This chapter was an interesting test of endurance for me.

I had initially planned for this chapter to be a "half-chapter," but I found that I needed to cover just one last key thing before we started the main event of this arc. However, things don't always go as planned, and adjustments must be made. As I said, while this story is primarily planned from beginning to end. I do allow myself some wiggle room to account for new variables or when new unforeseen developments that simply occur organically.

I mentioned before that one of the most critical parts of this arc is that it serves as the halfway point of the whole first saga. I'm basically done adding mysteries, and we are now in the revelations and piecing together phase of the current storyline. This also means a return to the focus of our main protagonists.

I have more to say, but I think I will save that for the commentary.

For now, please enjoy this new chapter.

My Hero Academia Untold: The Fafnir Knight (Remastered Edition)

Saga I: Dusk

Arc III: The Sports Festival

Chapter XXXVIII: Farewells Are Not Forever

"The only reason I am happy saying goodbye is that I know that life will find a way to bring us back together again. Farewell."

– Anonymous

"I see...I was afraid of this happening," said Ingenium as he sorted through his daily report. While his First Kick, Onemu Shinya summarized the concerns of the rest of the Idaten side-kicks.

"Indeed, sir," Onemu, the sheep-themed hero, said with a light yawn. "Between continued requests for vacations being denied and having to work additional overtime to cover both Idaten and Endeavor's agency sick days. We're all starting to feel the burn, sir."

"I understand," said Ingenium with a guilty look on his face, hidden behind his helmet. "I knew this was bound to happen if things didn't change soon."

"If I'm being honest, sir," Onemu continued as she adjusted her stance by folding her arms. "We still haven't been informed why we must do all of this additional work. It doesn't help that some of these joint patrols don't make sense. The ones with Endeavor, Ryūkyū, and other high-ranking agencies are always welcomed. However, why the joint patrols with, say, Manual, for example? Especially all the way in Hosu? It's odd no matter how you slice it."

Tensei removed his helmet to look at the woman who had been with his family's agency since the time of his father. It was Onemu who helped him grow as a leader and whom he trusted to understand why he wouldn't make this stressful decision without merit. Still, he owed her and the rest of his sidekicks some kind of explanation.

"I cannot give you all of the details," Tensei began as he sat up straight and placed his hands in front of his chin. "However, the truth is that all of the high-ranking agencies we've been working with for the last few years have been working on a very secret case."

"If I could, I would have shared the details with everyone from the beginning," Tensei added after seeing that Onemu wanted to interject. "However, this case is top-secret for a reason."

Onemu closed her eyes, making it look like she had fallen asleep standing up. However, Tensei knew this was just her way of thinking or processing the details.

"That doesn't explain the joint patrols with lower ranking agencies," Omenu spoke up, still looking like she was asleep and even swaying a bit. "Or the fact that we've only been doing the overtime for the past few months..."

Tensei couldn't help but smile as she saw Onemu's eyes snap wide open.

"The case has escalated, hasn't it? And it involves some of the Pros associated with those agencies."

"Correct," Tensei answered with an approving nod, yet his face grew dark. "Manual isn't a partner, per sé. Well, officially, he is one of our joint-patrol partners. Unofficially, he's a critical witness in our investigation that now we believe will be a potential target for Stain to silence him."

"Goodness...and the other four lower ranked Pro-Heroes are in the same boat?"

Tensei simply nodded again as his answer.

Onemu closed her eyes again; however, Tensei's phone began to ring before she could respond.

"Excuse me," said Tensei to his Top Kick as he checked the caller ID.

Hajime Tanaka

Tensei didn't even try to wait; he had been waiting for this call for over a week.

"Hello?"

"Forgive my late response, sir," said the voice of Hajime Tanaka, sounding tired.

'Tanaka!' Tensei felt instant relief upon hearing his police contact's voice. Still, he couldn't keep Onemu waiting. "Hold on for just one moment, Detective."

"Shinya," Tensei followed up to his Top Kick as he covered the bottom part of his phone. "I'm sorry, but this is an urgent call. I swear, I will explain more to you soon."

He lifted the phone slightly.

"This might just be the call I've been waiting for us to make our next move. With any luck, we might be able to cut down on the overtime."

Onemu rightfully narrowed her eyes but ultimately acquiesced to her employer's request with a short bow.

"Very well, but I will hold you to your word, Ingenium Mk. III."

'Oooh yeah, she's mad,' Tensei thought with an awkwardly painful smile as he watched Onemu exit his office.

"Apologies, Tanaka," Tensei said, returning to his call after quickly clearing his throat. "So, first things first. What happened? And forgive me if this sounds rude, but what took you so long?"

"Many things, sir," Hajime answered calmly. "The first being my injuries from the attempt on my life."

"Wh-What?"

"Indeed, when we were attacked, I ended up getting a concussion and was rescued by the others on my fire team," Hajime explained as Tensei began taking notes. "I need to ask, how many Noumu's did you read that were said to be present for the attack?"

"One," said Tensei, looking confused but also processing the terrifying fact that there still had to be a mole within the police that knows Hajime is involved in the investigation.

