Chapter 24
Untitled for now
Summary:
The events leading up to the summer training camp. The League is on the move with their plans to attack the 1-A students. Some relationship advancement between the main parings.
After the finals the students report back to class for their results. The ones that failed wailing in the corner "Everyone… I'm looking forward… Hic… to a bunch of… awesome stories from the trip!" Mina cries.
"Just hold on, now. There could still be some twist to this…!" Izuku tries to get the distressed girl to calm down. Plus he knows Aizawa, and the ones that failed the exam would benefit more from the summer training camp.
"Don't say that, Midoriya. You're gonna jinx it…" Sero shouts out.
"Failing our exams means summer school hell instead of training camp in the woods! And we flunked the practical! The only twist would be if your average scores were less than a monkey's" Kaminari shout out. Izuku dodges the almost jab to the face, from the lashing out boy.
"Calm down. You're talking too much." Sero shouts over the electrified boy's voice "I'm in the same boat, anyway. I got put to sleep right away and only passed because of Luffy." He gestures to the rubber boy "So until we know how they're grading this thing…"
"Save your pity! I just want your points!" Kaminari shouts.
Before anything else can be said Izuku releases a small amount of conqueror's "Everyone to your seats class is about to start". He commands and watches with a smug grin as the students panic to get to their seats. Aizawa slams the door open a second later "That's the bell."
Noticing that everyone is seated he calls the students to attention "Morning, about your final exams… Sadly we had some failures." He pauses and takes in the tense faces of those who failed. "As such" he smirks as he watches the students squirm "Everyone cleared the written tests. But in the practical…" He glances around the room "Kirishima, Kaminari, Ashido, Sato… and Sero all Failed."
"Wait are we really allowed to go?!" Kaminari and Ashido shout out.
Sero slumps on his desk "I knew it. Clearing the practical didn't necessarily mean I passed…"
"As the villains in this test, we teachers… came up with assignments perfectly suited to you. Ones that would give you chances to devise winning strategies." He looks at the group again. "If we hadn't, none of you would've stood a chance."
"So when you said you were really gonna crush us…" Ojiro starts.
"That was to push you" Aizawa smirks "We are talking about training camp after all" He makes eye contact with all the failures "More than anyone else those who failed are in dire need of this" He flashes a predatory smile "This was another rational deception."
"Rational Deception!?" Most of the class shouts.
"We've been fooled, again! I'd expect no less from U.A." Iida grumbles. "But…! Now that we have been lied two twice, aren't you worried that our faith in you has been shaken?" Iida questions loudly.
Ochaco mumbles out "Way to be a wet blanket Iida."
Aizawa fixes Iida and the rest of the class with a tired look. "Perhaps" He shrugs "But consider the facts" He sighs out "It wasn't entirely a lie" He looks at the failures that are cheering "Failure is still failure" this grabs the students attention as they stop cheering to stare at Aizawa "you five will receive special supplemental lessons. And to be honest, they'll be far worse than summer school." He smirks at the defeated looks the 5 give him "Anyway, I'll be handing out camp manuals. Take one and pass it back."
"Well, whatever the case…" Ojiro sound out "…It's nice that everyone gets to go."
"An entire week of training camp!" Sero states excitedly.
"This packing list is huge" Ashido comments.
"I don't even have a bathing suit. There's a ton of stuff I've got to buy." Kaminari states.
"Oh I Know!" Ashido cheers "We're off tomorrow and tests are over so… how about… we all go shopping together, Class A?"
"Good Idea!" Kaminari cheers "This'll be a first, come to think about it!"
"Hey, Luffy are you gonna come" Kirishima asks. Receiving an excited nod from the bouncy teen. "You coming too Bakugo, Izuku?"
"No way in hell!" Katsuki blushes. Danm these extras, he has plans with his nerd tomorrow.
"Sorry Kirishima we have other plans tomorrow." Izuku states bashfully.
"What about you Ace, Todoroki?" Kirishima asks.
"I visit… someone on my days off." Todoroki looks a little sad. He would have liked to go to the Mall with Kirishima, Luffy, and Ace. But he visits his mom when he has time off. "Ace were you still gonna come with me tomorrow? I mean if you need to go to the mall that's fine" Todoroki trails off.
"Nah, I've got everything I need already. Plus if I'm missing something, I can count on Izuku to have extras" Ace states with a knowing smirk "If you still want me to be there, I'll join you. Same time?"
"Yea" Todoroki breathes out relieved.
"Oi Matchstick, the Nerd is not your personal pack mule. If you forget something that is on you." Katsuki rages a bit.
Izuku laughs, his packs dynamics will never get old. He looks at Kirishima and notices he seems a bit upset. Izuku thinks he knows why, Kirishima is probably thinking the group doesn't want anything to do with him because he failed the exam. Izuku would tell him that he has plans with Katsuki tomorrow, and it is up to Shoto to tell him that he visits his mom. The only reason why he doesn't say anything right now is he doesn't want the entire class to know about him and Katsuki.
"Hey Kiri?" Izuku calls. The boy looks up at him something desperate in his eyes. "Walk with me?" he gestures to the door. Kirishima nods noticing that Izuku wants to tell him something. He follows the other boy out of the class and down the hallway till they get to a stair well. Izuku has his observation Haki activated to make sure they are not being followed. He smiles fondly as he feels Katsuki behind them. No doubt making sure their conversation stays private.
"What's wrong, Kiri?" Izuku starts.
The other boy startles "N-Nothing really."
Izuku smiles "I get it, you are feeling pretty miserable about not passing right?"
Kirishima gives him a nod "I wanted to prove to Luffy that I could stand beside him. how can I do that if I failed the exam?"
"Pass or Fail, it doesn't matter. Not to us. The point is, we trust you to fight with us in battle regardless if you failed. Luffy trusts you to fight with him. Besides I think it is ok to fail sometimes, it opens your eyes to your weaknesses." Izuku speaks softly.
Kirishima looks at him confused. "I don't understand how could, you guys, or Luffy trust someone to stand beside you when I have done nothing so far to prove myself."
