This My Life Now

by Lucifer S Moringstar

All Roberto Rodrigo Robles wanted to be since he was 13 was a hero. Now he is attending UA Academy, this is the story of how he achieved his goal!

6. I am a Hero

I am a Hero

I saw him, he wasn't even trying to hide, he stood there arms crossed mouth covered with a black n95 mask. He was taunting me, I looked to my friend in the hospital bed where I stood. "Yo Rob, what you looking at?" Terrin took a look and tapped Dezmond.

"The hell?" I blocked him from going any further, "That's that mutha laid out Andrew." I steadied my breathing, my anger seething, "Yo Robert say the word bruh." I shook my head and clenched my fists causing my knuckles to pop.

"Stay here both of you," I said firmly.

"Rob that's some bull.." Terrin wasn't having it.

"Terrin, Dezmond, do you trust me?" I asked them.

"Yo man Rob," Dezmond replied but I turn my head towards him.

"Do you trust me?" I repeated.

"He bodied Andrew." Terrin wanted justice, but I turned to face them fully.

"Do. You. Trust. Me?" I repeated one last time staring them down.

"Yeah man, we do." They finally gave in.

"Then stay here, he needs you." I pointed to Andrew who was out cold.

"Fuck!" Dezmond was frustrated, "Alright man."

"Thank you." The hospital we were in was old and had free opening windows. I looked back at my friends, they felt hurt I could tell. They lost to Rappa while I left to saved Rathers. 'It's not like that my friends, I swear just trust me.' I wasted no time as I made a beeline to Rappa Kendō. He wound up a punch and I stopped it with a viscous bomb courtesy of my friends in Spectrum. He looked at his arm and I nailed him across his jaw. Acting swiftly I nailed him as fast and hard as I could, this was the only way to defeat him. My suit adjusted to his strength, I had to overpower him before he could gain momentum. Joints and stopping blows before they started was no easy task. He struck, 3 bars, Rappa wasn't playing, another strike, bonus bar, he maxed out my intake in two blows.

I went for an uppercut, "ROBERT!" from my side Hōjō Yū leapt in front of my strike eating it.

"Where the hell did he get more?" This was different, he was hopped up on a new form of the quirk steroid.

"Dr. KonKoKtion left me a present." Yū roared as he tossed me aside I hit the roof's safety wall. "That's how I got them."

"Man screw this I'm not gonna let my mans die out there for us."

"Terrin stop." Mei came on over the com.

"No Mei, they're gonna.." Dezmond was cut off.

"Who do you think they are going to come after next?" I was hearing everything from where I was, Mei was fighting her tears.

"Mei, but he's our boy." Dezmond pleaded desperately.

"Trust him, this is why he's out there, it's killing me, but this is who he is." Mei was crying now.

"They're killing him!" Terrin interjected

"And he would do it a thousand times more for those he cares about." Mei was trying to get them to understand.

A dark cloud seems to form a purple portal bursting from inside blue energy sparks and dances from it. I see it as I dodge another blow from Yū.

51

The American Provisional Hero Licensing Exam consisted of three phases, written exam, target takedown, and villain attack/search and rescue. In this regard I respected the American version, I stood in a suite overlooking the arena where the second and third phases were to be held. Since I was considered a sponsor to my friends I was afforded this luxury. Very few people occupied the room with me, maybe ten at most. I just shook my head at this notion, I did not like this, paying for this test, students had to pay for equipment and uniforms out of their own pockets that would barely pass the quality I was afforded. What was the point of going to a hero academy if you weren't going to help those who wanted to be civil servants?

I made a mental note of this as I looked up at the result boards. I smiled proudly as my friends took the top three slots. "Roberto." I knew that voice, my teeth gnashed and my fists clenched. I took a breath to compose myself enough to reply.

"Mr. Rathers, I didn't figure you to be charitable type."

"Excuse you." I turned placing my hands behind my back facing him, "My agency is a trusted member of the board."

"Is that so." He saw the look in my eyes and lifted his hands.

"Whoa, relax Roberto." He involuntarily grabbed his side, "I want a balanced playing field just as much as you."

"How come that does not put my mind at ease." My words were emotionless and cold.

"Says the one who is still holding my database hostage, why would I want to jeopardize that?" I took a breath, "I hope it has proven useful for you honestly." I heard a buzzer, the second phase was about to begin.

"So who did you sponsor?" I remained silent, several agonizing moments later he sneered at me "Got dammit kid you're not going to let that go are you?"

"Once I see the tiger's stripes I tend to leave well enough alone." I see Terrin take down his required targets and advance. I turn to face Mr. Rathers, "I prey you do the same." Andrew followed suit, honestly, I was kinda upset he was second. I walked past Mr. Rathers. I spot a kettle of hot water and pour it into a cup then steep peppermint tea bags in it. I return just in time to see Dezmond finish third, "I cannot believe he wants to work for you." Mr. Rathers looks at my friend dance his way to the door, as he is met by the others. They look up and see me I raise my cup in congratulations, then Dezmond points at Mr. Rathers.

"That armor." He turns to me and I am inches from his face. Terrin and the others go in before they see us. I am now in full uniform my visor closes and bursts into green flames revealing my oni mask. Mr. Rathers is unmoved, "What are you?"

"Protective." My cowl retracts as Mr. Rathers narrows his eyes.

"Is that a threat." his words were more statement than inquiry.

"Test it and see." As if on cue the arena explodes signaling the start of the final phase. I then turn to the arena, from what I read teamwork was necessary to pass this phase. My friends flow in sync with each other, playing to each other's strengths. I see the points rack up with each save, their names in turn flash green and allowing them take on the chosen villain. It was Jinn! She then turned into mist form.

"Booya bitch!" Mr. Rathers exclaims in my ear, I just smile and nod. In unison, their cowls cover their entire face and mouth. Mr Rathers looks on as smoke pellets explode covering my friends. Jinn is forced out of her mist form as everyone stops to look at the smoke. Jinn then comes flying out battered and bruised.

"Indeed bitch." I whisper in his ear and place a hand on his shoulder. I leave him there shock written all over his face. He sees Jinn knocked unconscious and my friends standing victorious. I head to the exit door and turn my head towards him, "Have a good day Mr. Rathers."

I meet my friends with my arms open wide, I give a group hug as they show me their new PHLs. "How'd you know it would be Jinn?"

"Delta 12 Agency covers almost all of Michigan, and is headquartered here where these tests are being conducted."

"Not that big of a leap."

"I have taken out Mr. Rathers several times, so she was the logical choice." Dezmond's smile kinda faded, "I know Dezmond but on the plus side he did notice you, in fact, he was transfixed on all three of you." His smile perked up.

"Man after what he did to my mans here, fuck him!" Terrin made me smile with his loyalty.

"But his agency is the biggest one in the state," Andrew replied.

"Highest paying one as well, despite the shittiest things he's done to our boy here, he actually cares about the heroes in his agency." Dezmond points to me with his thumb.

"Hold on, Dezmond tell me more." My interest was peeked, Dezmond turned out to be more of an encyclopedia of information than originally thought concerning Delta 12. He did his homework, expanded his knowledge, he knew what he wanted and ran with it.

"He doesn't care about the cost of medical, or any benefits, he eats the cost willingly and still pays well over a living wage."

"He's not wrong Roberto." I turn and face Mr. Rathers, I instinctively step in front of my friends. "You really are protective aren't you?" He looks at Dezmond, Terrin and Andrew, "Your fearless leader here really cares about your welfare." They look at me.

"Say your peace Mr. Rathers." I hiss.

"He never loses that sense of professional courtesy either, I swear kid you are truly a class unto your own." I ease up my guard, "I know I have done you wrong, I sincerely truly ask, no, beg for your forgiveness Roberto Rodrigo Robles."

"Bro, look at him man, you got the owner of a multi-million dollar corporation begging."

"Multi-Million indeed, he wants his files."

"Bruh seriously, this man could bury you in legal trouble."

"Remember I told you I would reveal everything to you when you got your PHLs?" They all looked at me, "Mei, give them full access for a moment."

"Roger." My friends are given access to Mount Olympus, Mei gives them a guided tour carefully as to not compromise anything.

"HO-"

"LY"

"SHIT!" They then look at me, then Mr. Rathers. "Roberto."

"Tonight guys gotta celebrate your" I look at Mr. Rathers "crushing victory." Mr. Rathers sighs.

"Good luck, Mr. Rathers, I take back my words." Dezmond looks at me, he wasn't against me, he only wanted to barter peace. I look at him and sigh. "I understand Dezmond, believe me, I do, I am not unreasonable."

"I believe you, bro, just please man." I popped my neck, I was hearing him, I was just not ready, Mr. Rathers needed to check his privilege.

"I made you guys a promise, meaning I am bringing you in, just trust me."

"I would listen to him, Dezmond." Mr. Rathers had a feeling to what they saw, but he also wanted an in.

"You will get your files at a time of my choosing." Dezmond found hope in my words, "On that you can have my word." Mr. Rathers gave me a curt nod and left the arena foyer.

"You are one stubborn bastard bro, but if what we saw was real, damn son." Terrin's mind was blown just like the others.

"Robert why, did you choose us?" Andrew just looked at me as we were now exiting the building.

"I cannot really tell you, for I do not know myself." I paused a moment, "I do know kindness was a big part of it."

"Ok, what about me?" I looked a Terrin and I smiled.

"Hell if I know, maybe I found kinship with you being an asshole." We both laughed, "I do know my mans Dezmond here" I put my arm around him, "was a big part of it. As for him, I just kind of was drawn to his personality." We continued walking downtown stopping at what the locals called a coney island. There were two restaurants side-by-side, talk about close competition.

"Choose bruh." Andrew pointed at the two restaurants.

"Seriously?" I hated unknowns.

"Tradition here in the D." Terrin slugged my shoulder laughing.

"Tradition is peer pressure from the dead Terrin." I rubbed my shoulder shaking my head.

"Well, they calling you out my brotha." Dezmond added

"Is Roberto gonna back down, like a bitch?" I shot Andrew a glance, who only crossed his arms.

"Can I at least get some information?" I popped my neck.

"Alright, they serve hot dogs, one has a snap to them, the other doesn't," Terrin smirked.

"Fine which has the snap?" I was curious now.

"Yeah babae, left it is." Dezmond put his arm around me leading me to the door.

"Solid," Terrin smirked.

"Nice one bro." Andrew and follow us in.

"Cool since you guys forced this choice on me lunch is on ya'll"

"Bet." Terrin stepped up, "I got you, fearless leader, hehe bruh, Robles got Rathers shook bruh." The restaurant was bigger on the inside than was shown outside. It looked like an old dinner I saw in a movie about a cop in 1970s San Francisco who carried a .45 S&W Magnum. Three rows of tables and booths with party room in the back. Walls filled with old photos and vintage framed posters, the kitchen was in full view of the customers.

"No kidding, I mean got damn, the man was begging," Dezmond added.

