Chapter 21
Testing Limits

"It's too bad I have to leave already. I was looking forward to more training." Darby feigned sadness, holding his chest with his free arm, while he carried his suitcase with the other.

"Cease with your sass, kid." Ashe grabbed him by the ear hard."You are 100 years short to be doing that."

"But you're still young, Ashe-san!" Darby cried in pain, holding his ear."That really hurt! Did you really have to use your nails?!"

Ashe pushed him along out the door, giving him a final pat on the back."Don't forget to take care of my gift. It symbolizes your graduation. You have much to learn, but you've come along way. Wear it with pride."

"I will, ma'am. Thank you so much for everything!" Darby bowed in gratitude and broke into a sprint. He could hardly wait to tell his family and friends about his new gains. Or maybe...

"I think I'll save this for now." He decided with a cheeky grin."I don't want to spoil my surprise!"

Nishikawi Residence, Noon,

"I see. So the old lady is still with her smoking habit." Ren sighed in exasperation before giving his son a hug."So, did you learn anything? Did you go on patrol?"

"You didn't get hurt, did you?!" His mom looked everywhere for injuries."What is this?!" She found the bandaged area on his arm, then eventually saw how it connected to his torse."What happened?!"

"Did you guys ever hear about the Hero Killer?" He waited for them to nod slowly."Well, some friends and I were attacked by him, but we were rescued by heroes."

"How come we didn't hear about this?!" Rachell was fuming."How irresponsible can she be to lose sight of you like that?! Oh, she will hear about this!" Rachel stormed over to the phone, only to be stopped by Ren.

"Come on, honey, it's not her fault. She did so much to help Darby..." He leaned closer to her and whispered something. She sighed, going back to the couch and sitting next to her son.

"It was my fault, mom. I rushed in and separated myself from her to go help friends in need." He lowered his gaze."I'm sorry."

"I'm just glad you're fine." She enveloped him in a hug. Ren joined in and they all shared a family hug."So, how was it? Other than life-threatening events."

He hummed before snapping his fingers."I know where to start."

U.A Highschool, Entrance, Morning

Going back to the old routine was definitely something Darby was happy with. He missed his friends and the crazy activities he got to do in class. He was thankful he got off easy, and Midoriya and the others as well. Maybe except Iida. He was still feeling bad for not knowing of his situation sooner. Kachidoki still hadn't answered ant of his calls and what was worse was that Yui wasn't picking up either.

"I wonder what happened?" He pondered.

"Nishikawi-san!" He heard his name being called. He looked over his shoulder, noticing a familiar pink-haired boy rushing to him."I read your email! I can't believe you got your costume damaged in a fight against the Hero Killer!"

"Not so loud!" Darby hushed him, avoiding the glares he was now receiving from the nearby students."Listen, I just need your help in fixing up my costume. I don't know what material it's made from, so it's not like I can just sew it back myself."

"Alright. Easy enough. Luckily for you, Power Loader is giving us free time for repairs after school today, so I'll get it done."

"Oh, also, I hope this isn't too much to ask, but I plan to ditch the jacket," Darby told him, surprisingly the green-eyed boy,

"Really? I mean, it's no problem, but I thought you said you liked it because it made you look good."

Darby shrugged, a smile on his face."I was planning to replace it with something else. My master gave it to me, so you guys most likely won't have it."

"An outside item..." He hummed, taking a notepad out and writing on it."You can do that if you wish. I'll update your profile so we won't put the jacket on priority when making touches."

"Thank you, Iwari-kun." He gave him a thumbs up."So, want me to meet you in the cafeteria as always?"

"Much appreciated it." The boy nodded.

"Say, how come you never let me visit your classroom?" Darby put his hands behind his head."I mean, I've never been to the support area that much, but you always made sure to keep me at bay."

"I didn't do that to offend you. I did it because...well, you might have come across my cousin." He explained."Her name is Mei Hatsume. She's not a bad person, but she's certainly a bit...direct."

"Oh, Hatsume-san you said?"

"Yeah, that girl that helped Neito Monoma during the Sports Festival." He shuddered at the memory of him falling with Darby to the ground after their jetpack was damaged.

"Oh, right. Midoriya talked to be about her in the hospital. I'm sure she can't be that bad, but I'll trust you." He relented, much to the smaller boy's glee.

"Thank you, Nishikawi-san. I'll get working on some sketches for your costume right away! See you in lunch!" Iwari rushed past the other students. Darby barely had time to say goodbye but waved his hand out of courtesy. As he looked past the students, he noticed a familiar pair ahead.

"Hey! Yui! Kendo-san!" Darby was glad to see them both, even more so in seeing Yui. Yui glanced back and flinched, excusing herself to Kendo and running ahead."Hey, Yui, where are you go-"

"Not so fast, Romeo." Kendo grabbed him by the back of the collar of his shirt."Sorry, but you're not going anywhere."

"Kendo-san?!" Darby was surprised to see how hard she was holding him back."What's the matter?"

"What's the matter? Is that really what you have to say in your favor?" Kendo seemed upset."I didn't know you were so insensitive, Nishikawi. I'm very disappointed in you."

"What are you talking about?" Darby furrowed his brow, confused."What did I do?"

"You actually don't know?" Kendo frowned, coming closer to his face and examining to see if he was lying."Okay. Let me ask you something then. What happened during the night Hosu was under attack?"

"I was on a train to Hosu. Then the train was under attack and I we-"

"Okay, what happened in the train? What were you doing?"