"There were, in fact: two, a second skinnier one with some kind of camouflage quirk," Hajime corrected before clearing his throat. "It directly sought me out and attacked me. Fortunately, my subordinate, Nishimoto, was able to rescue me before it could kill me."

"Well, I'm glad to hear that you're okay," Tensei sighed with relief.

"Indeed, this brings me to the why I've only now been given the green light to call you," Hajime continued after drinking something. "Tomorrow, Internal Affairs will be releasing a doctored report. And among the many details, it will include the arrest of our suspected mole; it will also report that I was Killed-In-Action."

"A cover-up for the attempt on your life," Tensei surmised as he jolted this down in his notes.

"Correct, now, I had to confess some details to the acting Chief-Superintendent," said Hajime, adding some additional details quickly. "Nothing to tie you or others directly in the investigation. But enough to still give him enough details to place me under a temporary new name. I was then transferred to his Headquarters in Hosu."

"I see," Tensei commented as he noted to look further into Chief Tsuragamae and see if he could be a possible ally.

"Now, I have good news and even better news, sir," Hajime answered with a yawn. "I found a lot of evidence in Hosu...it covers most of the blanks and lets us have a lead on several other avenues into our case."

Tensei could have jumped out of his seat in joy upon hearing those words. "Is there anything you can tell me now?"

"I can say this...when you have the chance, speak to Ryūkyū regarding her...relative," Hajime answered with a cough. "I might be cleared to speak, but you never know who is possibly listening in."

Tensei could feel his heart sink.

He had only recently begun to develop a personal theory regarding the possible origins of Hisashi Kasei. The fact that Hajime was almost telling him that he was on the right track, only made him warier about asking Ryūkyū what could be some rather personal family issues. The young Pro-Hero was hesitant to write it down out of fear that his father-in-law could push the subject with far less tact, not just with Ryūkyū, but with Inko as well.

"Understood," said Tensei suppressing a tired sigh and making a mental note to finally call a private meeting with Ryūkyū at their earliest opportunity. "So, what about the better news?"

"We have reason to believe that Stain will be moving towards Hosu soon," Hajime began, only to stop Tensei from interjecting. "Even I'm not sure how they know this, as I have only recently been added to a new task force that was formed here to apprehend him. But from what I've gathered, they seemed confident enough to start formulating a plan to capture him. I'm hoping you can join us so we cannot only remove Stain from the board, but I will also be able to hand off all of the evidence I collected for you."

'It seems like the Acting Chief-Superintendent is trying to use this time to impress the Commissioner General and the rest of the Police Commission to permanently replace Douemki,' Tensei pieced together. This could be a problem considering that the investigation wanted their man, Kaoru Kiriyūin, to take the top job. On the other hand, Tensei was simply ecstatic about the second half of the update. 'This is good news! We can refocus our resources on Hosu and ease off on the team-ups with the other Pros! If we can capture Stain, I could end the overtime deadlock and get the chance to collect Tanaka's evidence without raising suspicion!'

"Do we have a potential timeline?" Tensei followed up as he began looking over the combined schedules for his agency and his father-in-law's.

'Nothing solid, but the leadership has already mentioned potentially using the UA Sport's Festival as the time to try and bait Stain for the trap.'

"Makes sense; even criminal activity in general drops during the festival," Tensei sighed. He had hoped to watch the festival and properly celebrate Hikari's birthday in a couple of days. 'That might be the best time to try and catch Stain.'

"I'll try to make sure you get priority for being the Hero-in-Command of this operation," Hajime offered with a slight cough. "It's the least I can do for you to compensate for my longer than expected absence."

"I greatly appreciate your efforts, Tanaka," Tensei said as sincerely as he could. "I'm beyond relieved to hear that you're doing well."

"Not a problem, sir," Hajime replied slightly more jovially. "At the very least, I have finally managed to get some decent sleep. I will keep you posted, and if all goes well, you should receive an official request from the Police Hosu very soon. Until then, stay vigilant, sir."

"Understood, thank you, my friend," Tensei answered, bowing his head slightly. "Take care."

With that, Tensei hung up in a much better mood. Not only did the investigation have a new lead in the Stain. But will soon have new leads for the Draco Knight case! Best of all, he could re-organize their agencies to give their sidekicks some much-needed rest. As they begin shifting their focus on Hosu.

"Better let Shinya know about this..."

"Alright, how's everything coming along?" Mirio asked his friends/co-conspirators as they were finishing with the final touches for Alex's goodbye party. School was almost over, and the party would begin shortly afterward. Thankfully, between his team and a surprising amount of support, they were getting from not just the third-year non-hero course students, but most of the students from Classes 1-A and 1-B. Mirio was pleased that they had enough people to make Alex feel supported on his final day here.

"Alex is currently being distracted by the staff," Nejire was the first to answer with a broad, bouncy smile. "Right now, he should be with Midnight and Vlad King, sorting through their classes' latest training results. But I know they're making sure to stretch it out for as long as possible. Lunch Rush and his kitchen helpers have already finished prepping, waiting for the signal to start cooking."