"Fuckin' hell look." Andrew pointed at the table near the back, "Well it's not too bad." He spotted Jinn among the heroes of Delta 12, my friends rolled their eyes and did not see Jinn spot them and get up.

"My boi, remember…" I was cut off, she was already on us.

"Well if it isn't the guys who collectively beat my ass." Her face seemed somewhat less bruised but several levels of pissed off.

"Ah, shit." I backed off.

"Seriously bro." Terrin looked at me in shock.

"Don't even start, she is pissed off" Jin cut me off.

"At all of you." She sneered,

"Excuse me." I raised an eyebrow.

"None of ya'll check up on me after the exam." We all collectively cringed.

"Thank your boss for that."

"Maybe but still." I had to give her that, we should have. Her eyes directed daggers at me,"What the hell was that though."

"What, how to combat a quirk."

"You provided them with strength enhancing suits."

"Nope, that feature was turned off, that was all them. All the uniform did was protect them from serious injury and store their support equipment." They looked at me, "A hero is more than the uniform they wear and what their equipment can do, they are called support items for a reason. They support- not carry." They looked at me again their eyes saying 'what about you.' "I've proven that take away everything from me, I can still beat your ass." They looked at each other, "Say I'm wrong."

Jinn transforms into her vapor form, I grab a nearby pot of semi-hot coffee and throw it on her. She screams returning to a solid, I grab her the slam her on the table. "It burns inside doesn't it?" She is shaking, "So my theory is proven correct, you take on whatever is tossed on you?" The heroes at her table see me, they get up but I stare them down. "Andrew cold water please." Andrew gets a pitcher from behind the pop dispenser. I take it, "I know it hurts." I release her and she becomes vapor, and I pour the cold water on her. She returns to normal a bit colder but normal.

"Asshole." She then looks at Andrew, "Thanks, Andrew." He smiles at her as I pay the waiter for my actions.

"My apologies." The waiter smiles and I give him a hundred-dollar tip. "Could you be our server?" He directed us to a table with a smile. "Ok, I am sorry Jinn, guys."

"Yeah, what he said," Terrin smirks as the others agree.

"Forgiven, and congrats on getting your PHLs boys." She chuckles as she returned to her table.

Later that night we meet at my apartment, "Mei." I say through my commlink.

"All clear Roberto." I then send out a holoprojector and she along with Tsu appears on the screen. I motion for them to take a seat.

"First and foremost, congratulations, I cannot tell you how proud I am of you all."

"We crushed the competition bruh."

"For real homie, I've never studied so hard in my life."

"You don't study."

"Shut up Dezmond!" I laugh at their bickering and calm them down.

"You know why I am here, and you fulfilled your end, so now, it's time to give you more." They smile, "I did not really bring down that yakuza family in the traditional sense."

"What do you mean Roberto?" Andrew leaned forward adjusting his seat.

"I took a risk, a big one at that, but it paid off." I then explained about Eri and how the old man gave it all up to me. Mei confirmed this then played my interaction after I received The Shie Hassaikai database. They were horrified. "I did what I had to do at the time." They swallowed hard and thought a moment.

"Retired or be retired." Dezmond looked at me sideways, "That's cold as fuck."

"Yeah, now I am risking everything again, but I want to be upfront with you." I swallow hard, "If you want out, I will not..."

"Nah bruh, ride or die, I will stand by you side-by-side." That was Terrin, "Besides moms would beat my ass." I laughed but he gave me a bro hug.

"Shit becomes real, and this some real gangsta type shit right here boi." Dezmond puts his fist out and I bump it, "You're a real one Robles."

"Andrew?" Andrew just looks at them then at me.

"Man, who gonna watch ya'lls back and make sure mom don't cry." He fist-bumps me, "But for real though Roberto, that was pretty fucked up man, you could have just crippled the man, shit."

"Man did you not see all those hard-ass soldiers? I ain't bulletproof." Andrew just shook his head.

"I didn't say you was wrong but damn bro you broke his back, he ain't never gonna get some again, that's a fate worse than death, shit, just kill me." I had to agree with him I did enjoy sex, a lot, damn. I then told Mei to give them access to Mount Olympus.

"For now, you will have limited access, that does not mean I do not trust you." Andrew pulled up a section labeled restricted and sent it to the screen Mei and Tsu were on. "Those are related to my country's… just no."

"Fair enough, I see we have access to Delta 12's database."

"Indeed, most of your access is read-only, you cannot copy them or send them without Mei's permission and my authority."

"Can't blame you on that one, man accessing this on the fly for missions, that's dope, my man." I nodded at him.

"Now since you are working with me, you should be paid." This caught them off guard.

"What?" They all looked at me.

"Mei set up their accounts and deposit 3 months salary for each of them with $20,000 each month till we get our targets." Their mouths dropped.

"Roberto, how rich are you?" Dezmond just could not believe what he was hearing.

"Unimportant, it's a resource compliments of The Shie Hassaikai disbanding," I answered him.

"Done and done sending information to them now. Taxes and fees along with proper documentation sent to the proper agencies." Mei was feeling quite proud of herself now.

"Spec Ops?" I smiled to myself, it was happening, it was small but it was happening.

"That's our LLC for now," Mei replied smiling as well.

"For now?" Terrin looked at Mei and I.

"Thanks, Mei I am glad you thought of that," I said proudly.

"That was Tsu." Mei pointed to her smiling.

"I love you babae," I gave a piss poor impression of Dezmond who laughed hysterically.

"I had some of the business students help us out on international LLCs. Compensated them accordingly, and now you and Mei are the proud owners of Spec Ops International LLC."

"Damn. I can actually quit that damn job." Dezmond said to himself.

"For real moms is gonna love this."Terrin added.

"No doubt." All Andrew could do was smile.

"You should receive your cards soon, for now, fill out those forms, they are all electronic and self-explanatory." They smile and quickly fill out and send it back to Mei. After I, along with Mei and Tsu, brought them up to speed, I brought business to a close.

"I promise you this, stick with me for I only just begun. We will change the world, just have a little faith." Mei and Tsu punched out as our food arrived. Now what I needed was to get my Hero License in May.

52

I went back to school, the way it was run still annoyed me to no end. What was even the point, it seemed like this academy cared not about the actual student only the profits they could get. You wanted to do something better you had to pay, it was disgusting. They provided the bare minimum, the basic shitty uniform that was not even Kevlar, just fabric. They wanted to train heroes, right? I took mental notes for later, yes I was here in America to capture Rappa and Hōjō, but this was eye-opening.

School finished and I could not wait to get out of there, I tapped my chest and took off. "Yo Robles wassup man?"

"Nothing Dezmond, it's just hard going to school, I had to bounce and get some air."

"You good though homie?"

"Yeah, patrol tonight."

"No doubt, meeting at your crib?"

"Yeah, roof, why do you still drive?"

"Flying is cool and all but man, you've ridden in my baby."

"Yes, Dez your precious baby is nice but so freaking slow."

"Yo man shut up bruh, see you tonight." He punched off as I landed at Delta 12.

I saw Bailey pick up the phone as soon as I landed. I walked in raising my hands, it wasn't that I was not welcomed at Delta 12. They just didn't encourage me to visit, moments later Mr. Rathers came up the elevator with Jinn. Surprisingly he was in his real hero uniform. It was tactical black armor with a slight green tint, I had to say I was fascinated by it. We met halfway, I had to give it to him, he was never intimidated by me. I tapped his chest plate with the back knuckle of my pointer finger, "Ceramic armor, I used that on my 3rd uniform."

"Why are you here Roberto?" I tapped my chest returning to my civilian clothes and held out my exposed hand. "What?"

"Take it as a good-faith gesture." He took it and I felt the effects of his quirk as his eyes turned yellow. "So is this a one-way street or does it affect you as well?" I felt him try to let go, I had my answer. "Goodwill goes both ways, Mr. Rathers." He stopped resisting.

"There." I held on for a few moments longer then released him, "Answer my question."

"Understanding." Was my reply much to his confusion. "May we talk freely?"

"Fine, Jinn we're good here, dismissed." She looked confused but nodded as Mr. Rathers motioned me to follow him. I did and we ended up in his office, as we entered he motioned me to a chair and actually offered me a drink.

"Seriously, I am a minor." He shrugged his shoulders and poured himself a whiskey.

"Suit yourself, Faygo?" I nodded and he handed me a bottle, Red Pop. "What are you trying to understand?"

"Joe Lewis Hero Academy."

"My alma mater, what seems to be confusing, from what I hear you've done well there. The teachers love your holo projectors."

"The field is not leveled." Mr. Rathers stopped mid-sip, then placed his drink down.

"You've noticed huh." he took a breath, "I've tried to change that, but there's too much bureaucratic bull shit and special interests to go through."

"Is this at every hero academy in the US?"

"Yes for the ones that are for-profit, fortunately, and unfortunately Joe Lewis is privately owned, best in our state, 2nd nationally, and like most, for profit."

"Can't you make them an offer they cannot refuse?" I knew Mr. Rathers was not top 1% of the 1% but was at least a multi-millionaire.

"I'm well off but not that well off, your boys Dezmond, Terrin, and Andrew, Delta 12 was the ones to get them their full-ride scholarships, unfortunately, we had to do it anonymously and only tuition, food, and fees." He downed his drink then got up poured himself another one and downed it as well.

"So you are not just some egotistical rich fat cat." He threw his glass at me, I dodged as it struck the ground then bounced towards the door.

"Listen here you self-righteous pompous asshole." Guess it really did go both ways, he took a breath then composed himself, "You were testing the effects weren't you."

"Yes and no, I figured I would not hold my tongue." I nodded at him tipping my bottle towards him.

"Fuck you." He then flipped me off.

"You would enjoy it too much ask Jinn to confirm my skills." He looked at me with wide eyes. "Oops, guess you didn't know." he bowed his head.

"I just wanted that database and to rebug the place." I stood up and walked to a wall and leaned up against it. "Not to seduce you-much, but you fucked her?"

"More like she did me, I tried to turn her down and was failing miserably, ended up putting on a good show for my loves back home. So, thanks for that." I tipped my drink to him.

"Back home? Loves?" He was confused even more.

"Yes, Tsu and Mei, my uniform automatically links to my satellite network."

"Whoa, whoa, whoa, satellite, you own a satellite?" His face twisted with further confusion. "That's where my database went?"

"Mei built it, owns it, but yes I technically do, I could not do what I do without it." Mr. Rathers fell into his seat shocked with disbelief.

"Do you hear yourself right now?" He place his hands on his face and sigh then looked away. "Who the fuck are you?" I launch a holoprojector and show him Mount Olympus. His mouth drops, as I give him a glimpse of my network, then close it as he stares blankly at me. "WHAT THE FUCK KID!"

"Sorry, it's a lot to take in."

"And my backup database is locked in there?" He shakes his head and gets up.

"Added really, spoils of war and all that." He pours himself a strong one. "Easy, Mr. Rathers."

