Nights of Fear: Be Brave

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Chapter 1~ New Year's first talk

Steam rose lazily from ventilations across every block, apartment and building. One house-block's black cat crept along the narrow top of the brick wall, its fur, wet from condense, glistened as the winter's chill occasionally passed weakly over nighttime Musutafu.

A powerful flash of light bathed the area from above, momentarily illuminating the feline's depthless eyes, which twinkled in the harsh glare. The light faded, a thrum of sound echoed and it was immediately accompanied by the muffled cheers of people from bellow.

It was but the second day after New Year's! Naturally, fireworks would be ever present for at least a few days. Especially in a town such as Musutafu, overjoyed with the holyday.

The feeble layer of snow accumulated over a night amounted to nothing more than but a good entertainment for little children. A stark-white carpet that shaped after everyone's steps.

Lights from the city's abundant traffic; groups of teens, adults, families populating the walkways; loud songs from warm and bustling pubs; winter time light fixtures; and active restaurants made it all surreal!

A fuzzy and quiet numbness slept over the city. And everyone enjoyed it. At least, once a year, everyone rested and enjoyed a breath of calm like the abyss.

Away from the main painting of nighttime life, over to another decently populated zone: a passers eyes would peruse over a tall restaurant, with high walls of fogged glass positioned obliquely to pleasantly impress the eye. Inside, chatter between people over tables of food and drinks buzzed gently, their night accommodated by slow songs performed live on an elegant wooden stage with velvet drapes.

Over to the top floor radiated a simple and comforting cozy air, as in every other level. The view over the distant activity of the city amounted to nothing but astounding! Simply: a delight to appreciate.

With the music in the background; fuzzy ambiance; bountiful space to be as loud as you'd want without even causing an ear to perk; and of course, with a table occupied by quite the honorary drink… how could anyone not feel the slight pull at their mind to close their eyes, breathe deeply, listen to the piano, and completely relax. Almost even fall asleep!

Over to a table with a crescent couch as comfy seats, placed by the oblique, tall, fogged glass walls, one person was just taking their leave from another.

"Well, if I were to indulge any more, I'd start cutting in my work by now. Ha-ha! Can't allow that, can I? It was great to talk with you Midoriya, you really changed significantly since the beginning! Give Toshinory my regards! He should be here any minute now. And sorry that I couldn't stay longer to say that myself, time's already constricting enough. Have a good night! And all the luck to you for your upcoming year at U.A. I know you can do it kid! Just keep going at it!"

With that sincere encouraging goodbye from detective Naomasa Tsukauchi, the table at which Izuku stayed fell quiet.

Looking through the window beside him, Midoriya peered at the city beneath, passing with his gaze quite hastily his own image reflected in the glass in the process.

Clothed formally, elegantly at suit and tie, Izuku perfectly blended in with the clients that enjoyed their night at the restaurant.

It was simple really, why he was here. Just to have a 'talk' with detective Naomasa and his mentor.

Aside the detective, All Might simply wanted to spend some quality time with the inheritor that grew to feel as family to the faded hero. Something he couldn't say he had the luxury to do every day.

So, not too long ago, in order to avoid any media outbreak at seeing the ex-Symbol of Peace playing favorites with his students, it was decided that detective Tsukauchi would drive Izuku at the quiet and private restaurant where they'd meet.

Of course, it doubled for Tsukauchi as an opportunity to ask Midoriya a… few important things. Things that Izuku would rather not even be discussed about, but… it wasn't really up to him to decide.

Continuing to look down at the bustling activity from bellow, appreciating the undisturbed flow of everyone's actions, Izuku patiently waited for his mentor as the night gently soothed the time.

"Cheers!"

"Cheers."

With a clank of glass, a spilt drop, and a sincere joy, the honorary drink was downed clean in one gulp on both sides.

"Ha-ha! Well then! How was it? Your first taste of spirits on this first new night? Don't grow too accustomed to it though so young. This is coming with the celebration. Ha-ha! But that's not to say that this old man doesn't know when to close an eye!" Spoke Toshinori elated in his course voice and muffled tone.

"Hm-hm-hm! Don't worry All Might, it's not like I'll grow addicted from a single glass. …Or maybe three after the first!" Replied Izuku in tone to his mentor's humor. "And again: you aren't old! …You're just going through your third puberty!"

"Heh! Hah-ha-ha! I'd wish! But you're right about the drinks! Because you'll stop at this second one." Intoned Toshinori with a smile and crinkle of the eyes as he handed Izuku his drink. All jokes aside, having a reason to celebrate didn't mean that either one would start competing until they'd fall flat in a coma. Besides, not only was Izuku still considered a minor in terms of drinking without supervision, but All Might himself could only drink so much after having his stomach mauled into fragments.