"Great!" Mirio said enthusiastically. "We actually might be finished ahead of time! What about the decorations?"

"We have Shinobima* and Haya* leading the decoration team with the Business and General course guys," Tamaki answered with a shy smile. "Shinobima used to live in America for a couple years when she was younger, so we think she knows what she's doing."

"Ah, I knew Haya was helping out, but I didn't expect Shinobima to hop on board," Mirio commented with a surprised look. Unfortunately for the four remaining members of the Big Five, most of the third-year Hero Course were actually happy about Alex's departure for the lack of a better term. Many saw Alex's exit from UA as their chance to move into the now unoccupied Fifth Seat.

It was simply the competitive nature of the Hero Course.

They were happy when the young American moved up the ranks and joined the Hero Course. However, most weren't happy when that same latecomer ended up surpassing most of them to take the Fifth seat in the Big Five. Thankfully, Yuyu Haya was among one of a handful of the third-years who never seemed angry or spiteful toward Alex's personal achievements. However, Saguri Shinobima was always a bit of an oddball, while ultimately disappointed when Alex had achieved his place among the Big Five. It always seemed more as if she was disappointed in herself as supposed to the commonly held a grudge against their American friend. With any luck, her assistance for Alex's party would be priceless.

"What about our juniors?"

"Most of them have brought gifts. While a few others have invited extended family members who are fans of Alex from his time on Animal Buddies," Mezou answered promptly with a firm nod. "While we have his trainees on standby who'll guide him to the cafeteria when they get the signal."

"So far, so good," said Mirio, pleased that everything seemed to be going as planned. "I've already called his cousin; she's bringing the cake. Is there anything else we need to go over that we may have missed before we head out?"

"Nothing that comes to mind," Mezou answered with a shake of his head, with Tamaki nodding in agreement. However, Nejire sported a rare expression, looking as if she was deep in thought.

"There is one thing, but I would rather bring it up privately," Nejire finally spoke up while giving Mezou and Tamaki a knowing look. The Second and Fourth Seats of the Big Five looked at each before nodding and getting up from their seats. Once Mirio and Nejire were left alone, she pulled out her smartphone to show Mirio some of the...gifts that had been set up for Alex. "So, while some people brought gifts for Alex. Few of them seemed to be prank gifts meant to ruin the party."

Mirio sighed while Nejire rested her head on his shoulder and gently held his hand. Of course, even though they had made a pretty thorough blacklist of those who had either shown glee at Alex's departure. Or animosity towards Alex because of the trumped-up charges against him. Some still wanted to spoil Alex's final day here with malicious prank items. However, Mirio was determined to ensure that no one would ruin this day.

"Thankfully, we got lucky when one of the prank gifts went off early. So I already had some of Alex's friends from the Business Course on it," Nejire answered with a serene smile. "They've already found most of the bad ones and re-wrapped the good ones."

"Wait...then why did you want to speak with me?" Mirio asked while taking a moment to stroke Nejire's soft, bouncy hair.

"Just wanted a moment alone with you," Nejire sighed while cycling through a couple more pictures on her phone. "Plus, I wanted to show you something adorable. It's one of Alex's good gifts."

"What is it?" Mirio asked curiously as he watched his girlfriend continue going through more of the photos.

"The shared gift that Class 1-A and 1-B are giving him," Nejire answered as she found the photo she had been looking for. It featured the smiling duo with Eri, holding on to a wooden case that held Alex's gift. Mirio's eyebrows went up as he leaned closer to the picture to see the gift in more detail. "Apparently, it was Midoriya and Uraraka's idea."

"Oh wow...how did they get that made on such short notice?" Mirio questioned as he wondered how just an elegant piece could be made so quickly.

"From what I gathered, they had their Class President make it with her quirk," Nejire explained with a giggle as she showed him the text she had gotten from Ochako. "I found it really sweet how they came up with the idea."

"It's so cool, but kind of cheesy...perfect for Alex," Mirio said with a broad smile as he finished reading Ochako's text. "Can't wait to see his reaction. Also...are Midoriya and Uraraka dating? They seem really close to each other, especially since they seem to be acting as parents for Eri."

"I don't think they are...yet," Nejire answered with another giggle. "But I feel it won't be long before UA has another couple in the Hero Course."

"I wonder if Alex has them in his book of ships yet?" Mirio wondered with a hearty laugh.

"Oh definitely," Nejire answered with a grin. "And they're not the only ones. Alex said he saw a lot of possible romance in the air with our freshman this year."

"Really? You talked with him about it?"

"Yep! You know how Alex is about romance! You remember when he and I were completely hooked on that soap opera last year?"

"Was it the one about the wife who left her quirk-marriage arranged husband for someone who actually loved her? Or was it one about the Pro-Hero and his secret villain girlfriend?"

"The latter, now I was sad with how it ended," Nejire answered with a nostalgic smile. "But Alex was just heartbroken for like a week!"

"Oh, right! I think he even got an autograph from the two lead actors when he was filming an episode of Animal Buddies, right?"