"I just realized I made the worse decision of my entire career, by picking a fight with a 17-year-old, forgive me if I give myself alcohol poisoning as penance." All and all I think he took it well. "Do I want to know how you did or got all these resources?"

"I really would not like to reveal that." I sighed looking at my drink.

"Fair enough, so back to Joe Lewis." He didn't want to know, least not now.

I finally opened the bottle and took a sip, I really liked it, he offered me another so I took it. "Right, what is the point of a hero academy if only the well-off…."

He tipped his glass to me causing me to pause."You said it yourself, contrary to what you might think of me I was raised just outside Detroit in a trailer park in Warren, Mi." I could still feel the effects of his quirk and his eyes had not changed back to hazel. "I won a lottery to attend Joe Lewis back when it was non-profit. They helped a lot of the new generations of heroes here in The States. Fast forward a couple of years and the academy was nearly broke and I just barely founded Delta 12. So some rich guy bought it and now its a shell of its former self." He raised a glass to his former alma mater, I joined him. "I tried several times to get it back, but every time I failed. Sorry Truth."

"Who's this Truth?" Mr. Rathers looked at me, at first he was angry, but then he remembered his actions.

"My best, no, he was my brother, I was a sophomore and he was a freshman, he won a lottery too." He took another swig, "We met during combat training and hit it off, he ended up skipping the following year and we ended up graduating at the same time later on." He explained that they were partners and after Delta 12 was established he brought Truth on as a business partner. "Truth was smart like you, didn't take my shit either. His quirk was the opposite of mine, Falsehood. He could make a person believe a lie as the truth, thus his name. However, our quirks canceled out each other."

"So what happened?" I probed and Mr. Rathers complied.

"Dr. Konkoktion. Truth took advantage of this small-time punk, made him believe he told the cops of a crime, he actually committed, which was part of some plead deal. The deal was a lie, his crime wasn't, but there was no evidence and he would have gotten away with it." He took another swig, "The punk seemed quirkless at the time, sentenced to juvie, however, he was a late bloomer. Apparently, he took advantage of the education juvie provided, got into chemistry, like it became his religion. His quirk manifested when he was studying acids. His celly mouthed off at him and then got an acid bath." Mr. Rathers paused, "When Truth got there it was nasty, freshly made human juice, the punk escaped then went dark for several years. Suddenly Truth started getting threats, vandalism on his cars and home by some villain calling himself Dr. KonKoKtion, spelled with 'K's, along with all the racial slurs associated with the three letters represented." I knew enough to know what KKK implied and I did not share their creed.

"So how did Truth die?" I skipped the pleasantries

"Damn you're cold." I just stared at him, "Just saying shit. Truth wasn't much for waiting around so he verbally challenged him during a press conference when we opened our Grand Rapids branch." I could see his emotions come bubbling to the surface, "I stood by him, ride or die right? He laid me out via some sort of knockout gas his quirk produced, then burned Truth alive, slowly, from what the medics and several chemists described as an acid made up of several other ones that stuck like grits on Al Green. It took 4 hours for him to die, I was out for 12, his ultimate fuck you."

"Bio-Chem, I believe you called his quirk."

"Yeah, so there you have it, Roberto."

"Good talk."

"What?"

"You are forgiven, but I still do not trust you."

"Don't lie me, I know my quirk wore off."

"I'm not, I forgive you but I sure as hell don't forget."

"Bet. Building shit from scratch is a pain in the ass."

"Take it as your penance as well. As for security." I toss him an earbud, "Yours sucked, talk to Mei, maybe she could quote you a price."

"Seriously, Roberto." Mei came over my com.

"Be nice Mei," I said as Mr. Rathers put on the earbud.

"I can't be too mad at you for having her listening in." His voice had a bit of admiration in it.

"Indeed your attempt was pathetic at best, Mei destroyed the spyware you tried to install." Mr. Rathers wasn't surprised.

"It will be reflected on the price Mr. Rathers." I saw him cringe at the sound of his name.

"I really do hate how both of you call me that." He replied flatly.

"A professional way to call you an ass." I responded.

"I'd rather you call me an ass directly." He fired back.

"Not as satisfying." Mei joined in.

"Fuck both of you." He said in frustration.

"Asshole." We both smirked at each other, "Play nice Mei, Mr. Rathers might prove to be actually useful."

"Now you are just being facetious." He pointed out throwing his hand up.

"Ooo the troglodyte learned a new word, Mei." I gasped clasping my hand to my chest.

"I fucking hate you." Mr Rathers chuckled.

"Love you too cupcake." I let myself out, leaving Mr. Rathers in Mei's hands.

53

I met my crew atop my apartment, "Sup fearless leader." Terrin wasn't gonna let that go, I simply smiled shaking my head.

"Casinos were always a hot spot for these bastards, so tonight we are searching Greektown Casino." I then looked at Andrew, "Along with Mei, you have our six, set up a mile from the casino." Andrew nods and takes off, I then look at Dezmond, "If we spot them, you take point."

"Meat shield huh?"

"No-yes but no, but, RRRR, your secondary ability will shock the hell out of them." Dezmond just sucked his teeth and nodded. I turned to Terrin, "You are the strongest of us naturally, so you buy us as much time as you can."

"Got it." I nod and we all take to the air and head to the casino.

Pointbreak takes position about a mile out, "In position fearless leader."

"Don't you start!" Dez, Terrin, and I land atop different buildings surrounding the casino. "Mei, what you got for us?" Mei pulls up floor plans, my mobile vibrates, it's Rathers. "Not now." I take the call.

"Stand down a moment, just a moment." I relay orders, this was interesting. "Robles, you are about to commit a crime on US soil."

"Rathers." My eyes narrow, this cannot be good.

"Hear me out before you do something stupid and get your crew jail time." I took a breath, his point was clear. "Delta 12 runs security at Greektown, all the casinos in fact."

"When was I detected?"

"You were flying towards the casino, and landed atop buildings overlooking it." I cringed I knew how bad this looked. "I know you are not after assets, however, this looks extremely bad." I grit my teeth I was still just a PHL carrier, had I been a hero this would be easier. "Check the files." I should have been more careful, stupid. I can hear Mei on my other line, she wasn't flipping out but was just as pissed as I was with myself."PHLs give you leeway, however, you are trying to run a full-scale operation on one of my clients no less!."

"Team…"

"Hold up Spectre." I pause, "Jinn is on her way to your location, listen to her, Rathers out."

It didn't take her long to arrive, I told my crew to hold positions and that I apologized for my error. They berated me the whole time till Jinn arrived. "The owner was upset, however, he himself doesn't like underworld figures in his places of business." I take a breath, this op was a complete failure. "Spectre." I compose myself, I hated failure. "Mathew got to you in time, despite what you think of him." I raise my hand.

"I squashed that already, I know he is a good man, just…"

"Zealous, stubborn, refuses to bend to the will of others."

"Sounds like someone we know fearless leader." That was Dezmond putting in his two cents.

"Shut up Rocaphella." I cut their lines from me.

"Nevertheless, you are good people Spectre, so we offer you this." She pulled out a contract. "We understand what you are doing Spectre, frankly it has been a long time since Matthew, hell even me, have been so impressed by someone such as you."

"You want me on Delta 12?" My eyes narrowed.

"Ideally yes, and those under your command." I had to admit I felt a bit of pride. "Your tactics and instincts among your other assets would greatly benefit Delta 12, but we know your answer for that, so we offer that contract." It was long but it would give me protection as a contractor for Delta 12. "Take the offer, the other casinos, are willing to give you limited access while you search for these yakuza."

"Why would they?" Something felt off, "Why would they do something for a 17-year-old kid?"

"They have connections to Japan, you think your little raid and disbanding incident would go unnoticed?" Jinn had a cold shiver run up her spine, "They showed us footage no media or any type of federal, hero, or local agency had." I really was becoming infamous, I did not like this. An ego boost for sure, but it was making things more complicated for me to find these assholes. If these private owners got this, what was preventing my targets from getting the same information? For these people to sell said information to them?

"Roberto take the contract." Mei said over the com, "Think of the others." I swallowed my pride.

"Pen?" Jinn handed me one and I signed, "Team to me." Moments later they landed and one by one they signed under me. "I'm sorry team."

"Nah bruh, it's all good."

"Smart decision actually fearless leader."

"This benefits them as well Spectre, now they have work studies with us as trainees." Jinn was trying to smooth things over.

"Sweet but what about our boi here?" Dezmond, I really love that man.

"He's technically still under his work-study with Fat Gum, but is now considered a consultant with Delta 12." I gave a big whoop gesture, "Spectre, we will not interfere with your mission, this is only a preventative measure for you and those you command."

"You keep saying 'I command.'"

"You are their commander as stated in your contract, Delta 12 has these trainees under your command."

"So you saying?"

"You and I are the same rank Commander Spectre, you are the youngest commander in Delta 12's history via our contract. Congratulations." I was in shock, my friends jumped in celebration. I started chuckling then laughing. "Trust me, Matthew would not have it otherwise, he respects you. I respect you, besides you, I think they would not follow anyone else."

"Aw come on J..err Commander Jinn, we'd follow you." She smiled at Andrew.

"No doubt, for real, but we see your point," Dezmond added to which Terrin agreed.

"Well, I am grateful for that. He is your commanding officer, other than Rathers and myself, you answer to Commander Spectre. If we need any of you either Rathers or myself will contact you directly no exceptions." They went to attention as did I. "Commander Spectre, Delta 12 charges you with the safety and responsibility of these trainees, do you accept your commission?"

"Wholeheartedly Commander Jinn." She nods at us then turns to vapor, she circles around Andrew once then heads out into the night. "I think she's taking a shine to you." I smile at Andrew, "Team, I failed this mission, however, from here on out, we act under the assumption as if they know I am here." They bowed their heads, "I sincerely apologize as your commander."

"Plus side commander, we have achieved cooperation from the casinos now." I smiled at Terrin's remark.

"Indeed, however, I have a request for all of you." They looked up at me, "On the field do not use my rank, it only paints a target, keep that under hat." They slightly shrugged, it made sense, "Fall back, for now, tomorrow is Saturday, we will check one of the others then. Head to my apartment, Dezmond." He looked at me and I handed him my mobile, I give him a smirk, "You'll be my second in command." The others slapped him on the back approvingly.

"Mannnn."He was excited as we grasped forearms.

"Order us dinner." Dezmond's face shot me a glance, and I simply smiled.

"What the hell man?" Dezmond was not amused.

"Couldn't help it, man your face, chill my man." His face soften as he got the joke then looked at me sideways.

"You see, you see that right there, is gonna cost, you Commander Spectre." I chuckled.

"So be it Rocaphella, I will be with you all shortly, dismissed." They took off and I made my way to Delta 12.

"Commander Spectre." I smiled as I was flying through the air.

"Hey, beautiful." I was taking my time, debating what I was about to do, "Yeah, the plot thickens."

