Katsuki was alone, and it was dark. Now those two things never used to scare him. But now it did. He was barefoot, on cold concrete flooring. It was so cold that it felt as though he was stepping on ice. Katsuki's breath ghosted in front of him, white clouds that reminded him of a childhood game of battling dragons he had played with Deku.

"Kacchan!"

Katsuki spun around. Izuku was here?

He couldn't see.

"Kacchan!" The voice was high pitched, desperate. Too young to be Izuku. But then Katsuki saw him and it all made sense.

It was Izuku. The five-year-old boy Katsuki had pushed away. Green broccoli-like hair was wild and tangled as the small boy was yanked upwards. He was being held back by a black shrouded figure, arm around the waist. Izuku clawed at the arm holding him.

"Kacchan, please, help." Izuku shouted, tears ran down his face as he struggled and kicked.

Katsuki leapt forwards, immediately breaking into a run, chasing after the man who had his childhood friend. But no matter how fast he ran, how hard he pushed himself he couldn't get closer.

"Kacchan please." Izuku sobbed.

"Izuku!" Katsuki called.

Suddenly the black figure disappeared into the shadows, dragging a crying Izuku with him. Panic clawed at Katsuki as he tried to find his brother.

A voice sounded behind him. Katsuki spun around, there was a child crying. He was small, curled up in the ball on the ground. Silvery grey hair was matted and greasy, his feet were filthy, covered in mud and blood. His nails were black with dirt.

"Help me Katsuki." He whimpered. Katsuki remembered this boy. Ueno Seiichi, Pulse's first victim. Katsuki could see the boy's picture in his mind, happy and smiling in his school uniform. Far from the boy he saw now.

The black shrouded figure appeared again, grabbing Ueno by the hair. The boy yelped as he was yanked backward. Blood stained the black figure's hands, coating the boy's hair in red. Katsuki's heart sank.

Was that Izuku's blood?

"Katsuki!" Seiichi yelled as he kicked out at the man behind him. Katsuki leapt after him, but he fell, hitting the ground hard.

"Katsuki" the child called.

"Katsuki."

"Kitsune."

"Baby, wake up."

Katsuki sat up with a start. He was panting heavily, his hands shook, and he had tears running down his face. His hearing aids had been pressed into his ears. They were uncomfortable but they were in enough for him to hear

"Baby." Eijirou rubbed his hand up and down Katsuki arm. Hoshi was sat next to him, watching him. "It was just a dream, Kitsune, you're okay."

"Izuku." Katsuki said quietly.

"What?"

Katsuki threw back the bed covers, getting out of bed. Eijirou watched him in confusion. Katsuki leapt out of bed, towards the door. He yanked it open and bolted down the corridor. Distantly he heard Eijirou call his name and mutter "shit."

Katsuki ran to the stairs making his way to his desired floor. He found the door he was looking for, knocking on it harshly. It took several moments but eventually there was movement inside. The door opened and a sleepy looking Izuku stood there, rubbing his eyes.

"Kacchan?" Izuku asked, Katsuki threw himself against Izuku. He hugged his friend tight. Izuku stumbled backward. "Kacchan?"

"Shit, Midoriya, I'm sorry." Eijirou was apparently behind him. "He had a nightmare. I don't know what of, but he said your name."

"What happened, Kacchan?" Izuku asked, rubbing his back.

"I couldn't reach you." Katsuki whimpered. "You needed me to save you and I couldn't…"

"I'm safe, Kacchan. I'm here, you don't have to worry." Izuku said softly.

"But you needed me…"

"You've saved me plenty of times, don't worry about it."

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to wake you." Katsuki said, not moving back from the embrace.

"It's okay Kacchan." Izuku said, tightening the hug. "I don't mind."

"You're a fucking saint."

"Come on, Kitsune, let's get back to bed." Katsuki nodded, allowing Eijirou to pull him back.

"Yeah." He said. "Sorry, 'Zuku."

"It's fine, Kacchan." Izuku said, "Get some sleep.

Katsuki followed Eijirou out of Izuku's room. Surprisingly, Hoshi was stood behind them, her tailing flicking idly, her eyes glowing in the low light. Katsuki bent down, scooping her up.

"Come on, Baby."

Once they got back to Katsuki's room they both clambered back into bed. Katsuki held Hoshi close to him as he faced the wall. Eijirou got in behind him, wrapping his arms around his waist.

"Are you okay?"

"It was just a nightmare. I'm fine." Katsuki replied. "It just scared me a moment."

"As long as you're sure." Eijirou said.

"I'm sure." Katsuki said.


School went by ridiculously quickly the next day. Classes were as difficult as usual but they passed relatively fast. At lunch, Katsuki got Mina to redo his nails so they were good for that evening. Mina complied without needing to be bribed, she was excited to redo them, even though it had only been a couple of days, they had gotten a little chipped in training.

He hadn't told anyone but Eijirou where he was going that night, but he was sure the smarter members of the class had it figured out. An event with Best Jeanist on the night of the Billboard Charts, even Denki could put two and two together.

Katsuki got dressed into his suit, making sure his hair was styled and he put on light makeup, just to accentuate his features. He straightened up his suit and stared at himself in the mirror.

"When you get back, I'm blowing you in that suit." Eijirou said. He was sat on Katsuki's bed, playing on his brother's old DS.

"Eijirou!" Katsuki scolded,

"What? You can't look that good and expect me not to get excited." Eijirou said. "Just be thankful I'm not jumping you right now."

"Small mercies." Katsuki teased. "I don't know what time I'll be back, but if you're still up, we can do something."

"Oh I'll be up." Eijirou smirked, "I'll have a nap when you leave."

"Idiot." Katsuki scoffed. He turned around to face Eijirou. "Kiss me." Eijirou practically threw his DS down and got to his feet. He slammed his lips against Katsuki's drive his tongue deep into his mouth. Katsuki relaxed into the kiss, cupping Eijirou's face, before he stepped back.

