Exam time! I have been looking forward to this for a while now haha, and I think you'll see why when it unfolds. Slightly longer chapter for you guys this week, what can I say, I'm eager to get things going again haha, and we are entering a muddy area of slight delays between canon events. That's all I'm saying haha. But to my mind the pacing of the canon timelines is a liiiiittle mental. But I digress, a longer chapter, hope you enjoy!


To be perfectly honest, the first part of the licence exam passes in a blur. Between every other school verging on our class, and then the class being separated–I can barely remember anything beyond panicking, keeping my targets protected and taking out other students. It's all done very quickly. Is that good or bad overall? I dunno. I was focused, I took down my targets and got the job done. Looking back, I don't think I got angry, I don't think I felt that darkness creeping up on me again. I don't think. After the night in the kitchen with Sho and Bakugo, I can't deny I've felt like I met a new part of myself. The want to hurt, to kill, it was so tangible. But of course, it had also been aimed at the worst villain any of us had ever seen or heard of. These are just kids, my peers and potential colleagues in the future. I don't want to hurt anyone, but I guess sometimes it isn't about what we want, is it?

For now, as my targets shine blue for passing and I sink to my knees to catch my breath, I'll just consider the first part of the exam another box ticked. Completed. Done. Fuck I'm tired.

I just need a breather, that's all.

That's what I tell the kids near me, waving them off before moving myself towards the resting area. Keep going. You're fine. There's no stabbing pain in your back right now, you can handle this and keep going. Pressure builds on my back as I hold myself up with my quirk, being mindful to still use my legs and avoid suspicion. No doubt Dad is watching, and no way in hell do I wanna make him doubt me. I can do this. I can get through. I take a few deep breaths, hoping my hands will have stopped shaking by the time I get myself to the waiting area. Some of my class might already be there, I don't want them worrying. Or talking to Dad.

I head for the relaxation area and go straight for the food and coffee. I need something to get me back into gear; sugar and caffeine will help. Shame there's no painkillers here though. A chair is welcome, and I release my power so I can rest up on all levels. Whilst eating, I look around, noting Sho over at the side, sat on his own. I give a wave and he heads over, glancing around much like myself.

"Been here long?" I ask, offering him some pastry but he just shakes his head as his eyes continue to scan.

"No, seems like we both made good time." He kneels by me, eyes raking carefully. "How're you feeling?"

"Good." I nod and he narrows his eyes. I sigh. "A little stiff, that's all. Okay?"

"All right. You know your Father said to stop if–"

"I am getting through this exam, Sho." I lean over and kiss his cheek. "Don't go doubting me now."

"I'm not doubting you." He rolls his eyes, but can't help his smile. I know he can't help it, I am a devious wench when I want to be. "Y'see that guy over by the wall? The one with the big collar and his costume is kinda… I dunno, burnt red?"

I note the rather enthusiastic kid from when we got off the bus. The one who supposedly got a better score than Sho in the UA entrance exams and then split on the opportunity to attend. I nod, moving my gaze back to Sho. He's frowning. Like he's stuck on a bad maths problem or something.

I nudge his knee with my foot. "What's up? Did you clash on the field or something?"

"No, but since I got here, he keeps looking at me like…" Sho shrugs. "I dunno, like he hates me. I've no idea what I did. Can you think of anything from when we were outside?"

"Uh…"

"It would hardly be the first time I socially wronged someone without realising til far later." He sighs and looks down at the ground for a second. "But I can't think of a damn thing."

"Y'know, he could just be an arsehole?"

Sho blinks. "But he was weirdly friendly outside, wasn't he? Or am I reading that wrong?"

"No. You're not. But Vibration weirdo over there was oh-so-nice as well, then turned round and fucked us all up in the arena. Double crossing seems to be on the damn syllabus in some schools."

We're brought out of our theorising by Bakugo storming over, chomping down food and grumbling to himself. I have no idea what's gotten under his skin, but before I can ask, some kids from another school approach. The guy covered in hair… nope, the name isn't coming to me, is apologising to Bakugo for one of their classmates. I keep an eye on Bakugo, noting how utterly disinterested he seems. Either he's keeping a damn good mask in place, or he doesn't care as usual. Part of me hopes for the latter, the previous would mean I'm no further along with reading him.

The group start to move away, including the enthusiastic guy.

Sho stands. "Hey, you with the collar!" He calls out, stepping after him. I stay seated, knowing I can jump into action if need be, but needing to rest my back as much as I can for the time being. "Did I… offend you somehow?"

The guy stops and turns, a mad look in his eye like Sho had kicked him in the balls only moments beforehand, disbelieving the innocent question. I get ready to move. This guy looks nuts. Sho just waits, staying very still and I can practically hear his mind churning. He wants to understand. Gone are the days where he doesn't notice people unless they're useful, he sees them now, I think he feels it a lot more as well when someone is cold towards him. Maybe. I could be reading into it too much, but the fact this enthusiastic guy's demeanour has bothered Sho so much has me wondering if it's a good thing he'snoticing. It doesn't take much for Sho to overthink.

The guy growls. "Oh no. I'm sorry. Did I hurt your feelings?" He couldn't look at Sho with more disgust if he tried. I haul myself up, stepping closer to Sho as the guy continues. "Well the thing is, son of Endeavour, I just can't help but hate both of you."