"What made you choose this place out of the entire town? A change of scenery? Last summer we kept visiting burger shops after training. Is the fat already saying its word?" Joked Izuku as he moved his drink from palm to palm over the table carefully.

"Whouh-whouh-whouh there young man! I told you then one too many times: First, I needed the calories while patrolling! Can't be using 'all my might' on an empty stomach! And second…" All Might gave an exaggerated exhale and role of the eyes before continuing. "…I may have been just a little bit too nostalgic at the time. I kept thinking how everything was going on over the seas."

"Ha-ha! I'm not throwing it at your face All Might. It's just weird to be here instead of the usual. I never pictured myself dressed up in a suit just to talk with you over some spirits of all things." Said Midoriya with a raised eyebrow for effect as he motioned to their drink.

"Ah! See, young man, a very good reason to be here: Often times, we all tend to face the things that feel wrong to us, or frighten us, whatever it may be. So, of course we have to venture against them! For example: this cozy, nice and at first look, intimidating place!" Explained the emaciated man in suit with a smile and move of a hand.

"U-huh. Since when were you planning that advice? Because this is a little too elaborate and staged. Don't mind the pun." Pointed out Izuku amused with a thumb at the musicians stage.

"Pfff… Not for that long. Anyhow, the main reason is just that simple: A year since you came to U.A. and faced a mountain of hardship m' boy! Because you just can't stay away from them. What's there not to celebrate? And moreover: You came a really long way since back then young Izuku. I think it's only normal to have a real toast for it!" Spoke Toshinori with gusto and warmth.

"I wouldn't say it actually amounts to that…-"

"Are you paying for the bill here young man, no, I don't think so! Now through that little nugget to the trash and wash it off with a drink! That Debbie Downer attitude has to go young man." Quickly and lightly, All Might chastised Izuku with a barely hidden smirk.

Midoriya gave a breathless sigh and took a sip of his spirited drink while struggling to keep a straight face after what his mentor said.

"Well, if that's what you say... I'll stop contesting." Spoke Midoriya as he put the glass down, deciding to move over the clear indicator that All Might chose a convenient day to spoil him.

Izuku's mouthed slightly quirked at the edges while it thinned a little.

All Might for all intents and purposes was truly going the extra mile for him. Be it advice, encouragement, understanding… the man was truly like family. He became invaluable to Izuku. Moving past the point of heroic idol that he once was to him, All Might equaled to more than a standard for his desired profession. He felt more as an example for his day to day life. A good show of… what he should focus on: The people around him, how to choose, what to say… many things really.

It felt… It felt good to have someone like him exist there in the back of his mind to help when doubtful.

"What about you, teaching from now on at U.A? After the initial days and now with more time on your hands, how do you feel about it?" Asked Izuku as he leaned back on the comfy, crescent couch.

"Phhee! Come now young Izuku, do I look like Aizawa to appreciate torturing kids with tests and training? Mm… I don't really know. I haven't given it thought. It's all up in the air after you finish graduating." Explained Toshinori as he sipped from his glass moments after talking.

"What do you think of Eri? How does she come off to you when compared to a normal kid?" Asked Izuku, having remembered of the little imp when stealing a look through the windows at the snow below.

"Ah! She will grow splendidly with her budding character! Shuzenji already has her eyes set on her! Keeps asking on and on the little girl what she feels about medical help. Heh, stubborn, and not that I blame her… . But speaking about Eri. How has Kota changed from the first time you two met? Maybe he'd like a playmate, Eri sure would with all the security measurements." Spoke Yagi as he relaxed in his seat, massaging a wrist at all times. The winter sure felt bone-chilling for him even if it was gentle.

"I doubt it for now. Though he did come out of his shell very well! He now speaks with almost everyone he meets, in fact, he never grows bored when visiting us. A little while longer and he'll actively seek friends. Just… give him time." Elaborated Izuku, with a relaxed visage. Those two midgets always made him crack a smile even if completely exhausted or out of it.

"About 'time'. What about you? Any good friends? …I've seen during simulations that some of your colleagues seem think highly of you." Asked Toshinori pretty eagerly. He hoped young Izuku would finally adapt with his surroundings and act to better himself socially. To better his life in general.

"…"

Izuku remained mute. Straightening his back a little, the young man looked at his mentor, before tilting his head towards the giant, transparent wall, staring outside. His face betrayed nothing.

Toshinori let out a drawn exhale as he closed and opened his free palm, while with the other he used to take another sip of his drink.

"Izuku…" With the drop of his almost perpetually used 'young' when addressing him, Izuku looked back at his teacher. "…Izuku, I am old. I am old, and I won't live forever. Me, Sorahiko, Shuzenji… heck, even Aizawa and Naomasa will hit an age where they can't do anything to help anymore." Spoke All Might with his now gruff and nasal voice from the winter.