"Let me ask you this. Would you rather fail a test against a teacher where your life and your partners life are not on the line. Or have the same battle happen against a villain and not know that you are weak in that area and lose yours and your partners life."
A look of understanding passes through Kirishima's eyes "Well when you put it that way… I guess it make sense."
"Losing this way, gives you the chance to figure out what went wrong and correct it." Izuku finishes.
"I know this sounds stupid but Ummm…" Kirishima looks around bashfully "you guys are not just saying no to going to the mall, because you don't want to be around me, right?"
"Of course not Kiri. Me and Kacchan have a date tomorrow, just don't want the entire class to know. As for Shoto and Ace it is not my place to tell you, but they really do go visit someone every time we get time off school. I think Shoto will tell you when he is ready." He gives Kirishima a fond look.
"Sorry I doubted you Izuku, I should know better." Kirishima states with a blush.
Izuku gives him a sly smile "Maybe you and Luffy can sneak away for some alone time at the end of the shopping trip." Kirishima's face brightens and matches his red hair. "Besides didn't you say the next date was on you?"
Kirishima sputters "Yea… I did… umm… you think Luffy still accepts me? Right… I mean I know he does… but I'm a bit nervous… he is just so much stronger than I am." He trails off.
"Trust me that boy would glue him self to you if he could. He is so ridiculously smitten with you. When you are not around all he talks about is you. So yes, I think he does accept you. If you are still worried about it then talk to him. He is kind of an idiot but, when it comes to people he cares about he is surprisingly perceptive."
Kirishima nods, god he feels pathetic. "Yea I'll treat him to dinner or something. Maybe a movie."
Izuku laughs "You don't know how much that boy can eat, if you plan on dinner it be quite expensive. That's why me a Kacchan use that as a bet in our competitions. He likes anything with action, if there is no action movies take him to go spar just the two of you. He'll love it."
"Really, Thanks Izu" Kirishima says gratefully.
"Well come on, I think Luffy is about to start breaking through walls to find out where you are." Izuku states getting a little irritated. He doesn't need Observation Haki to smell the smug amusement coming from where Katsuki is. They leave the stairwell and immediately see Katsuki standing on the other side of the hallway.
Katsuki looks them over and smirks, smug and amused "You finally done? I think the rubber band is about to snap."
"Yea Kacchan, don't look so smug about it" Izuku quips back.
Katsuki grunts and holds his hand out to Izuku. Izuku wastes no time grabbing hold of the Red-eyed boys wrist and wrapping his tails around it. It has been a long time since they have used this to show affection. Izuku misses it, when they started U.A. they didn't want their relationship to be known. Villains could use that bond against them. Though Izuku is surprised no one has managed to call them out on it. With all the cuddling, the time Katsuki got him out of a panic attack, the way he flipped out when Izuku got attacked by that Nomu. The fierce protectiveness that radiates off Katsuki when he is defending Izuku. Not even the uncharacteristic softness Katsuki reserves just for Izuku was a big enough sign.
They make their way to the classroom and hear shouting coming from inside. They open the doors to see Luffy sprawled out on the floor on his belly, with Ace sitting on his back pinning him down and laughing. Shoto just looks confused along with the rest of the lingering students. Izuku calls out "Luffy, you missing something?"
Luffy looks at him confused then lock eyes first with the amused Katsuki then with the shocked blushing Kirishima. Luffy's eyes sparkle as he takes in Kirishima's presence, activating gear second Luffy knocks Ace off him and launches himself toward the redhead. Kirishima activates his quirk to absorb the impact of the rubbery teen.
"Kirishima!" Luffy shouts out excitedly. "I though you left without me" He finishes with a pout.
"Sorry Lu, Izuku wanted to talk to me for a second." Kirishima states a bit embarrassed.
"Ace wouldn't let me go look for you." Luffy whispers.
"Sorry Luffy for stealing him away. I just needed to clear something up with him in private" Izuku gives Luffy a look saying "Not here" Luffy nods and disentangles himself from around the other boy. "Well let's get going huh?" Izuku states.
****Mean while ****
In an old Warehouse 6 people are sitting around the table. The leader clears his throat "Kalifa, did you meet up with Shigaraki?"
She rubs her neck "Yea, I did."
"Well is he going to join us and our cause?" Kaku asks.
"He wants to meet with us, I told him he can the day after tomorrow." Kalifa informs. "I'm not sure if we can trust him completely but if we combine our strengths with his we can accomplish our mission."
"The footage we have of our targets, they are always around the other two. I am concerned if we go and attack ourselves, we will have to engage that Wolf child." Kaku says.
"Not to mention the explosive boy from the sports festival" Jabra reminds.
"It would appear that those to have attached themselves to the most wanted children." Lucci ponders. "Blueno, did your young marine report anything from that school"
"Yes sir, it appears that he has been watching our targets interact with another 2 boys. They will all be going on a camping trip in a couple of weeks. It is hush hush but there won't be many teachers there. I will have my plant keep shadowing the others." Blueno reports. "I was also informed the Wolf child does not like being referred to as a monster or beast. This could be something to exploit. We do not know much about the child's capabilities. But there is a chance if we push him far enough, he will attack everyone and anyone in his path. There is no doubt that we are stronger than a group of kids. So we could lure him to attack the other students. Then Capture the group when everyone is distracted."
"We could take the other boys as well. It is a crime to associate with criminals. So we can bring all of them to impel down. Plus the government would love to study another power form. It could give us a way to be born with powers and still be able to eat a devil fruit." Kaku suggests.
"Shigaraki's targets are the explosion kid and the wolf. Are you suggesting we double cross the League of Villains?" Kalifa questions.
"Well if we have Blueno it is not like Shigaraki could follow us." Jabra sneers.
"If Shigaraki is successful in capturing his targets there are plenty of other non-devil fruit users to choose from. What about that kid that has both ice and fire. Or the electric kid? As long as we manage to snag a few of them I think we would please the government." Kaku states.
"Research the strongest of the powers we will nab them as well" Lucci commands "Blueno make sure your marine keeps watching them."
"Will do sir." Blueno responds.