Sho takes in a small gasp, most will have missed it, I feel it punch me in the gut. My words are stolen away. This is insane, the guy hasn't even taken note of Sho's name yet he's casting him aside due to being Endeavour's son? What the hell?

The guy takes a deep breath. "You've changed a little bit since the first time our paths crossed, but you definitely still have your Father's eyes."

Again Sho chokes in a breath, staying still as his eyes go that bit wider. His fists clench.

The hair guy looks back. "Something wrong, Yoarashi?"

The weirdo spins and grins wide. "Nope, not a thing, sir!" He walks off, like he hadn't just verbally slapped someone in the face. Is he demented or psycho? Or both?

"What an arse ho–"

"My father's eyes…" Sho barely whispers it, eyes looking far off.

I reach for his shoulder. "Sho I–"

The buzzer sounds. I close my mouth and try to focus, unable to not keep glancing at Sho.

The large screens flicker to life, showing us the rearranged arena. "Villains have performed a large scale terrorist attack spanning insert city name here, since most buildings collapsed there are many injured." The roof thunders open, the second part of the exam readying to start. "Due to heavily damaged roads, the first responders have unfortunately been delayed for the time being. Until emergency services arrive, the heroes in the area will lead the rescue effort. Your task is to save as many people as you can and help the injured. And with that…"

I draw a deep breath and ready myself for round two. I'll talk to Sho when I can. Now isn't the time for this, damn I hope that confrontation doesn't throw him too badly. We can do this Sho. We can pass this exam.

Another buzzer sounds. "Begin!"


So far my team has managed to get three victims to safety, and I'm helping Ura keep weight off another. I can control the objects whilst she makes them float. We're doing well, I think. My quirk's come in handy, but mainly I'm concentrating on helping the wounded with support. I'd shown my quirks finesse with the first test. Now I have to show I could adapt to other situations, to help civilians. To handle the pressure. I help an older lady walk whilst carrying a younger boy with a broken arm. I keep them calm and informed. At every new turn or twist I speak to my team, I keep us all linked. In all honesty I'm feeling pretty good about this part of the test. How everyone else is doing, I can't be sure. Sho had headed off with Tsu and a couple others towards the water area, their talents more suited to that terrain.

Would Sho manage to work with a team? It was one of his weaker areas. I'd just have to see him afterwards. We each had a test, and whatever the other did didn't help or hinder our work. Our dream. Our work. We could simply share the rewards. I smirk, I am quietly confident in my man.

My team approaches the victim bay and I help the boy get to a nurse. I then hand over his details so his parents can be found. The kid is a good actor, I'll give him that much credit; still annoying, whiny and using the fake blood way too excitedly, but a good actor.

I bid them good luck and make ready to head back into the field. There was still time to shine. Still time to maintain points and pass this exa–

A rumble sounds.

A crash follows.

Dust erupts on the far side of the arena.

No, no please not again. My heart is in my throat and my limbs fizz with the want to flee. No, the League can't have gained access to a facility again. This can't keep fucking happening. Not to me or the other students. Was it Shigaraki? Or Dabi? Had All for One already broken out like I feared, and come to collect as many quirks in one swoop as possible?

My eyes land on the dust scattered from the side of the arena being blown in. Shit. That's from the outside. If it's part of the test it's fucking convincing. But I'm not convinced it's only the test; and I refuse to be caught off guard again. No. Not this time you bastards. I am a hero in training and you will not make a victim of me.

"A villain–"

Power surges within me. The emotion isn't something I can rely on, but I'll use it when it's there. With every breath I feel the surge build in my body, billowing out like a huge shield, connecting me to the world around me. Training has been paying off. My spine aches, but I keep going. A few bruises is fine. Survival is key here. My body lifts into the air, no longer hearing the announcer as the surge broils within my body, aching to be released. But whilst my thoughts panic, I keep my quirk focused. This time, I will not fail to help. I am not a rookie, I am not without experience. Fuck you League of Villains. I'm not staying under your boot. At night when I close my eyes you're right there; Shigaraki decays my flesh whilst Dabi burns me to a crisp. All for One laughs in my face, the grinning girl steals my blood and the League all loom, taking a kick each or a slice of the knife. In my mind they can play their games. But here, in the real world, I can fight back. I can make a difference. I can make it worthwhile that Dad took a chance on me, that All Might fought to protect me, that Sho kept trying to reach me. It matters. I have the focus, I have a plan.

A bubble of force appears around the group of villains as they pour into the arena. How many there is, I can't be sure, beyond that focal point of entry. I can't even make out their faces, but they're kept in place, held down by my quirk. It's so tempting to take it further, to push that little bit and crush them, to pummel them into the ground. To listen to their screams the same way they listened to mine. But I won't give into that darkness. No, that isn't me, and that isn't how a hero works. It's so easy to recall the worry on Sho and Bakugo's faces–scared they were about to lose me to a vengeful side. No. I am a hero. Not a victim. I am a hero. Not a villain. Not a toy to be manipulated by a masked maniac. He wants chaos, I will drown him in order.

I look over my shoulder to my team, doing my best to keep the tears at bay. All for One won't take anyone else. He won't destroy another life. I keep Bakugo out of my head, I can't see those fearful eyes fighting the want to panic. I don't know where he is in the arena right now, but I can only imagine he feels as sickened as I do.