"I was meditating. Then I call Yui and talked to her before everything went to shit." He recalled the events.

"And what did you say before hanging up?" She continue pressing on.

He froze, folding his arms in thought."I don't remember. I was in a hurry and I just said something before hanging up."

"Ah, now I see." Kendo released him from her grip."So, you were under a lot of pressure and said it without thinking."

"Said what?"

"You said, and I quote, "I love you. Talk to you later."

Darby's head exploded and he wished the ground could swallow him whole."No way! Now I remember! Oh, God! What did I do?!" He grabbed his head and frantically scratched it.

"Hey, you're making a scene!" Kendo chopped him on top of his head, bringing him back to his senses."Okay, so you did say it by accident. But I want to know something. Do you really have feelings for Yui. Or..." Her glared darkened, sending chills down Darby's spine."...are you playing with her heart? Be advised, if it's the latter, then I'll have to kick your ass to the moon."

"No! I would never do that!" He waved his hand in defense. He sighed, hiding his hands in his pockets."I...like her. Or maybe I love her. It's hard to differentiate because I never had feelings for someone like this. To be honest, I was going to confess back at the Sports Festival, but I messed up...I didn't feel prepare. So when I talked with her on the phone, I guess all that tension I was feeling made me be honest."

"That makes sense." Kendo said in relief."Sorry for threatening you. I know you're not that kind of guy, but I had to make sure. Anyway, did you not call her back the next day?"

"Well, the whole thing with the Hero Killer happened, so I was out of commission for a few days." He bit his thumb."I didn't want to worry anyone about it, so I refused to contact the others."

"I see." Kendo hummed to herself."You're a lot more considerate than Takashi."

"You know about what happened to Takashi?" He asked, earning a nod from the ginger.

"More or less. He told me he was attacked, but I only ever found out because Reiko called me and told me about it." She explained."I was really worried and mad. I can't believe he didn't even thought of calling me. But...I'm glad we've worked things out in the end."

"Happy to hear that, Kendo-san." Darby couldn't help but smile.

"Anyway, I'll gladly help you be prepared to confess to Yui." Kendo offered with a grin."Although this might seem a bit hypocritical, coming from me. But I want you to promise that she's the only one you're thinking of. No other girls."

"I promise, Kendo-san." Darby gave her a solemn look."There is no one else in my mind that isn't Yui. I'm always thinking about her and-"

"Yoohoo!" A cheery voice cut him off. Darby and Kendo turned to their left and noticed Komori happily waving over, particularly to Darby. She had cut her hair and combed it back, tying it in a ponytail, leaving her eyes finally exposed."My sweet prince! Good morning!" She gave a wink, giggling.

"Eh..." Darby deadpanned, not sure what he was actually seeing."Good morning to you too..."

"Take care of him for me Itsuka! Bye-bye!" She continued skipping away, singing to herself.

"Sure...thing." Kendo focused back on Darby, grabbing him by his collar again."Mind explaining to me what that was?"

"Look, I'm just as lost as you are!" Darby rose his hands."I saw her all depressed one day and decided to cheer her up! That was all! I think she got the wrong idea!"

Kendo sighed in exasperation, placing a hand on her hip."Okay, so now you're in a deeper problem than before. Look, I know you didn't mean to give her the wrong idea, but you have to talk to her before this goes too far. I don't want you to break either of their hearts, so I'll trust you'll do the right thing."

"Yeah, I know..." Darby said no more. He said his goodbyes to Kendo once she was approached by some classmates and continued walking to his classroom.

U.A Highschool, Class 1-A, Morning

"Sup, you guys." Darby walked over to the trio of survivors.

"Nishikawi, how are you feeling?" Todoroki asked, much to Darby's surprise. He hadn't expected Todoroki to ask about his well being.

"I'm fine." Darby said, flexing his bicep."You guys sustained worse injuries than I did! I should be asking you that." He noticed something out of the corner of his eye. Takashi had entered the classroom, not saying anything to anyone and went over to his chair. He was bandaged up, but not as much as he used to be."Excuse me."

Takashi noticed Ashido and Hagakura standing in front of him, both of them had troubled expressions on their faces."Anything I can help you, girls, with?"

"Oh, we were just...curious. Are you okay?" Ashido asked, unsure if she said the right words.

"Yeah, I mean, you look a bit beat up and all." Hagakure continued.

Takashi chuckled, shaking his head."Why are you guys worried about me? I never really talked to either of you that much before."

"Well..." Mina scratched her cheek."We are all classmates! Of course, we would be worried."

"And we're not the only ones, right, Yaomomo?" Hagakure called Momo over, much to the latter's uncomfort.

Takashi could just blink, observing the three girls in front of him."Listen, I know I said some messed up things before. I'm sorry. Really, I appreciate this gesture. But I'm fine."

"Are you?" Momo looked at him, worried."Itsuka..."

"Oh." He knew that Itsuka would tell her about their talk. Naturally, Momo made sure not to disclose any private information."Don't worry. I'm fine. I should be able to take off my bandages soon."

"Glad to see you're back to your regular self." Tokoyami commented from his seat."I was worried you would start becoming more like Bakugo."

"WHAT DID YOU SAY?! I'M NOTHING LIKE HIM!" Bakugo snapped.

Kachidoki shrugged, ignoring the explosive boy."I'm back to concentrating on my path. But I guess I wasn't the only one who learned from this." He looked over to Darby, who was conversing with the other boys.

"So, wait. There's a video about the Hero Killer?" Ojiro inquired, earning a nod from Kaminari.