"I love it, all it took was for you to wreck their servers, whoop the owner's ass, then have your friends annihilate his second in command in their PHLs, and almost cause another international incident." She croaked, "That about cover it?"

"You forget I am holding their database captive." I point out and I hear her croak as a matter of factly.

"So what are you going to do?" I took a breath and paused hovering for a bit.

"Debating currently, what's to stop them from turning on my crew?" I mused over the com, Tsu knew how cautious I could be.

"Fear, they all know what we are capable of." Just in true Tsu fashion, she didn't sugarcoat it.

"Good point, I am the weapon you are its wielder." I chuckled, I missed her dearly, every day and night I went to sleep, she was always on my mind.

"Aww love you too, I do not think Rathers would go down that path. He wants you as an ally, not because of what you hold, but rather your skills." For a moment she sounded like Sensei.

"Thus the rank." I wasn't buying it.

"No, you've earned that, Fat Gum and Aizawa Sensei can vouch for that." She pointed out.

"How is my partner?" I missed him as well.

"Ask him yourself." I heard the com switch over.

"Sensei!" I almost lost my composure due to my own happiness.

"I am not your sensei anymore." Aizawa pointed out.

"Let me have this partner." I heard him sigh giving in.

"Fine Commander Spectre, congratulations." Not going to lie I was squealing inside hearing that from him. "You've caused quite the uproar in America, I don't know how to feel. I'm impressed, depressed, filled with pride and shame." I sighed, besides Tsu and Mei, I never wanted to disappoint him.

"I'm…"

"Don't even finish that sentence partner, I am on your side with this." I almost cried, "Roberto, I trust you, never doubt that." A crack in the dam. "This Rathers got what he deserved, if I was with you I would have been the one to whoop his ass." He broke me. "Do what you think is right, weigh the options carefully, look at the facts like I have taught you Robles." I was silently crying, I know he knew, "You got this Roberto." The lump in my throat ached with each word he spoke.

"A-a.. Alright sensei I will do as you say."

"I miss you too kid, be safe." He punched out and I cut the line as I landed having a breakdown atop a building. Sensei believed in me and I wasn't going to let him down.

I touch the side of my visor and reconnect, "Tsu, you still there?"

"You alright Ribbit?" I assured her I was. "Mei just came in, I called her."

"What you got for me Roberto?" Mei chimed in.

"I will not make this decision on my own we are a team." I started out and restated the facts.

"He did just save your collective butts." Mei pointed it out, she probably could have gotten them the hell out of there quickly, and there was no way in hell I was going to let them take the blame. They are my team and I would do everything in my power to protect them.

"Also Rathers connected you to the casinos, thus improving your success rate," Tsu added.

"These connections also pose a danger ladies." I hated unknowns, especially when I discovered how shady some private owners and corporations in this country could be, they were a yakuza family all on their own.

"No more than you already were in, besides you are not alone," Tsu stressed the last part, she had told me before how meeting my friends had set her mind at ease.

"Roberto do you trust your men, not just like your friends, they follow you and are loyal to you."

"That was never a factor, I do." I trusted my men, besides Ms. Hillsong kept them in line more so than me.

"Then my love, who do you think will be by your side if it all goes south?" 'My love' Mei was being very bold, moreover, Tsu didn't shut her down.

"They do not have a chance." Tsu croaked sinisterly.

"Then I elect to give them their database back." I had what I needed so I put it out there.

"Me and Mei agree as well." With that, the database downloads into my gauntlet, "When you give it to them the wireless connection will be permanently disabled."I acknowledge, "Besides I'll be monitoring with Tsu you won't be blind or alone."

"I'm never alone my loves, never." I hear them squeal in happiness. "Alright then let's do this." They go radio silent as I continue on my way to Delta 12.

53

I land once again in front of Delta 12 and like before I see Bailey picking up the phone upon my arrival. I see a few of Rathers' men surround the reception desk as I enter. The tension is thick, I do not bother putting up my hands as I make my way to her. "Evening Ms. Rathers, how are you?" I see her swallow hard, she's tense especially since I was still in my uniform.

"I am fine Spectre, dad should be up shortly."

"Thank you Ms. Rathers." I see a Keriug, "May I?" She nods.

"Peppermint is on the top shelf." I give her a smile and fix myself a cup of tea, seems Rathers took notice. Bailey's guard never take their eyes off me as I take the cup, blow on it, and take a sip, "Superb." I hear the elevator ding and then open up to more men, they exit the elevator as Mr. Rathers makes his way in between them.

"Am I addressing Spectre or Roberto?" I set my cup down for a spell.

"You make it sound like I have a split personality Mr. Rathers or should I say Slim Shade?" I look at the heroes surrounding the foyer, "Did I come at a bad time?" I pick up my tea and finish it, "Delightful."

"Please answer my question." I tap the side of my visor lowering my cowl and visor. "Mr. Robles welcome to Delta 12." I set my now empty cup down on a coaster.

"Thank you Mr. Rathers." He notices the inflection in my voice, I smile popping my neck. "It's always so exciting coming to your fine agency, the welcome is so."

"Cautionary." One of his men speaks out of turn, Rathers shoots him a death stare.

"Mr. Rathers I cannot blame him or anybody here." My inflection changes and I grab his attention once more. "It shows their intentions are in your agency's best interests." He eases.

"Indeed, you have made quite a name for yourself here. Thank you for signing the contract." His voice was steady, his arms were tense ready to drop bombs if I made a false move.

"Still doesn't put your mind at ease," I look around me, I had to admit I was getting a rush. "does it?"

"Shall we speak freely?" His eyes were narrow, I must of looked insane to him.

"Indeed." I give him a toothy smile.

"You're a bag of feral cats Roberto." We both heard a collective shutting of everyone's sphincters.

"And you are a rabid dog Matthew." I could see various quirks activating around me and Bailey taking cover under her desk. Mr. Rathers is taken back as I say his first name. I smile darkly and hear everyone take a breath, as I tapped my right gauntlet revealing my naked hand. "Admit it you are dying to know why I am here." He removes his glove and immediately takes my hand. He doesn't fight me and holds on for the allowed time.

"Why are you here Roberto?" His eyes skip yellow and go-to red.

"Office, alone." I had to admit I did not enjoy the migraine that came with his quirk. "You really don't like me do you?" I could see him getting a migraine as I held on.

"You're wrong, you scare the shit outta me."

"Me a 17 year old kid?"

"A 17-year-old kid that crippled my agency, broke several of my ribs, traumatized my daughter, not to mention your history. What the hell are you?"

"A force of nature." Both of our minds were on fire, his men backed off. "I think you demoralized your men Matthew."

"Got dammit Roberto."

"End this, I won't lie."

"I want to but I have to be sure."

"Then turn it down then for FUCK'S SAKE!" Mr. Rathers is straining his eyes, "Dear God please don't tell me you're stuck like this!" he shakes his head no, "Then turn it down, you made your point and I won't be able to fight you now." He concedes as blood leaks from his nose and mine. His eyes go yellow and my migraine calms down to a dull numbness. "Thank you."

"Fuck you Roberto, never once had I ever had to take such precautions." He maintained his hold as he grabbed his head.

"Then it pleases me to be the first Matthew." The numbness was still painful, but it was the only way he would believe me.

"Argh its worse when you call me Matthew."

"Whose fault is that huh?"

"Mine! Jesus, what the fuck do you want?" He squeezed his eyes trying will his own pain away.

"Is that rhetorical, or you want to know the purpose of my visit?" I just had to be a smartass.

"YES." He was not impressed.

"Shall we go to your office, I rather speak to you one on one." He looks at his men, they were impressed with me.

"Dismissed if he wanted to attack he would have done it already." He motions me to the doors, "You know the way, I'll get us some aspirin. "

"That was going to be my next request."

I enter his office I still felt his quirk and took note of it, it wasn't like sensei's he did not need to keep eye contact. I collapsed on the seat in front of his desk, the lighting dimmed as he handed me some aspirin and another peppermint tea. "Just aspirin." I hear him and I down the pills with the tea.

"Thanks for dimming the lights, it's almost romantic." I give him a mischievous smile.

He raises an eyebrow, "Wrong tree Robert."

"Shame, you are handsome." I lean back slowly as he widened his eyes.

"Wait, you for real?" The same smile returns to my face, I was quite serious Mr. Rathers was very much indeed handsome.

"The term is pansexual and yes Mr. Rathers despite your beaming personality you are attractive to me." I cross my legs and adjust my seat drinking the rest of my tea.

"That's- that's actually very kind of you to say that." He moves to his sidebar and puts ice in two bags then towels. He hands one to me and sits behind his desk placing the other on his forehead. I do the same and give him a thumbs up. We take a moment before continuing giving the aspirin and ice to take effect.

"God I hate the side effects your freaking quirk." I break the silence, "But how else would I get through to you." He lifts his towel and flips me off as I return the favor.

"Double edge sword Roberto, its just as bad for me." I wave him off, and he chuckles, "So what is so important that you were willing to put yourself through that?" The thumb drive shoots out of my gauntlet and I catch it. I hold it between my thumb and pointer finger and lift up my own towel. Mr. Rathers' towel falls and his eyes become transfixed on the drive. "Is that?" I nod, "Don't bullshit me." I just look at him, he then realizes his error. "Why?"

"A time of my choosing, and you went out on a limb for men."

"You mean."

"I would go broke just to make sure they were safe from fallout," I leaned in, "I do not care what your original intentions were, if it meant they would be safe I'd happily serve the time." He leaned in towards me his eyes still glowing yellow, "Take it as a sign of my immense gratitude." He did then leaned back in his chair, then he suddenly refocused. "I already know what you do, I have no need to bug your system."

"I dunno if I should be grateful or offended by your words."

"Whatever pisses you off more."

"Asshole."

"Troglodyte."

"Rrrr." He gets up and I meet him, he offers his hand and I take it, "Thank you, commander."

"No problem, Mr. Rathers." his eyes return to hazel and he dismisses me. I return to the lobby. I see Bailey at her desk, one of Rathers' men still standing guard. She sees me and I approach her with my hands raised. "I mean you no harm Ms. Rathers." Her eyes are wild, "You really are truly terrified of me." She nods slowly, I see her guard and back up a bit. "I cannot change your reasoning Ms. Rathers, but I really and truly apologize for causing your suffering." I nod and walk away.

"Roberto." I stop and look back, "Thank you for that." I nod and exit Delta 12.

I return to my apartment they of course had finished eating, pizza, wings, and soft drinks. They greet me warmly and I catch them up to speed. I then serve myself as they return to the game system I brought from Japan. I watch them, I was truly blessed to meet such wonderful people. "Hey commander, you going back home for winter break?" I can't make out who said it.

"Yes actually, you all care to join me?" Their game stopped and they looked at me, "I have plenty of room at my complex, and we can spend Christmas at my house."

"Japan? HELL YEAH!" they said in one voice.