Fuck you All for One. Not today. Today we can win. As a team, as a unit.

I call out to my team. "Create a perimeter around the actors and be ready for any of the villains that manage to slip past my quirk. I'm holding them until the pros get there, I'm sure it'll be any second. If I lose focus or have to stop, I'll let you know. For now, g-get in position." My heart is thundering, my mind is running a mile a minute. The nightmares threaten to swamp me, I'm barely keeping it together, but dammit I don't even shiver. Not on the surface. The villains will not see me break. "Everything will be fine. Just get that perimeter in place in case I mess up, and ensure those civilians are all right. For now my power is holding. We can avoid another… i-incident..."

No one's moving.

They're all just staring.

My focus slips. An awkward silence follows my orders, they echo to nothing as they bounce over the disaster area and watching actors. I'm panting, my eyes immediately scanning the seats for Dad. What the hell's going on? Has a quirk got them frozen or something? Is this a vision? Shit am I already under some kind of–

"Gang Orca, are you or any of your associates injured?" The announcer's voice blares over the speakers and I flinch, maintaining my hold despite the familiar name. Wasn't Gang Orca a pro?

"Negative. We're subdued entirely, but no injuries have been caused."

"One moment."

Silence.

I finally find Dad in the stands, sitting there but now leaning forward. His head goes from me to where the judges are all huddled and talking. He turns to talk to the comedic hero he knew from school. But still no one speaks to me. Someone, please tell me what's happening. Sweat beads my brow. My breathing is getting thinner. Shit. This was part of the test? I fucked it up? I'd screwed myself over with a damn panic move hadn't I?

"Miss Aizawa, please release your power."

"I-It's part of the… the test?" I swallow, still not releasing. Is this a vision? Am I being tricked? My heart speeds up and my vision swims. What do I do? How the hell do I trust this?

"This is indeed part of the test. Please release the group and come into the lobby area of the arena. Your time in the test is over. Follow our instructions as quickly as you can without hurting yourself. Everyone else, please standby whilst we reset a few things."

I shiver.

I'm done. This is it. Not fit for duty, a nutcase who can't hold her nerve and is useless on the field due to past trauma. That's it. Finished. Every single person that ever tried to help me, hold me up, support me; I just cast it all in shit. Dammit. I let every single one of them down: Dad, All Might, Sho, Bakugo, Midoryia, Nem, Hizashi.

I lower to the ground. My quirk releases the pre-planned 'villains'. I see clearly now that Gang Orca stands, brushing himself and a few of his associates down. They gradually look my way. No one speaks. I bet they can't fathom someone being so stupid. Or maybe they're wondering how the hell I was ever cleared for field work again. What had the counselors been thinking?

The test made sense. Both rescue and dealing with a new threat. It was a good means of seeing how newbie heroes reacted to an ever-escalating situation. Shit. It was so obviously part of the test, right? I swallow and my feet hit the ground. No. No it wasn't obvious, not when you've already had two school-run scenarios fucked with. Not when you got kidnapped the last time villains suddenly appeared and you failed to act. I bite my lip, I'm not sure my explanation is going to help. All it does is underline my fears, my nerves. My shaken ability to do anything but panic.

I head for the lobby with my head hung low. I do my best to ignore every other hero in the arena. I can't stand to see their derision, I don't want to hear their snide remarks or snorted jokes. I'm a fool. Stupid. Useless. Finished.

Shit. I'm so sorry Dad, I failed.

The door to the lobby opens and I walk through, squinting into the poorly lit corridor and heading for the rectangle of light ahead. Judgement awaits. My steps echo and my breathing remains shaken. I wish the ground would just swallow me whole. Can I redo today, please? I'll take it all again, the strain, the back twinges, the worry over a test. I'll do anything. Please. Please don't make this be where I stop my journey. And for such a stupid reason.

"This way Miss Aizawa." The announcer calls in his half-asleep voice.

I pick up my pace, my quirk avoiding the wobble as my back twinges, doing my best to choke back the want to sob. I can handle this. I'm meant to be becoming a professional, so I'd take failure on the chin. I can try again next year. Maybe. If they let me and don't just throw me into a padded cell. Dad wouldn't let them do that though. Unless I'd gone and finally broken his faith.

The lobby is empty apart from four men in dark suits. One I recognise as the announcer, the others I've never seen. My skin prickles. Is this part of the villains plan? Get me alone and then pounce? I pause and take a deep breath. No. Stop being paranoid.

A moment later Dad appears from the seating area, with that comedic hero in tow. They stay back, and neither has an expression I can read. At least his isn't screaming in disappointment. Though I'm not sure how.

I bow to the announcer. "Hello sir, s-sorry about my interruption of the exam."

"Are we correct in deducing you thought the League of Villains had managed to infiltrate the facility, Miss?"

I nod and keep my head down. Don't let them see you cry.

"So you thought real villains were attacking, perhaps ones you had prior experience with or reason to seek vengeance upon?"

I swallow hard and nod again, hands curling into fists.

"Please straighten up Miss, you aren't in trouble. You acted admirably."

I jolt and look up. "W-What?"

He gives a sleepy smile. "Not only did you manage to subdue Gang Orca's company, you did so without injuring anyone. Including yourself. So clearly you weren't panicked on a quirk level, you were methodical and careful, just like a pro. Despite thinking they were a true threat. Along with that, you weren't simply playing the martyr. You gave a concise plan to your peers, and made a point of outlining that you should wait till the pros arrived. This shows strategy and a respect for the line of command."