"Not what I meant, but good enough." Katsuki laughed.

"Sorry, let me try again." Eijirou said, pressing their lips together again, soft and chaste. "That better?"

"Yeah." Katsuki said. "I'm going to go and wait for Tsunagu downstairs, you coming?"

"Yep." Eijirou picked up his DS and the two of them left his room, Hoshi hot on their heels. Everyone was downstairs, preparing to watch the Billboard Chart together.

"Holy hell Blasty." Mina exclaimed upon seeing him.

"Wow Bakugou, you look so good." Uraraka said.

"Like damn, I wish you were my boyfriend." Hagakure said.

"Back off he's mine." Eijirou said.

"Down boy." Mina laughed.

"I'm already taken." Katsuki said.

"The hot ones usually are." Hagakure said.

"Who made your suit Kacchan? Your parents or Best Jeanist?" Izuku asked.

"Jeanist made it, my parents designed it." Katsuki said. "Jeanist doesn't really made that many suits, so I think he probably needed their expertise."

"Ah." Izuku nodded. "It looks good."

"Thank you." Katsuki smiled.

Aizawa walked into the dorms, looking as tired as normal. Eri was holding his hand and clutched a cat plushie to her chest. Hoshi trotted over to her, sniffing at her feet. Eri let go of Aizawa's hand, making him look down.

"Hello Hoshi." Eri said, patting her on the head. Aizawa smiled at her.

"Look sharp, you've got visitors." He said, clearing his throat.

At his words the door opened again and five figures burst through the door. Katsuki jumped slightly, as did other members of the class. Eri startled hiding behind Aizawa's leg, Hoshi fluffed up her fur. The Wild Wild Pussycats were oblivious to the chaos they had caused.

"Daddy." Eri whimpered. Aizawa frowned, bending down to pick her up.

"It's okay, Eri." Aizawa said, rubbing her back as she buried her head in his hair. "They won't hurt you, they're heroes."

"Oh dear, did we scare her?" Pixie Bob asked.

"She'll be fine." Aizawa said gruffly.

"Kouta, why don't you play with Eri-chan?" Mandalay asked. Kouta's eyes widened, he took a step back, shaking his head.

"Bless." Mina said softly.

Katsuki checked his phone, seeing if Hakamata had messaged him or not as the Pussycats mingled with the students.

"Ehm, Bakugou?" Katsuki looked up to see Tiger standing in front of him. "I wanted to apologise, we failed you that night in the forest and I—"

"Don't stress about things you can't change." Katsuki said. "You did your best, you kept everyone else safe."

"But still. I should have—"

"I don't blame you." Katsuki said. "You kept my classmates safe and you came to Kamino. You did your best."

"I… Thank you, Bakugou." Tiger bowed. Katsuki nodded.

The door opened again, making everyone turn. Best Jeanist came in. He was wearing his hero costume and his hair was in its neat and usual style. Katsuki smiled immediately when he saw him. Tsunagu approached Katsuki.

"You look good." Tsunagu said.

"Thank you." Katsuki said. "I'd say the same to you, but your costume in a sin. How many denims?"

"A lot." Tsunagu laughed. "You ready to go?"

"Yep." Katsuki smiled. Eijirou kissed his cheek.

"Have fun, Kitsune. Remember us little people when you're mingling with the top ten.

"I'm sorry, who are you?"

"Cold Babe, cold."

"Hakamata." Aizawa called, still holding Eri. "Let me know when you bring him back, I'll either be here or in the teacher's dorms, but I'd like to know."

"Of course." Tsunagu said. "I this Eri?"

"Yes." Aizawa nodded. "Eri, this is Best Jeanist. He's a hero too." Eri turned around in Aizawa's grip to face Jeanist, she waved, and he smiled.

"It's nice to meet you Eri-chan." Tsunagu said with a wave of his own. "Come on Katsuki, let's go."

"Yeah." Katsuki said. "Bye Sensei, everyone else."

Everyone called out to Katsuki as he left with a mixture of goodbyes and have funs. Katsuki waved and followed Tsunagu to his car. As they approached Katsuki could see that Needles was sat in the front passenger side, Katsuki opened the back door.

Needles was on the phone, the device on speaker so everyone could hear, when Tsunagu and Katsuki got in.

"Are you with Tsunagu now?" It was Thimble's voice that was coming from the phone.

"And Bakugou." Needles replied.

"Wait Bakugou's going and I'm not. What the hell guys?" Thimble cried. "Do I mean nothing to you?"

"Katsuki is an employee of the heroics department, he's allowed to come." Tsunagu said.

"I've been an employee for years. I can't believe you'd snub me like this." Thimble said in mock outrage. "You're dead, all of you."

"Love you too, Raiden." Needles said.

"Fuck off Teruo." Thimble replied. "You're not part of the heroics department."

"Yeah, but I always go to the Charts with Tsunagu, I'm his plus-one to everything." Teruo said. "Best Friend date night."

"I see." Thimble said, sniffing as if he was crying.

"Thim, do you want to come?" Tsunagu said. "If you get ready really quick, I can come and pick you up?"

"Nah, I'm kidding." Thimble said. "I've got some plants to tend to."

"Stop complaining then." Needles laughed.

"How will you know you're talking to me if I'm not complaining?"

"True." Teruo said.

"Well have fun you guys, I have to go. There's a cute looking cactus trying to get my attention." Thimble said, hanging up.

"Remind me to have him drug tested." Tsunagu said as he drove towards the venue.

"Why are you bringing me?" Katsuki asked. "Endeavour doesn't bring his kids and Shouto is his intern. And the Iida's don't bring Tenya?"