**** The Mall****
The students of Class 1-A arrive at the Kiyashi Ward Shopping Mall. This place has more shops than anywhere else in the prefecture. It's got the coolest and trendiest stuff. The students are standing around deciding what stores to hit up first, when people started to recognize them from the sports festival.
"Oh! Aren't they those U.A. first years?!" One kid shouts.
"Good going at the sports festival" Another kid shouts.
Ochaco blushes an smiles awkwardly "Whoa. People still remember that…?"
Jiro turns to Momo "I've gotta find myself a giant duffle bag."
Momo smiles "Let's look together, then" and they walk off to the nearby outdoors store.
Kaminari announces "I need some rugged outdoor shoes."
One of the student shouts out "Me too, Me too!"
Iida refers to the packing list they got "our manual recommends well-worn footwear… or, ah… should we focus of utility instead…?!" as Iida and Kaminari break off to go find shoes.
Kirishima smiles at the group left "Looks like we all need different stuff. Let's split up and meet back at a designated time!" Everyone breaks off and Kirishima smiles at Luffy "I guess they all left huh?" Kirishima looks a little bashful 'that was easier than he thought' "Want to go to the arcade with me. I don't really need anything?"
Luffy smiles big and nods excitedly "That sounds fun! Let's go" He grabs Kirishima's hand and pulls him to the arcade.
On the other side of the mall Izuku and Katsuki are walking through the hallways. Katsuki points in the direction of a fashion store. "It's ok if you want to go in there Kacchan. I'll wait for you right here."
Katsuki blushes inconspicuously "I just want to pick out an outfit for tonight" he may have a bad boy image, but he will not look like some punk when they go on their date later. "I'll be quick"
Izuku smiles fondly "It's fine Kacchan I'm just going to go sit by that fountain over there." He points to the small fountain a little off center of the store "Besides I can start reading the book you got me." There has been something nagging at the back of his instincts. So as Katsuki makes his way into the shop Izuku starts walking to the fountain when he feels someone glaring at him.
"Ohhh, cool… you're from U.A.!" Sneers a familiar voice in falsely cheerful tone. "Can I get your autograph?"
Izuku's instincts are flaring as he looks around. The shopping mall is full of people, it would be smart if Izuku just played it cool and hope the villain doesn't do anything to put these people in danger. He adopts a frazzled persona "Huh?!"
The guy approaches him and slings his arm around Izuku "You're the kid who got wrecked in the sports festival, right?"
"Umm, yeah"
"Then during the incident in Hosu you ran into and defeated the hero Killer. Oh man you are something else." There is a crazed smirk on the mans face.
"You sure know a lot about me huh?"
"Man I can't believe it though. To think we'd meet again, here! Can't help but think that something special's helped you come this far." The man shifts his hand to lightly wrap around Izuku's neck leaving one finger not touching. If any of the people walked past a spared enough of a glance at the two it would look like two friends catching up. "Something like fate… or destiny, maybe…" The man wiggles his finger and clenches his hand a little tighter in a silent warning "… We last met in that attack on U.A." people continue to ignore the two "Well I guess for you…" he smirks as he watches people wander around all happy "Let's get some tea and chat…" He smirks wildly at the boy "Izuku Midoriya"
"Tomura Shigaraki" Izuku's eyes harden, he is not too worried about himself but if he does anything to cause the villain to lash out. Well things will get dangerous with so many civilians around. He reaches to his pocket and calls Katsuki so he can hear this. It's a warning to not approach, watch from a far.
Shigaraki thinks about why he came here. 'Bloodlust without conviction is meaningless. Just watch me hero killer. For the majority it's no skin off their noses if… nah. I guess I can't go that far. More like, while someone, somewhere is off killing people, for what ever reason… these fools keep smiling and laughing… living their lives…' He gets interrupted by his train of thought by some kids "Whoa, look at that one!" One of the kids points out
The other kid with him comments "That's Hero Killer's mask! You'll get in trouble wearing that."
The first kid puts the mask on "This is awesome!" as the other kid pulls out his phone to take a picture "Hahaha! Cool"
'On the other hand… you're getting sympathy from people who couldn't care less about your ideals. Why is that? We're doing the same thing. Me. And you. We're both just destroying what we hate right? So why? What's the difference?' lost in his thoughts he notice Izuku is shifting he tightens his grip a bit to remind the kid what is at stake "Easy now… you're gonna act like we're a couple of old pals. No making a scene. Okay? Calm down. Breathe naturally. I just wanna talk. That's all. So don't try anything funny." He wiggles his figure "It'd be all too easy. The second all five of my fingers touch your neck… your throat would start crumbling, from the skin inward… you'd turn to dust in under a minute"
Izuku gulps he hopes Katsuki heard this and doesn't start a scene. "In a crowd like this? Try that… and the heroes will show up… they'll come and catch you!"
Shigaraki laughs and points at the people milling about "No doubt but take a look. At them." His voice a mere whisper "It's not crazy to imagine that someone could commit an atrocity at any given moment. So why do they smile and mingle like this? Because the laws and rules built on their individual morality… they are convinced that "no one would ever do that" In the time it'd take the heroes to respond and catch me I could take out 20… No, I could take out 30 of them out…"
Izuku swallows there is nothing he can do at the moment. Hopefully Katsuki has found a classmate and told them to notify the authorities. "Ok so you wanted to talk… then talk."
"HAHAHA… Smart move." Shigaraki leads Izuku over to the fountain. "We might as well sit for this. Let's try to relax…" Once they are seated Shigaraki starts again "I pretty much hate everyone and everything… but right now, what really grinds my gears is the Hero Killer."
"Wasn't he working with you…?" Izuku asks.
"I never really agreed to that, even if society seems to think so. And that is my problem. Everyone's got their eye on the Hero Killer. Our attack on U.A…. the Nomu I unleashed in Hosu… it's all been overshadowed by him. No one's noticing me why? He can call it what ever he wants but at the end of the day… all he is doing is killing what he doesn't like. So what makes us different? Midoriya?"