"I… well I… you mean I–"

"We are most impressed."

"I-I didn't fail?" I waver and look to Dad, he's smirking. "B-But… But I–"

"We can understand why you might have been worried, but we have no reason to fail you. Not only did you act in a calm manner despite your recent traumas, you also learned from previous mistakes in such situations. You have shown immense restraint today, congratulations. You've passed." The announcer held out a hand and after a moment I shake. "Though we do also apologise for any pain this misunderstanding caused. It was not an intended scare tactic, I assure you."

"N-No… I…" I laugh and eventually remember to drop his hand. The tears flow freely. "Thank you. I-It's good to know I'm not useless."

"Far from it, Miss. Now then, feel free to join your father. We'll need to return to the arena to see out the rest of the test. Well done."

Dad comes alongside, and puts a hand on my shoulder. I'm shaking like a leaf. He squeezes. "Thank you, gentlemen. Your candor is appreciated."

"As is your daughter's skill."

They turn and leave. The lobby goes quiet and Dad pulls me close. I wrap my arms around his shoulders, thankfully he holds me up as my knees give way.

He chuckles into my ear. "That's my girl."

The Comedic Hero laughs loudly. "That's one helluva quirk you have there!"

"Th-Thanks." I sniff, setting back onto my own feet and following them through to the seating area. I hold onto Dad's arm as we go. He keeps glancing my way, clearly wondering about the clingy nature. I smile nervously. "I'm a bit shaken up, is this okay?"

"Not a problem with me, kid. C'mon, let's see if the rest of your class can act as 'admirably'."

I snort and continue to take deep breaths, glad to no longer feel my heart dancing along my tongue, feeling ready to leap to freedom. I didn't fail. I didn't fuck it all up. Safe to say I'm lost, but I can play catch up from the seating area.

We sit down and the exam continues, a few examiners still glancing my way on the stands. I just keep my eyes on the arena, ears burning as whispering continues. They'll refocus once things get going again. It's fine. I'm fine. I passed, and supposedly did the right thing. But I can't help feeling their stares, or trying to find Bakugo on the field. How was he? Had the villain appearance tricked him as well? I don't see any explosions, nor anyone being led off the field. I want to ask Dad if he had seen anything, but I also don't want to draw attention to my classmate. Bakugo seems to be dealing with things fine for now, no point throwing a spotlight on him, it'll be the last thing he wants.

The exercise continues. The safety station is being well protected and an effort is being made to keep the "villains" at a distance. So far it seems to be going well. Right until that Yoarashi guy gets in Sho's way, or possibly the other way around. Whilst glad to have my mind dragged away from darker areas, I can't say I'm enjoying this.

Oh dear...

I sink in my seat, partially hiding behind my hand as they continue to stumble around each other. For all his cool-headedness, Sho seems really annoyed by this guy. Then again, I guess having your Father's failings pinned onto your back might be a little annoying. I know I'm biased, but Yoarashi is being a tool.

"This is not going to go well…" Dad sighs, making some notes. I lean over to peek, but they're quickly angled out of sight.

I pout. "C'mon Dad what's–"

"You know I can't go blabbing to you about every student, even if he's your boyfriend."

The comedic woman squeals. "Aw! Mini Eraser has a boyfriend!"

I raise a brow at her. "Mini Eraser?"

She snorts. "Oh boy, she even has the brow thing. Brilliant. Sorry kid, I can't help but tease your old man, we go way back."

I blink and look at Dad, his jaw clenched tight as he continues to study Sho's situation. I however, find myself a little distracted. Was this one of the women he avoided monk-hood with? My eyes narrow and he writes harder.

I lean closer to the woman. "How far back?"

"Further than he'd like to admit, I reckon." She snorts and winks and I break into a small bout of laughter. Busted. He totally hooked up with her at some point. Maybe only the once, but that definitely happened. "What's funny, kid?"

"Oh nothing, just reminded me of monks." I look back to the arena, not bothering to clarify as she tilts her head and grows confused.

Dad sighs. "Shush."

"Busted."

"I said shush, I'm trying to work."

"Sure thing, stud." I sit back and keep my back against the chair, small twinges still flaring every so often. Between the mad dash of the exam's first-half, and the subsequent use of a major surge and panic in the second part, my back is trembling.

Another of Sho's flame attacks is thrown aside by a gust of wind.

Oh dear.

I distract myself from the nipping pain by watching it unfold.

Sho and Yoarashi are totally pinned from Orca's sonar thingy attack, neither seeming able to move more than a few twitches. I wish I was down there to help, to get Sho on his feet, or at least keep Orca back from making another attack. But no, I'm here on the sidelines. Sure I'd passed, but now I'm just a bystander again. Dammit. But wait… What're they doing? Fire and wind combine, swirling into a tall tunnel of raging inferno. They're making the most of it, keeping the "villain" contained. I think that'll help their record, but not enough against the mistakes of earlier.

Shit… Has Sho failed? Seriously? Shoto Todoroki has failed an exam? It's not like he'll never have another chance, but he's not used to failing, so I'm not sure what to expect.