"Terrin, think ma would like to go?" He smiled, "Good then we are set your PHLs also work as a passport, I'll make sure ma gets a passport as well."

54

The rest of the year went like a blur, the weather had changed to fall. It was mid-September and I still struggled to maintain my attention through most of my classes, however business and combat training breathed new life into me. I love learning new things be it something like understanding how business infrastructure functioned to learning a new way to come at an opponent. If it engaged my mind to push myself to master it, a teacher had my undivided attention.

So why did I not just do like my teachers said and take AP classes? Simple, I was not in the US to just go to school, I was there to track down those bastards. If I learned something new along the way to close in on my target-fine. Other than that school was a means to an end, no more, no less.

My nights were free, Dezmond had quit his job and burned that bridge to the ground. "Let the fire of these bridges light the way." I took that notion to heart when Dezmond said it after he told his boss to kiss his black ass. Andrew came up with the idea to spread our search by having each of us monitor one of the four casinos in downtown Detroit.

"We are in constant communication anyways so this will be most efficient." Made sense when he put it that way. Mei developed an algorithm along with software to streamline this plan. For now, the casinos allowed me access to their CCTVs to which I rotated to each of my soldiers. Night after night, nothing, nada, zilch. Finally at week's end, "Spectre, we got a hit." I sync Andrew's casino with my own as well as the others.

"Damn that's one big mutha." I hear Dezmond over the commlink.

"Hōjō Yū, "I reply.

"Who?" That was Terrin chiming in.

"One of the Bullets of The Shie Hassaikai, the yakuza family I retired." Mei sends them the file. I land on the building Andrew was posted up at. I greet him with a fist bump.

"Strong dude my guy, that quirk is gonna be a problem." Andrew states as Terrin and Dezmond arrive and greet us.

"Hopefully his guard doesn't have the rounds made from his crystals." I shake a shiver out of my spine and automatically grab my side remembering the bullet.

"Bruh, what's up with his right forearm?" Dezmond points out in the footage showing a massive crystal stabbing weapon in place of his forearm.

"I cut that sumbitch off last year after he killed the crime family's original leader." They looked at me with wide eyes, "To be fair I thought at the time that he killed my mother's ex-husband." They shook their collective heads, "Long story, you will meet him when we go to Japan."

"Commander… you know what I really do not want to go down that rabbit hole with you right now." Dezmond just shook his head.

"Good, I don't think you'd make it back if you did." I fired back

"Man shut. Up. My man." Dezmond laughs then notices the window he grabs my attention pointing to it. I smile as my mind starts working.

"Okay, I have a plan." I look to them, they were all ears, I see Terrin move closer to me and looking behind me.

"Whoa, whoa, fearless leader." I look at Terrin like he lost his damn mind, "Nah bro its not like that, look." I raise an eyebrow and tilt my head then look at the CCTV, then behind me to the window. Terrin pulls up the Delta 12 files, "Boss recognized him now?"

"Dr. KonKoKtion." I smile and tap forearms with Terrin, "That's how you do it bruh, huh." I then see a case in the good doctor's hand, he lifts it and then opens it. "Pointbreak."

"On it!" Andrew zooms in as far as his visor will go then activates his quirk, his eyes turn from brown to a glowing green. "I see a set of three different color vials." my blood runs cold.

"What are the colors Pointbreak."

"Blue, red, and a sort of darker red almost purple." I pull up files on the raid and the quirk steroid case. Andrew gets them, "Yeah commander those are it."

"What's the deal commander?"That was Dezmond.

I take a breath then pop my neck."I hate to say this guys but we might have a bigger problem on hands."

"Humm, what?"Dezmond raises an eyebrow.

"Bigger? Boss?" Terrin seems off.

"We need more information, and I need to see Rathers about this." I could not keep him out of the loop this time. Even he deserved justice, just as much I did.

"Rathers, they are right there Spectre." Terrin was not having it.

"Bruhs chill, read the files, this is some heavy shit." They look at Dezmond then read.

"Quirk Killer?" Andrew read aloud.

"A quirk steroid, what the actual hell commander?" Terrin was beginning to get the severity of the situation.

I tapped my temple connecting to my eye in the sky. "Mei track these bastards, this is priority one."

"You got it, Spectre." She acknowledged.

"If they got a factory, plant, some sort of drug lab, we need that location and to stop this now." I look at my crew, "You guys ready to dive into this shit?" I saw concerned smirks but they had my back.

"Ride or die, we ain't gonna back down ba-by." Dezmond clasped my hand pulling me in for a bro hug.

"Let's go scare the shit out of Rathers." I smile evilly.

"Bruh, really?" Andrew just raised an eyebrow.

"Boy quit frontin you were thinking it too." Terrin razzes Andrew,

"Man, you always wanna start some shit man, dammnnn." Dezmond shakes his head in frustration. I smile then ignite my green oni mask, Dezmond jumps and the others clown him. "Man, back up, he got me, he got me, ight chill." They simmer down and we collectively take off.

"Yo Terrin."

"Sup bruh?"

"Ma need a small vacation?" Terrin could tell by the tone of my voice what I was getting at.

"Ya, but mom is not easily convinced."

"Guys detour."

"Fo'sho." We alter course and land at Terrin's house in four loud thumps and are greeted by Mrs. Hillsong in a house robe with her hair covered in a nightcap.

"What in the hell, do you know what time it is?" In all honestly, she was making more noise than we did. Looking around we see lights coming on and neighbors peeking through windows.

"Sorry, ma." I look away, I was not going to argue with her, for I knew my crew in this case did NOT have my back.

"Roberto baby." She comes close to me, the slaps the mess out of me. "What the hell is wrong with you coming in this neighborhood with yo face all on fire like youse the devil himself."

"DAMMMMNNNNNN." She looks at Dezmond, Andrew, and Terrin who shut the hell up.

"Damn she gave me one bar. Shit how the hell…" She slaps me again, to the quiet sympathy pains of my friends, "Two now, sh…" She raises her hand and I yield.

"Turn off that demon mask so I can see you. Jesus, God in Heaven boy." I obey, the others don't say a word. "There, that's my Roberto, I really hate that thing you cover your face with. I understand though." I smile and she gives me a hug, my face was hurting. "Come on in boys, obviously something has you all spooked." Mrs. Hillsong intertwines her arm with mine and we go in.

I explain to her the situation as she got me an ice pack for my face. After which she poured me some peppermint tea, she remembered and I just smile, Terrin on the other hand rolled his eyes. "Well, Andrew looks like mom has a new favorite." Terrin jokes as Andrew sighed slightly hurt.

"I don't have favorites I love you, all the same, just Roberto and Andrew here have better sense than the both of you." Dezmond crossed his arms as Terrin just clicked his teeth. "Boy eat the brownies I made you all." They looked at each other and shrugged.

"She does know I love these things." Dezmond was watching his words now after the ass whoppin Ma gave me. Terrin and Andrew had to agree as they scarfed the desserts down. I grabbed on and took a bite, my eyes widened and my tongue was in heaven.

"Do you think these fools gonna scare me?" She replied unwaveringly.

"Not even the devil himself could move you Ma." I replied, "Ma it's just." She holds my hand.

"I know baby, I can see it in your eyes." I smile, she gave off a warmth that was comforting that only a mother could give.

"Then you know why I am insistent." I began to imagine several scenarios firing off one after another, all of which I never make it in time, "Ma it's not running away technically, I just you know- wanna spoil you."

"Boy, you are more of a devil than that mask you wear Roberto."She laughed I could see I was reaching her.

"Then please let me spoil you for a little while, how bad can it be?" I turned it up a notch, I have to save her no matter what.

"I'd be worried…" She trailed off.

"Ma, we got each others' back, it's what heroes do, I care deeply for each one of my brothers here." I point out trying to set her mind at ease.

"I do have plenty of vacation time, been working at that warehouse for years now." She thought about it, "Fine, I have a free month and I have my fancy new passport." I clap my hands in celebration as my friends just look at me in amazement. Andrew holds out his hand as Dezmond and Terrin each slam $200 in it. "ANDREW!" He shows no shame as he smiles nodding his head in victory.

"Come on Ma that was funny as heck." She laughs for a good minute, "So tell me Ma, where can I spoil you at."

"I want to go to London." I clap my hands and praise her. "Just like that huh."

I touched my com, "Mei."

"Done and done just give me a date." Mei was already working on her end.

"I am pretty sure they will approve it quickly, I will let you know tomorrow." I give her an earbud, "What's this?"

"I meant to give it to you sooner Ma, tap it once when you get a date and Mei or Tsu will finalize everything for you."

"Yup."Mei chimed.

"I remember you, your the pretty young lady with the pink hair, Roberto's fiancee."

"No that would be me." Tsu immediately shut that down, as Mei just giggled at her jealousy.

"Oh sorry baby, either way, you both were the prettiest things I've ever seen."

"Thank you, M…!" They both stop as Ma cuts them off.

"It's okay babies, Roberto's friends can always call me mom." I gave Ma a hug, "Where you going, Roberto."

"We have one last thing to take care of." Ma looked concerned, "It won't take long, if you like I can stay the night."

"Roberto."

"I won't let anyone harm you mother." I caught my words, but Ma heard them. I composed myself, but Ma took me by the hand.

"I believe you baby and yes please I would like that."

At this point, you are probably wondering why just Terrin's mom, what of Dezmond and Andrew? Well, Dezmond's parents are both PMC or Private Military Contractors who, like most anime tropes, are working abroad, only together. Dezmond remained in Detroit at their, for the lack of a better term, FORTRESS, in Grosspointe. So why was he struggling to get his hero equipment or his PHL for that manner? Growing up in a military home, his parents raised him to earn everything himself. They provided him a food budget and paid the bills on their 'fortress' but if he wanted something extra, like say his 'baby' aka his car, he had to come up with his own funds. They approved his career choice so long as he had a backup plan, which he did. Being a hero pays well if you join a good agency, this goes the same in Japan as well, but it does have its cost. His parents were willing to pay JL Hero Academy tuition fees, but Dezmond chose to do it on his own. He got the Delta Scholarship and his parents could not be more proud of him for doing it on his own.

I admired this about Dezmond, he believed in picking himself up by his own bootstraps. When I got to know him more outside of school, I couldn't help but give him the resources he needed. He tried to pay me back multiple times in private due to his pride. I told him to pay me back by giving me his best in every mission, assignment, school work, showing me the hero I know him to be. That settled, as they say, was that.

Andrew's parent, his father died from a heart attack at a corned beef festival/competition. He was brought up pretty much the same way as Dezmond. However, my boy Andrew was a hustler through and through, he wasn't a dealer, but more of a con man. He knew his craft and perfected it to a master level. His mother works at the FBI as a criminal profiler, it was through this Andrew learned how to read a room and select his targets. This combined with his quirk made making extra scratch was like withdrawing from a human ATM. His charisma was low thus he could keep a low profile and safely select his next target. However, once he selected his target his natural charm carried him to his goal, $$$. I had to guard myself for a while or he could have easily sucked me dry.