"Yep, I was so jealous of him when he showed it to me!" Nejire followed with an exaggerated puff-up of her cheeks that Mirio simply found adorable. "Anyway, we'll have to see if Alex is right about our juniors."

"Personally, I think it's a little early, but then again. I think Alex almost seems to have some kind of sixth sense about things like this," Mirio commented. As he remembered when he had asked the man himself when he had decided to ask out Nejire. He was about to ask for more details on who Alex was currently shipping in both freshmen classes, only for the final bell to ring. "Ah...nuts..."

Nejire giggled before giving her boyfriend a peck on the cheek.

"It's alright, come on! Let's get the party started!"

Alex looked out the window as he watched most of the student body departing campus. Today was his last day in Japan; tomorrow, he would set out to I-Island and begin his new career path. Of course, that didn't make it any less painful that these would be his final moments to walk these halls after doing everything possible to get here. All those years of studying and training. All for the sake of coming here to study and become a Pro-Hero.

"I wanted to thank you again for all of your help, Springfield," said Midnight as she appeared from the American's right-hand side.

"Not at all, Ms. Midnight," Alex answered as his glowing blue eyes turned to look at the afternoon sun. "I'm happy to help. It's not hard to see that both your classes have so much potential, and I would like nothing more to continue to see them all go beyond their current limits."

"But wasn't giving them your contact information a little much?"

"Not at all!" Alex responded with a wide grin. "Considering that I already have students from both classes asking for advice about subjects outside the classroom. I think having a reliable third-party, they can confide in, especially since I won't judge them like others might do thanks to cultural differences."

"Ah..." Midnight nodded in agreement, while Japanese society had changed significantly since the start of the Quirk Era. There were still plenty of growing pains that society hadn't wholly accepted, such as issues with mental health and xenophobia. "Well, I'm happy to know that our students will have as many resources as possible. Oh...and you would look at that, looks of your fans have come to see you off."

Alex turned to see what Midnight was looking at and found his two former trainees nearby.

"I'll just leave the three of you alone. Best of luck, Springfield!"

"Thanks," Alex said to the departing Midnight before facing his young companions. "Hey guys, how have you been?"

"Well enough," Hitoshi answered for the two of them before looking outside the window. "Enjoying the view one last time?"

"Yeah," Alex answered with a sad smile as he looked back outside. "I'd be lying if I said I wanted to leave as soon as possible. I had been looking forward to returning home, but I wanted to return as a Hero, not a loser."

"You are a hero," Reiko automatically corrected him with a stern expression. "And anyone who says otherwise is wrong."

"That includes yourself," Hitoshi followed up tersely. "You might not be leaving as a Pro, but you're far from a loser. We would have never let a loser teach us."

"Nor would a loser be able to teach us so efficiently. We stand ready with the intention to win the whole Sports Festival," Reiko added on with a surprisingly firm voice. "Using everything we learned from you."

"Heh, yeah, you're right," Alex responded with a slight nod, as he managed to avoid tearing up out of pride. "I guess I just needed to be reminded about the truth. So...what's the plan for after school today? Got a bit of training lined up?"

"We do," Hitoshi answered confidently. "But first we wanted...to not only say good-bye, but we also wanted to give you something too."

"Oh...guys, you didn't have to get me anything," Alex started up awkwardly as Reiko pulled out her phone, ready with their gift.

"It's not a physical gift," Reiko followed as she showed Alex the photo on her phone. "But it's to remind everyone that while you might not be here anymore. Your legacy will still live on here."

"My legacy? What are you talking abou—Oh," Alex was left confused by what Reiko meant as he looked at the photo, then it clicked as tears instantly formed in his eyes. The photo was of the two in their now properly fitted costumes. However, an apparent new addition was added after the prototype phase. A familiar insignia had been integrated into both their costumes. Of a stylized blue eye in the form of a patch was now mounted on Hitoshi's left shoulder sleeve of his costume. While Reiko's costume had Alex's insignia embroidered in dark purple right over her heart, it blended well with her current color scheme.

Alex didn't even try to hold back the tears this time.

"Yo-you, you gu-ys didn't ha-have to-do th-is," Alex managed to say between the tears and a wobbly smile.

"We wanted to," Reiko said firmly with a rare soft smile. "As a thank you for everything."

"We also wanted to give a middle finger to all of the guys who had been treating you like shit recently," Hitoshi followed with a smug smile. They had heard all the hushed whispers and laughter behind their mentor's back. "We're the underdogs with only a few people on our corner. So we want to show everyone at the festival what we can really do, just like you did before us."

Alex managed to laugh between wiping away the tears, heart filled with pride as he handed Reiko back her phone.

'I raised them right!'

"So what next for you, Springfield?" Hitoshi asked, seeing his opening. "You never told us where you were going once you got home?"

"Heh, I-," Alex started to answer, only for his expression to become blank as Hitoshi activated his quirk.

"Nice one," Reiko quietly praised as she put away her phone. "Like he taught us, lower our opponent's guard and strike."