"Yup. It's all over the internet. Stain's a pretty evil villain, but super tenacious." Kaminari said."He's kinda cool, don't you think?"

"Kaminari!" Midoriya cried out.

Kaminari immediately noticed what he said and covered his mouth."I'm sorry..."

"It's fine." Iida rose his hand."It is true that he's quite a tenacious villain. I understand why people may think he was cool. But instead of helping the world, his beliefs let him to cold-blooded murder. No matter his motives, killing cannot be condoned. To keep anyone else from suffering like me, I promise I will strive to be the perfect hero!"

"Amen to that!" Darby rose his fist in the air.

"Everyone, it's time for class to begin!" Iida announced, moving his hand in a robotic rhythm.

Class 1-A was feeling like their usual self. Chatter filled the classroom as everyone told their respective stories during their internship. With the exception of Bakugo, who shot everyone who asked him.

U.A Highschool, Ground Gamma, Noon

"Welcome back everybody!" All Might boomed, fists on his hips as he observed his students."It feels like forever since we've last seen each other! As an immediate follow-up to your time on the field, today's activity is more on the fun side.A rescue-training race!"

"A race, huh?" Takashi mused, folding his arms."I think it's due time to see who is the fastest in our class."

"If we're doing anything relate to rescue training, shouldn't this be conducted at the USJ?" Iida inquired, raising his hand. He was currently in his PE uniform due to his costume being sent for repairs. Darby had the choice of wearing his PE uniform as well, but he opted to replace his jacket with the gift Ashe had given him. It was a black robe that reached his knees. The bottom part of the robe was colored in crimson flames.

'She said this was her gift and would help me gather energy faster, due to it being conductor of nature energy.' He recalled her words.'Well, it's certainly better because it's sleeveless, so my arms will get less hot than before.'

"Hey, Nishikawi, do you mind if we talk?" Uraraka whispered to Darby as All Might explained the procedures about the Gamma Field.

"Sure?" He whispered back, tilting his head to her level.

"It's about Kodai..."

Oh great. Darby knew where this was going."What about her?"

"You know what I'm talking about." She nudged him on the arm."That day you confessed to her! But you didn't call again after that!"

"I was in the hospital and I didn't want to worry anyone. Not even my parents knew." He explained, following everyone as All Might organized them in groups."Wait, how do you even know what happened?"

"O-oh...Well..." She rubbed the back of her head in embarrassment."I kinda walked in her room at the wrong time..."

"Wait, so that noise I heard in the call was you?" Darby exclaimed, earning a few odd stares from his classmates."Okay. Glad I know that now. But it was an accident. Just something I said in the heat of the moment."

"Then, you do like her?" She pondered, a bit sad as she said that.

"Of course I do. It's just...I never found the perfect moment because things kept happening and keeping me occupied. Not to mention that she's been avoiding me all day. Not to menti-Holy shit, Midoriya is flying!" He cried out in shock as he stared over to the green-haired boy.'Then again, I've seen him doing that before, but they don't know that.'

"Woah! You're right!" She observed with glee."He's just...jumping like it's nothing!"

"H-how?!" Jiro, who was betting against Midoriya, gaped."I thought he had to hurt himself to do anything with his Quirk!"

"Things change." Was all that Darby said. They've all changed in their respective ways, after all. Uraraka walked up to him, still watching Deku going around until he stepped on the ground tube and fell to the floor."At least he tried..."

"Yeah. Say, you were talking about my love issues as if you were some kind of expert." He folded his arms, giving her a glare."Maybe you should consider your own words and ask Midoriya out already."

"W-w-w-what?!" Uraraka shrieked, her face turning crimson.

"I mean, it's obvious that he won't be the one to confess." Darby pointed out, laughing internally at her reaction."I mean, he's too shy to be the type to confess first, you feel me? Besides, you've gotten more confidence now. I think you're up for the task."

"No fair, Nishikawi!" She pouted, gazing away."I was the one who was supposed to tease you...not the other way around."

"Hahaha! Sorry, Tokage-san has rubbed off on me I suppose." Darby held his palm apologetically."Anyway, don't worry. I'll talk to Yui and tell her about what happened." He gave her a pat on the shoulder before walking to the new group of students getting in position.

"You idiot..." She flushed, still thinking of what he had told her about Midoriya.

"About time you showed up." Bakugo bellowed from his right.

"Poor those who don't have patience." Darby rolled his eyes. He examined the new formed group. Kachidoki, Bakugo, Tokoyami, Shoji, Tsuyu and Darby.

"Was that a quote just now?" Asui pondered, a finger against her chin.

"He's very well versed in stuff like that." Kachidoki chuckled, shaking his head."That being said, I can't believe they've put all of us to race each other. We're pretty much the fastest students in our class. Of course, we'd be missing Todoroki, Iida and Sero."

"And Midoriya." Darby added, sitting on the floor.

"Uh, what are you doing?" Shoji asked what everyone was wondering.

"Don't mind me. I'll be fine for the race." He closed his eyes, folding his legs as he began taking deep breaths. They all exchanged glares, deciding to leave him alone.

Darby began concentrating, already deep in his mind. After all those meditation trainings he had done, accessing his inner self was easier than before. Although he still felt odd about it. There was something locking him from seeing more. Something that didn't allow him to hit rock bottom.

"I wonder what he's doing..." Momo wondered aloud."Did he give up already?"