"What makes you different?... I think… Well, I can't accept what you do… and I don't understand it… The Hero Killer, although I can't accept him… I do understand him… for both me and the Hero Killer… it all started with All Might. Back then… He gave me a warning before the Nomu could attack us. So at the very least… he's destructive, but he's doing it for a reason." He clenches his fists "To him its not a game" as he remembers USJ. 'It's game over, man… it's game over, for now. We're leaving' "Not at all" he glares at Shigaraki "His methods may be wrong… but I think he's at least trying to live by his ideals."
Shigaraki looks at Izuku with a crazed hungry look causing the boy to shudder "ahh… it's all clear now. Feels like I have connected the dots. About why the Hero Killer pisses me off so much… and why you're so damned irritating… I think I get it now…it's all because of All Might."
"Huh?" Izuku doesn't see how Shigaraki can come to that conclusion.
"Right…? Right. That is the conclusion here. Man, what was I so hung up on anyway…?! The reason these fools can smile and live their lives… is because All Might's always got that grin on his face." He clenches his fingers around Izuku neck as he starts ranting manically "Smiling wide as if to say… there's no one he can't save!"
Izuku is struggling for breath as Shigaraki keeps applying force "Ah I'm glad we had this chat! So glad! Thanks Midoriya!"
"Guh"
"I'm heading down the right path for me!"
Izuku starts squirming "Hey no squirming! Or do you want to die? You saying you want some of these fine people to die?" Shigaraki sneers. "Pretty ironic, huh, Hero Killer…? How we're polar opposites, but I get to make use of your ideals and convictions. They're all steppingstones for me."
Just as Izuku is about to pass out Katsuki interrupts calculating redeyes boring into Shigaraki "Nerd?" recognizing the voice Izuku immediately tenses 'fuck Kacchan needs to stay back.' Shigaraki glares up at the interruption eyes flashing manically. Katsuki glares "I think you should let the Nerd go" popping small explosions from his palms.
"Nothing, it's nothing! I'm fine! So… stay back" Izuku's eyes are wide and panicked. Shigaraki releases the boy and turns to Katsuki.
"I didn't realize you came with someone. Sorry about that." He smiles wide and shows his hands in faux surrender. "well I'm off" He stands up "Don't forget you knows what happens if you follow me"
Katsuki approaches Izuku and notices the green fire around his neck no doubt healing the bruises. He rubs Izuku's back as the boy coughs giving his lungs the oxygen he missed out on. "All for one… what is he after?"
Back still toward the duo "Dunno." He starts walking again "What you should worry about… is meeting me again. Because that is when you'll die"
Katsuki was about to follow the villain when Izuku held his arm with a weak "Don't" he rasped out. Katsuki turns so fast to face Izuku he should have gotten whiplash. Fury painting his face "What the fuck was that nerd? Why shouldn't I follow him?"
"He threatened the civilians, if we chase him, even if we could evacuate all the civilians here there is no way he won't escape with them. Besides he would still kill people during the chaos, and possibly still escape."
Katsuki sags 'this is why the nerd is the smart one between them' Katsuki wouldn't even think twice about following the creep out of the mall. He sighs "Then what should we do?"
"We report it. Did you hear the phone call?" Izuku states.
"Yea I recorded what I could hear."
"Good we need to notify the detective, and All Might"
Katsuki whips out his phone and dials a number. After a few rings the line is connected, and a gruff voice speaks out "Katsuki?"
"Shanks! You need to tell the detective that Shigaraki was here at Kiyashi Mall" Katsuki informs with a frantic edge to his voice.
"Ok calm down I am on my way. Are you boy's ok?" Shanks speaks calmly.
"Yea we are fine." He whines a bit "Shanks, he had the nerd."
"Shit, Katsuki calm down, have Izuku call Luffy and Kirishima to check on them stay on the phone with me."
"He is already calling them." He whispers "I felt so useless, what could I have done though we are at a very public place and there's civilians. But he was choking the nerd. What could I have done?"
"Katsuki listen to me. You did the right thing by calling me. There was nothing you could have done. He may have had other villains around the mall." Shanks states. "Just breathe with me and make sure Izuku is ok."
Katsuki shifts his attention back to Izuku, who is still trying to get oxygen in his lungs while talking on the phone to Kirishima. "I'm sorry Kiri, but you are gonna have to come over to the fountain with Luffy. Something happened. I'll explain when you get here."
"Nerd?!" Katsuki mumbles out.
"Kirishima and Luffy are on their way. It will be best to notify them when they get here." He looks up at Katsuki and notices the wild fear and panic in his eyes. He opens his arms a bit gesturing to the spot on the other side of where Shigaraki was sitting. "I'm ok Kacchan, Look at me. I'm fine"
"You call almost being strangled fine?!" Katsuki rages a bit.
"I'm sorry Kacchan. I guess you're right. I hurt a lot and I was scared." Izuku looks down at his hands "When you showed up, I was even more terrified. I didn't what him to lash out and try to hurt you. I'm sorry I tried to push you away."
Katsuki relaxes a bit and tells Shanks "Kirishima and Luffy are on there way. Where do you want us to meet you?"
"Just stay where you are. I am with Shota and we are going to do a sweep of the mall. Stay on the phone with me."
"Ok."
Kirishima and Luffy come up a moment later. Kirishima looks at the panicked expression on Katsuki's face then looks at Izuku who looks pale with fire around his neck. "So…" Izuku looks up at him eyes wide and panicked "what happened?"
"Shigaraki." Katsuki growls out.
"The villain that attacked USJ?" Kirishima gasps out. At Izuku's nod Kirishima tenses "Here?" Again another nod. "Where is he now?"
"Gone" Is Izuku's simple raspy response.
"He threatened the civilians that if we followed him, he'd bring the entire mall down." Katsuki stated.
"Fuck did you report him?" Luffy asks. Izuku and Katsuki look at him with wide eyes. They have never heard Luffy swear before.
Katsuki shakes it off "We called Shanks; he is on his way with Shota."
Kirishima and Luffy nod. "Ok what should we do?"
Katsuki puts the phone on speaker and turns the volume down so only they can hear. "Stay put. One of you call Ace and Shoto. I don't think this was a coincidence."