"Yeah," Hitoshi said with a nod as he looked at his silent mentor. "Before we take him to the party, there is one last thing we have to do..."

"Open your arms wide," Hitoshi ordered Alex. The American did as he was bid, only stopping when Hitoshi requested. The two silent first years looked at each other and nodded. The Liaisons then moved and gave their mentor a double hug after ensuring the coast was clear. However, they missed the camera connected to the teacher's lounge installed after the USJ invasion. Midnight was watching the rather sweet scene with tears in her eyes.

The two were careful not to bump their mentor too hard as they gave him a rare display of physical affection. Something they would have never been able to do if he had been conscious but could do it between themselves. Finally, with a few silent words shared between them, the two let go and gently took hold of each of their mentor's arms.

It was time to take him to his party.

"Follow us," said Hitoshi as he gave his final order.

"Surprise!"

Alex nearly jumped out of his skin as he was greeted aloud by everyone in UA's cafeteria as he was suddenly awoken from Hitoshi's influence upon being greeted by everyone. The room had been entirely transformed by the rearrangement of the tables and the several widely American-themed decorations. The tables were laden with several American classics that Lunch Rush and his helpers had worked hard to make just right. The American flag had been mounted alongside a Japanese one at both entrances, followed by a banner containing several messages for their guest of honor.

Good Luck, Alex! Until we see you again! Remember to always go Plus Ultra!

"Holy crap!" Alex managed to wheeze out in a mixture of shock, laughter, and happy tears. It was led, of course, by his friends and his cousin Lucy, who were standing in front of him and were all quick to embrace him. Meanwhile, Hitoshi and Reiko silently managed to make their way to their own table. "I can't believe you guys would go to all of the trouble to do this for me!"

"Of course, we would," Mirio responded with a wide grin as he handed Alex a currently turned-off microphone. "You're heading off to your next big adventure! It's only right that we see you off in the best way possible!"

"It wasn't any trouble at all, Alex!" Nejire followed up with her typically bouncy smile. "We were happy to make your last day here the best it could be!"

"We wanted to show you that despite all that happened, you still have friends here," Mezou stated with a hidden smile.

"And that you'll always be one of us, no matter what," Tamaki managed to speak up.

"Now, come on! Your audience awaits you, Alex!" Lucy said with a shit-eating grin as they all let go and allowed Alex to address his guests.

'I guess I've truly been blessed, haven't I?' Alex realized as he wiped the tears from his eyes and stepped forward as he turned on the microphone. He paused to collect his thoughts and take in the view as all eyes were on him. Alex could see several friends, old and new, across all four courses that were here to honor him today. Along with most of the UA Pro-Hero staff that were also standing by as both security and guests. He even spotted a few kids sitting at a table with their guardians that he suspected may have been for the younger siblings of some of his guests.

Judging by the appearance of some of the children sitting next to Eri.

"Well, even after all of the time, UA still finds ways to surprise me," Alex started off he wiped the remaining tears from his eyes while the microphone amplified his voice. The smell of all of the tasty food only served to make his belly rumble with anticipation. So, his first priority was a basic courtesy for all his guests. "Now, anyone who knows me well enough knows how much I love to talk."

"Nooo, ya don't say!" Called out a boy sitting at the third-year General Studies table with a laughing grin, making almost everyone in the room laugh.

"I see you, Akagi; you ain't slick," Alex responded with a chuckle as he shot his friend a knowing glance. Feeling his inner showman coming forth, Alex decided that some playful ribbing was in order. "Now, it would be an absolute shame for all of this delicious food to get cold! So, I'll start by thanking Lunch Rush and his assistants for making some of my favorites. At least, I will assume that's what happened since I don't trust Lucy to make toast without setting her house on fire."

"Love you, too, Alex," Lucy called back in English. Having taken a seat at a long table with the Big Five while making Alex and anyone else who spoke the language laugh.

"So, let's eat first, and then I'll make my ego-filled speech for everyone," Alex proclaimed as he made his way to the empty seat next to his cousin. "Dig in, everyone!"

"Here, here! Thanks for the food!" Everyone familiar with the expression exclaimed as they began eating.

Anyone unaccustomed to American barbecue found themselves pleasantly surprised not just by the variety of dishes available. But the fact that they included unique American-Japan fusion dishes. Burgers, hot dogs, briskets, chicken legs, and ribs were accompanied by various Japanese sauces and side dishes. Of course, there were also a handful of unique dishes to account for those with dietary restrictions.

As the party continued, many guests took a chance to go up while Alex ate to greet him personally.

This included a rather fun time taking photos with his friends and juniors. While also gave autographs to the younger guests who had visited him. The first set to go up was Tsuyu with her young brother and sister, that arrived with a somewhat embarrassed-looking Fumikage. Who, as it turns out, was actually a big fan of Animal buddies after seeing an episode about ravens online. They were followed shortly by a trio of siblings led by a pale-looking Ryu Kasei, who was also accompanied by Minoru, Denki, and Kyouka, assisting him tonight.