Although the restaurant was illuminated in such a way that not a person's face could be seen if not at the respective table, the look of gesticulating hands and weighed words would denote to anyone the importance of the discussion.

"What if it happens again? Who will help you then? Better yet, who will first see what is happening and help beforehand! I know it's tough Izuku… but you can't manage alone. You show signs of stability now… but we both know what you're really thinking. I know you by now! Think of what Inko would say! She will be gone too one day… and what then? You'll be all alone?" Toshinori Yagi spoke gently, at pace and with clear words. His voice betrayed his fear. His concern visible if even looking at his façade of a stoic visage.

"Izuku… if you don't try, what will happen to your dream? It will be all a waste. You mother's efforts 'till now, One for All, my implication… and everyone else's. It's dangerous enough as it is, you can't keep adding to it! But more importantly: Who will help you get up when you'll most needed? Past people and memories can only do so much!" Yagi's face scrunched up slowly, his eyes closing a little, his smile turning to a straight line, his brow creasing. Lounging a little forward and holding his hands steadily over the table, the man continued:

"Izuku, please try. For my sake if not for yourself; for your mother's. Your friends can't be only adults and elders. Heh, old man Torino is probably signing his will by now… …Please." His voice dripped with fear, the form it took as concern, barely held back from cascading at every occasion in choked words. A feeble spark of 'strength' that once used to hold the world on its back smoldered in pain at trying to convince the young man while not letting itself falter. An attempt of a past's pillar to support someone again.

"All Might… It will be ok." Replied Izuku while bringing his hands on the table, one of them grasping his glass. "It's not even a problem. I'll manage! Ok? You did before, and so can I. I'm taught by the best, and you, are the absolute in regards to that! Everything else… I'll see about it. It's just not important really. It comes later, now there are bigger things to do." Justified Izuku slowly, trying to calm down his teacher.

"No… No… Mi- Izuku, that's not true! Life doesn't go like that! You're living it for yourself! Not for anyone else! You can't continue working for something you don't even know about! That doesn't happen-That's not real! If you don't enjoy your life, how can you say you treasure life in the first place to protect it?!" Ranted All Might in a hushed, almost breathless tone as he grabbed Izuku's sleeve and clenched it tight to keep his attention.

Midoriya tugged lightly at his mentor's grip to shake him out of his broken torrent of fear.

"All Might."

"Izuku, no, listen-"

"All Might-"

"No Izuku, stop avoiding this problem-"

Midoriya hunched over the table enough to send the message that he was clearly paying rapt attention, and that everything should be calmed down before it escalated enough to be somehow overheard.

"I'm not avoiding it All Might! I-. I'll try, I'll try if you want me to. Calm down, I understand. Don't panic. I'll try my best." Calmly soothed Izuku while keeping a hand over his roe model's bony and emaciated fist. He'd begun gripping Midoriya's sleeve so tight, that his skin felt cold, and the veins clear as if on the surgery table.

Toshinori exhaled deeply, and inhaled suddenly to compose himself. As he hit the couch's collar, the retired hero moved a hand to take his drink, and down all that remained in one go. Studying his pupil intently before placing the glass back on the table, a guttural sigh escaped intentionally at the repeating instance.

The piano in the back peaked on its last note, before it fell completely silent. A few more seconds after, a pause continued to reign over the level at which clients enjoyed their night. Shuffling echoed from the stage as other musicians took their turn at the instruments immediately after.

"You're repeating yourself young Midoriya. The exact same answers as last time. You can't play the card of compliance and shove everything away because of the surroundings. I know this because I read the files you asked to fill from Aizawa that decide your next simulation." Continued All Might.

"So he did lie about their secrecy. Figured as much, but that didn't mean I had to back down from the opportunity." Responded Izuku as he washed a sip through his mouth in order to feel the full sting of the almost bitter drink. A perfect method to dull the recently passed moment.

"More like half-lied. Only the teachers were allowed to look at them beside himself. …What was going through your head when you completed the files that requested your entire class, and above all, students from class 1-B to amount as your opposition during a simulation?" Toshinori asked sternly as he accusatorily stared at the quirk inheritor.

"Young Midoriya… I think that everyone felt at one point that fever for glory. Myself included, I admit! But not even young Bakugo would try something so… pointless!" Exemplified Yagi almost breaking into a laugh. "If anything this would look like an excuse for the school to physically torment its students to anyone who ever saw this! Plain and simple." Reasoned the faded Symbol of Peace. His bafflement at finding such facts about his scion's decision was immeasurable, so much so that when finding out it left him stuck in the exact place he read the files.

"But as you said: It looks like… Well, just because it looks one way, it doesn't mean it is. I know what I'm doing by choosing this looks crazy. But I am prepared. It's essential I do it." Finished Izuku in a drawl as he emptied what remained of the alcoholic beverage in his glass.