I sit forward, trying to see where everyone else is, when my back seizes and I grip the seat in front. Shit. That really hurt. I hold myself up a little earlier, but I hadn't expected this bad of a spasm. Dad is chatting to the funny hero woman, not noticing my rigid form. I try to sit back, but it's no use. I'm locked. Damn this stings. I take slow breaths, glad that the test is still going on at least. That buys me a little time. Come on spine, just calm down and loosen, just let me sit back and pretend to be tired. Please.

"Alex?" Dad's hand lands on my shoulder that tiny bit too heavily and I squeak as he shifts my position ever so slightly. The hand retracts. "Shit, did you bring any painkillers?"

I nod as my nails scrape against the seat, crackling against the plastic as I do my best to keep breathing. It feels like even my ribs are seizing up. My bag rustles and some pills are retrieved. But of course, I can barely suck in air, let alone swallow a pill.

The funny hero appears and puts her hands on the small of my back. "Totally locked up honey, can I try something that used to work for a pal of mine? Had a similar injury to yours, not quite so gung-ho but in the same vein."

"S-Sure." I whimper, willing to try anything at this point because any second the exam will end and my classmates might look up here to give a triumphant wave. I don't want them to see me like this. I'm meant to be better, recovered, past this nonsense.

Is it the ultimate move training? Could it be an after effect of that?

Pressure is applied and a small rubbing sensation, circles I think. Dad puts his hand on top of mine, but otherwise avoids drawing attention to us. Good thing he knows me so well. The muscles release. Holy shit. I flop back, quickly helped into a proper sitting position by the two of them. I gulp at the air and run my hand along my back, half expecting to feel exposed bone with the pain I felt slicing along my nerves.

"Here." Dad hands me the painkillers and I take them quickly, hoping my eyes would stop stinging. "You think it's just the strain from today?"

I nod. "It was my power surge earlier I think."

He didn't need to know about the weak feelings in the first section. It was probably just nerves. Nothing to worry about. Nothing.


The students gather in the main area for the results, most of our class passed (seriously, how did Mineta?), but I see neither Sho's name or Bakugo's on the screen. They both failed. With my painkillers having kicked in, I can manage to stand for this bit. I take Sho's hand, squeezing softly as the news sinks in. He draws in a deep breath and then squeezes my hand in return, looking to me with a small smile in place.

"It's not the end of the world. I… I fucked up by letting myself get distracted by that Yoarashi guy, and I'll learn from it."

I nod. "Of course you will, you're too brilliant to do anything else."

He gives a small huff of a laugh and looks down for a second, a tremor running through him. I'm so glad that he doesn't have to go home, we have the dorms now. The rage of Endeavour was hard to imagine. The shithead had no right, but that had never stopped him before.

"Todoroki!" Yoarashi yells, storming over and standing to attention.

I angle myself in front of Sho. "The fuck do you want you big fuc–"

Sho tugs me back. "Don't bite him."

"I won't unless he gives me damn reason." I grumble.

The guy stares for a long moment, long enough for me to know exactly where to pinch in order to make him drop like a sack of potatoes, covered in his own urine. But then he bows. Once again he smacks his head off the ground from doing it so hard and I find myself leaning away from the weirdly zealous display. This guy…

"I'm sorry!" He barks, still bent over. "It's my fault you didn't pass the licensing exam, my focus was too narrow-minded, forgive me."

Sho stares for a second, his eyes off to the side. There's something rumbling around in his mind, something I'll have to ask him about later. I refuse to let go of his hand though, wondering if this was about to lead to new walls going up. Or am I just being paranoid… again. It was a bad habit.

Sho takes a deep breath. "You're fine. I was the one who got us off to a bad start."

"But still…" Yoarashi chokes from the ground.

"And thanks to the things you said to me, I have a lot to think about."

Sho squeezes my hand again. Yeah, we'll talk when he's ready. After all, he's been amazing at letting me work through my stuff, the least I can do is the same for him. I'll be patient, and be there when he needs me, just like any other friend. I just so happen to have a couple extra means of cheering him up now–get your mind out of the gutter Alex.

The breakdowns of our results are passed out. I got eighty points, I assume points were deducted for abandoning what I was doing when the non-attack took place, and a couple wrong steps vocab wise before that. I'm still learning all right? A couple 'curses' might've slipped out. My bad. Iida gives me a knowing look and I stick out my tongue. A pass is a pass.

Bakugo looks ready to implode. Someone else I need to talk to… If I can. He looks ready to blow up the stadium, not chat with anyone.

"Anyway, moving forward." The announcer drones. "Those of you who passed may exercise the same authority as pro heroes, but only during emergency situations. In other words, fighting villains, saving the victims of criminal acts or accidents, you may act using your best judgement with no direct orders. Keep in mind that your every action from now on carries with it a deep responsibility towards bettering our society and that the world is watching."

I knew that was what we were aiming for, both at camp and now, but damn do his words just make it sink in. I am now on the path to being a full pro hero, I can save people without needing a pro nearby. I'll still want back-up and require it, but I can act alone. Shit. That's kinda scary.

I haven't let go of Sho's hand yet, and I tighten my grip again. He moves closer, slipping an arm round my waist instead. He's not holding me up in a literal sense, but I'm damn glad to have a safety net around right now. My heart is going mad.