While Alex enjoyed his time with his younger guests. He couldn't help but be biased when Eri came up with her surrogate parents as she also wanted to introduce him to her new friends. Hikari Iida and Kouta Izumi; the former was accompanied by Tenya Iida and Shouto Todoroki. While the latter, to his surprise, was accompanied by a familiar-looking brunette woman and Eraserhead of all people!

"Alright, here you go, guys," said Alex as he handed each of a trio an autograph. "I'll keep an eye out if you guys are ever on the show again!"

"Thank you!" The young trio said in unison as they bowed their heads alongside their guardians.

"No, thank you all for coming," Alex said humbly as he even rose from his seat to bow as low as he could. It didn't matter if they were just children. They were all worthy of being spoken to with the same courtesy as he would an adult. "It means the world to me."

When the food was finished, and most of his guests were re-seated. Alex returned to the stage with a microphone on hand. It was time for a few -read many humble words he needed to speak to everyone here. This time, Alex took his time not only to look at his guests again but to allow the remaining stragglers to return to their seats.

"Well, now that we have all been fed," Alex started with his practiced showroom smile. "I'd like to start again by thanking every single one of you for not only coming. But reminding me that despite everything that's happened, it was all worth it."

Alex again bowed as low as he could, trying to express his deepest gratitude to every single soul in the room.

Despite his public demeanor for the past month, Alex would have been lying if he said that he still wasn't filled with a sense of bitterness and resentment. He had put up a brave front to endure the jeers and whispers here and online. However, it always hurt to be reminded of everything that had been stripped away from him. Despite all the work he had put in. Yet, here was proof that not everything he had worked for had not been in vain. Alex had made countless friends and met amazing people. He had trained and studied with some of the most skilled and talented individuals one could ever meet. Of course, he had also been helping teach the next generation of very promising Pro-Heroes. They could all easily surpass him if they worked hard enough one day.

This was all Alex needed to confirm that every drop of effort was still worth it, that he could leave these grounds with his head held high.

"While my journey here has come to a premature end," Alex continued as he stood straight and took a few steps forward. "I will never forget the things I've learned and the bonds I've forged. The absolute privilege I've had coming to this amazing place and having the chance to meet everyone. To my friends in General Studies, thank you for putting up with me during our first year. I know I was more than a handful, especially before I got my accent figured out."

"Worth it!" Akagi called out again as cheers rang out from the third-year General studies table.

"To my friends in the Business and Support Course. I'm so sorry for everything I made you guys do when I was a Liaison," Alex paused as if he had to think about something and then nodded to himself. "And again, when I was in the Hero Course."

"Hey, we're always down to blow stuff up!"

"Making that tank was fun!"

"American Marketing was fun to learn! We'll call that a fair trade!"

"To my friends in the third year Hero Course...at least the ones that showed up," Alex added with a laugh to ease the uncomfortable looks. "Especially my fellows in the Big Five, thanks for not only organizing this whole thing. But for all the help you've given me during my time in the Hero Course."

"You still owe 2000 yen, Springfield!" Yuyu called out as she raised her glass.

"We'll settle accounts in a bit, Haya. But I still maintain that the jury was rigged! I rocked that dress well!" Alex answered with a grin while several of the third years burst into heavy fits of laughter. "I shaved, did my nails, did the makeup, and even got a decent wig, no lie!"

"Anyways, moving on from our one-time drag show," Alex quickly carried on to the confusion of those, not in the loop of last year's cultural festival events. "To my teachers. Who range from kind...to a little scary...No, I meant you, Ms. Kayama, not Mr. Aizawa."

Now it was almost everyone else's turn to laugh as Midnight went from picking on Eraserhead to crossing her arms with a huff of faux indignation.

"Yeah, Mr. Aizawa's harsh, but I never needed therapy dealing with him. Anyways, regardless, you are all wonderful instructors. While I may no longer attend these halls, I will always consider all of you to still be my teachers. And I hope you will always consider me your humble student."

The teachers who had remained in the room toasted the guest of honor. Midnight, however, who quickly recovered from Alex's earlier comment, whispered something to Eraserhead that made his female guest stifle a laugh. While Principal Nezu simply nodded along, enjoying the tea provided with a few slices of western cheeses on his plate.

"To all of my juniors. Whom I've recently had the absolute pleasure to help mentor recently," Alex's eyes primarily focused on the smiling faces of those in Class 1-A and 1-B that attended today's festivities. They stopped when he spotted Hitoshi and Reiko sitting at their own private table. "Though our paths may differ, always know that I will always be in your corner. I've given many of you my contact info. If you ever need a bit of help, know that I will do my best to assist. I might no longer be your senior, but I hope now to be more of an older brother or a friend. Ready with words of wisdom and an ear of understanding."

Alex paused to clear his throat as he could feel it almost break during the last line.

"Remember that you all have so much potential, and I say that will complete honesty after seeing all of your growth since we first met. I was reminded to keep my ego in check. I was occasionally humbled by clever displays and sheer tenacity found in many of you. Never stop, keep going strong, and if I may be so bold. I'll finish off this little speech with our school's beloved motto."

