the rock wall.
*THUD*
Muscular groaned before turning to the spear on his shoulder in shock. ''Where…'' he trailed off in thought before he quickly grabbed the spear and pulled it out with a pained grunt revealing that his shoulder has indeed been pierced as blood dripped from the wound. Luckily for him however, his armor was thick enough to prevent the spear from going through his shoulder, leaving a noticeable wound instead.
After looking at his wound, he glared at the spear in his hand as he resealed his armor. ''Where did he get this power from!?'' he questioned in anger before snapping the spear in two with a snarl. His mind went into overdrive as he tried to think of where exactly Izuku acquired this strength from.
He considered the Trigger drug for a bit before immediately dismissing it since Izuku didn't look the type to take drugs.
Muscular then looked to Izuku with a murderous expression (Internally growling when Izuku didn't show any reaction to his expression). He then threw the pieces of the spear towards Izuku with a roar before following them in fury.
Izuku reacted by ducking under the first projectile, swiftly leaning back to avoid the next before quickly jumping over Muscular. The latter stopping himself before he accidentally ran off the cliff and attempted to kick Izuku. Who countered by sidestepping out of the way and followed up by jumping back and gaining more distance from the undoubtedly furious villain.
Izuku then quickly thrust his right hand forward and sent a bone spear towards Muscular. The latter pushing himself with a roar to speed up and somehow catch the spear creating a small gust of wind. This caused Izuku to finally react and look to the villain in surprise, not expecting the villain to go even faster and become strong enough to catch the spear.
Seeing his expression, Muscular formed a triumphant expression as he held the spear with his slightly damaged hands. ''I don't know where you got the strength from brat but…,'' he trailed off before pointing the spear at Izuku with a manic grin. ''It won't matter, I'll kill you just the same.'' He declared with manic glee, slowly feeling his confidence rise again.
His manic expression was wiped off his face when he saw Izuku chuckle in amusement. ''You can have that…'' he stated with a shrug before snapping his fingers. Not a moment later, more bone spears appeared, hovering behind Izuku and aimed at Muscular, the latter wearing an expression of shock and slight fear as he looked to the spears.
''I've got plenty more than that.'' Izuku declared seriously with a grin before his eyes flashed, sending the bone spears towards the stunned Muscular. Said villain snapped out of his shock and hastily threw the spear at Izuku and used his quirk to try and cover as much of him as possible as he ran to avoid taking too much damage.
Izuku for his part, side stepped to avoid the spear and looked to Muscular who grunted as he avoided some spears and smacked away a few others before screaming in pain when he got hit on his arms and abdomen. He then fell onto one knee before quickly pulling out all the spears he could see, causing blood to drip from his injuries.
Izuku was about to move in when he saw Muscular suddenly go still and quiet. For a moment, he was worried that he accidentally killed him before all those worries instantly vanished when he saw Muscular stand up in an eerily calm tone as he used his quirk to seal the breaches in his fiber armor.
Before Izuku could call out to him, Muscular suddenly disappeared and reappeared in front of Izuku with an enraged expression while his powered-up fist was raised up to smash Izuku where he stood. The latter showing an expression of shock as Muscular brought his fist down with a roar.
*SMACK*
Only for Muscular to be surprised when Izuku stopped his fist with his own. ''Your gonna have to try a little harder than THAT!'' he taunted with a daring grin while Kota and Muscular looked to him in shock. Before the latter could react, Izuku zipped away, making Muscular lose his balance and fall forward. Only for the latter to be immediately hit by a powerful uppercut that managed to push him back with a grunt.
After steadying himself, Muscular held his sore jaw. ''How is this possible?'' he asked himself again for the umpteenth time as he glared at Izuku. The latter wearing a serious expression as he went back to his stance.
As if reading his thoughts, Izuku grinned. ''If you think you can get rid of me that easily…'' he trailed off as he clenched his fist. ''You better think again.'' he suggested as he looked straight into Muscular's eyes. ''Because I'm determined…'' he declared as he placed a hand to his chest. ''And you WON'T get past me.'' He swore seriously as his eyes shined bright while standing tall.
Kota felt something stir within him after hearing those words. He didn't know how, but just by hearing Izuku's words. He instantly felt a sense of comfort and security within him just like before. It reminded him of the times when his parents would comfort him whenever he had nightmares in his sleep. It honestly made him feel...inspired.
Muscular however was a different story altogether as he felt something snap within him from hearing those words. To him it wasn't a declaration; it was an insult directed at him for his failed attempts to overpower a mere teenager who wasn't even a pro yet. And the idea of a brat looking down on an experienced killer like him ignited an unholy fire within him.
Muscular then let out an almost inhuman roar as he lifted his arms up and slammed his fists to the ground making the area shake a bit. He then snarled at Izuku as he started powering up and covering himself with layers, upon layers of bulging fibers, growling the entire time as he dug his fingers into the ground. While Kota and Izuku looked to him with different reactions.
Seeing this display of animalistic rage, Kota felt fear instantly rise within him again as he trembled and watched on as Muscular disregarded his sanity for the sake of eradicating his opponent. In the meantime, Izuku smirked at the display and silently accepted the challenge as he had an idea of what Muscular's next move will be.
''MIDORIYAAAAA!'' Muscular roared with crazed blood lust as he launched himself towards Izuku in an effort to crush him with the same move from earlier. Kota paled and was about to warn Izuku, only for him to stop when he saw Izuku grin and rear his right fist back again as his eyes flared. The latter not even showing any signs of fear as Muscular drew closer with his Muscle Fiber battering ram.