"Why though? You never told me about ambitions to this scale. Not even a slip up here or there. Was this some over the night great idea, or something? You don't start contemplating in the shower, now do you?" Asked Yagi while relenting to move past his attempt at beating some sense in his pupil's lost mind. At least he might as well try and go back to lighten up the atmosphere.

"Actually… sometimes, yes. But no, I just figured that if before the next year's Sport's Festival an outlandish incident happened, one that wouldn't bring controversy, in fact give the school reason to lauder with, it might just draw the necessary attention again." Revealed Midoriya as his lips thinned and his eyes' corners crinkled.

"Ah, so just like with the U.S.J. incident in your first year. True, there never was so much interest in the first year's classes until that event. So you want to reproduce it. Seems believable, after all, the media managed to find out about the U.S.J. even if it happened within the school. Why though? Thought you didn't like the attention."

"I don't, but it's not me that I'm trying to pull the 'real' attention too." Replied Izuku as his eyes gave a flicker of eureka when they peered at his master's electric-blue ones.

"Do go on… Besides, there will be no more drinks tonight. So, might as well listen to what you're cooking. I could use the distraction." Said Toshinori as he gave a smirk and leaned in close to listen what was spoken over the table. God knew that back at school nothing thrilling happened with his colleagues! It was either files here, files there, and homework there.

"This year, the security was significantly strengthened, seeing as it was so filled with people, and after the U.S.J. incident. Everyone, had their eyes on us because of it." Izuku felt his mouth crack open for once this entire day, and gave a full smile. "For a long while, no pro or police force was able to track Shigaraki Tomura and his team. Recently though, they ran into some problem against another band of criminals."

"It was all over the news, the Meta Liberation Army event, what about it? Since you brought it up, it must tie in somehow with your point." Asked All Might feeling a tinge of enthusiasm and motivation at hearing his inheritor's string of ideas.

"Well, since it was so brutal on both parties, they will need to stay low for longer and recuperate. That means, they'll have their ears perked out for any new information! A.K.A. they will have their ears and eyes fixed on the Sport's Festival. Just like last year! Either to act, or to learn, is up to them."

"M-hm! Aaah! So that's it, what you want to do! You want to poison the source, don't you?" Asked Toshinori intrigued.

"Me? Back a year ago, and now? Not too much I can do, even with a licensed identity. But who said I need to be the one to initiate it?" Midoriya gave his teacher a pointed look that transmitted his meaning. "Can you speak with Nezu?"

"Pfff, all the time! There isn't a day that I don't hear him ranting about those biscuits that go well with his tea, or different educational 'recipies?'. Point is, there isn't a day that he doesn't call for me, even if for simple chatting." Admitted the retired hero as he took a hand to ease his aching back.

"That's perfect, but I already imagine you're waiting for my 'but wait' moment, right?"

"Was there even place to doubt that? That exists everywhere m' boy, so you should expect it as well. Say, what is the catch?"

"Of course, Nezu will be suspicious about your proposal. Especially since you weren't allowed to pursue Tomura's case since your fight with All for One. Meaning that he'll need some backing, or in our case, established actions!" Izuku's smile reached his ears, this was a moment worth all the excitement that he usually hides away. He wasn't planning on being a hero for nothing.

"Aha! By that you mean that things will already need to be moving for him to make use of them and feel genuine! So… you want me to drop that idea by him, like Santa Clause does presents?" All Might stated more than asked with evident enthusiasm and emerging smile.

Although their personal talk wasn't over, and they both knew that all too well, it didn't mean that they couldn't act with maturity when discussing other things before that. All Might, intentionally dropped his persistence from earlier. If he were to do otherwise, he risked achieving nothing with his pupil. It seemed that he had to coax him one step at a time. And it would take a long while to do that. But he already decided he would succeed before he bit the bullet! At least he'd keep trying to remedy young Izuku.

"Exactly that! But only after I've ran through my simulation. It would make things look less staged, and more like opportune-filled. Seeing as I 'could' fail, it's best that way!" Summarized Izuku, finally showing some smiles and a good mood since he came here in full.

It was truly shattering for the once number one hero to experience again Izuku's confident, lively, and cloudless self only when focusing over his aspiration's profession.

All Might pulled back from his leaned position, and gently massaged his back and wound. The winter only added complications to his already feeble health. For a second, Toshinori Yagi wondered. He mulled over the opportunity of establishing his earlier accusation.

Toshinori thought deeply if he should threaten this entire plan young Midoriya put together by asking him that in return for his help, he'd need to do exactly what he asked of him earlier.

So, All Might weighed the chance: Of possibly maneuvering misguided Tomura in the law's grasp, where he would receive professional treatment and rehabilitation. Or, with that of what he decided since long ago, and push Izuku towards his own 'rehabilitation and treatment'.