Alex motioned everyone to follow along with a countdown with his fingers.

3,2,1

"PLUS ULTRA!"

Most of the guests had left as the party began to wrap up.

It was time for Alex to be given several gifts that a handful of his guests had come with. Thankfully, most of these tended to be farewell cards filled with kind words or tasty snacks that Alex had grown quite fond of during his time here. However, it all came to a head when Izuku and Ochako approached him. Those from first-year classes and their liaisons who attended followed shortly behind them.

The Big Five, Lucy and Kiyoko Mikami, who had been informed ahead of time of their plans, ready their cameras for the special moment.

"Whoa, guys..." Alex said wide-eyed, surprised by the rather expensive-looking gift. "I hope you didn't spend a lot on that!"

"We didn't spend a single yen on it," Izuku explained with a nervous laugh. "Well, unless you count the money we spent on buying snacks for Yaoyorozu to make most of it. While Satou and Mori had a friend from the first year general studies course to make the box with a quirk that lets him mold wood."

"I am quite fond of the chocolate calorie mate snacks," Momo followed up a slightly embarrassed smile while trying to dismiss Alex's concern with a casual wave. Usually, she would have never agreed to this, still between liking the idea of what the gift represented and considering the cost it would take to produce and their limited time. She decided this would be one of her rare exceptions to use her quirk for such an endeavor.

"Well...alright," Alex responded, breathing easier and feeling much better about the gift. Now that he knew they didn't blow a crazy amount of money on him. "Sooo... can I ask what it is?"

"Of course," Izuku answered with a smile as he opened the box. Revealing a polished gold and silver medal in the shape of a sword with a dragon wing cross-guard pressed against the shape of a kite shield. Looped with a soft black and silver ribbon neatly tucked into the inner felt lining. "A long time ago, my father once created these to celebrate the ideal that knights of old could inspire. Ideals that shaped him into a Hero."

"Ideals like Strength and Courage; Bravery and Diligence," Ochako interjected with a sweet smile while continuing to list off the traits. "Honor and Wisdom; Honesty and Leadership; Generosity and Love."

"Traits, I-No, we," Izuku paused to motion to everyone else there. "Believe that you embody. One of a true hero and knight. So we wanted to recognize you for it."

It was now under Izuku's direction as grandmaster of order that Hisashi had established. This was the first time a Draco Knight medal was awarded for an act of valor and not just for a fan club prize. Alex watched as Eijirou, Mina, Tetsutetsu, Itsuka, and Poni stepped forward. The last one taking the medal to loop it around his neck, and then gave him the biggest hug she could muster.

"Thank you for saving us," the four managed to say in unison while Poni simply nuzzled Alex's chest. Alex returned the hug while giving everyone else a soft smile.

"We're sorry that it took us this long to say something," Eijirou spoke up as he kept his head low.

"There is no excuse for it," Itsuka followed up, looking ashamed. "Even when you were helping us during class. None of us spoke to you."

"You even helped Kiri back during Golden Week," Mina added with a frown. "But I still haven't thanked you for saving me."

"Please forgive us," Tetsutetsu finished up as he kept his stiff bow. "I can't even think to call myself a man without saying something! Before it was too late!"

"Thank you, all," Alex instantly answered with a watery smile while patting Poni's back. "But there is nothing to forgive. None of you are responsible for what happened to me. Both during and after the USJ."

"Kendou," Alex started, making the 1-B Representative stand up straight when she was addressed directly. "I know your first aid training guided everyone else on how to best treat my injuries before the paramedics arrived. You are daring yet kind. You have all of the makings of a fine leader who not only has the confidence of her class. But could even take charge of those she's never met. Your quick thinking and fast reflexes had saved your team far before I got involved. We will both share the scars of that day, but we will not let them hold us back. We will both grow from it."

Itsuka nodded as she wiped the tears with her scarred hand as Class 1-B began to whisper their silent praises of their chosen leader.

"Tetsutetsu and Kirishima," Alex continued, turning his attention to the hardy boys."Despite the risk, you could have placed yourselves in, especially in your case Tetsutetsu, given your weakness in water. Both of you stood tall and were ready to protect those who couldn't protect themselves, despite being outclassed. You two are the bulwarks of your class, the pillars that serve to strengthen and support those around you. You are the pillars of unbreakable tenacity and the living spirit of courtesy. Kirishima, you helped get me out of the downpour zone. Tetsutetsu, you're the one who did the most under Kendou's direction when you began to administer first aid to me. I wouldn't be here without you both."

Eijirou finally gave Alex a solemn nod, while Tetsutetsu's spirit seemed to return with those words.

"Ashido," Alex carried on, turning to the pink-themed heroine-in-training. "Using your acid as a disinfectant was sheer genius and such a clever utilization of quirk. Your quick thinking likely prevented me from getting an infection that could have killed me when I was in a coma. Yeah, I might have a couple acid scars on my belly, but it's leagues better than being dead. Your general attitude and zest for life are worth emulating; your ability for empathy is not to be underestimated or undervalued. Don't ever change that aspect about yourself, as it will serve you well. I would, however, focus on improving your grades."