"It's up to each hero who they bring with them." Tsunagu shrugged. "I don't know why the others don't bring their interns and such. It's not exactly the most exciting event, and most heroes don't subject their families to it. It's not common practice to bring family members."

"Oh." Katsuki said.

"I can only assume it hasn't clicked with Endeavour that he can bring Shouto. He doesn't really bring his sidekicks."

"Oh." Katsuki repeated. "Are we meeting the others there?"

"Yeah. Flashback is bringing Fallacy and Transcript."

"What about Sleuth and Spectre?"

"They're working this evening." Tsunagu said. "Spectre volunteered. He hates the event, so he didn't want to come. Sleuth put salt in my tea, so I made her stay away."

"Gross." Katsuki frowned.

"Yep." Tsunagu replied in a clipped tone. "She's on thin fucking ice."

"Oh, I gave her a written warning." Needles said. "So hopefully she'll stop giving you shit. At the end of the day you're her boss, and no one else would take that kind of behaviour in the workplace."

"Yeah, that's exactly why I can't fire her. She won't get a job anywhere else."

"That's not your problem, Tsunagu." Needles said.

"She's my friend, Teruo."

"That friend that makes you feel shit about yourself." Needles muttered.

"She doesn't make me feel shit about myself. She just keeps me on my toes."

"She's acting like a child. I'd expect this behaviour from Bakugou or Bobbins, but Sleuth is an adult she needs to start behaving like one." Needles said. "As much as I love her, Genius is her workplace, not a playground."

Tsunagu sighed. "I know. I'll speak to her about it."

"Okay." Needles said.

"I'd never put salt in anyone's tea. Momo would kill me." Katsuki said. Needles laughed.

"Sorry Kid, no offense."

"None taken." Katsuki shrugged.

"How's school?" Needles asked.

"Fine." Katsuki said. "Class is normal. We haven't had physical training yet this week though, so I haven't been able to show off my new costume."

"I'm sure you'll have chance soon." Tsunagu said.

"Oh yeah, we train loads usually." Katsuki said.

"You'd hope so." Needles laughed. "And academically you're okay?"

"Yeah. I have an exam on Saturday so I've been revising for that."

"Good." Needles said.

They chatted amicably as Tsunagu drove to the Billboard Charts. It wasn't too long of a journey, so they got there relatively quickly. They met Flashback, Fallacy and Transcript in the carpark, all of them hugged each other in greeting.

Needles, Flashback and Transcript all wore crisp black three-piece suits. The only difference was with the colours of their ties, pocket squares and lapels. Like Katsuki's was orange, Flashback's was purple. Transcript's suit had flashes of pink and Needles had green. Katsuki's suit was set apart by the orange cross on his back.

Fallacy had dyed the ends of her baby blue hair, a royal blue, creating an ombre affect. Her dress was in a similar pattern, royal blue at the bottom, baby blue at the top.

"Look at us, we look so good." Transcript said, throwing his arms around Flashback and Fallacy.

"I always look good." Fallacy said, flicking her ponytail so it hit Transcript in the face.

"Ow."

"Come on children, let's go inside."

Katsuki stuck close to Tsunagu as they went inside the massive hall. There were rows and rows of seats set up facing a large stage. There was a large blank area, designed for mingling and meeting other heroes. There was a large buffet table with all sorts of food, Katsuki recognised Fat Gum stood next to it, gathering up food on his plate.

A Commission Official stood at the door with a sign in sheet

"Hakamata Tsunagu, Higuchi Teruo, Abiko Junichi, Aisaka Ren, Kyoso Kameko and Bakugou Katsuki." Tsunagu rattled off, handing over his hero licence, and the official ticked them off the list.

"Enjoy your night." The official said with a bow.

The hall was very full and Katsuki felt uncomfortable. He reached out, grabbing a hold of Tsunagu's denim trench coat. The Fibre hero glanced back at him, smiling softly, wrapping his arm around Katsuki shoulders.

"You doing okay?"

"Yeah, it's just a lot." Katsuki said. "I suppose I've met a lot of people here though."

"You've met all of the Lurchers, and you know Hawks and Endeavour." Tsunagu said.

"Mhm." Katsuki hummed.

"Come, I want to introduce you to Miruko." Tsunagu spotted the Rabbit Hero before Katsuki did. He led his protégé through the hall towards her. Katsuki had looked up to the heroine since her debut, he admired her fierce attitude and the way she took no shit from anyone.

She was the highest-ranking female hero in the history of Japan, and it was obvious why. She didn't have an agency and worked on her own. Her success rate was high, and she exuded confidence.

As much as he loved and respected Tsunagu, Miruko was the hero Katsuki could see himself being. She had a temper like him, and she didn't waste time being nice. She didn't hold her tongue and she didn't care if she hurt people's feelings, that was their problem not hers.

"Best Jeanist, it's good to see you're not dead." Miruko said.

"Thank you, Miruko." Tsunagu said. "I wanted you to meet Bakugou."

"I feel like I already know you, thanks to how often you're in the news." Miruko said.

"Don't believe everything they say about me." Katsuki said.

"I've had my fair share of negative media." Miruko said with a nod, her ears bouncing with the movement.

"We've all had shit said about us." Tsunagu snorted.

"Well, if I can give you one piece of advice, kid, it's don't listen to the media or the news. They'll try and provoke a reaction from you, especially if you're like you and me. We get angry and we snap. Those sharks are looking for blood, don't let them sink their teeth in."

"Okay." Katsuki nodded.

"They'll spread rumours and create straight up lies. Do you know how many Pro heroes I've slept with according to the media?"

"A lot?" Katsuki said hesitantly.

"Yep." Miruko said.

"Remember the spontaneous rendezvous we had last year?" Tsunagu asked.

"Right, when you were in Tokyo and I was in Osaka but apparently we were both at a love hotel in Fukushima?" Miruko laughed. "Fucking cosplayers."