"I doubt that." Jiro disagreed."His Quirk is odd, but he can at least somewhat fly around. We saw that when he fought Todoroki. Right, Todoroki?"

Todoroki remained silent, staring at Darby with interest. He had seen that his new power, but what else could he do with it? Before he could wonder further, the race started. Kachidoki activated his Neon Mantle and began jumping from building to building while Bakugo propelled himself in the air. Shoji used his arms to maneuver himself over to other platforms and Tsuyu used her tongue to swing from place to place.

"Young Nishikawi?" All Might was about to ask what was wrong, when he noticed something on his skin. He was paler than before, and his hair was now blue.

"Alright." Darby sighed, activating his Quirk and showcasing 6 Black Spheres. He jumped, quickly shapeshifting a sphere to be a disk for him to stand on and used it to fly.

"What?!" Everyone who was spectating gasp.

"Amazing...I didn't know he could do that..." Midoriya was at a loss for words."But what is that? It can't be his Quirk, right?"

"I doubt that." Jiro frowned."It has to be something else. Kind of like you. Just what did you guys do during your internships.

"Whatever it is, I like his shade of blue." Aoyama praised with a smile."It reminds me of one of my favorite paintings."

Meanwhile, Darby continued surfing around the buildings, having the time of his life.

"Man! I flew before, but I guess I didn't enjoy myself and the trip!" He laughed heartily."This is awesome! Woooah!"

"What the hell?!" Takashi and Bakugo, who were racing, saw how Darby outmatched them.

"It can't be!" Takashi's eyes widened."He's faster?!"

"Like hell he is!" Bakugo increased the power of his explosions, surpassing Takashi.

"He's faster than me too?!" Takashi gritted his teeth, fuming."What's next?! Shoji is going to outspeed me too?! No offense." He glanced behind him, bowing apologetically

"None taken..." He deadpanned.

"Still, that is a very bizarre metamorphosis." Tokoyami appeared next to them."I was not aware he was capable of something like this. Perhaps his Quirk...?"

"I don't care what it is!" Takashi barked, turning around midair."I'm not going to let anyone else beat me! Not again!" He felt the phantom pain of the kick Empress had given him, which gave him enough motivation to create to balls of Neon."X-CANNON!" With a loud cry, he fired the blast, increasing his velocity further.

"Young Kachidoki!" All Might yelled out to the brown-haired teenager."I told you to keep damage to a minimal!"

In effect, Kachidoki was crashing against buildings on his back, causing him to bit his lower lip to hold back the pain."You were telling that to Bakugo! I saw you!"

Darby continued doing maneuvers in the air, giggling like a child."Let's try something!" He jumped off his Black Disk, doing a backflip and rapidly approaching towards a ceiling. Before he could hit the floor, a new Black Disk came from below and continued carrying him in the air.

"Hey, Yankee! Don't get so comfortable having first place!" Bakugo roared, closing in on Darby. The American looked at him curiously, before something flashy caught his eye."Hey, that's...!"

Kachidoki was coming at them full force, blindly catching up with his neon stream.

"Bakugo! Behind you!" Darby pointed at Takashi, but was ignored by Katsuki.

"Nice try, moron!" Bakugo gave him a savage grin."I'm not falling for that!"

"I'm serious!" Darby insisted, grabbing his hair frantically."Time is running out! Turn around and dodge!"

"Big deal!" He continued gloating."I'm not turning around and there's not a damn thing you can-" Suddenly, Bakugo was silenced by something crashing against him, then they crashed against Darby, immediately knocking off his Disk as they were both pushed over to the ground by Takashi. The three boys rolled around until their momentum died down when they touched All Might's leg.

"I won!" They all cried out triumphantly. The Number 1 Hero could only sigh, shaking his head.

U.A Highschool, Ground Gamma, Men's Lockerroom

"After being away for so long, I ended up breaking a sweat." Aoyama said, drying his face with a towel.

"That and you were holding your stomach after you were done." Darby pointed out, removing his robe."I guess some things haven't changed yet."

"You are one to talk." Kirishima gave him a hard slap on his back."Dude you were so manly out there! I like the new robe by the way!"

"Yeah, mind giving us an explanation?" Kaminari joined in.

Darby sighed, finishing taking off all the clothing he had on."It was a gift from Ashe. She said it was some sort of graduation gift I earned. As to what you guys saw, that wasn't my Quirk. It's a lot complicated to explain, but I'll try my best to summarize it. Basically, I went through some ritual that allowed me to have Neko Essence, which then allowed me to be sensitive to nature energy. I can gather said energy and then when it reacts to my body, it enhances my Quirk and other aspects of myself. You guys got that?"

As expected, all the guys were staring blankly at him. Except Midoriya, who was nodding furiously and muttering to himself.

"Yeah, too complicated, honestly." Sero rubbed the back of his neck."But if it lets you become a chick magnet, then I want in!"

"Chick magnet..." Darby's shoulders slumped.

"Dude, I was so jealous when all the girls came to you and pet you like their pet!" Mineta closed his eyes, fantasizing."I have some secrets of my own, but they're simple! Look!" He pointed at a hole on a wall behind a poster."Someone Shawshank a hole in the wall! Our predecessors must have worked hard to leave this behind for us!"

All guys immediately perked up, seizing movement.

"And what's behind that wall? Of course, a complete view of the girl's locker room!"

"Don't even think about it!" Iida immediately objected."That's criminal behavior!"

Darby shrugged, unamused. He wasn't sure Mineta would succeed in his endeavors. He examined the scar on his arm and on his torso. While the one on his arm was considerably bigger, and still painful to move, the one on his torso was barely visible.