The announcer continues. "I'm sure you're aware that All Might, our greatest Hero, no longer has his incredible power. One of the reasons crime in this country has been so low is due to his presence, with that deterrent gone criminals are sure to become bolder and more widespread."

My heart aches. I still need to talk to All Might, to seek his advice about visiting All For One, to talk to him about my dark intentions. Or what they had been, before Sho and Bakugo pulled my head out of my arse. How can I face him? The Number One Hero, who I helped destroy and now potentially continue to fail to uphold? Fuck.

Sho speaks into my ear. "Is it your back? You're trembling."

"M'fine." I nod, keeping my eyes fixed on the announcer.

He sighs into more of his speech. "Expect the balance we currently have in our world to be destroyed and for things to change quickly, you young people will be the hope for our future. It's imperative that you become exemplary heroes, that your reputations grow to suppress crime as did his. Remember, the license you earnt today is provisional and you still have much to do, I would like for you to think of yourselves as fledglings, and be even more diligent in your studies."

Still so much to do, to learn, to make up for. I draw a deep breath and try to steady my heart. All right, I can face All Might. Even if it's only to see what he thinks about all this; me visiting All for One in a couple of days time, as well as me having had murderous thoughts. Will he be disgusted? Will he understand? I have no idea. How can I? Shit, I hope he doesn't hate me, or worse, feel disappointed. Can I handle a disappointed All Might? Fuck. Then there's the issue of discussing my ongoing guilt. How do I even bring the subject up? Can I? Should I? Shit.

"And as for those who fell short, and did not pass–"

The announcer pulls me out of my panic, and I focus.

"We don't have time for you to feel bitter about your loss. Instead, we offer you a chance to redeem yourselves. After you attend a three month-long special course and pass an individual test, we plan to issue provisional license to those of you who failed as well."

Sho holds me closer and I squeak in surprise. He can retake the test, he can still get a license this year. Oh shit this is amazing. My heart can't keep up with this toing and froing between panic, fear and joy. If nothing else, it gives Sho a concrete goal to aim for in the aftermath. No room for overthinking–or at least a little less room.

The announcer holds his hands up. "We're going to need as many good heroes on the streets as we can get. The first round was one to weed people out, but we would like to grow the selected hundred in that test as much as possible, that's why we watched you all until the end, so we could see for ourselves that you each have promise, that once your shortcomings are corrected, you have the potential to be as great as your fellow classmates. This special course will keep you busy as it will run concurrently with your normal studies."

That's a lot of work, but I know Sho will handle it. And I'll do anything and everything I can in order to help him. Bakugo too. Sho is smiling softly and helps me to head back towards the buses with everyone else as the exam finally ends. On the way out, those of us who passed pick our official license cards.

As we walk, Sho is acting like a human crutch, but I have to wonder if he's holding this tightly more for himself than anything else. Either way, I don't mind, and it's helping me walk regardless.

He hums. "You were as amazing as expected."

"Sho, I nearly destroyed the arena with a panic attack."

He pinches my side. "Far from it. You panicked, sure, but withheld the fallout. You were focused, careful, you looked every bit the pro up there."

"R-Really?"

"Damn right," he sets me onto my feet as we leave the building, Dad stood nearby talking with the comedic woman. Sho keeps hold of my hand instead and we descend the stairs.

I keep turning over my licence in my hands. It looks so weird. But it's real. I did it, I qualified, I can help out if I stumble across an emergency, I don't have to be sidelined. I slip it into my purse and concentrate on getting back to the dorms with Sho at my side. I am going to sleep so well tonight.

"Hey! Hey!" Yoarashi comes charging over, waving, barely pausing as he yells. "Todoroki! I'll see you at the special course but here's the thing, honestly nothing's changed, I still don't like you. Sorry!"

Are you fucking kidding me? Sod this.

I lunge for the idiot, ready to rip his stupid hat off and shove it down his thick throat. Sho's arms wrap around me, holding me back as I wave my fists at the enthusiastic moron. "You god-damn pain in the arse. Get your fanboy fuckery back here you little–"

"That's all for now!" Yoarashi yells, fleeing to his school's bus like the jumped up coward he is. Okay no he's not a coward, but fuck it, I'm pissed off.

Kirishima tilts his head. "That was nice of him, I guess."

Sho shrugs, setting me down but not letting go. "We'll just make the best of it."

"Interesting." Aoyama practically purrs. "He is someone who is both bold and sensitive, I admire such–"

"Bold and sensitive? Fuck off, if anything he's stupid and twattish!"

Kirishima laughs. "Nah, Alex! Tell us what you really think, why don't you?"


Once we're back at the dorms, Sho says he's going to visit his mother and after that his siblings. But he'll be careful to dodge his father. I understand, he needs time to think. That's fine. I'll be ready and waiting when he comes back and needs me. So far things had felt pretty one sided in that area, me constantly needing him and him never needing me. Or am I just overthinking again? Mind you, if Endeavour kicks up a fuss, I'll happily step into the ring.

A text appears on my phone. Dad. I guess with the exam done with, it was time to properly discuss visiting All for One. To set a date. In order to do that, I had to speak with All Might. I'm tired after the exam, I can barely think of anything but my bed, but once I see Dad's message about All Might wanting to see us anyway, I know I have to rally. I sling on a big hoody over my casual clothes and head to the kitchen to make a flask of coffee, Dad meeting me there a few minutes later, car keys in hand.