"So memorable."

"So yeah, kid, ignore the people trying to take you down." Miruko said. "Also don't punch a civilian, they don't like it when you do that."

Katsuki and Tsunagu talked to Miruko for a little while longer until the Rabbit Hero was called off elsewhere. Then the two of them went over to the buffet. Katsuki wasn't exactly hungry but he picked at some things.

"Jeanist, good to see you."

"Hello Fat Gum." Tsunagu greeted. "How are you?"

"I'm good thanks, you?"

"Best I've been in a while." Jeanist smiled. "I'm finally healthy enough to work again."

"That must feel great."

"It is." Tsunagu said. "Have you met Bakugou?" Tsunagu placed a hand on Katsuki's back, pushing him forwards a little.

"Kirishima's Bakugou?" Katsuki had to laugh at Fat Gum's words.

"Yes." Katsuki smiled.

"Ahh, I've heard so much about you. Kirishima loves to talk about you." Fat Gum said, pulling Katsuki into a tight hug.

"That must get boring."

"Nope, it's nice listening to someone talk about something they're passionate about. He loves you so much."

"I love him too."

"How is he? I haven't seen him since Nighteye's funeral."

"He's doing okay, he misses you. But he's working hard to be a better hero." Katsuki said.

"I'll call him tomorrow." Fat Gum said. "I need to get him and Amajiki back out with me."

"He'd like that." Katsuki nodded.

"Brilliant."

Everyone mingled about and it was hectic. Katsuki should have predicted he would get lost. One-minute Tsunagu was next to him the next he was gone. It freaked Katsuki out more than it should of. He wasn't in any danger and it wasn't like anything bad could happen to him. In fact, he was probably in one of the safest places he could be, a room full of heroes.

That didn't stop the panic suddenly sparking through him. He scanned the crowd, trying to spot any of the Genius employees, but he couldn't see anyone. He weaved his way through numerous heroes. Distantly he recognised Death Arms and Backdraft talking to Gunhead. They waved at him in greeting but they weren't who he was looking for.

"Bakugou." Katsuki turned to see Present Mic coming up to him, Miss Joke behind him.

"Sensei." Katsuki nodded in greeting.

"Are you okay kiddo?" Miss Joke asked.

"Yeah, I don't know where Tsunagu or any of the others went but…" Katsuki shrugged.

"Well, Little Listener, you can stay with us until they make themselves known." Mic smiled.

"Thanks." Katsuki said. "I didn't know you were coming here?"

"Yeah, I'm trying to convince people to come on my show. People are interested until they find out the time." Mic laughed. "But I come here every year."

"Does Aizawa ever come?"

"No, he knows that I'm here and he wants to avoid me." Miss Joke laughed.

"I mean he hates the crowds." Mic shrugged. "But one of us needed to stay with Eri, so that's where he is."

"Aww I can't believe you're parents." Miss Joke cooed.

"Neither can I." Mic smiled. "Shou' always said he didn't want kids, when he changed his mind this year… well I cried."

"Bless." Miss Joke said. "How's being a dad?"

"I'm Papa, actually." Mic said, a smile on his face. "I love it, she so sweet."

"I'll have to come meet her sometime."

"You should. I'll arrange something with Shouta."

"Great." Miss Joke said.

"Bakugou, there you are." Katsuki turned to see Needles coming up to him.

"Needles."

"Tsunagu couldn't find you, he was worried you'd wandered off."

"He was the one that wandered off, not me." Katsuki scowled.

"We should go find our seats, the Top Ten is about to start soon."

"I'll see you at school Bakugou." Mic said.

"Ah, I just wanted to say, Present Mic-san, my wife and I are huge fans of your show." Needles said.

"Oh, you are? It's wonderful to meet a fan. My show is at a difficult time."

"We'd often listen to you when we had to get up with our babies over the years. In fact, our youngest would only go off to sleep listening to you. We had to record your voice to play for her."

"Oh that's so sweet." Mic said.

"I know now is not the time to ask, but would it be possible for you to sign something for her."

"Of course. After the Top Ten I'll get something signed. I have a notebook in my bag, it's back at my seat though."

"Oh of course. No rush." Needles said. "Come on Bakugou, let's go back to the others. Jeanist has gone backstage with the other Top Ten."

"Bye Sensei, Miss Joke."

Katsuki walked with Needles to a set of seats with their names on. He was sat in between Needles and Flashback. The lights of the hall dimmed, and silence fell over the assembled crowd. It didn't take long for the whole thing to start.

Umeda Nori walked onto the stage, he looked exactly the same as he did the first time Katsuki had met the new head of the Commission. He smiled wide and seemed charismatic enough as he called the room to attention.

"Good evening everyone, thank you all for coming. As many of you will be aware, I am Umeda Nori, the Head of the Hero Public Safety Commission, and today I'm glad to bring you the Hero Billboard Charts." The gathered heroes clapped at the man's introduction.

"Now, the way in which the Billboards are judged are by looking at both the Hero Approval Ratings and the amount of successful closed cases as well as an individual's contribution to society. Tonight, the results of these things will be announced to you in reverse order."

"However, before I start with the awards, I would like to address those that we have lost this year. It has been tough for us as a community this past year, with both corruption within the Commission as well as dark forces such as the Hero Killer: Stain and the League of Villains. We always lose heroes, but this year it has been worse than others."

"I would like to take a couple of moments to remember those heroes we have lost this year, whether that is to death or life altering injuries. They all deserve our respect and our thanks for their sacrifices."

A video began to play behind Umeda, and he stepped out of the way. Some crappy classical music began to play through the speakers and the screen revealed short 10 second clips of each hero who had died or forcibly retired.