Toshinori picked up his empty glass, looked at it weirdly: beside it, beneath it… through it! And saw the many reflections of Midoriya, that sat across the table. Each reflection slightly different than the other. But all similar in one aspect.

"Thinking about the multiverse All Might? It's a little lame nowadays, don't you think?" Asked Izuku in a joking manner as he himself emulated his teacher, giving a snap of the fingers for added effect.

If someone were to look at their table, they'd see two shadows playing pirate with one another, trying to find land. At this rate, security would be called to escort two drunken 'Black Beards' out of the restaurant.

However, as silly as it may have struck from afar, it really wasn't. At least one of them was dead serious about what to do next. And he decided already.

Toshinori put down the quartz-work and regarded Izuku, who on his part did the same to put the glass away. The piano in the background picked up in a crescendo as the public became enthralled by the music!

"Young Midoriya-

Outside, scarce snowflakes began peppering the streets. A lazy, but cutting wind delivered a biting touch to anyone who didn't think twice before clothing for an outside walk.

Clanks of footwear over concrete covered pleasantly the cacophony of passing cars. Small talk, based around an economy of words due to the freezing temperatures forced the citizens to rapidly exchange thoughts. It made everything sound as if far, far away.

The trees planted by the side of the roads waved their branches slowly in the beating of the weakened gales. Frost, accumulated on their hidden buds, cracked sometimes to drop on the street below as gelid, white embers.

Midoriya and Toshinori stood at the restaurant's entrance, in front of the teacher's car, ready to return at U.A. after a… productive meeting.

All Might hurried to get in the driver's seat, before anyone passing by might've recognized him and caused a scene. Looking through the opposite window to his seat, the teacher looked at Izuku. Seeing as the young man just stood outside, he saw fit to tell him and hop on. Give him an 'invitation' if he decided to be so reserved.

"Hop on, m' boy! Or you prepare to beat me to the campus by foot? Heh! It's pretty cold, so you might want to get in quickly." Advised the retired hero as he felt his gut twisting slightly.

"Actually, I'll go on foot. I wanted to have a walk like this for a while now." Dismissed Izuku with a content expression. Truth be told, nothing of what he said was a lie. He simply needed a walk like this. Something new once in a while.

"Midoriya" Began Toshinori as he glared at the soon to be adult, "It's already late and pretty cold, don't be stubborn and get in. I'm responsible of you until we return at U.A." Explained Yagi sternly.

"No you aren't" Said Izuku amused with the situation; a little tug of his mouth defying the seriousness transmitted by his mentor. "You just set a meeting to celebrate a year's passing, nothing formal connected to the school. And besides, didn't you say: "Often times, we all tend to face the things that feel wrong to us, or frighten us, whatever it may be. So, of course we have to venture against them!" And close quote. "

"…"

Toshinori took a deliberately long inhale as he gripped the car's wheel, his tows flexed in his shoes, and his shoulders rolled once.

"Gran Torino was right: You are a "cheeky delinquent that uses his gifts and mind for all the stupid decisions"…" Toshinori looked down for a brief moment before speaking again. "Do you have your phone?"

Izuku gave a quick nod.

"Mm… You keep using words in your best advantage, don't you? Fine, I'm not going to ruin your little fun. You should enjoy that as most as you can now while young anyway. Just…" the retired hero lowered his tone, drawled his next words and failed to suppress a slight smile in order to appear tough to the young man. "Just remember to send a message when you return, kid. Have a good night!"

Izuku returned a closed smile, but full with appreciation. "You too All Might! And stay safe. We'll talk tomorrow." With a wave and finally, unable to stop himself, a show of the pearly whites, All Might drove off as he mimed a wave from inside.

Walking by the street lamps, along hurrying people, avoiding some hurrying ones at moments, with the tie fluttering directed by wind occasionally, the suit dawned figure of Midoriya lumbered towards U.A.

He was right in choosing to walk.

It definitely stood by as proof to what his mentor said to him, and what he used against him as leeway. 'Often times, we all tend to face the things that feel wrong to us, or frighten us…'

Izuku never truly felt at ease when wondering the streets. Never felt at ease wondering anywhere in honesty. Many reasons really. Perhaps all of them accumulated to create that tension. Fear of people. Fear of accidents. …Fear of criminals…Fear of-

'Bha! Who am I trying to fool?' Thought the young man. It was the silver lining at the end of it all.

Fear.

Fear in general. A defining trait when coming to his self. And everyone's deep, deep, down psyche. So much so, that for Izuku it was a motivating factor to push him in search of something. That something that everyone needs… and wants.

He was in search of a dream!

Something he really clung to these days.

'To be a hero…' Seeing people, of flesh and blood as him do something as standing up against a factor that plagued many minds was… maybe the solution he looked after.

The 'why' to his greatest question.