*SMASH*
To their utter shock, Izuku stood firm as he once again held back Muscular's powerful attack with his fist firmly planted within the fibers. Muscular then roared in fury as he tried to push and break through Izuku's defense while Kota watched on in awe and disbelief as he noticed how Izuku didn't move much from the monster's efforts.
With a grunt, Izuku grinned as the ground around them formed cracks once again from the overwhelming power that the clash was giving off. His eyes then flared as he concentrated power to his index finger and unleashed a powerful flick within the muscle fibers. Said flick was strong enough to break apart Muscular's muscle fibers, the latter temporarily stunned from the sudden dispersal of his muscles.
Following the momentum, Izuku quickly jumped up with his right fist reared back as he charged 18% Full Cowl. ''Prehensile…'' he thought before quickly delivering a powerful punch. Said punch made contact with Muscular's nose followed by a crunching sound. Which resulted in Muscular howling in pain as he found himself pushed back again.
After skidding to a stop, Muscular immediately held his nose with a pained groan. He then glared down on his bloody palm as more blood dripped from his nose. He then clenched his hand as he slowly came back to his senses from his angered state-
*VRRRRRRRRRR*
Snapping to the sound, he found himself going still as he looked ahead of him with wide eyes while the world seemed to slow down.
Izuku was standing there with a Gaster Blaster on his good arm, aiming at him with a serious expression. While hovering behind him were two medium sized blasters. ''Megalo…'' he started in his mind as his eyes shined while charging a great amount of OFA. At the same time the Gasters Blasters' eyes also shined brighter as they were about to unleash hell.
All the while, Muscular still found himself unable to move a muscle even as the lights from Izuku's blasters shined on him.
''SMMAAAAASH!''he roared in his mind as he braced himself for the recoil. In the meantime, Kota braced himself as he continued to watch Izuku unleash his attack.
*ZWWWOOOOSSSSHH*
As the blasters fired beams that crossed each other and combined into a larger beam. Izuku grit his teeth as he felt the burn on his arm while he was pushed back a bit from the powerful blast. But that didn't deter him as he kept his aim steady while looking onto his target with a determined expression.
As the world seemingly sped up again, Muscular snapped out of it and found himself panicking as the large beam was on its way. In his disarray, he used his quirk in a desperate effort to shield himself with his muscle fibers as he firmly planted his feet on the ground and braced himself for impact.
It was all for naught however as the beam broke through his defenses the moment it made contact with him. And before he knew it, he found himself screaming in agony as the beam carried him towards the side of the mountain.
*CRASH*
The impact itself created a loud bang that can be heard throughout the forest as a massive crater was formed on the wall of rock. Muscular's battered form immediately went limp as it settled within the crater. But despite the massive bruising, bloody nose, puncture wounds and very noticeable burns. Izuku could see the slow rise and fall of his slightly burnt chest, indicating that he was still alive at least.
[Song Stops]
[BNHA Season 3 OST-''My Hero''-Plays]
As Izuku powered down and let out a triumphant scream while letting his damaged arm fall limp to his sides.
Kota, despite his shock, slowly stepped out of the cave and approached Izuku. As he did this and looked at Izuku's injured form, he couldn't help but remember a conversation he had with Mandalay before the students arrived to train here.
FLASHBACK
Before the students arrived in the camp, Mandalay and Kota stood in front of each other as the pro reminded the angered child to show proper behavior to the training students.
''I DON'T UNDERSTAND IT!'' Kota finally lashed out as he turned away from Mandalay. The latter looking more saddened than bothered by the outburst. ''Why do I have to be nice to a bunch of idiots who want to show off their disgusting quirks!'' He spat as he pulled down his hat in anger.
Mandalay then sighed as she wore a sympathetic expression. ''Kota,'' she called out, only for Kota not to face her. ''It's true that your parents ended up leaving you behind. But there were definitely lives saved because of what happened to them.'' she stated while Kota clenched his fists but didn't talk back.
Not even fazed by the action, Mandalay wore an understanding smile. ''I'm sure someday you'll meet someone, and then you'll understand. Someone who'll risk their life to save you…someone who will be…''
PRESENT TIME
Blinking his tearful eyes back to the present, Kota could feel all the pieces coming together as the weight he never knew he had on his shoulders were lifted and made him feel lighter than ever before as his mind cleared.
It was all starting to make sense now.
Why his parents sacrificed themselves, Why Mandalay said those words to him and Why Izuku willingly risked his life to save him.
It wasn't because of their profession, nor was it for glory or reward. No, it was because someone needed to be saved. Heroes are there to keep the peace, heroes are there to save you when times looked bleak and most importantly, they were there for you when you feel alone.
It was no wonder other kids he saw would often idolize heroes or would want to become heroes themselves. At some point in their lives, they've all must have witnessed or experienced a hero doing what needs to be done.
And with this final conclusion, he could say without a doubt that he too has someone to finally call his…
''My…'' He croaked out as tears of relief and gratitude spilled from his eyes. ''My Hero.'' he choked out as he gave a slight bow of thanks as more tears fell. Meanwhile Izuku looked to him with a relived grin as he stood tall while behind him laid the unconscious form of the monstrous Muscular.
[Song Stops]
Author's Notes:
1. The lyrics came from a video titled: ''Undertale-Battle against a true hero (lyrical adaptation)'' by Chi-chi. It's a 1:16 video on YouTube that I really recommend giving a view.
2. I added a passive ability that allows Izuku to heal his bones, so no need to fear for possible surgeries or long-term injuries. It was a suggestion from a comment I saw in one of my chapters. So, whoever you are, thank you for the suggestion.
Thank you again for reading!
PLUS ULTRA!