Luffy pulls out his phone and calls Ace. When Ace picks up with a quick "Hello?" he quickly puts Ace on speaker phone.
"Ace! Are you with Sho?"
"Yea, what's up?"
Katsuki sighs relieved "Matchstick… are you and Icy-hot ok?"
They can hear the confusion in Ace's voice when he responds with a quick "Yea… What's wrong?"
"Shigaraki was here at the mall. Attacked the nerd and left threatening the civilians. Anything suspicious happen at the hospital?"
Ace's panic can be felt through the phone "Is Izuku ok… no, of course he is not… Is he injured? Of course he was injured… Blasty wouldn't sound the way he does if Izuku was fine. If Izuku died the resulting explosion would be seen from here." He keeps mumbling to himself Todoroki takes the phone.
"I think what Ace means is how badly is Midoriya injured?" voice mostly as even as always but the boys can hear the hint of worry in his voice.
"Physically he is fine, he was being choked when I interrupted. His healing has already healed the damaged soft tissue and bruises. He is still shaken up though." Katsuki reports shaky himself.
Shanks chimes in "Boys we have swept through the mall and are headed your way. Ace and Shoto we will come pick you up from the hospital on our way back."
"We will be with my mom. Just ask the receptionist for Rei Todoroki's room." Shoto states.
The mall was temporarily shut down, as the police arrived on the scene. In the end, even all the heroes in the area, and the quick response of the police couldn't locate Shigaraki.
"Midoriya" Shouts Iida. It appears that he was being honest about trying to redeem himself.
The next to sprint toward the group was Kaminari "Midoriya? You ok?!"
Ignoring the other students and flashing a quick smile to let them know he was fine Izuku was stopped by the detective. The detective informed Shanks and Shota that he will escort Izuku and Katsuki to the police station for official statements.
"I will pick you both up there." Shanks turns to Luffy and Kirishima "Let's go pick up Ace and Shoto."
Because of the attack on U.A. and the incident in Hosu the police response to the League of Villains was to establish a special task force working out of provisional headquarters. Detective Tsukauchi was part of that task force. Izuku and Katsuki enter the interrogation room following the detective. "Sorry about this boys. Just following protocol. I am sure you remember how my quirk works?"
Both the boys wave off the apology and nod. They have seen his quirk work before.
"Ok do I have your consents to use my quirk during this interview?"
Izuku nods and Katsuki glares but nods after a short kick to the shin from Izuku. The detective activates his quirk and his eyes turn a neon green, "Ok let's start with the basics. You were at Kiyashi Mall. Correct?"
"Yes" green light.
"Shigaraki approached you while you were separated from Katsuki and you wandered to sit by the fountain. Right?"
"Yes" Green Light.
"At the time did you know who approached you?"
"Not entirely, but I had a feeling since we got into the mall" Izuku states Katsuki looks at him in a mix of pissed off and betrayed his eyes were screaming 'we will talk about this later'
"Can you explain this feeling?"
"It was a buzzing in the back of my mind like a forewarning. Like that feeling that something bad was going to happen" Izuku states calmly.
"Ok so if you had this feeling why did you stay at the mall?"
"It's simple really, if this person was following Me and Kacchan if we left the mall, I felt the situation would have been worse. I figured with so many people around the person watching us wouldn't do anything too diaristic. If we left the mall there was plenty of areas where we could have been physically attacked. I didn't know who was watching us also didn't know if they were following me or Kacchan. When the opportunity came, and we separated I decided if the feeling went away, I would guard the only entrance into the store he went into. If the feeling didn't, I would remain calm and assess the situation." Izuku explains. The detectives eyes turn green. He shouldn't be surprised that Izuku had contingency plans he is a tactical genius after all.
"Ok, so what happened when he approached you?"
"He approached me like an old pal, he wrapped his arm around my shoulder and placed his fingers on my neck in a threatening way, but in a way that would appear that we were friends. His message was clear make a scene and I'll kill you. I tried to tell him it was a stupid idea, that if he killed me then the heroes would be here, and he would get caught. He responded by telling me that by the time the heroes got here he would have been able to kill at least 20 people. He was distracted for a second and I knew I couldn't have escaped. So I appeared to be fidgeting and dialed Kacchan's number in my pocket and put it on speaker but muted him. So Kacchan would get the warning and not cause a scene since I didn't know what he was after. He started talking about the hero killer and his Ideals. He was confused why people saw them differently even if they were doing the same thing. I wasn't going to answer him but then he tightened his hand around my neck. I relented and told him that the Hero Killer wasn't just killing people for the sake of killing People he had a purpose that people can understand. He went on a tangent about killing All Might and started to choke me. I was struggling and he reminded me that if I caused a scene, I knew what would happen. I was about to pass out when Kacchan showed up. Kacchan assessed the situation and played the confused friend. Shigaraki played it off and walked away. I had to stop Kacchan from trying to follow him." Green light.
"Not that I think you made the wrong choice, but I have to ask. Why didn't you follow him?"
"The civilians lives were still in danger. So Kacchan called Shanks while I was trying to Catch my breath. We also didn't know if he was alone or not. He could have had other villains in the crowds to make sure we didn't follow him. I wasn't about to risk peoples lives. I thought about staging an evacuation but decided against it I didn't want Shigaraki to lash out on the civilians and also escape during the chaos. I figured being calm and rational was the best course of action."
"Hmmm… from what you are telling me… it doesn't sound like this League is completely unified." He pauses and think over all the information "However, they're still going after All Might" He looks over the two boys "Anyway… Thanks for your help, Midoriya, Bakugo."
"Well… I mean I just wish I could've stopped him… and ended it right there and then."
"I didn't do anything." Katsuki grumbles.
"Don't be silly! You both held it together with he was threatening you and other civilians. Most people would have gotten scared and start panicking." The detective smiles at the boys "It is thanks to your cool head that nobody got hurt. Besides…" He turns to Katsuki "If you managed to get the entire conversation recorded that would help immensely."
"Yea. I did" Katsuki grumbles out.