As Izuku walked on, deeply distracted by his thoughts, mechanically trudgeding towards his boarding academy, he didn't process how passers sent weird looks or quirked brows from time to time, as some even considered pulling closer their family or friends when close to him.

Because naturally, seeing someone garbed in all but a complete suit was… odd at this time of year outside. That and combined with his appearance only added to the effect. But it wasn't important.

Let them think whatever they wanted. He could've simply been an addict for all it was worth! Worse, even one of those Yakuza he busted a while ago!

Izuku tried very hard to answer his questions. He really did.

'Why do you want to be a hero?...' - 'Why should you even try to do something extraordinary?...' - 'Is there more to these lauded actions than what everyone says automatically?...'

…

"Go~ooooo~d evening everybody! Dear listeners and passers by alike! Welcome to tonight's First. Nighttime. Radio! Oh well, at least the first not-so-lazy-day-after-the-first, right? I know I slept like a log then! Anyhow, loyal listeners, I'm Present Mic as you know, and time is of the essence! Wouldn't you agree? Everyone wants to go home; to a party; be with the family~, so and so, on! Why else would there be holydays for? So it's best I get this ugly nugget out of the way as soon as possible, like a ripped bandage, dear listeners! And hey! You all know I hate to be the little sad boy downer of the group, but… things like this pass once in a while. So! Out with it!"

The exuberant voice of Present Mic loudly traveled over walkways when passing shops dedicated to electronics, with windows full of big screen TV's that showed replaying news, and radio's linked to speakers.

"Tonight, is a most pleasant one, and that is something I myself strongly agree on dear listeners! All the more reason why I must repeat: Do. Please. Forgive. Me! I hate being… that guy, but I have to be at least a night on a year. So, cutting straight to it loyal fans and curious ears: Things aren't looking all as good as they did now a year ago, don't they?"

Mic's voice took a notably calming air. While his usually energetic and optimistic self was undeterred, the nuance it adopted to deliver these specific news highlighted their importance. Typically, his radio was just the type to uplift a person! Many could say that it was the voice of their inner-childe/teen or something along those lines. Seeing this slight change, meant something crucial:

Mic must've put this on himself complete willingly!

The pro-hero tended to feel responsible towards the citizens, even through his part-time gig, much less his day to day work. So to broadcast whatever he decided must've meant he wanted to make sure everyone was warned and careful. Even the ones that tried to look away from the truth and live in a little bliss.

"We all know the recent tragedies that washed over the city, dear listeners. What happened at Kamino Ward and the amounted losses is something we haven't seen in a very, long time! Some researchers might say 'historically long ago'. And from that day… things seem to bubble beneath our feet. There's an unease planted in everyone, and we know it. With each crime committed… it's as if every villain, small, or big gathers more courage. …It's as I say dear listeners: 'The fish starts rotting from the head' everyone. And when our most dedicated Hero ever stepped down due to so, so many overbearing problems… the damn finally broke!

-So, what am I trying to say, loyal listeners? Even I am unsure… Maybe trying to raise awareness, or simply trying to say the truth as quickly as possible, before it gets out of hand? Maybe both. …At this time and hour, the little ones we raise for tomorrow's future should be sleeping soundly. And too all those of us, wake enough to listen to reality… let's shield those little ears from it, for now, since they are our innocent hope. … … .

… … I am Present Mic everyone. And tonight I was a real letdown! I know I know! But chins up dear listeners! We can't always sleep on ignorance! Besides, tomorrow? Is a truly new day! And trust me, I'll blow away to heaven and back your ears with the music and mixes prepared just for you! I know when I'm indebted guys, so I'll make it up! And that's a promise. Other than that sad melodramatic piece though? Nothing really! So I'll leave you all to continue on in peace your night of party or rest; however you see fit; with the ones important to you while playing this last mix! And. I'll. See. You. Late~eeee~eeee~eeer! Goodnight!"

"Hmm…"

'Leave it to Present Mic to still bring up the morale after giving condolences.' Thought the young, green haired, man as a twitch of his cold cheeks tried to force a little smirk for no one in particular. And he wasn't the only one who thought that by the looks of things.

Everyone around shared that invisible consciousness that felt 'aware, but content'. Like a person burdened by the years, yet still hopeful and pleased with his circumstances. People were odd, no question there.

Although things didn't really look up, and everything was barely held around the edges… everyone continued on. At least that was endearing enough when looking around.

Eventually, the young man approached the U.A. campus. An area where at the time walkways could be seen as almost empty, except for him by the looks of it. His steps across the pavement, echoed pleasantly to the ears at each move. One street lamp blinked from time to time its pale light, as it gave of a leak of oil over the ground. The 'warm' smell of the substance carried over dry winds brought to Izuku's mind a frail association to the Support Lab. A lab in which Mei was most probably celebrating her first day of a new year.

Just as Izuku was about to round one of the academy's corners, he decided it was wiser to stop right beneath the blinking street lamp that shed tears of oil.