The training from his mother prevented him from seeing me as another target. He knew what I was and what I was capable of before he even developed a friendship with me. It excited him, it drew him to me, like a moth to a flame, only for him to be rewarded when I took on Terrin my first day at JL. I knew I had chosen well when I paid for his PHL. Information is power, with Andrew I knew I could be invincible.

So why Terrin? Honestly, it was because of his arrogance, he was comfortable in his own skin and did not give a damn if anyone didn't approve. Despite his tawdriness, I could also see something more in him, when I meet Ma, after my utter shock, I knew I was right. Terrin was actually a kindred spirit, close to his mother and would go to great lengths to protect her. It was because of this he wanted to become a hero, how could I not help him achieve such a noble goal.

Ma got involved with a man she thought she knew. Turned out he was an urban terrorist who wanted nothing more than to just cause complete anarchy under the guise of social justice. Ma had Terrin and he revealed his true self, she was not having any of that. She raised him as a single mother, despite his father, Ma never changed her outlook. She continued to choose to see the good in people with a little more caution but never became jaded.

55

We landed at my apartment building, Dezmond had a better idea of how to show up at Delta 12 Agency. Honestly, I had to admit despite the information I had, I occasionally I gave into immaturity. This was going to be one of those times or it was going to drive me insane. Dezmond's baby was a black-on-black BMW M6 with limo black tint all around save the windshield. Terrin got in the front seat with Dez as me and Andrew got in the back. As the car started the undercarriage lit up in a bright alien green as we drove into the night.

The luxury sedan was as close to a yakuza vehicle as possible, Dezmond wanted to just roll up on Delta 12, to quote him, "All mafia-like". I found the idea so absurd, we had to do it.

"Come on Roberto you know you are enjoying this." Terrin knew me too well.

"Yeah, but man flying is so much quicker." I fired back

"Yeah but you are a sucker for theatrics, huh commander?"I look at Andrew who smiled, "Like that holo oni mask is just for fear tactics." I look up and sigh, "See!"

"Shit, seeing this baby pull up right at their front door." We all start laughing among ourselves, "It's gonna scare the shit out of them." Terrin laughs.

"True but be prepared to be met with a hostile response." I point out.

"Especially if Terrin opens your door." Andrew smarted off.

"Man, can't you do it, Andrew?" Terrin clicked his teeth.

"Our commander said to scare the shit outta Rathers." Andrew laughed.

"Man, Rathers is gonna think you are going for a hostile takeover." Dezmond chuckled as he continued to drive.

"It will guarantee an audience with him." Andrew pointed out.

"All joking aside, you know Rathers would see you if you ask for an audience." Dezmond reflected.

"True, maybe this is a bad idea." I was actually reflecting on this terrible idea.

"Too late!" Dezmond pulls right up to the door and revs his engine. I can see from the back seat men coming to the lobby. He revs it again then shuts the car off.

"Andrew open my door, but do it hastily and make sure your goggles are polarized." Andrew smiles and realizes it will give the most impact. He puts on a serious face and polarizes his goggles and exits. He rushes to my door, Terrin opens the glove box and pulls out dark sunglasses as Dezmond reaches for a pair on his sun visor. They put them on and open their doors as I see Rathers coming around the corner from the elevator. Andrew opens my door and I step out and come from behind Terrin my green burning oni mask matches the ground effects of the M6. I see Rathers stop at the lobby doors I see him mouthing the words, 'What the fuck?'

"Roberto what's the meaning of this?" he calls out and I switch on my voice modulator making my voice monstrous.

"It's time." my voice reverberates, we suddenly hear the cocking of guns. 'oh shit I overdid it.' The oni mask covers my eyes as I notice Terrin and Dez looking back at me, Andrew is genuinely nervous, 'Damn, that's not good.' I boldly walk in front of Dezmond and Terrin facing down Rathers is not amused nor was he going to back down.

"Commander they ain't playin, you were right this was a bad idea." I hear Andrew in my comm. Yeah, no shit man.

"Roberto," he states calmly, I switch off my modulator and my mask, he takes one look at me narrowing his eyes and raises his hand. We collectively nearly shit our pants as we hear guns taking aim. "ARE YOU FUCKING SHITTING ME!" His hand signals his men to get ready. " No, you know what, I'm gonna kill you my damn motherfucking self." He pulls out his firearm and cocks it, "Fuck the consequences, I am DONE with all of your bullshit!" I take a breath, why the hell did I go along with this stuuupid idea.

"Whoa chill." The gun goes off as I shut my eyes. A moment passes, I'm alive, I look back and my friends are still standing.

"Fucking asshole!" The bullets were blanks, "I know you're still a kid, but what in the actual hell did you think would happen." I feel the rush of adrenalin sending endorphins through my brain causing me to giggle. "Oh, you think this is funny?"

"No Mr. Rathers," I say through my giggles, "Man what a rush."

"If Mei didn't contact me and tell me what you were going to pull… Boy…"

"I know, I apologize for my stupidity." Slowly the rush fades.

"Mr. Rathers." I hear Dezmond pipe up as Rathers crosses his arms gun still in hand looks at him. "It was my idea."

"Dezmond no." Rathers raises his hand and stops me.

"I put him up to this foolishness." I facepalm and breathe.

"True but I told him let's scare the shit out of Mr. Rathers." His eyes then look back at me infuriated.

"You do know I still have a gun in my hand, Roberto?"I swallow hard and nod.

"Yes, but I am solely responsible for this idiocy, not my men, me and me alone." I hear them protest but I raise my hand silencing them. "Whatever consequence you have in mind I'll take it, leave them be." I hear them protest, "I am your commander, can it." My voice silences them, Rathers is impressed.

"You would take any punishment meant for all of you, yourself." I nod, "Even if it meant losing your rank?"

"This action alone proves I am not worthy of it Mr. Rathers."

"No."

"What?"

"No, this only confirms I made the right call Roberto." I raise my eyebrow, "Your actions, though extremely stupid, you are willing to be accountable for your own men." I take a breath, "You get one pass, don't- do this again."

"Yes Mr. Rathers, sir."He looks at me shaking his head.

"Mei mentioned you found something come in." He calls off his men and they return their arms to rest. My crew and I proceed to take the walk of shame to his conference room.

We enter the conference room Jinn is there, Andrew smiles sheepishly, but she was not having it. She gets up and walks to the door and shuts it then locks it. As she comes back to Rathers side she smacks Andrew upside his head. I look at him then at her as does Dezmond and Terrin. They follow my lead and let it go, I hear Mr. Rathers cough snapping us out of it. "First off what in the hell was your thought process."

"I'm a teenager, that suffers from bouts of immaturity." Rathers facepalms takes a breath as his hand combs through his hair.

"Why am I not surprised by your answer." He sighs deeply, "One moment I am totally convinced I am talking to a fully mature adult, with the most brilliant mind I ever come across." He then bows his head and then continues, "Then you completely destroy that by pulling shit like this." I feel both pride and disappointment at the same time by his words. "Then you return to that same moment of maturity by the way you handle the fallout."

"To be fair, I am the same way with my partner."

"And how pray to tell, does he handle it?"

"About the same way as you." I hear him groan, "As does Fat Gum." followed by a painful one. "It's really vicious cycle Mr. Rathers." He falls back on his chair covering his face in his hands and screaming in anguish.

"Not. Helping. Robles."

"Well then perhaps the intel my team has uncovered can change your outlook."

"PLEASE DO!" I nod at Jinn who dims the light and I launch a holoprojector. "Nothing is ever simple with you is it?"

"Don't act like you don't love my toys." Rathers took a breath, "Point proven."

"Unamused."

"Fair enough, banter aside, we got a major problem." I compose myself, my team remains silent as Rathers finally tells us to sit down.

"Okay, not what I was hoping for but with you, I know you would not come to me unless it was dire."

"Before I show you this hear me out." Now Rathers was concerned and I had his complete attention. "Mei pull up the files for Mr. Rathers and thank you, Mei, love you."

"Huh huh, baka." She then pulls up the case files on the quirk steroid, quirk killer, and the fake cure. I turned over the explanation to Mei who broke it down for him. The blue vial was a 'fake' cure, what it really was, was a slow-acting toxin that for the most part gave the user their quirks back but would slowly kill them. Chisaki Kai wanted to commit mass genocide, leaving only the quirkless, and him as a god. Aizawa and I put a stop to his delusions of grandeur, even with that being done it still did not put my mind at ease. I could see the clock ever moving closer to midnight and Kai's return.

Mr. Rathers took it well, "Fuck me."I could see him rubbing his temples and going through scenarios all of which were the worse case. "Ok, I get the blue and the quirk killer, but what exactly am I facing with the red vial, the steroid?" I take a break and look away, "That's never a good sign." I pop my neck and pull up the footage of how the old man was murdered. I watch them as they see Hōjō Yū turn into a monster as me and pops effectively get our asses handed to us. They watch as Rappa drugs me and I struggle to keep up the fight. They hear him taunt me, threaten those I love and care about as I receive blow after blow. The footage ends with me slicing off Hōjō Yū forearm after he killed the old man.

"This is what we are facing Mr. Rathers."

"Good to know you're not invincible." I deserved that, "So if this Hōjō Yū became that strong what is the plan?"

"I have no idea." You could hear a pin drop, "Mei is currently tracking them which segways to the other reason I am here." Mr. Rathers takes a breath as do I, "I do respect you Mr. Rathers, contrary to my recent actions, and given more information about you and Delta 12 from your files along with feedback from my teammates."

"I am soo grateful." Mr. Rathers said through narrow eyes with a deadpan voice.

"Sarcasm is appreciated, but I am quite serious Mr. Rathers." He groans and I pull up our surveillance.

"Hold up." Rathers stood up staring at the footage.

"Yes, we found the bastard." I reply but I see him focusing on the case. "Rathers?"

"This has gone from major to nuclear." I pause, "Please tell me you read Dr. KonKoKtion's file." I pull up the file, see his quirk and bow my head. "Mei please tell me you have something on him."

"Still tracking him Mr. Rathers."

"Where is he right now?"

"Belle Isle Casino, well what's left of it."

"Sonuva."

"Mei, give Mr. Rathers full access to our database network." I toss him a portable HUD, he catches it. "The good doctor is yours."

"I have no interest in failed yakuza has beens."

"So do we have an accord to help each other on this?" I offer my ungauntleted hand, he looks at it and takes it. His quirk activates as we grip each other's hand.

"Even a demon can be useful."

"As well as a fool." We shake and he puts the device on his bracer, then attaches the display projector over his ear, it activates and a small holo screen projects in front of his right eye. [Welcome Hero: Slim Shade. Awaiting voice activation please say your name.]

"Matthew Bruno Rathers, the III." The HUD lights up [Accepted, Welcome to The Mount Olympus Database powered by The Hermes Network.] "Huh, neat."