"Can we make a copy of it?" The detective asks.
Katsuki pulls out his phone and hands it to the detective. "Here"
The detective walks them out to the lobby and tells them to wait while he goes to one of the rooms off to the side to make a copy of the recorded message. He walks back into the lobby and spots Shanks, All Might, and Shota enter the building. Ace, Shoto, Luffy and Kirishima trailing behind them. As the boys spot the pair on the bench, they run over concern all over their faces. All Might uses his speed to get to the boys first panic, worry, fear all marring the face of the number 1 hero.
"Midoriya, Bakugo! Tsukauchi!" All Might bellows out.
The detective shoots a fond smile at the flailing male "oh, perfect timing."
"All Might/ Old Man why are you here" Izuku and Katsuki ask at the same time.
The detective chuckles at the instant relief flooding the skinny man "He wanted to see you in person."
"Thank goodness you both are safe!" He lets out a relieved breath "So sorry I wasn't there to save you…"
"No…" Izuku thinks back to something Shigaraki pointed out 'smiling wide, as if to say there is no one he can't save' "All Might. Was there ever a time you really couldn't save someone…?"
All Might sighs he needs to be honest with his protégé "Sure. Plenty of times." Izuku gasps as tears spring to his eyes, before he can say anything All Might explains "Right now, somewhere out in the world…someone could be hurt or dying." He pauses regret flashing in his eyes "It sucks, but I'm only human. I can't save people who are out of my reach… That's why I stand tall and smile." He is looking up at the sky "I'm the symbol of justice. The citizens… heroes… villains… I need to light the way for all of them."
Izuku relaxes a bit he gets it if he is there, he will save everyone he can. But he can't possibly be everywhere all the time. He would need to depend on the other heroes to save those out of his reach. The detectives voice sounds through his head "Is what Shigaraki said bugging you?"
All Might looks at the three in confused alarm "?"
"He is probably just a sore loser. Every time he's appeared so far… there hasn't been a single person who couldn't be saved." He looks up and sees the other boys standing looking awkward "Well, its getting late. You should head home."
Izuku nods and waves bye to the detective. Izuku and Katsuki follow Shanks out of the precinct and pile into the car. It has been a stressful day and all Izuku wants to do is cuddle. So he leans into the sturdy mass of Katsuki and whimpers a bit. He whispers softly "I'm sorry Kacchan I know why you are mad. I assessed the situation and found that was the best way to keep everyone safe. You and I included."
"I know Nerd. Just my emotions are somewhere between pissed off and terrified. Let me be pissed off I can handle that better." Katsuki states gruffly.
"Of course Kacchan, you can yell at me when we get home" He snuggles a bit harder "But right now I'm sleepy and your comfortable"
"Oi! Nerd! How can I stay angry at you when you are like this HUH?!" Katsuki rages but it lacks the bite it normally would have.
Izuku mumbles out a quiet "Sorry Kacchan" and is gone to the world with a small smile on his face.
During the ride Katsuki thinks back to the call he got earlier. He is glad he didn't ignore the call. When he answered and all he could hear at first was muffled sounds he was about to hang up thinking his Nerd butt dialed him, when he heard the name Tomura Shigaraki. He left the store immediately and looked around for his Nerd. He found him sitting next to the sketchy hooded villain. It took all his control not to explode and run into the situation. He waited scared and observant picking up on the tension and fear on his nerd's face and lining the other boys figure. He could hear everything that was being said heard the warning loud and clear. He saw the villain's fingers menacingly on his Nerds neck. He was washed over with the sense of uselessness, and worthlessness. He realized he couldn't do anything but wait. As he listened and watched the scene unfold the grasp on his control was getting harder and harder to keep. When we heard his Nerd struggling for breath and watching the other boy struggling to get away his control snapped. He approached cautiously not wanting to spook the Villain and having him kill the other boy. Somehow the villain backed off and walked away with a few parting threats and warnings. He has never felt so scared in his life except maybe the time during the USJ. He is pissed that the nerd knew something was going to happen. And the fact that he put himself in danger just to save Katsuki left a sour taste in his mouth. Did the Nerd think Katsuki wouldn't be able to defend himself? No that is probably not it at all. Knowing the nerd as long as he has, he can pretty much read the boy's thoughts. He was probably thinking somewhere on the lines the he can heal while Katsuki can't. Therefore the logical choice would be for Izuku to play hostage. Katsuki agrees that that was probably the best choice but still he doesn't have to like it. He decides he is going to settle on being grumpy with the nerd for a couple of days.
Having Izuku pressed up to him, sleeping so peacefully is almost enough to melt away the grouchiness he feels. He runs his fingers softly through the bouncy curls, soft smile on his face. They arrive at the house and Katsuki gently wakes the other boy. "Come on nerd. We are home."
Izuku wakes up and gives one last hug to Katsuki and slides out of the car. He stumbles a bit as he tries to get his footing steady on the ground. Katsuki come up beside him and put his arm around the Nerds shoulders and pulls him into a walking side hug. Katsuki positively melts at the small sleepy smile Izuku sends his way. 'Fucking hell, this Nerd is going to kill me. It should be Illegal to be this adorable. How the fuck am I supposed to be angry now' he is grumbling as he steers the almost sleeping boy inside.
Inko is nervously pacing around the living room when the boy's stumble in. Inko focuses on the sleepy form of her son and makes a beeline straight for him. Catching her son in a tight hug and sobbing into her boys firm chest. Izuku is completely awake now and wraps his arms around his mother. "Mom."
"Izuku … enough already. Your old mother's heart can't take it…"
Izuku hugs her tightly "I'm sorry… but everything's fine. I'm not hurt or anything, so don't cry. The heroes and the police have been keeping a close watch over me." They stand like that for a bit. Inko take a few shuddering breaths as she tries to calm down. Shanks comes up behind the distressed woman and wraps his arms around her middle "Inko, honey. Izuku and Katsuki have had a pretty eventful day. It's getting late let get them to bed." Shanks speaks softly to the woman.