Maybe it would all pass without problems?

"Heh-hhe-he! Wha' do we got 'ere bud!? Some High Stake?" Uttered a delinquent to his partner as he played around with a butterfly knife for all to see, not bothering enough to even try and hide it from those that could've passed on the opposite walkways.

"He-he-HA-ha! Look a' 'im! Some chicken legs?! Naa, no, High Stake!" Intoned the other delinquent to the first speaker.

Izuku sized them both fleetingly, more than anything tensed in anticipation to see the knife raised towards him. Cold perspiration washed in beads over his back.

Both of the, clearly teenage, no goods were of medium builds, not too sturdy, but not frail at all. Both of them quite tall; tall enough to trick the eye regarding their age at a superficial sight.

Either of them wore leather articles of clothing, be it jacket, gloves or boots. With torn jeans and dully colored shirts. Dirtied beyond belief, as color became a subjective observation. Hoods over their clearly exposed faces, combined with an interesting choice of sunglasses during winter of all times. An attempt at trying to seemingly hide their identities, and a poor one at that. Their jargon made Izuku conclude they were both not exactly all too bright. No doubt due to a life of probable poverty. Often times the reason for poor education aside other reasons.

"Check it out man! Big Stake here ain't shivin'!" Said the first as the slightly shorter one pulled out a simple utility knife, following the lead of his 'senior'.

Izuku's eyes wondered rapidly over their silhouettes! Latching on small details that were important to assess. At least as much as he could before faltering from his tensing heart.

Immediately he saw how the shorter one, who kept an arm slightly bent behind, showed to be slowly creeping what looked to be narrow and thorny vines from his sleeve. No doubt what must've been his quirk. Not too dissimilar to one of Izuku's heroics colleague. He reasoned that such a factor could be dealt with if need be.

"Ey? What u sayin'? All goods down! Go on Big Beefer! Now!" The first delinquent pressed on with his threat. Fiddling with his free hand around his pockets, perhaps priming something useful or necessary for his quirk.

"Ya heard 'im Big Beefer! Do it! Or we make 'a bleed like a pig on the road! He-he-ha! Slice-n'-dice!"

Both of the unfortunately misguided and poisoned youths took a slight step forward.

Their breath hitched as they contemplated slicing the jugular of the fellow that could've meant their 'big night tonight'! One of them trembled, his hand unsteady as he pointed the butterfly knife.

Izuku having seen their behavior couldn't truly do much but wait for their action.

They were young. Perhaps forced into a life of crime since younger in order to survive, do to various circumstances; or possibly mentally ill. Clearly under the age where an individual was considered responsible for their life and those around. Maybe no older than him?

So they had to initiate the action first if he were to bust them! Otherwise, it could've simply been verbal offense, threat with light weaponry and unauthorized quirk usage.

All of them offenses that deserved punishments. But not from him.

He may have had a provisional license sure, but it was simply just that. A license with barely half the authority granted to fully fledged pro's. He was simply allowed to intervene if an incident already happened. And nothing else.

Izuku had to wait.

-Did he need too though?-

A trepidation took over Midoriya as he waited anxiously for the inevitable. He would have to beat them! Bludgeon them until they were incapacitated. Just simply bash their skulls in. They would do the same! That's how life went, didn't it? Listening to fear was how the wisest or strongest survived!

Then get in touch with the teachers that were just beyond his academy's walls. The same teachers that taught him everything regarding combat. The ones that were so painstakingly close.

"Hey! Do it. Now!"

"He-he! Yhea! Slice-n'-dice! You start to bleed Big Stake!" Threatened the shorter delinquent as the other one kept his demand freshly stated. Yet he didn't have the same amount of gusto as in the beginning when seeing that Izuku refused to budge from his illuminated place.

His lumbering figure just stood there watching them. The pale, blinking light from the street lamp cast warped and ugly shadows over his tall self.

The young daredevils made on more step towards him.

"Come on." Was the laconic response Izuku let out through almost unmoved lips, in a gutturally calm voice. He minutely puffed his chest and tensed his arms. The meaning of the words was lost even to him. If it was meant to scare the punks away… or try to encourage himself… he didn't know.

One of the two 'bullies' stopped where he stood to pull on the other's sleeve.

"I don't know man. …I-I don't know, he… he's hella' big man! This spud ain't budging." Said the backing delinquent.

True to his crude assessment, Izuku's frame was something unnerving to maintain visual on. His stature grew since Toshinori decided to tutor him through as much as possible. And his muscular structure… wasn't exactly something one would call… a work of art, for lack of a better term.

True, he possessed plenty natural strength nowadays, just that… well after what happened then, it all looked more… unfit.

Izuku struck as only intimidating, and nothing else. Wide in the shoulders, and sharply 'drawn' in mass, he lacked what made other pro's look perhaps stunning to the public. Appearing almost as if cut from one block… intimidating.