"Good thing only the tip went in, otherwise my ribs would have been history." He grumbled in relief, grabbing his uniform. A loud scream interrupted his thoughts. He glanced around, noticing Mineta was on the floor, covering his eye while Midoriya went to check up on him.

"Evidently, it failed." Takashi walked up to Darby, already fully dressed."Not that I wanted to peek, of course. But still, you must have been curious."

"Yeah...no." Darby deadpanned at his friend, receiving a chuckle in response.

U.A Highschool, 1-A Classroom, Morning

"You know, I think procrastinating hasn't worked out for me lately..." Takashi muttered, a gloomy aura surrounding him."I can't believe I placed 11th on the midterms..."

"Is that really so bad? Dude, I got a worse score than you and I'm not looking like I'm half dead!" Kaminari clenched his fists, holding back his shame.

Tokoyami shook his head."I understand your concerns, but to be fair, we haven't had much of a chance to do anything with everything that's been going on."

"You guys don't understand! I'm the heir of my family! I can't show up with a grade like that!" Takashi groaned, pulling his hair and ruining his hairstyle."My sister will most likely kill me..."

"No worries, just study more." Darby had his hands behind his back, maneuvering a pencil over his lips."It shouldn't be too hard for someone of your status, right?"

"I honestly can't tell if you're messing with him or actually praising him." Jiro rose a brow."What do you think?"

"If I've learned anything from Nishikawi, he can be quite unpredictable." Ojiro confessed, glancing at the carefree boy."Why are you so relaxed? You placed ahead of Kachidoki, but you're still not top 10."

"Because the only thing that's really bothering is math. I have trouble keeping up with Ectoplasm-sensei, so usually I just doze off." He shamelessly confessed, sitting up and resting his head on the desk."I've been in worse situations than this, don't worry."

"I certainly like your confidence..." Jiro cringed at how simple he made it sound.

"Oh, I'm not confident. I'm actually panicking but I choose not to show it." He gave a thumbs-up, his hands seemingly shaking as his right eye began to tick.

"If you guys want, I can help you in the topics you're having problems with." Yaoyorzu offered with a warm smile.

"Yaomomo!" Ashido and Kaminari cried out in unison.

"I'm down for that if you don't mind!" Darby rose from his seat in a hurry."I really don't understand the whole and factoring polynomials!"

"I've been studying on my own but I don't get quadratic functions..." Jiro confessed, also joining in.

"I'd be glad to help all of you!" Yaoyorozu stated, her cheeks burning in excitement."How about coming over to my house? We'll be able to study there and I'll get some snacks and drinks!"

"Alright! Yaomomo!" Sero, Ashido, Nishikawi, Jiro, Kaminari, and Hagakure rose their hands and began chanting.

"What about you, Kachidoki?" Yaoyorozu addressed the neon-user."I would love to have you over and help you too."

Kachidoki slowly looked over his shoulder, and was met with the expecting gazes of his classmates waiting for an answer. He then glanced at Momo, who simply gave him a smile. He sighed."Fine. I guess it won't hurt to try..."

U.A Highschool, Cafeteria, Noon

Darby walked leisurely inside the cafeteria. He was walking along with Iwari, who was noting some stuff in his notebook.

"So, you're saying this robe helps you in collecting nature energy faster?" He repeated, making sure he had heard correctly."Sounds a bit far-fetched. No offense."

"Yeah, I have my doubts about it too, but hey, it's way better than the jacket I used to wear. At least I won't be getting as hot in my costume as before."

Iwari nodded, grinning."Well that's because you were so keen on adding many layers of clothing. Seriously, you have a tank-top, a shirt, a sweater, and the jacket. How did you never have a heatstroke?"

"Okay, to be fair, I stopped wearing a shirt underneath. Just the tank-top." Darby gave his excuse, earning an eye-roll from Iwari."So, I've noticed you've been writing way too much on your notebook. I know you needed to add some things regarding my costume, but I don't think I've said too much."

"I'm working on a project." He responded absentmindedly.

Darby perked up at that, getting closer to take a look."Oh yeah? What kind of project? Let me see!"

"H-hey!" Iwari stepped to the side, hiding his notebook."I-it's just something we students of the Support Course were assigned. A sort of contest.. It's supposed to be top secret so...I can't let you see."

"Aw, come on!" Darby whined."Just a peek! I promise not to tell anyo-"

"There you are, darling!"

Darby froze on his tracks. With his face drained of color, he turned to the source of the cheery voice. Komori was approaching the duo, waiving at Darby.

"Oh, shit," Darby muttered. He glanced at Iwari to ask for help, but the pinkette was already gone."You asshole! How could you abandon me?!"

"Darling~" Komori latched onto his arm, leaning her head against his shoulder."I've been looking everywhere for you! Did you miss me?"

Not sure what do to, he tried moving his mouth but could not formulate words."I'll take that as a yes! Let's go have lunch together, darling~" She dragged Darby along to a table, the boy silently screaming and hoping no one would notice them.

Once they took a seat, Darby noticed that Komori had only one plate of rice along with some fried shrimp on the side."Uh...I think I need to get my own lunch..."

"Nope! We're sharing lunch together!" She cheered, grabbing the chopsticks and grabbing a piece of shrimp."Say "Ahhh"" She held out the piece of food for Darby.