Inko nods and releases her son. She turns around and hugs Shanks tighter than she did Izuku. And continues to sob into the older mans defined chest. Shanks leads the distressed sobbing mother to the couch and leans back pulling her to lay with him.
All Might, the detective and Shoto are talking outside the household. The detective starts with "The encounter this time seemed coincidental. It appeared Shigaraki was just going to observe until and opportunity presented itself. But there is a chance that him and the other students will be targeted from now on. Of course the police will be on high alert, but the school will also have to be vigilant."
"The stronger the light… The darker the shadows." Shota states tiredly.
"Even when you're away from U.A., always keep on eye on the kids." The detective levels a look at All Might.
All Might sighs "It's only been three months since I've been doing this teaching thing…"
"HAHA It is just like I told you. You're not suited for it" The detective states truthfully.
"I've been telling him that since he started" Aizawa grumbles.
The detective, All Might, and Shota all have determined looks "Let's catch All for one this time" The detective proposes.
"Yeah" Aizawa agrees.
"This time for sure" All Might confirms with a hard look on his face.
"Thanks for everything, Tsukauchi." All Might and Aizawa bow to the detective.
The detective departs with a "Sure thing!" and leaves to go back to the police station.
The next day at school the students are sitting in the classroom. When Aizawa walks in "So… given what happened… we're on the lookout for these villains." He takes the paper in his hands and shreds it "And we've had to cancel our usual accommodations at the last minute. We won't reveal our actual destination until the day of departure."
"HUH?!" the class yells out.
"But I already told my parents" Sero exclaims.
"That's the precisely the point … the school can't control who learns what or how" Izuku states.
"As long as we're not cancelling the whole trip altogether" Mina boasts out.
"I think Midoriya could have taken him out." Kaminari comments.
"It's not about if he could have stupid Pikachu, the fact is he did the right thing by remaining calm and ensuring the citizens survival. Plus using quirks in public is illegal." Katsuki coldly states.
"How was this situation any different from the Hero Killer attack. You guys used your quirks then. Couldn't Midoriya claim it was self-defense?" Kaminari continues to argue.
"The Hero Killer incident was different we had a letter from the detective prior to the event to watch for suspicious activity while interning in Hosu. And to use our quirks if anything happened while we were there. Since no one knew of the possibility of villains at the mall we did not receive permission to engage." Katsuki reports.
"Besides the logical way to ensure everyone's survival was to remain calm. I did not know if he had others in the crowd. I had no choice but to let him go. He would have brought down the entire mall. I can heal, but it wasn't 100% that I would be able to heal everyone. Plus if I used my quirk in such a crowded place the civilians would have panicked and probably would have been in more danger." Izuku explains.
"So is that why you didn't use you paralysis feather on him?" Iida asks.
"Exactly. My sense of smell is enhanced but I was surrounded by unfamiliar scents I would not have been able to smell the differences between shoppers and villains. If I used the feather and he had others with him; people would have died. I'm sorry I thought of all logical and safe measure to take. And following along with Shigaraki's conversation seemed like the option with the least number of casualties." Izuku explains.
"I think you were incredibly brave, Izuku." Ochaco blushes and compliments "I would have been so scared I probably would have panicked and make the situation worse"
"Thanks Ochaco" Izuku responds warmly.
**** Abandoned Warehouse****
There's an area in Musutafu, Japan that houses a series of abandoned warehouses next to the old shipyard. The shipyard has been condemned due to safety reasons and outdated equipment. The previous owner decided against bringing the shipyard up to code and instead made plans for a larger one to be built in the deeper waters of another town. With the shipyard closed the strip of warehouses were emptied out and relocated. The area has now been turned into one of the largest gang hideouts, home to CP-9.
Shigaraki approaches the warehouse that was written on the paper Kalifa gave him. He appears by himself, but he is not stupid he has Kurogiri waiting on the roof and as reluctant as he is accepting Toga and Dabi; he thinks if this goes south it will be a good test for them, he has those two on standby. He wants to check out the place first, make them lower their guards.
He knocks, he only has to wait for a few minutes before Kalifa slides open the service door to let him in. he takes a look around the open area and sees the 6 people Kalifa mentioned sitting around a table. He glances around the room there are a couple dozen maybe 25 in total; well he doesn't know what to call them, so he settles for minions; all wearing the same white and blue uniform. They do not seem to be too strong. His eyes only spare them a long enough glance to count them. His eyes travel to the screen a massive monitor that has several pictures on it 10 in total. He recognizes all of the from the sports festival, though he is only interested in 4 of them. The ones that interfered with his plans twice now.
Kalifa walks in front of Shigaraki leading the villain to the table and gestures to the empty seat. "Thank you for agreeing to meet with us Shigaraki." Kalifa starts the conversation.
A tall built man with shiny long black hair, and neatly groomed facial hair stands up "I am Rob Lucci. The leader of CP-9" He goes around the table and points to the other "the one with the weird nose is Kaku, the grungy scar faced one is Jabra. The big man is Blueno. And finally the skinny one with whiskers is Nero. You already know Kalifa."
Shigaraki nods "You know who I am but pardon my rudeness. I did not want to walk into a trap, so I had my men wait outside." Shigaraki pushes a button on his watch to signal Kurogiri that the coast is clear. A portal soon opens up and a misty black man come out of it. "This is my partner Kurogiri." He turns part of his attention to the portal man "Bring the other two" soon enough two more people enter the room.
"Scar face is Dabi, and the girl is Toga"
Rob Lucci clears his throat "Now that everyone is here, lets get started." Everyone settles down. "CP-9s targets are Luffy and Ace. They are wanted for the crime their fathers have committed and we will not rest until they are held accountable for the blood in their veins. Also anyone who would harbor such fiends are enemies as well. Izuku Midoriya, Katsuki Bakugo, Shoto Todoroki, Kirishima Eijiro, Denki Kaminari, Mina Ashido, Fumikage Tokoyami, and Hitoshi Shinso. Those are our targets." Lucci looks over at Shigaraki "Any problems with this list."
"I call dibs on Izuku Midoriya and Katsuki Bakugo. I could care less about the others." Shigaraki states.