"You good to do this now?" He leans on the counter as I tighten the flask top. "I could tell him it has to wait if you need some rest."

"I can handle sitting in a car and having a conversation in someone's flat." I chuckle, tapping the flask with my nails, glad I slipped a couple extra painkillers into my system before I left my room. They'd kick in before we reach All Might's apartment.

Dad leads the way to the car. "All right, but let me know if you need to bail. This is a lot, and you've already had a big day. A successful one," he adds with his classic grin, "but a tiring one."

"All right Dad, I'll let you know if I need a nap." I snort, sipping the coffee that had half cold water in it so I can drink it good and quick. Not only do I need to be awake for this, I don't wanna be scattered like a toddler who hasn't… well… had their nap. I need to be clear-headed. I need to face this. I also need to not break down into a whimpering puddle–that wasn't gonna help anyone's faith in me.

It takes about fifteen minutes to reach the right set of apartments, and a light rain has started to fall. I take the final sip of my coffee and pull my hood up. Show time.

We head up the single flight of stairs and wait outside an unassuming door. It's so normal. Either All Might is frugal as hell, or I'm about to get one hell of a wake up call on Pro Hero salaries.

I guess I should be calling him Toshinori now. I'll ask him what he prefers. Or did I already do that? For a while now he's just been All Might, like my mind can't accept that I have any familiarity with the man I helped diminish. Fuck you brain. Fuck you.

My life since Kamino, has been thrown into a disarray of recovery, rebuilding strength, defining new abilities and conquering exams, but I can't even imagine what his has been like. The whole world knows of his withered condition now. As exposed and vulnerable as I had felt when waking after the battle, I couldn't fathom what he must feel every day.

I knock and shift my weight from foot to foot.

The door opens and we're beckoned in by a large thin hand. I wipe my feet for the fiftieth time and head in, looking around the minimalist home and wishing it felt a little less like a hotel. I suppose he never had much time to personalise. No pictures, no art, nothing to say whose house it was other than him being stood awkwardly gesturing to the kitchen area where tea already steamed in cups.

Despite seeing his withered form casually loads of times in the Teacher's Lounge, this feels different. Is it because I know the other form no longer exists beyond a few seconds? Or because I caused that loss?

"Thank you both for coming. I hope it's not getting in the way of your remaining time off before School kicks off again."

I sit down on a stool, keeping my hands hidden as they start to shake. "Not at all, All Mi… What do you want to be called?"

"I thought we figured Toshinori a while back." He smiles kindly and hands me my tea. He remembered how I like it. I blow on it gently, my mind not grasping if we did or didn't agree on me having the honour of his real name. Had we? When had I earned that kind of respect? "Or was it a shortened version you chose?"

I sip my tea. "Toshi?"

He chuckles. "By all means. Congrats by the way, I hear you passed the exam, kiddo."

"Y-Yeah, not in an entirely traditional manner but I passed." I focus on the tea as Dad chuckles and fills Toshi in on the details. They're both laughing by the time the story is done.

Toshi snorts. "Orca will be very impressed no doubt, and no doubt you'll be getting some apologetic messages Aizawa. He'll hate to know he caused genuine upset. He's a surprisingly sensitive guy."

Dad drinks his tea. "Already done it, but I think I've talked him down. A little."

I clear my throat. "How're you feeling, Toshi? Arm out the cast and everything."

He looks down at it, and lays his other hand on top. "I'm doing well, yes. Recovery Girl was as careful with me as she was with you. Though with me, it was more an issue of draining my energy too much."

I sip my tea. His energy, his strength, spent on someone like me. Fuck. My head.

The clock above his cooker is really fucking loud.

He sets his tea down, one hand engulfing it entirely. Even in his withered form, he's a big guy. He frowns at the table. "I'm sorry if it was wrong to call Aizawa the other day, when I found out about All for One's demands."

"Uh… what?"

He shakes his head. "I can only imagine the position it put you in."

"I needed to know."

"You're just a child though, and recovering. I'm sorry, really. It's been going round my mind for days… There was no need to make you have to deal with such a choice."

"Yes there was." I look down as he looks up. "There could be vital information that he has, perhaps even details we could glean from the snippets he does say. It… It could really help. So many families are still lying destroyed because of him. It could really help."

"Yes but you don't have to–"

"Meddling where we don't have to is the essence of being a hero, right?" My voice thickens by the end and I bite my lip as it wobbles.

Dad's hand lands on my shoulder. "Alex? What's wrong?"

That night when the darkness nearly took me, Bakugo and Sho sat with me for a long time, we talked about it for hours. The darkness. The want to hurt. Fuck. Fuck, fuck fuck! Midoryia and Iida were kind enough not to linger when they returned from their jog, and saw us the three of us sat there. I couldn't move. I was so lost. I'd genuinely wanted to commit murder.

I'm tempted to not say anything, but I can't lie to Toshi and my Dad. I have to confess.

Dad leans closer. "Hey, like I said we can just–"

"No." I put the tea down before I end up dropping it. "I-It isn't seeing him. It's… It's what I wanted to do. I have… Shit, I have to tell you, because if I don't, it's gonna eat me from the inside out."

The room goes silent, other than the hammering of my heart and that damn clock.

I suck in a shaky breath. "I considered going so I could… k… k-ki–" I grit my teeth, "kill him."