Most of the faces were distantly familiar to Katsuki. Of course, he wasn't as much of a hero nerd as Izuku, but he still knew quiet a few of them. His heart ached when they showed a video of All Might at Kamino. He knew that he personally had been absolved of guilt, but it still clawed to Katsuki, like a demon refusing to let him go.

Sir Nighteye followed shortly behind All Might, Katsuki sent a silent prayer of thanks to whoever's decision that had been. Both All Might and Nighteye would have appreciated the placement. Iida Tensei and all of the other victims of the Hero Killer followed in quick succession, Katsuki had never really considered how lucky Tensei had been to survive the ordeal with Stain. It was strange to see so many people's lives summed up in 10 seconds, disrespectful almost. Each of those heroes had been people, with friends and families. But at the same time, it was nice they had been acknowledged.

Then the video ended as Umeda took a step forward again.

"I would once again like to thank everyone who has put themselves in danger to protect others. We at the Commission understand that this is not an easy task and we wanted to assure you, you are appreciated and we wouldn't be safe without you."

Clapping broke out again as Umeda bowed to the gathered crowd.

"Without further ado, let's get to the Top Ten."

The dragon lady was number ten, which wasn't really a surprise to Katsuki, although she had moved down a little Ryuku was still in the Top Ten. And she deserved to be. Number nine was some guy who looked as though he'd just stepped out of the Mines of Moria. He looked gruff and aggressive, but Katsuki didn't know much about him, he wasn't all that flashy.

Number eight was the fucking washing machine, who both Katsuki and his mother hated. They had nothing against Wash himself, but by the gods, the little jingle he sung at the end of the Clean and Shiny Commercial was the most infuriating thing in the world and Katsuki wanted to hurl himself into the sun every time he heard it. It was one of those annoying songs that got stuck in your head for days on end and would randomly pop into his head at any time of the day.

Kamui Woods was next, which would have been surprising if Katsuki hadn't already been aware of the hero's growing popularity. He wasn't a young hero, not like Hawks anyway, but he was relatively new. He was an impressive and capable hero, Katsuki had to admit, he too deserved that spot.

Number six was Crust, and this time Katsuki was automatically reminded of Kirishima, especially when the man was announced as the manliness hero. Katsuki scoffed. The manliest of heroes was Eijirou, hands down no questions asked. But Katsuki also took hope from his ranking. If he managed to get to number six, that meant Eijirou would be able to progress that far too.

Next was Miruko, number five wasn't good enough for her, at least in her opinion. But she'd been steadily climbing the ranks ever since she'd debuted, and she was doing well. With All Might out of the picture, the ranks were starting to open up for the younger heroes, and she was ready to take advantage of that.

Hawks was next at number four. It wasn't the Number Two spot he'd been at initially after All Might's retirement, but it was still a respectable position, and he was still the youngest in the Top Ten. Then people hadn't quite forgiven him for his involvement in the corruption of the Commission, despite the fact that it wasn't his fault.

Edgeshot was third, he stood there stoic as ever, walking slowly into position as his name was announced. He hid behind his hair as Miruko made a quip about him starting the Lurchers that was caught by her microphone. He made no reaction to her jibe and settled into his spot.

Then the one he was watching for Fibre Hero Best Jeanist at Number Two. Umeda made a quick reference to his injury at Kamino and his time off before claiming that Best Jeanist was Number One in the Approval Ratings and if it wasn't for his injury, preventing him from going out and solving cases, he probably would have been Number One overall.

The Genius sidekicks whooped and cheered for their boss, offering him all their love and affection from their seats. Despite the denim covering his face, the uplift to his eyes told Katsuki Tsunagu was smiling.

Endeavour was announced as Number One with a quieter cheer. At least it felt that way to Katsuki. Of course, the rest of the world was oblivious to Endeavour's parental failings and abusive past, they only knew him as a gruff asshole who got the job done.

Umeda then went down the line, giving each hero the opportunity to say something. Katsuki didn't care about most of them, that was until they got to Hawks.

"I have nothing much to say really. I want to thank everyone for giving me a second chance after everything came out. I want to especially thank Best Jeanist and his agency who not only offered me a place to work, but he opened up his home and let me stay with him.

At Genius, I've found a family, and I can't thank them enough. I especially want to thank Ground Zero, for putting up with my shit and forgiving me… Oh Gods, this is live. Kids, don't say that word. I'm sorry."

"Thank you, Hawks." Umeda said, indicating for the sound people to cut Hawks' mic, not quickly enough to mute the quiet "fuck" the pro hero muttered.

Edgeshot mumbled something about honour and then it was Jeanist's turned.

"I would like to thank everyone for your support over my absence. My injuries at Kamino were greater than I could have imagined ,and they took a long time to heal from, however I would like to say, as of today I am back doing active hero work."

The crowd cheered for Jeanist's return, especially those from Genius.

"I would like to thank my sidekicks; Flashback, Fallacy, Transcript, Sleuth, Spectre and Ground Zero for all of their work these past few months. They kept my agency running smoothly and ensured I would have a job to come back to." There was a laugh at Tsunagu's words.

"I would also like to thank Hawks and his intern, Tsukuyomi as well as the Lurchers for coming in and helping when we needed it. I couldn't have gotten through this time without them. I never thought I'd get to Number Two, I'm so incredibly grateful for all of your support and I look forward to getting back to work and protecting people again."

"Thank you, Best Jeanist. It's good to have you back." Umeda said.

Katsuki made eye contact with Tsunagu as Endeavour began his own speech. He smiled at his mentor, Tsunagu offered him a small wave. Katsuki knew he should probably listen to Endeavour's speech, but he couldn't be bothered to listen to whatever that asshole had to say.

The heroes were then released from the stage then, each of them returning to their seats. Tsunagu made him way back to his employees, sitting next to Needles. Umeda took the stage again.