"Deal. It looks like we are all in agreeance then." Lucci finishes.
"Now Kalifa has told me that one of your men has a way we can infiltrate the school?" Shigaraki smirks.
"Ah yes she was mentioning Blueno." He gestures to Blueno, "Make him a door to the roof across the street of U.A."
Blueno does as mentioned and Shigaraki smirks as he can see U.A. high school on the other side of the door. This ability will prove useful. "What are the rest of the powers I will be working with?" Shigaraki asks.
Jabra sneers "Why should we show you our abilities? Why don't you show yours first!"
Shigaraki place his fingers on the table in front of him one finger held up "You want a demonstration of my power fine" he drops his finger and within a minute the table starts to decay. "Satisfied? You already know Kurogiri's ability. How about you show a little consideration. After all Kalifa came to me with a proposal."
Jabra was going to snark back when Lucci held up his hand commanding silence. "I see your point. I agree it would only be fair to show what we can do." As he starts to shift into a jaguar. He points to Kaku and Jabra "We three have animal transformations I am a jaguar, Kaku is a giraffe, and Jabra is a wolf. Kalifa makes bubbles. And Blueno opens doors."
"I see, Is Jabra's wolf anything like Midoriya's?" Shigaraki asks.
"Unfortunately, it does not appear so. Jabra is a regular wolf whereas Midoriya is some type of spirit wolf." Lucci states. "However their wolf instincts should be about the same."
"I see." Shigaraki ponders. He gestures to the Dabi and Toga. "Demonstrate what you can do."
"I use fire" Dabi states lighting his hand with blue flames.
"I can copy people depending on how much blood I consume." Togo states happily "Would anyone like to volunteer so I can show you my abilities?" She chuckles out. "Don't worry I only need a little to demonstrate. If I need to transform for a long time, I would basically need all the persons blood."
"No that is fine." Lucci waves off.
"Now then, we have gone over targets, and abilities. Anything else we should discuss." Shigaraki brings the talk back to order.
"We need to find out when the best time to attack would be." Kaku reminds.
"Why not just break into the school and take our targets?" Jabra suggests.
"No you idiot, there will be too many pros at the school." Shigaraki wants to kill this man. "I suggest a location that will have all of our targets but only a few heroes." He smirks.
"Where and when would this be?" Kaku asks.
"Two weeks from now the students of U.A. will be participating in their annual training camp off campus. It is typically hush hush so they do not beef up security. That will be our best bet to catch them off guard. We should wait until the middle of the training camp. Just because they are kids doesn't mean they are not powerful. After a few days of training and little sleep they will be exhausted, so they won't put up that much of a fight." Shigaraki plans out. "we need to worry about what pros they are going to bring with them. My concerns are Shanks, Eraserhead, and All Might. If they bring them, we will need more people."
"Shanks? As in Red Haired Shanks?" Jabra asks terror in his voice.
Shigaraki looks at the wolfish man in interest "Yes, he has foiled my plans once before. He was also there in Hosu helping those lesser heroes deal with my beautiful Nomu."
"This might be a problem. As far as we know he doesn't have any quirk so to speak. But his combat prowess is nothing to scoff at." Lucci comments. Something in his mind clicks and he looks directly at Shigaraki "What are these Nomu you speak of?"
"The Nomu are bioengineered beings that house multiple abilities capable of fighting off the best heroes. They only follow my command and do not speak or even think. Really the perfect soldier." Shigaraki smirks.
"How many of them can aid our cause?"
"I can get anywhere between 3 and 6. It depends if the engineers say they are ready for use." Shigaraki comments.
"Ok so I will count 3 in our numbers." Lucci stops to think. "So we have 3 Nomu, 10 competent soldiers and 25 Fodder. Do you think this will be enough against 40 children and multiple heroes. He don't know the heroes they will have guarding the area. But let's say they have 5 pros. Plus All Might, Shanks, and Erasurehead."
"No I have no doubt that at least 4 of the brats are going to take a lot of manpower to deal with. I would like to overwhelm them in numbers. Is it possible for you to get more fodder, Lucci?" Shigaraki asks.
"Not sure, it depends if we have more trained." Lucci states.
"What about recruiting people sympathetic to the Hero Killer." Kalifa mentions.
Shigaraki clenches his fist 'damn always comes back to him'. Kurogiri knows how Shigaraki feels about Stain followers speaks up "Tomura, this is a chance to boost our ranks. As long as they follow you, who care who the admire."
Shigaraki sighs "Kurogiri, I guess you are right. You handle the recruitments then. You know what I want, I need strong fighters."
"Will do."
Shigaraki nods "Now to keep in contact I will give me phone number to Lucci. I will let you know exactly how many Nomu I can get. Inform me if you can get more fodder. I shall do the same."
Lucci nods and hands the other man his phone. Shigaraki puts his number in Lucci's phone and calls himself. "Now that is taken care of, I do not think there is anything else to discuss." Lucci states.
"I'm sure everything has been worked out, if not we can contact each other." Shigaraki replies. He gestures to Kurogiri "send us home" the portal opens up. As Shigaraki steps through he turns back to Lucci "Until next time then." And disappears from view. Followed by Dabi, Toga and finally Kurogiri as the portal closes.
Lucci sits back a contemplative look on his face "That went well" as the rest nod. "In two weeks' time we will have what we came here for. Prepare the soldiers and see if we can get more." Lucci commands and watches the rest go about training the soldiers and talking to the World Government.
Notes:
This chapter was a bit hard to write with all the different events that happened in two days. I know the summary stated there would be relationship advancement between the boys but I didn't think it would go with the chapter. I am not sure how i want to proceed with the training camp. I know i CP-9 attacking along with the rest of the VAS. I feel like I need to have Shanks at the training Camp. He will not help much because he knows his boys can handle it. But he will step in to protect someone but if CP-9 is coming they will have Sea stone with them. Shanks is the only one who would know how sea stone Affects the DF users. Also a warning right now. I have no plans of CP-9 successfully bringing down Ace and Luffy. But they are needed for a much bigger development i have.
Until next time
Kats1x