Silence sits between us for a minute.

I think my head's going to explode when they both release a heavy sigh.

Toshi leans on the counter. "With your power it would be very simple."

That, I hadn't seen coming. Agreement.

I keep my eyes fixed on my abandoned tea.

He hums. "You used past tense, right? Meaning you're no longer thinking of that as a plan? "

I nod. "I-I know it's wrong. I know it's not something a hero should do or even thi–"

"Your power would make it as easy as opening a door. Which is why you deciding against it, is all the more admirable."

I shiver. "I… Sho and Bakugo talked me back round. They… They calmed me down."

"Brave boys." Dad chuckles and I nearly join in before a sob catches in my throat.

I put a hand over my mouth and clench my eyes closed. Relief. They don't hate me, they don't even seem phased. It's like this is normal. Is it? Dad had mentioned his own dalliances with darkness, but to think of someone like Toshinori, of All Might, thinking like that? It's madness.

Dad pulls me into a hug. "Like I said kid, the darkness is always there to tempt us, yeah? It's a decision me and Yagi here have wrestled with many times. But it's what the villains would want. It's what he would want."

"I know. I… I do know that. I like to think I'd have gotten myself out of that mindset on my own… eventually." I sniff and the two men chuckle. It rumbles through me like thunder. I don't think that'll ever change, and it's incredibly comforting. "I'll-I'll go and see All for One, but only to find out what nonsense he wants to say, in order to let the police get on with their work. I'll go to talk, not to harm."

Toshinori grows still. "Are you sure?"

"Yes. Or else he's going to become the monster under my bed. And I don't want to give him that kind of power."

"You're so brave." Toshi lays his head down and sighs. "These kids are astounding Aizawa."

"Tell me about it." Dad hums, ruffling my hair. "I can barely keep up."

I hug Dad tighter. "Don't go and get all sappy on me just because I got a bit antsy."

"Wouldn't dream of it." They say in unison, rolling their eyes at me.

I want to bring up the guilt, but I also don't want to push my luck. We just established I was being foolish for fearing one confession, I dunno that my pride can handle another being swatted away so easily. Then again, maybe I need that? No… I had already discarded the dark thoughts. The guilt still clings tightly. I need more time.

I sit back on my stool and hug my knees. "So… when should I go see him?"

"After your Birthday." Toshi nods, and I frown. He tilts his head. "It's tomorrow isn't it?"

I blink. "Oh… Sh-Shit you're right." I shake my head. "But surely the sooner I see him, the better?"

Toshi clicks his tongue. "C'mon, there's no way I'm risking your sixteenth birthday being spoiled by any of his tainted words. Not a chance. Enjoy your day, and we can visit that Villainous the day following. All right?"

"I… I guess."

The police must be so annoyed though…

A small parcel appears on the counter, sliding over to me. It's wrapped in black paper with constellations all over it. I stare. My cheeks grow warm. Has Toshinori got me a present?

He laughs. "Didn't think I'd forgotten, did you?"

"Uh… No, but I–"

"Sixteen going on seventy with that cynicism, but still, something to celebrate."

I stare at the parcel, the glittery paper and the silver bow. It's beautiful, and I don't even know what's inside. I sniff and uncurl a little.

He chuckles. "No opening it till tomorrow."

"Of… Of course."

Dad hums. "I think you broke her, Toshinori."

"Sorry, Aizawa, not my intention. Earth to Alex?"

I blink and take the parcel, looking down at it. How can he give me things when I took so much from him? I suck in a breath. "Th-Thank you so much, Toshi."

"Hold the thanks till you see what it is, who knows, you might hate it."

"I doubt it." I laugh and sniff, tears rolling off the end of my nose. "Sorry, I'm being so silly."

"Nah." Dad slings an arm round my shoulder. "But you could probably do with that nap."

I did manage to set the parcel down before rugby tackling him with intensive tickles.

Just.


DUN DUN DUUUUN! So she passed, Sho failed, and she hates Yoarashi lol. Gotta admit, that is something I agree with Alex on, the guy drives me nuts. Hope you all enjoyed! Thanks to everyone that has faved, followed and left a review. I LOOOVE responding to those, it's so awesome to have an actual dialogue with readers! Shoutouts below! Cheers everyone, and see you in a week or so for the next update ^-^ never fear though, if I go over the week mark, I certainly wouldn't go over the two week mark without explanation! See ya soon!

SHOUTOUTS:

zikashigaku: As much as I love writing a slow burn, I also love writing an established couple. I love it. So yeah, Sho and Alex are kinda cute when they have their moments together, but I hope it still feels genuine to Sho's character at the same time. And yeah, to my mind, with Sho and Bakugo it makes sense that via Alex their bond would carry on a lot quicker than it does canon wise. Haha yeah I loved writing the teasing Aizawa scene, that was great fun. A last minute addition actually, so I'm glad it worked for you. I hope her sassiness, whilst a little reduced due to the situation and reaction to the test set up, was still okay for you. To my mind, when I saw that episode of the anime, I was gobsmacked. Class 1A have had TWO school events totally trashed by villain attack, and THAT'S what you put in their exam? I know they don't wanna coddle the kids, but bloody hell. So to my mind, considering how jumpy Alex has been, her reaction would by "not today Satan" and that's that haha. Hope it was still good fun for you, even if not what you expected!