"There is one last thing I would like to announce. Since the start of the new Commission we have been working on a project that will hopefully ensure the future safety of our civilians. Tomorrow will mark the start of the Ground Zero Initiative, a program which intends to rehabilitate villains, getting them off the streets and teaching them a trade."

"We will be selecting lower level villains out of prisons to trial run this program, as well as opening our doors to any active villains who wish to hand themselves in. There will be an official announcement tomorrow to describe this process in detail, but I wished to announce it here. I would also like to join the band wagon in thanking Ground Zero in his contribution to this program, as well as his work to improve the Commission and his loyalty to his agency. He is an asset to Genius Agency and the hero community as a whole."

Katsuki blushed, he hadn't expected anyone to mention him at the Charts, let alone three different people thanking him. He'd never thought his school picture would be up on the board, being broadcasted across the country. He sunk down into his chair. Flashback laughed next to him.

"I get that you're embarrassed but think about it this way. No one without a hero license has ever been mentioned here. If you want to be Number One, this is all good for you."

Katsuki nodded in lieu of replying. Flashback was right, but it didn't make it any less awkward. Everyone was clapping… for him. Which was strange, in all other events people usually booed him.

Eventually everyone settled down, the broadcast was ended and everyone was allowed to relax. The pro heroes continued to mingle, drinking wine and eating food as old friends caught up and new heroes tried to network.

As soon as he was able to, Tsunagu pulled Katsuki into a tight hug. Katsuki squeaked at suddenly being captured and pressed against his mentor's body, but he soon relaxed into the embrace.

"I'm so proud of you." Tsunagu said into Katsuki's hair. "You've come so far since the Sports Festival. Sometimes I can't believe you're the same person."

"Group hug." Transcript called, interrupting Jeanist. All of a sudden, Katsuki and Tsunagu were surrounded by their teammates, Hawks' wings coming to wrap protectively around them all. Nearby, someone took a picture of the moment; the pro heroes and sidekicks embracing and laughing. Unbeknownst to them all it would be the front page picture in the morning.

"All right, all right." Tsunagu laughed. "I still only have half a lung you know? I can only take so much squeezing."

"But Bakugou has a good squeeze left in him." Needles said, grabbing Katsuki again. Everyone surrounded Katsuki once more, hugging him tightly.

"Tsunagu, help." Katsuki laughed as arms snaked around his waist.

"Come on you guys." Tsunagu said. "Let the kid breathe."

"I'm gonna get some chicken." Hawks said, stepping back, Fallacy gasped.

"Race you to the buffet." She said, before shooting off. Hawks laughed, trailing after her through the throngs of people.

"Bakugou, may I have a word?" A gruff voice called, making Katsuki jump. He turned around to see the Flame Hero: Endeavour stood behind him. His flames were dulled now he wasn't on stage. His beard and eyebrows just glowing embers.

"I'm gonna go." Flashback said, dragging Transcript off with him. Tsunagu and Teruo stayed.

"What do you want?" Katsuki asked, narrowing his eyes.

"Not here." Endeavour walked off, pushing his way through the crowd, towards a door leading to a foyer. Katsuki rolled his eyes before following, Jeanist and Needles trailing behind. Endeavour looked uncomfortable at their presence but he continued to speak once they were outside in the foyer.

"Erm. You're friends with my Shouto, right?"

"He's my best friend." Katsuki scowled.

"Yes, good." Endeavour scratched the back of his neck. "I need your help."

"My help?"

"Yes. Shouto… he's pulled back. We were… we were getting better but suddenly he started… Well he stopped talking to me."

"I wonder why." Katsuki drawled.

"See you know why. I don't. Bakugou, please. He's my son. I know I haven't been the best father—"

"That's an understatement." Katsuki muttered under his breath, Endeavour heard.

"I can't undo my past behaviour, but I'm trying to make up for it. I can't do that if he won't talk to me."

"Maybe he just doesn't want to get hurt again." Katsuki said, Endeavour spluttered.

"I wouldn't…"

"What? Hurt him again? We both know that's not true." Katsuki said.

"Has he said he's scared of me?"

"We don't really talk about you." Katsuki said, crossing his arms. "But what he has said, I don't think he's scared. I think he's angry."

"What about?"

"Do you really have to ask that?" Katsuki asked. "Are you that stupid?"

"Katsuki." Tsunagu said, his tone a warning.

"Specifically what's he angry at?" Endeavour asked. "I know I've been horrible to Shouto, I know that, but I thought we'd addressed that. He… he said he was over it."

"He might be over what you did to him. But not what you did to your other children, your wife." Katsuki snapped. Endeavour flinched.

"I never laid a hand on Fuyumi and Natsuo."

"You're missing one." Katsuki narrowed his eyes. Endeavour went pale, he visibly swallowed.

"He's upset about Touya?"

"Look, I'm not your family therapist, you clearly need one. But if you really want to improve your relationship with him, leave Shouto alone. Let him come to you, because every time you pester him, you make him angry. A text from you ruins his day. Give him some fucking space."

"Katsuki." Jeanist said again. Katsuki sighed heavily.

"I understand." Endeavour said with a nod. "Thank you for your time." Endeavour left, stalking back into the crowd.

"Remind me to never piss you off." Needles said. "You have no fear, do you?"

"Nope." Katsuki said, turning to face Needles. "I'm not scared of Endeavour anyway."

"You've got balls, I'll give you that." Needles shook his head.

"He relies on intimidation. He'd never physically attack a civilian, especially in public." Katsuki shrugged. "One on one in a training room with him, maybe I wouldn't be so mouthy."

"Come on." Tsunagu sighed. "Let's enjoy the rest of the party.

They stayed at the event until late. Katsuki went around practically glued to Tsunagu and Teruo. He was introduced to so many heroes that by the end of the evening he had no idea who he had met and who he hadn't. Many people were excited to meet him and congratulate him on his achievements. He guessed he was sort of famous.