The boy nervously looked around, noticing that thankfully no one they knew were around that part of the cafeteria."Listen, Komori-san, I'm flattered that you would want to-" He was cut off by Komori feeding him the piece of shrimp.

"You have to eat a lot if you want to be stronger." She stated, giving him a tender smile.

Darby couldn't help but feel really guilty. He didn't imagine his words of courage would make the situation turn out like this. Although he had to admit, she was acting way different than before. Of all the few times they've crossed paths, she was extremely shy, much like Midoriya and would stutter in her speech. It surprised him to learned that she wanted to be an idol. It made sense why she was trying so hard, but also why she wasn't making much progress. Her timid nature limited her.

"Exams are coming up. I've been studying of course, but I'm still a bit restless." She began, resting her head on her hand."Kendo mentioned that one of her friends in the higher grades mentioned that we'll have to fight robots. Like in the entrance exams."

"Huh. Sounds easy enough." Darby found himself saying."I've got to mastered my Quirk a bit more, but even so, this will be my first time against robots fabricated by U.A."

Komori grabbed his hand, guiding it to the bowl. Darby didn't need to explain what to do next. He hesitantly grabbed some rice as Komori closed her eyes, opening her mouth. Delicately, the blonde teenager fed the wanna-be idol as she hummed in response.

"That's right. You are a foreigner, like Pony." She remembered."Although your accent is barely noticeable."

Darby nodded, clearing his throat."Y-yeah...My dad is Japanese and my mom is American. I've had to learn both languages to appease them both. But they never forced me to learn Japanese while we were in America. But I'm glad I did. Makes things easier. Still, I've had other problems. Like my Quirk?"

"Your Quirk?" She repeated."You mean those dark spheres you've used against Monoma? But it looks like such an awesome Quirk. Why would you have an issue with them?'

"Mainly, because I'm very limited. I can only creature two naturally."

"Naturally?" The girl cocked her head in confusion.

Darby nodded."There is a way for me to get 2 more. But that's based on the training I did with Ashe, a Pro Hero, during my internship. It's complicated stuff, and it'll bore you to death. More importantly, how have you been doing lately? Any luck in staying constant in your path to become an idol hero?"

She lightened up instantly, stars in her eyes."Just wonderful! After your kind words, I was able to build enough courage to get on that stage at the park. Ever since then, I've been practicing tons! I feel like I can do anything I want now!"

"That's good to hear." Darby was dragged along once lunch ended."I'm glad you found your courage in time. I'm sure that you'll accomplish your dreams in no time. In fact, I'll be your first fan."

Komori's flush deepen, fighting her grip around his arm."I'm so glad I have you in my life now. I feel like ever since we've spoken at that park, everything looks brighter. Before I was just so scared of the world. Scared of never achieving my dream because I didn't have the charisma or the looks needed. Or confidence. But now? Thanks to you, I know I can do it. You are my darling prince after all." She gave him a hug, stopping in the hallway.

'Fuck! Fuck! Fuck! Fuck!' Darby mentally screamed. This had definitely gone too far now. If he said anything about Yui, it would crush her heart! Who knows if she'll stay the same or go back to her shy-self. What if he ruins her dreams by telling her that he didn't share her feelings?

"I was worried at first, because Yui kept talking about you. All the time." She mumbled, taking Darby by surprise."But then when we came back to school she said there wasn't anything going on between you guys. So I saw my chance and took it."

Ah, that makes sense. Yui was probably upset or sad that he never confirmed his feelings towards her. Which makes this a lot worse. Speaking of the devil...

Darby noticed Yui walking down the hall along with Kendo, and Setsuna. If they saw both of them now, it will definitely be the end. Darby pushed Komori against a bending machine, placing both of his hands on the machine to try and cover their faces.

"So, wait. Neito actually wasn't mean to class 1-A when he approached them?" Tokage whistled to herself."That's an incredible improvement. When I took him on our date, he mentioned how his views about them had changed thanks to Nishikawi, but oh boy."

"I do admit, I was a little scared when he elbowed Midoriya on the head." Kendo confessed."But when he said he wants to prove that our class is no pushover and can excel against theirs, that's when I realized he meant it as a mere way to compete. In a friendly way."

The girls continued walking away, thankfully not noticing them in a compromising position.

"Ooh~ You're so blunt, darling~" She cooed, giggling. Darby finally sighed, taking a step back."Next time, if you're going to be so rough, make sure to finish what you started, okay~?"

Darby simply blinked, not really wanting to understand what she meant. He barely had any time to process when she gave him a kiss on the cheek."I have to go back to class. You should too if you don't want to be late."

"U-u-uh...sure thing, Komori-"

"Kinoko." She cut him off.

"Pardon?"

"Call me Kinoko, and I'll call you Darby." She smiled, grabbing his right hand."It's only proper we're on first-name basis after all."

"I'm sorry, I don't think I'm mentally prepared for thi-"

"Oh, I almost forgot! You have to call me by a nickname too from time to time. Maybe...sweetheart!" She exclaimed in glee.

'Sweatheart?!' Darby screamed some more in his mind."K-K-Komori-san-"

"Say it." Her grip tightened to dangerous levels. Darby could feel his hand beginning to get crushed.

"Okay! Sweatheart!" He hissed in pain. This seemed to satisfied her because she let go of his hand and begun spinning in circles.

"That's better! See you later, Darby-darling!" She skipped away, happily singing to herself.

Darby only stared in disbelief, only for him his legs to give out and sat against the bending machine."I think I'll day before I ever see graduation..."

"Yeah, I think you'll heart will give out by then."