Izuku's face scrunched minutely around his glabella and the corners of the eyes.

"Come on!" Challenged the green haired man once more, making his response louder. His fingers twitched involuntarily, as if under shock therapy before clamping in securely tight fists.

Once again the meaning of his laconic response was lost to its sender. Izuku didn't know if it was a call towards the punks, or to his own spirit.

The last daring delinquent looked back at his partner, then back at Izuku. With a shaking hand, his knife and jittering quirk were put away. Clouds of breath became more vivid in the air, showing how both of the delinquents panicked behind their big talk. And Izuku was none the better.

"Y-Ya' stay clear of here! Got us?! Bleed ya dry next time!" Warned the teenager that spoke first since the beginning as he wearily retreated, preparing to cross the streat.

"Ya! Stay clear Big Beefer! If na': Slice-n'-dice!" Spoke over the shoulder the last delinquent, the slightly shorter one, as he tailed it after his 'senior'. In the blink of an eye, they crossed the street as cars honked them, venturing off to wherever the hell they were going to.

…

Izuku let a few more seconds pass.

A few more…

A few more.

"***" Midoriya released his held breath. His fingers shook rapidly, though not from cold.

Gripping the street light pole beside him, Izuku began pacing his breath.

'Count to four: Inhale. Count to four: Exhale.' Repeated Izuku like a mantra in his head as warmth and cold flooded in equal amounts his blood streams. The vapors released from his breaths became thick and humid. A shiver went down his spine before he fully relaxed.

With bearings gathered, exterior rebuilt, and air around him feeling overwhelming again, Midoriya moved towards the U.A. gates to scan his i.d.

With a metallic groan, buzz of admittance from the camera, slight rumble of the ground beneath, and Izuku stepped within his housing grounds.

…

In slow and deliberate steps, playing with the small amount of snow beneath his feet while sending a simple message of 'I'm back ok' towards his mentor, the young man made his trudged way to 1-A's Heights Alliance.

'It will soon be 2-A… Uau! … It all went by so fast…' Contemplated Izuku, distracted with the branches of a particularly ugly tree. The same tree that gave little Eri what she called the 'heebie-jeebies'.

Light, warped and cast over the concrete made itself weakly known to Izuku from every window in the building filled with rooms, one of which was his own. The closer he got, the louder the voices got. What must've been music became distinct as the door's handle became visible. Warm air hit his face as he entered the main area.

…

Tomorrow, was a school day. Something that became unnervingly dull to Izuku. And moreover, it was the day that would prime his operation. Preparation and plenty of sleep was absolutely necessary. It may have been the most he would get for a while.

The very few plain and quaint greetings that would surprisingly be aimed towards him fell on deaf ears as his only sights and focus where the stairs that led to his floor.

Midoriya's ears rendered themselves to record something akin to white noise. His vision grew blurry around the corners, creating a horse's glasses effect. His body became tired, and his bones felt like scraping hinges.

Tomorrow was a new day. The truly first new day, in some ways. There was plenty of work to be done. And plenty of promises to deliver.

Izuku would sleep on them tonight.

Sleep with dreamless rest, as every time.

"Goodnight."

Was the weak and timid reply sent by Midoriya, as he climbed the stairs, towards whoever bothered to wait for a reaction. An unnatural behavior if he were to be described by his class.

Of course, who was there to even hear that response over the music and party?

[A/N]

Hello everyone! And welcome to this little passion project.

As you've probably guessed or deduced, this telling will weigh more on the psyche of characters. Hopefully that's the best ground that I could've chosen for some good verbal and moral exchanges.

And oh boy, are there things different!

you've seen, Izuku isn't really the typical Izuku. Sure, very much the same in terms of nervousness, anxiety, awkwardness… so and so on, but not all to exact. Reason for that is his backstory really. Since it would be boring to have the exact same premise as the one in the show, I changed it up a bit. It should be pretty nice when you figure it out as you go.

, yes! The big plan our troubled 'protagonist' has cooking! You've probably detected some similarities from my other fic. But that's because some aspects about this story are simply the prototype versions I had planning long ago for a compelling story. Hopefully this will hit bullseye. Either, way, I think this will be a greater opportunity to really write even more detailed action, planning, plot, suspense, and surprises!

to the ongoing theme, did you spot it? It's pretty easy to really, and I'm all to curious, but that's not important. What is though, is what you thought! How did you feel about the entire atmosphere, the inclusion of pro's thoughts and exchanges between characters? I'm really looking forward to speak with you about these aspects.

, if you want to discuss something, anything really, feel free to PM me or simply name it in a review. Hopefully there will be all kinds of criticism, it will surely help with the story. So, don't forget to leave your thoughts in a review.

With that said, take care, and have a good day!