At the end of the evening Katsuki was sleepy and ready to go to bed. The Genius Employees all left at the same time, just when Miruko did a body shot off of Hawks. They all gathered together, hugging each other in the carpark. Transcript hugged a little too tight as the alcohol had gotten to him.

"Love you Teruo."

"Okay Ren, love you too." Needles tried to struggle out of Transcript's grip.

"You're the best Human Resources person ever."

"I do try." Needles said, finally freeing himself.

"Bakugou!" Transcript pounced on Katsuki next. He was sleepy and slow, so he found himself wrapped in Ren's embrace.

"He's not driving, right?" Tsunagu asked.

"No." Flashback said. "I am, and he's staying at mine, so he doesn't die in his sleep."

"He's lucky he's not working until the afternoon." Teruo shook his head.

"True." Tsunagu said. "Anyway, we should get Katsuki back. He has school in the morning."

Flashback nodded, managing to pry Transcript off of Katsuki. They then made there way towards their separate cars.

"How did you find it, Bakugou?" Needles asked once they were on their way back.

"It was good. Did you know Umeda was going to mention me? Is that why you brought me?"

"No." Tsunagu said. "I doubt he knew you were there. I wanted you to come because you're my sidekick. Not because of the Commission."

"Oh, okay. So just a coincidence then?"

"Yep." Tsunagu said.

"I think you're more popular than you realise, Bakugou." Needles said. "People are dying to meet the future Number One hero, so that they can go, I knew him when he was younger."

"You really think I'll be Number One?" Katsuki asked. Teruo nodded.

"Without a doubt, Kid, the passion you have? The straight up physicality? You'll get there someday, and I for one can't wait to see it."


Friday's were always hectic for Hizashi. He was usually up at 6AM, ready to start the day with a shower and spend a ridiculously long time styling his hair. He wondered if anyone would care if he went to school with his hair down, or in a bun or ponytail, something distinctly less complicated to pull off. It would make both him and Shouta happier.

His 6AM alarm annoyed Shouta to no end, startling him awake. Hizashi would disrupt his slumber further by getting up and showering. He wasn't exactly a quiet person in the morning and every single time he started up his hair dryer, Shouta was ready to kill him.

Hizashi would much prefer a little lie in. Maybe not as late as Shouta slept in. Rolling out of bed 20 minutes before work was not a way Hizashi could cope. But a little longer wouldn't hurt? Nowadays they had Eri to look after, so before either of them could set off they had to make sure she was washed, dressed and fed. It wasn't hard, nor was it easy, but it was something they loved doing.

But anyway, Hizashi's workday would start at 8AM and he'd be at U.A. until roughly 5:30-6 every evening. Then he'd go home, have some dinner before crashing. He had a second alarm to wake him up at 9:30 so he could be up and ready to start his radio show at 11, going until 5AM on Saturday. It was tough but if he wanted to do all of these things, he had to make sacrifices.

Technically it was Saturday. 1:30 AM to be precise. Hizashi scrolled through his phone as he waited for the current set of three songs to finish. There was probably something he should have been doing but he wasn't exactly bothered.

Who is Ground Zero? An Insight on the Billboard Chart JP

Best Jeanist's Triumphant Return to Heroism.

Hawks Announces he and Best Jeanist Live Together, But Are They Dating?

Endeavour Finally Sits at Number 1, But is he the Right Hero for the Job?

Bakugou Katsuki: From Public Enemy to the Nation's Sweetheart.

Hizashi snorted at the last one, clicking on it

Bakugou Katsuki first caught our eye a year ago at the Sludge Villain Incident that almost levelled the Tatooin Shopping District in Musutafu. Many people forget that he was in fact the "Middle-school student" that was attacked.

Admittedly none of us paid attention to him them. Many people are attacked every day and unfortunately, the victims don't often get remembered. But we should have paid attention to the child who caused so much destruction. To the child who was able to survive for over ten minutes against the Sludge Villain. Alone.

The next time we saw him was at the Sports Festival. Now that event has been analysed over and over to the point of exhaustion and to put it simply; he came across like a villain. But since then, it has been stated by U.A. themselves that it was their behaviour, not Bakugou's, that was villainous.

And then he was kidnapped. From a school event where he should have been safe, but regrettably he wasn't. So, he made the news again, and no one knew what to think. Many people claimed that he would join the League of Villains, many thought he was violent and would fit in with a rag-tag group of criminals.

But then his teacher, Aizawa Shouta, Eraserhead, spoke up on his behalf and assured us of his character. I am sure I'm not the only one who doubted his words. But we were proved wrong at Kamino, where for a moment, that boy fought alongside All Might against the League.

Things went quiet for a while after that. The hero world mourned the loss of the Symbol of Peace and no one questioned how Bakugou Katsuki was. I met him during this period, and at first, I was intimidated. He was loud and brash, aggressive and I honestly thought he'd hurt someone.

That was until I paid closer attention. His loudness was simply because he'd forgotten to put his hearing aids in and was compensating for his deafness, his aggression was all in play. I witnessed another student, Kaminari Denki, repeatedly poke and prod at Bakugou, with teasing remarks and calls of "Kacchan". Bakugou proceeded to chase Kaminari around their dorm building. I was concerned about what the explosive student would do when he caught him.

But I needn't have been. They wrestled as all teenage boys do. Other member of the class got involved and the whole incident morphed into a game of tag. At that moment I knew that one day the world would see this version of Bakugou, and he would become adored.

And that is what has happened. The old Commission tried to work under the same assumption the villains did, that Bakugou was aggressive and wanted to fight. What they didn't consider was the sweetness I saw inside him.