Darby flinched, noticing someone standing next to him."Awase-san? You were...?"

"Listening. Not all of it though." He confessed, chuckling."So, "sweetheart" and "darling? You guys are so cheesy. But it's so sweet that it might give me diabetes."

"Awase-san, it's not funny!" Darby chided him.

"Right. Sorry. Here I was wondering if this was really our Komori, who asked Vlad-sensei for permission to give us a song when we came back. To think this was what had happened. Regardless..." Awase offered him a hand."I know about the whole Kodai situation. And now with this? You just can't catch a break, can you?'

"Apparently, no." Darby sighed, mentally exhausted.

"Well, at least you're having better luck in your own love life," Awase said, a tint of sadness in his voice.

"What do you mean?"

"Well, I know this isn't a mystery to you, but I'm head over heels for Yaoyorozu, from your class." Awase revealed, lowering his gaze."I fell in love when I first saw her. She's smart, pretty, dependable. Way too out of my league. Especially with Todoroki."

"What about him?" Darby asked, earning a dry laugh from him.

"Are you kidding me? Todoroki clearly has eyes for her. Remember that cup size list we made? He voted for her. Not to mention that they're the top students in your class, it's bound to happen. And compare me to Todoroki. Besides that scar on his face, the guy is a looker. He's got the muscles and the power. Not to mention he's the son of the Number 2 Hero. I don't stand a chance."

Darby hummed, folding his arms."Well, to be honest, there isn't much going on between them. Todoroki seems like the dense type. Either that, or he's solely focusing on his hero career, which could also mean Yaoyorozu is doing the same thing. But honestly, you're a great guy. I don't know you that much, but I can tell. If you try talking to her, maybe you'll get a chance."

"Yeah. but what if Todoroki does try something before me? What would make Yaoyorozu pick me over him? I'm lame. My Quirk is lame."

"Your quirk is Weld, right? It's true that it's not really up to facing Todoroki's ice and fire. But if it comes down to it, you can fight him and beat him. I found Todoroki's weakness. It was back when we were attacked by the Hero Killer. He seems to have more of an advantage standing still and has difficulty facing an opponent who has outstanding mobility and agility. So all you gotta do is work on that, and you'll put him on checkmate."

"That...could work! It sounds like a crazy idea, but it's the only one I've got. I'll start working right away. Thank you, Nishikawi!" Awase took off running."Oh, and good luck with your love triangle! I promise to keep your secret!"

"Do you really have to remind me of that...?" Darby deadpanned, feeling the anxiety overwhelm his mind once more. Just how was he supposed to fix this?

U.A Highschool, 1-A Classroom, Noon

"Man, I can't believe it's over! Ashido exclaimed loudly once they had collected their exams. It had been a gruesome three-day examination, but it was finally over. Every tear, sweat, and blood that had been poured had paid off. All their intense studying hopefully paid off.

"Tell me about it. My brain trembles~!" Darby croaked, dramatically grabbing his chest.

"Oh, I got that reference!" Hagakure rose her hand enthusiastically."Nishikawi, how dare you?!"

"Hey, I'm innocent!" Darby rose his hands in defense."I just wanted to say it at least once. You guys can't tell me you haven't tried to "Smash!" like All Might? Right, Midoriya-san?"

"R-r-right..." Midoriya deflated, being the only one who ever did that.

"So, all we got left is the practical." Kirishima looked pumped."We've totally got this! "

"Of course we do." Takashi scoffed at the red-haired."Just wish they would give us more of a challenge."

"Come on!" Kaminari leaned over to him."You should be happy! We got off easy this time!"

Kachidoki glanced at Darby, who simply shrugged."He's got a point. Who knows how gruesome future tests will be."

"And this one will be a piece of cake for us!" Mineta cheered."I mean, we're fighting the robots from the entrance exam! How can this possibly fail for us?!"

U.A Highschool, Central Square, Noon

"Did you really have to open your damn mouth...?!" Darby inhaled through his teeth. After they got to the meeting place, he knew something was up when he saw all the teachers reunited.

"E-excuse me...what did you say, Principal?" Momo blinked a few times.

"The test now have a new focus!" Said the jolly mouse/bear as he climbed down Aizawa's scarf."There will be hero work, of course. But also teamwork and combat between actual people! So that means you students will be working together in pairs and your opponents will be one of our U.A teachers. Isn't that fabulous?!"

'Shit!' Almost everyone collectively thought, already alarming.

"Additionally, your partner and your opponents have already been chosen." Aizawa continued the explanation."They were chosen by my discretion based on various factors such as grades, personal relationships, and fighting style."

"First, we have Yaoyorozu and Todoroki as a team." Aizawa gave one of his rare grins."Against me."

"Then we have Midoriya paired with Bakugo." Both teenagers looked at each other, bewildered at the news.

Mineta glanced around."Hey, where is All Mi-"

"I'M HERE!" All Might announced as he landed in front of the duo."Work together to beat me!"

"Then we have Kachidoki and Nishikawi." Aizawa continued, then giving a sideglance at Cementos."And Cementos will be their opponent."

"Huh..." Darby stifled a chuckle."Sounds easy enough. I think we really got lucky this time."

"I wonder..." Takashi grabbed his pendant from under his jacket.

Once the teams were assembled and the order in which they were going to fight, Principal Nezu continued explaining the rules.

"To complete the exam, you will have thirty minutes! In order to win, your objective is to put these handcuffs on your teacher!" He held a pair of yellow handcuffs in his paws."Or, you can win if one of you manages to escape combat stage."