Mina managed an embarrassed smile while wiping a tear from her eye. Only for Eijirou to put a firm hand on her shoulder and give her a broad smile that seemed to light up the room. One that Mina seemed to appreciate. Meanwhile, Alex had to suppress from grinning as he pictured himself shoveling more fuel to fire up this ship to leave port.

Of course, he wasn't the only one in the group that seemed to notice that particular interaction between the two.

"Poni," Alex said to finish up, motioning Poni to look up at him from their embrace. "You saved me twice. Once during the fight with Pit Viper. The second with helping those two get me out of the Downpour Zone. I'm sorry for ruining your first costume with all of my blood."

"No," Poni interrupted with a thorough shake of her head. "No, sorry. Worth it to save you."

"You're a smart girl; I know you'll master Japanese one day," Alex whispered in English with a goofy grin as he held up his fist up to her. "Now that I'm leaving, it's up to you to Rep the stars and stripes, girl! 'Merica!"

"I will. I won't let them take this cowgirl down!" Poni answered with a laugh as she lightly bumped Alex's fist with her own. "'Merica!"

"That's my girl," Alex answered as he ruffled Poni's hair and turned to look at everyone else. "Wow...knighted in Japan, who would have thought? Thank you again, everyone. Please, take of yourselves and look for each other. You all know how to reach me. If anything really bad ever happens...Give me a call. Cuz' I'll come a-runnin' come hell or high water, I will return, and that's a promise."

Everyone there nodded, with a couple giving their foreign friend a few silent words between them.

"How about a few more pictures, guys?" Lucy suggested as she managed to get a couple quick pictures of Alex wearing his medal. "A group shot, followed by a few couple shots?"

"Yeah, about it, everyone?" Alex followed up, looking at everyone with a broad smile. "A few more pics for the road! So we can look back when we're all old!"

"Yeah!" The group cheered in unison, as everyone there would move to take turns to get another round of photos taken.

The photos taken on that day would survive the coming storm.

Their contents would hold bittersweet memories of better days. Days, before everything changed, before the truth of Hisashi Midoriya was revealed to the world. Before, the traitor would shake the very foundations of UA and society at large. These photos contained memories that foretold the days of Fimbulwinter, the prelude to the Ragnarok crisis that started during the winter of that same year. However, no one would know it yet.

When the old world died once the price of blood during the twilight of the old gods had been paid.

A new world would be born from the ashes, starting with a dream.

A Dream of Spring.

Author's Commentary

Shinobima and Haya*: For people who don't remember, Yuyu Haya is Nejire's tomboyish best friend. (Who until recently I thought was in General Studies, but nope! She's in the Hero Course, so that is a little awkward considering my future plans.)

While Saguri Shinobima is the second (Kuroko Smith being the first) of many import characters I will be employing, so I can stop making OCs. (Seriously, I'm burnt out on making OCs. The only OCs that remain are those made before I got burnt out and haven't been revealed yet.) Saguri Shinobima from Saguri-chan Tankentai. Is a series that Kohei Korikoshi enjoyed and wished he could have featured Saguri in a cameo.

As noted in the first volume of the Team-Up Mission manga.

(If you happen to own a copy. Turn to the Message From Kohei Horikoshi section, and the first character featured is Saguri herself, as drawn by Horikoshi.) While only making a mention here, expect to see more of her in the future as Alex's successor on the Big Five. I had fun creating a quirk for her that I felt would fit the character and was engaging in how it works. But again, we won't see much of Big Five for the time being as we hone focus back to the main cast.

So with that, we say farewell to Alexander Springfield...for now, at least.

The first thing I will bring up, in case you haven't noticed yet.

I've actually had a new series posted.

In Another World With My Smartphone: The Lost Hero.

This is the first of many Untold if, scenario stories I came up with.

While IAWWMS is honestly one of the blandest Isekai Series, I have ever seen. I wanted to give it a crack at doing something a little enjoyable with it. So I decided to throw the version of Alexander Springfield, who died during the events of the USJ, into that storyline! So far, while pretty niche, it seems to have a small audience. If you're familiar with the original series and want to see my own branded twist on it. Then try it out!

You might be surprised by what I do with the story.

I had multiple ways I had planned to end this chapter.

Most of them featured Lucy dropping Alex off at the airport. However, I found that the current ending was perfect for foreshadowing not only the massive change in status-quo incoming. But also foreshadow the new prologue for My Hero Academia Untold: The Shield of Spring.

Which is the canonical, spin-off that stars Alex and his misadventures with Mithril. I will note that Shield of Spring will always be slightly ahead of the events of The Fafnir Knight. Shield of Spring, like Draco Knight, will only update when we reach specific points in the main story. (Though it will still be more frequent than Draco Knight.)

There will be a slight delay in the uploading of the Prologue of Shield of Spring as I begin to transfer my files into my newly built PC.

It shouldn't be too long of a wait, but I just wanted to give this heads-up early.

Until next time,

with love,

ZX