In the wake of the Commission's Corruption, Bakugou responded with empathy. Instead of fighting against them or causing a fuss, Bakugou presented the idea of the Ground Zero Initiative, a program design to decrease the rates of recidivism in villains and offer them an alternative opportunity to grow. He claimed to recognise the fact that not all villains wanted to be villains, but that they just needed help.

Both Best Jeanist and Hawks have spoken highly of Bakugou Katsuki. He is currently working at the Genius Agency as a future sidekick of Best Jeanist under the name Ground Zero. Due to this, public opinion has shifted on him. No longer do people see him as a villain, they see him as a hero.

My only concern is that we put too much pressure on our young heroes. I do not want us to push Ground Zero too far with our expectations of a hero. We must remember he is a child, and we must treat him as such.

I wish Ground Zero all the best in his future, and I can't wait to meet him again.

Tokuda Taneo

Hizashi smiled, it was nice that someone recognised the boy's potential and said something nice for once. He put his phone down as the adverts played, getting ready to speak. His assistant signalled to him that the adverts were coming to an end, counting down from five and putting her finger up when he was alive.

"Alright Listeners! Welcome back to Put Your Hands Up Radio. Eleven to Five, every Friday. I'm your host, Present Mic and I'm here to get you through your graveyard shift. Or whatever else unholy reason has got you up this late slash early."

"Tonight, we're discussing your most embarrassing moments, after the most embarrassing week I've had. Just to recap what happened to me. My Mother-in-law walked in on my husband and I having sex. Which I'm sure is more embarrassing for him, but I feel terrible." Hizashi laughed, embarrassment making him feel warm despite the fact that it had been days ago.

"I looked that woman in the eye whilst I was inside her son, like how am I supposed to have a family dinner with her again?" Hizashi said. "You can send your stories to me on Twitter PresentMic or by using the hastag #putyourhandsup."

" staryeyez396 asked, did my mother-in-law have a good reason to interrupt you? The answer is not really. It was my husband's birthday, but it was at like three in the morning. My husband had gotten back from work, but his mother should have been asleep."

" elliemae778 says I once tripped over my own feet, spilling coffee all over myself in front of my crush, Oh Listener, that's the worse. Put if they're the one they won't mind, you should have seen how often I embarrassed myself in front of my husband. How often I still do stupid stuff in front of him."

" fyrepowa says I once called my teacher "mom". Relatable I know. As many of you know, I teach at U.A. I've been called Mom, Dad, one time someone called me Grandpa. I don't know if that was an accident or if he just wanted to hurt my feelings.

" pulse191512 says I got some guys to do a job for me but the messed it up. I guess now I'll have to take things into my own hands. Well Listener, it's always better to do things yourself if it's important." Hizashi said.

"Oh I know."

Hizashi leapt out of his seat, accidentally yanking his headphones out off. Next to him his assistant gasped. Hizashi stared at the man in his studio. He was of average height and build by the looks of it. A hooded black cloak shielded a lot of his body from view. He had piercing blue eyes that glared at Hizashi and a smirk on his lips.

He held a small boy's hand. The boy had silvery grey hair and he looked terribly scruffy. He frowned at the floor as the man brandished a knife.

"Who are you and how did you get in here?" Hizashi asked, subconsciously falling into a fighting stance.

"Oh, you don't know who I am? Your husband does. Is he keeping secrets?"

"You don't know anything about my husband." Hizashi snapped.

"Oh don't I? You're married to the underground hero Eraserhead, otherwise known as Aizawa Shouta. His I.D. number is 0811183 off the top of my head, I believe." The man said, his smirk growing wider as Hizashi felt his blood run cold. "Oh dear, are we still live?"

Hizashi glanced down to look at the console desk beneath him, swearing to himself. Everything was still running.

"What do you want, Pulse?"

"Oh you do know me. That make things more fun." Pulse laughed. Hizashi watched as he let go of the child's wrist, but the boy didn't move. "Your husband is in my way. He's protecting something I want. But you see. U.A's security is too tight, and that on your home. But here… well you're practically defenceless. Once I kill you, I'm sure your pretty little spouse will come looking for me, and then I can take him out and finally claim my prize." Pulse said.

"You're insane."

"Yes, a head injury will do that to a person." Pulse said before lunging.

Hizashi dodge the blade, twisting his body to avoid it whilst using his hand to push Pulse back. His assistant ran from the room as Hizashi put himself between Pulse and the boy.

"It's okay kid. I'm Present Mic, I'm a hero. I'll keep you safe." The boy squeaked at his words, grabbing a hold of Hizashi's cardigan.

Hizashi didn't know what to do. He couldn't use his Quirk. He wasn't wearing his directional speaker, he'd do all sorts of damage if he couldn't control his Quirk, to himself and others. So he'd have to fight had to hand. But with a small child holding on to his cardigan it was more difficult than he had imagined.

"Don't make promises you can't keep." Pulse said. This time he lunged for the boy, Hizashi twisted again, blocking Pulse' access to him, but he'd fallen for his trap. Pulse redirected his attention at the last minute, bringing his knife up to Hizashi's neck.

Instinct took over, Hizashi shielded his neck with his arm, yelping as the blade sunk through flesh and hit bone. The force of the movement snapped the handle of the knife off, leaving the metal buried in Hizashi's arm. Immediately Hizashi was covered in blood. It coated his arm, the wool of his cardigan forever stained red.

Hizashi's vision went blurry as pain coursed through his veins in lieu of blood. He whimpered, stumbling forwards to his knees as he lost his balance. Pulse grabbed the boy's hand, yanking him back towards himself. Hizashi was aware of the boy crying out and refusing to let go of him. He was aware of one of his buttons ripping from the wool. He was aware of Pulse's cold voice.

"I was going to make this quick. But your way is more fun."

Everything around him faded to black as a boot connected with his face. The back of his head hit the control panel and his last thought was Shouta.