"So, either we can capture or teacher or we can run away." Kaminari surmised, rubbing his chin."It's really like combat training."

"But is it really okay for us to just bail?" Mina asked, earning a thumbs up from Nezu.

"It's going to be a lot different than that combat training you did earlier!" Present Mic stated, pretending to be a DJ."After all, you will be facing people who are waaaaay better than you!"

"Better?" Jiro asked, not really buying his claim."Really? Aren't you just the announcer?"

"HEY! WATCH YOUR MOUTH, GIRL! SHOW SOME RESPECT!"

"Thsi time, your exam will be very similar to a real battle." 13 continued the explanation."As strange as it sounds, think of us as real villains."

"Assuming you come across your enemy if you think you can take them down, then fine." Snipe suggested."However..."

"In instances where you're outmatched, it would be smarted to run away and find help. Todoroki, Iida, Midoriya and Nishikawi, I'm sure the four of you understand." Aizawa glanced at the named students.

"I won't make that mistake again." Iida rose his hand, clenching it."I will pass this test and prove that I am a real hero!."

"So we fight to win, or run to win." Midoriya nodded in understanding.

"That's right!" All Might spread his arms to the side."It's a test of your decision-making skills! But with these rules, you probably think your best option is to flee. That's why the Support Course made these super clever accessories for us!"

"Ultra Compressed Weights! These babies will add about half our body weight to our physics. It's not much, but it will eat our stamina and make it harder for us to move around." All Might put them one, suddenly feeling surprised at the weight."We had a contest to help with the design. And young Hatsume won!"

"Good for Hatsume!" Midoriya was both surprised and glad that his friend had won.

"So that's what Iwari-san was hiding..." Darby closed his eyes."I'll have to talk to him later."

"You really think a handicap is what we need to win?" Bakugo glared with fury at his teacher."Are you underestimating us?"

All Might chuckled at that, his smile turning serious."I wonder..."

"First team, get going. We have a stage ready for you to use. Nishikawi and Kachidoki, you're up. The others are free to watch from the surveillance room or work on their strategies.

"Welp, guess we better go get ready, partner." Darby grinned from ear to ear."See you guys later!"

"Good luck, guys!" Ashido and Uraraka waved at the duo.

The teachers went back inside the building, closing the door behind them.

"Alright, it looks like I best get prepared." Cementos was about to walk away from the group, before the sound of footsteps caught his attention. The teachers turned to the source of the sound, noticing a shadow approaching them from the darkness.

"You..." Aizawa's eyes narrowed at the figure.

"You made it just in time." Nezu excitedly announced.

U.A Highschool, City Stage, Noon

Darby and Kachidoki entered their designated stage, doing various stretches and flexing their muscles.

"Are you going to turn blue any time soon? I noticed you took quite a bit of time last time you used it during that race." Kachidoki looked over his shoulder, noticing how Darby was already sitting on the floor, concentrating."Guess you beat me to that. While you do that, I'll try to come up with a strategy."

Takashi looked around their area. It looked real enough, almost like an actual city.' Assuming we are acting as real heroes, we have to keep damage to a minimal. Meaning that unless Cementos decides to destroy a house, we have to maintain our attacks away from it.

"I'm so sorry to interrupt you two, but we have a little change in schedule for your match!" Nezu's voice echoed through their surroundings. Takashi noticed a few speakers nearby, nodding.

"What kind of changes could they possible gi-"

"Cementos will no longer be the one testing you! In his place, we have a special guest who volunteered to be your proctor! Get excited!"

Darby stood up, his Neko Mode activated."Wonder who are we fighting then? As long as it's not All Might, I don't have a problem."

Takashi eyed him from head to toe, smirking."Nice cat ears. So Kawai."

"Shut up!" Darby flushed, covering his cat ears with his hands."So then, who are we facing."

"Then one you will be facing is...!" Nezu stopped just in time for something to fall in front of them, creating a shockwave that nearly knocked them down.

"What the hell?!" Darby covered his eyes, protecting himself from the dust. A red cloud of smoke emanated from the crater.

"I suppose I went a little overboard with my entrance." A deep voice spoke from within the crater. As the smoke cleared out, Takashi could make up the face of the individual in front of them.

"You're fucking...kidding me..." Takashi's eyes widened, taking a step back.

"That's..." Darby squinted his eyes, trying to make up what his partner was seeing through the red smoke.

"That's right!" Nezu continued."Your opponent will be Takashi-kun's father! The Number 6 Pro Hero! Vermillion Ray!"

The man cracked his neck, red neon emanating from his gloves."Alright, boys. I hope you're ready for some fun."

Darby swallowed the lump in his throat, but smile nonetheless."No big deal. We can work something around him. Right, partner? Partner?"

Where Takashi once stood, there was now purple smoke. His gaze led him to a trail of neon that had run inside of the alleyways.

"What the fuck?! You really bailed?!" Darby heard the alarm go off, indicating the test had begun."Aw, come on!"

We finally made it to the beginning of season 3. Well, almost. In comparison to the other one, this one will have more action. I'll elaborate on the last minute change for this battle next chapter.

With Takashi running off somewhere, Darby will have a difficult time against Vermillion Ray. Unless he finds him, he will have to be the one being disciplined by someone else's father.

I've been thinking on what I'm going to do regarding the movie. I'm still thinking about it, but I feel like I should do something special while the movie takes place. We'll see. Suggestions are always welcome.