55

We didn't waste time, my team and I went ahead to Belle Isle, we had to be careful the doctor had several facsimiles of himself. These things were no more than sentry droids covered in fake skin made from his quirk Biochemistry. They looked like him save the red eyes. We landed on the isle, it was pretty much abandoned long ago. Mr. Rathers said his last battle with the doctor destroyed the isle and the city could do nothing to save it. So, it was left like an open sore to rot in the elements. It was sad just an isle of the dead, no life, flora, or fauna, just one big dirt mound.

Andrew took point on the far side of the aisle while I along with Terrin and Dezmond flanked the casino. It was small with its roof caved in, the brick and mortar crumbling covered in black sot and god only knew what else. "Mei?"

"He's there." I took her at her word as I knelt down.

"Rocafella, Jenesys." I signaled them to surround me, they nodded and I sent out a sonar pulse. "Got him, uploading data, Slim Shade ETA?"

"Got the data, less than a min." Rathers confirmed.

"Holding." I send my friends to form a perimeter, as I waited for Rathers. "Pointbreak sitrep."

"All is calm I got your back commander." I see Rathers pulling up with Jinn and two others. They get out and make their way towards me when Hōjō Yū rises from the dirt grabbing the SUV they came in. Time seems to slow as my eyes widen, I see Jinn turn tapping Rathers. A shot is heard as a round hits the gas tank, I fire my grapnel wrapping around Rathers. The SUV explodes launching Hōjō Yū into the water as I pull Rathers to me. Jinn turned to vapor and took shelter under the dirt, she suddenly becomes solid and screaming in pain! I see Dezmond boost to her picking her up and dives into the water near to the main city.

"Commander!" I hear Andrew through my comm, "Need assistance, I'm surrounded." Rathers points to the two men he brought with him and sends him to Andrew's position.

"I got my people coming Pointbreak." Facsimiles rise from the tainted earth surrounding us. I get behind Rathers as we square up, "Never thought I'd see this day."

"Aww, I'm getting all emotional," I smirk and I see one coming for Rathers off the corner of my eye. "Weaknesses?"

"They are more distraction than anything, same weak points as any man." My shield flashes as we are covered with some type of acid, we are safe as it splashes and down off of us. "Then there is that." I groan, "That shield of yours is useful."

"Ask me nicely I might make you one Mr. Rathers," Mei says over the com, Rathers smiles and signals me to attack. I pass him a re-breather and drop a smoke pellet covering us.

"I really do not have time for distractions." I turn on my strength enhancers and grab Rathers. "We have maybe 6 seconds between each shot." They fire again and launch Rathers at one of them. He charges his nightsticks up and stabs them into its optics. I launch my kunai through two, take a hit, throw the weighted end shattering its head into the offending facsimile. I see Terrin taking several on, his face keeps getting splashed but regenerating. Before he can take out the last two, Hōjō Yū leaps out of the river landing in a crouch smashing them. I turn to Rathers, "GO!" He nods and he makes his way to the casino. I ignite my boosters and make a beeline for Yū. I slam my fist into the side of his face knocking him to the ground and come down again and he catches my fist. I smirk and send a shock to his system, he shakes and I continue to slam him with my surge knuckles.

"Spectre incoming!" I kick off Yū as Dezmond sets the brute's face aflame, one after another we strike burning him, then electrocuting him, anything just to take him down. Yū is enraged as he sends crystals shooting out of his body like some deranged pufferfish, knocking us all out of the way.

"PRESS ON!" I leap into the air and come down activating my aftershock ability and shattering the crystals on his arms as he blocks my blow. Dezmond flanks him sending his burning fists into his knee, Terrin strikes his side and they cave him. I aim for expose skin and send traq-darts flying, Yū stabs Terrin through his gut and uses him as a shield!

"TERRIN!" Dez and I yell as we charge sending our fists into his gut then the sides of his face. Terrin is ripped off his crystallized right stub and send tumbling across the isle. The brute is still not falling and pushes us off him, then nails Dezmond through the head dropping him with the weaponized stub. I roar as I see Dezmond fall, I then launch my kunai sending it into his mouth, I pull side ways sending a spray of crimson into the air. He grabs his mouth and I see Dezmond light up orange, "His quirk."He gets up nude as his uniform retracts into his jacket. Soon after I see Terrin rise.

"Dez, bro com'on man!" I nearly breakdown at the sound of their voices.

"Got dammit."He puts on his jacket and is back into the fray. They throw out sticky pellets immobilizing Yū.

"Fallback?" Hōjō Yū roars to what seems no one, I come down unleashing another blow from my aftershock knocking off his mask spraying the ground and my fist with his crimson liquid. Underneath the mask Hōjō Yū mouth is mangled as crystals have replaced his teeth in jagged fangs. He moves his tongue revealing a drug.

"SHIT!" Before I could reach his mouth he cracks it and swallows the drug spiting out the case! I pull out several shock and flash set pellets gritting my teeth I force feed them into Hōjō Yū. I kick off, "FALLBACK! REGROUP! NOW!" Dez and Terrin jump back to me as Yū explodes from the binder as his crystals rip through it releasing him. We see a small poof, no effect.

"Oh shit!" Dezmond spoke for us as Hōjō Yū roars seemingly shaking the isle.

"NOOOO!" He says as what seems like steam flows from his mouth and nose. "I cAn KilL RoBleS HERE!" Dezmond and Terrin look at me.

"Zeus protocols: Fate's Gate." My helm ignites from green to red and my oni mask grows horns. The lining of my armor seems to bleed and my breathing slows.

"Roberto you will only have enough time till your metabolism goes for your body," Mei warns me and my team of my actions.

Months earlier… at my apartment.

"Roberto I also sent you something as well," Mei tells me as I pull out a circular disc, it was smaller than the one which held my uniform.

"What is it?" I switch to Japanese since my friends were in the room enjoying their new uniforms. Mei does the same thing.

"The Zeus Protocols. In dire situations use these three." My HUB updates my inventory and information as I place it on my belt. "The first one is Fate's Gate, nanites are injected into your bloodstream which overclocks your metabolism giving you superhuman strength and abilities for a short amount time."

"How long?" I take a breath awaiting her answer.

"Depends on how much excess nutrients you have." She smiles and explains she made a new contact in the Bio Lab of the Science Department at UA.

"So eat a big meal?" I smart off.

"Food is fuel," Mei replies with a chuckle.

Present…

"Yo, yo Roberto, bruh." This was Terrin, I look at him in the corner of my eye.

"Roberto, that didn't sound good, come on brother, no." My eyes shift to Dezmond, as Hōjō Yū roars and trembles in rage. I look at the monster before me and clench my fists.

"Lucky for me I had a big meal." My oni mask's flames dance rapidly, "Mei, open the gate."

"Mei! Please don't." Terrin, Dezmond, and Andrew plead over the comm, Hōjō Yū charges and Dezmond takes off towards him, followed by Terrin. I see a small explosion coming off the side Yū's head. A burst of flame as Dezmond strikes and gets tossed aside.

"Open the gate." My eyes focus on the battle, Terrin blocks a blow falling to his knee. His hands barely hold his fist as the stub stabs him in the side. "OPEN THE FUCKING GATE MEI!" Four more explosions from Andrew's shots.

"Roberto." I can hear her tears as I feel a rush flow through me as the needles unleash their bounty. My breathing quickens and I let out my own roar!

"HŌJŌ YŪ!" I shout as I bolt towards him our fists slamming against each other. Crystals shatter as we trade blows. I see red as we rage against one another, I grab the crystals on his forehead and rip down tearing flesh in one smooth motion blinding him. "MONSTER! CREATURE!" He stabs me with his stub, my adrenalin is flowing, my armor holds. "THIS! IS WHERE YOU FALL!" My arm wraps the stub and break it as warning lights go off in my HUD. I keep pushing myself striking ripping off more and more crystals along with flesh. He hits me with a haymaker knocking me back.

"On my way." He leaps away from me as my eyes flare with rage. Mei pulls the plug and the rush slowly fades.

"HŌJŌ YŪ!" I scream as an explosion goes off behind me. I look towards Hōjō Yū then back at the casino. "Rocaphella, Jenesys." They look at me and I point to Hōjō Yū, "After him!" They don't question and take off, "Point Break you clear?"

"I am already gone, commander." I give him a confirming grunt.

"Jinn." I switch over to my mobile,"I'm going after Rathers."

"Spectre."

"Back me up." I could almost see the smile on her face.

"Affirmative, men, after Hōjō Yū back up Spectre's Team!" They come to confirm and are off as she lands beside me. "Got your six." I nod and we run in and make our way down. Lights flicker and several more explosions are heard, getting louder as we draw closer to them. I'm running on pure adrenalin my body is screaming, Mei was not joking about Fate's Gate. A wall explodes in a slab, one more step we would have been crushed. I look through the hole it left behind. It's bright as all sorts of lab equipment were taking up the vast room. I see Mr. Rathers going toe-to-toe with Dr. KonKoKtion. I see steam coming from the Doctor's hands, Rathers' armor is steaming as well but holding as he tries to get in close. The fabric over his armor is in tatters, melted from his attacks.

I stop Jinn from calling out to him and point to the rafters above. She nods as I fire off my grapnel and perch above them. "Rathers." I see him dodge, "Don't speak or search." He nails the Doctor who fires back missing but I see a latch in his armor weakening. Rathers is holding his own as I run across readying my position. "Get ready Rathers." I look at Jinn, "I'm going to give him an opening be ready to get him out when he retaliates." She nods, "Make it count Rathers." I take aim with two pellets smoke and shock. I pull back and launch them at Dr. KonKoktion, they explode. I see Rathers spin a nightstick, with the business end down then stab it into his eye. Jinn swoops down and pulls him out, as the Doctor screams unleashing chemicals everywhere.

Jinn places him on the rafters, he pushes her aside, "Robles." Rathers sees me and I hold up my hand.

"I am not interfering he's maimed, breathe." I scan his damage identifying several types of corrosive weaponized chemicals. My breathing becomes heavy, as I pull out a mask from my belt and give it to Rathers. "Save yourself cancer." He puts it on and breathes in filtered oxygen. I look down as the Doctor is on his knees bleeding out.

"I'm ending this." he looks down at the doctor who is shouting his name.

"By all means…" I grit my teeth as Rathers notices my fatigue, "Tell you later, get this son of a bitch." I fire a line down embedding into the cement, the Doctor is looking around blinded. Rathers pulls off his belt and zip-lines down, in one swift motion he tackles the Doctor, spins him gaining momentum and tosses him into some barrels. The latches of his armor give out and his protection falls aside. "RATHERS!" I leap down landing in front of him tanking a corrosive blast protecting him. My shielding holds and I take a knee, Rathers comes to my aid. I hit my chest and I shift to my civies. I look back as I see the Doctor rise, no time, I take the blast covering Rathers.

"ROBLES NO!" They scream and I plant my disc on Rather's chest with a twist. It seals in place. My armor covers Rathers and I pull out the grapnel gun from the leg compartment. My body is smoking as I take aim and fire it, a quirk killer dart shoots out hitting its mark. I fall as shouts his body convulses as his quirk fights it. "Ge…t him… Tr…ut..h"

"JINN get him out of here!" is the last thing I hear before the lights go out.

Entr'acte 2- Slim Shade

That bastard took a bullet for me, stupid son of bitch! [Welcome Mr. Rathers] Well this is new, wait, [Configuration complete.] So this is what the kid sees, this should be fun. I see the fucker in my sights, not this time KonKoKtion, I blast towards him, [Aftershock ready 100%]. OHHH YESSS! I slam my waiting fist into this bastard's jaw sending him flying. [Grapnel now.] I see a target reticule lock onto him I fire wrapping the line around him, I pull as it quickly reels in. With great speed I stop it then pull it over my shoulder and he slams into a pillar.

"FUCK YOU!" I boost again sending my fist into his chest sending him through the pillar. This is amazing I fire the grapnel again and pull him back to me catching his neck then slam him into the ground. He blasts me and this shield takes the hit [Scanning body, quirk unstable.] "Keep me posted." I slam my fist into the man who has haunted me for the past five years!

Five years ago…

"Some dude keeps fucking up my shit Slim."

"We're heroes Truth, news flash, not everyone will like us."

"No shit Slim, but this guy, have you seen the vile shit they leave?"

"Yeah, I know, but like I said before my guy, I got this." Truth was always ran hot, but this was different. The perp seemed to know him, the vandalism was personal. Along with the racial slurs and other vile shit, the words 'liar' and 'You set me up N*****!' Me and Truth had gone through all our cases trying to find this bastard. I told truth to chill at the safe house but he wasn't having it.

"And show this fucking bigot I'm scared?" We looked at each other, "HELL TO THE FUCKING NAH!" It was always like this, why was this guy targeting Truth? We had to find this bastard. Every night we were out tracking down every lead we had, nothing, not one got damn thing! Truth had had enough of this bastard ghosting us, I keep telling him to chill but he was not having it. "Slim I know you mean well bro, I know you have my back."

"Truth, I know what you are about to say, please don't, I agree with you I will never understand that part of your life." Truth sighed regretting even thinking it, "You know I want to get this asshole as much as you do, but do not fly off the handle. Especially when we are about to expand to Grand Rapids."

"Its like that bruh?"

"I am not saying sweep it under the rug, you know me better than that, you like how we've been living right?"

"Keeping it real, making bank and holding our city down, hell yeah I do."

"Well then chill, we've been out there going hard every night without fail, me and you." That seemed to settle him down for the moment, and it lasted till the day of the press conference.

Channel 13 WZZM was and still is the main news outlet in Grand Rapids, everyone was there from Delta 12. We had the new staff for this new branch as well, the day was perfect, not even a cloud in the sky. Truth was to be the one running this branch, he had everything ready to move out and run it. Yeah I wouldn't see my brother as often but still this was a great move. I had a new cat coming in to take over his spot in the main office. Truth vetted him out himself, Jacob Cruder Downing, hero name Blue Worx. Young cat from The Lone Star State of Texas, best tracker Truth had ever seen. He worked as bounty hunter for the Texas Rangers, smart as hell, honestly reminded me of Roberto now.

Then this bastard struck, hijacked our broadcast mid speech. I can still see him even as I am beating down this asshole now. Tattered lab coat, black custom n95 mask, goggles, we now knew the bastard was male, 6'1, white as the driven snow. I could see Truth gritting his teeth, the motherfucker was at his new home, behind him the movers were laid out murdered in cold blood. Truth went for his car, but I stopped him and pointed at the time in the corner.

"This was prerecorded." I nodded in agreement, he introduced himself as Dr. KonKoKtion, he even had his named spelled out to him. He went on and fancied himself larger than life as he laughed and taunted us with his various acts of irritation he had inflected upon us.

"Us?" We looked at each other then I saw her, he had my wife as well as Truth's daughter. Horror filled both our eyes, he went on calling me a traitor to our race, a n*****lover, he called truth's daughter nothing more than a hole to be used. We stood their our rage burning as he finished up his bigoted tirade. What happened next still gives me nightmares. Slowly I heard my wife scream then Truth's daughter, corrosive liquid poured from his hand. The next thing I knew we were in his car speeding down the highway headed to his new place. He wasn't going to live. I sat in the front passenger seat loading up all the firearms we had. We had to hold back our tears as we let wrath take over.

We arrived only to see what remained of our love ones, Truth held us together. "Not now my brother, later." My wrath took over as my consciousness took a back seat. Blinded by rage I kicked down the door only to be promptly knocked out by his quirk.

"Sleep, you must bare witness to what I am about to do." Last thing I hear after that was gunshots. I awoke twelve hours later in the hospital.

"TRUTH!" I was beside myself pulling out IVs, I had to find him. Several security guards, orderlies, nurses and my own people had to hold me down. I kept screaming his name til a doctor sedated me. I awoke again and I was given the news, my whole world ended right there. Moments later Bailey burst through the room, I could not get out of my bed quick enough. We collapsed in each others arms, grateful the other was alive. Bitter tears filled my eyes as I held my daughter in my arms. "I failed." I told her she gave no response other than crying, "I am so sorry Bailey, daddy, failed." We held on to each other tightly for what seemed like ages.

The next few months turned to the next five years, I no longer stayed at home. My expansion grew until Delta 12 became Michigan's largest hero agency. Jake ended up being the greatest decision Truth had ever made. He got me closer to that murderous bastard than I could ever do on my own. However it took a toll on him, he felt under the shadow of Truth and the pressure got to him. Every time Dr. KonKoKtion escaped him he saw my reactions. I was never mad at him, nor disappointed, I just wanted to end this bastard's reign of terror. Jake didn't see it that way. He saw himself as a failure, to me, himself, and to the memories of Truth, his daughter, and my wife.

"Jacob why?" I could not understand, what brought this on?

"I can't do this anymore, I keep failing." I was left confused, what the hell?

"Jacob no, you are not a failure."

"We get so close Mr. Rathers…" He slammed his fist on his chair.

"Jacob."

"I need to stop, I need to refocus, I cannot do this hero business right now." I wanted to change his mind but it was already set.

"I understand." I surrendered.

"Give me some time Mr. Rathers, I'm moving to LA to finish my schooling, maybe then…" He seemed to trail off.

"So you got accepted to U of SC?" Despite him leaving, I was proud of him, "Then I do not accept your resignation," I lifted my hand before he could protest, "Take the time you need Jacob, finish your studies, for now you are taking a leave of absence."

"Mr Rathers."

"Matthew, you will always have a place here at Delta 12 Jake, if your position is open and if you decide to return then we will pick up where we left off." I remember his smile, we shook hands and embraced, I even bought him his ticket to LA. "Be safe Jacob."

Present…

Dr. KonKoKtion had forced me off of himself using a formula for concentrated gun powder then, using a spark from magnesium, launches me across the lab. [Aftershock ready.] It seemed that the quirk killer round failed, but I saw him trying to finish me off. [Quirk limited. Theory: semi immunity due to manufacturing Quirk Killer.] "Makes sense." [Dodge.] I use the boosters to dodge the acid blast, I lift my hands and scan it as it passes by. [Weak. Theory confirmed.] I smirk as I close in on him, "This is for TRUTH!" my fist launches him into a steel wall, another blow, "For My Sara!" He coughs up blood, as I pick his head up by the chin, "For Yazzmin you sick bigoted fuck!" I grab his head with both my hands.

"Those monkeys weren't even remotely human."My eyes burn with utter hatred, "Go on n*****lover, DO IT!" I headbutt him, knee him in the guts, "All that little monkey was good for was a cum dumpster!" I slam his head into the steel frame again and again. "I had to teach her." He then started laughing as I was starting to loose it. "I melted your wife, but did you read the autopsy of the little monkey spunk!"

"Burned from within." My eyes widened my pupils retracted as I saw this vile creature in human skin laugh like a mad man. I suddenly choose a mask, a red devil, it ignites as I grab his laughing face, he's un fazed, my hatred overwhelming me, his laughing. Suddenly he stops and I see Satan himself staring back at me.

"I made her swa-" I crushed his head like a grape, his gray matter coating my hands and the steel wall. I fall to my knees and roar till my voice gives out. It. Was. Finished.

56

Slim Shade:

I burned his body in that underground lab, I had let my rage control me and I killed him in cold blood. I didn't leave till he was nothing more than a dark husk, several emotions filled me to overflowing. Relief, grief, joy, disappointment in myself and actions. Dr. KonKoKtion was a monster yes, but I became judge, jury, and his executioner. I bypassed everything that I built Delta 12 on, fairness, due process, yes he was guilty, but he still deserved a trial right? Was I wrong? I did not have the answers. What I had to do now was contact Mei and Tsu, this wasn't going to be fun.

Rocaphella:

"JINN GET ROBERTO OUTTA HERE!" That was Rathers, I along with Terrin could not move. I could hear Andrew, this bastard was using him as a punching bag. Terrin held his own till his regeneration gave out. Hōjō was long gone by now, this guy stayed behind and was in a totally different league. My quirk was maxed out, which has never happened to me before.

"Where's Robles boy!" Andrew spat blood in his face as he looked at him through cracked goggles. Several more blows, I could hear my homie cry out with each hit. I tried to rise but Andrew stares at me telling me no. "Such heroic nonsense!" I hear the crack of Andrew being bodied. "Pathetic each and everyone of you." He mocks us as he then snaps the necks of our back up and then smashes their heads in. "You've failed, now live your consequences." He grabs me and pulls me in close, "I will be watching all of you." I then meet his fist and blackout.

Jinn:

This kid is something else, he surprises me every time, he does not give in no matter what. Fighting till he collapses, hold on Roberto, please.

I make it to the hospital and my cell goes off, international? Oh shit! "Hello?"

"Jinn? Where's Rocaphella, Jenesys and Point Break?" It was the one named Tsu on the line.

"They went after the big guy, Hojo something." I was trying to wrap my head around her question, was she not concerned for Robles?

"Their suits just sent me a warning! Jinn you have to find them NOW!" Before I could reply she sent me coordinates then punched off. I suddenly remembered.

"Matthew is wearing Roberto's armor." The medics take Roberto away and I make my way to the coordinates.

Tsu:

It was my turn at monitor duty, Mei had been working nonstop. I heard Roberto's words to her, they hurt, but we also knew that they were in dire straits. Roberto would apologize later I would make sure of it, but for now he seemed okay. I then moved to check on the Dez, Terrin, and Andrew when their uniforms went off. The readings were off the scale, something was going on, I aligned Hermes to give me a closer look but they were surrounded by smoke. I saw Dezmond flatline several times, at first I almost panicked, but I remembered his quirk. Terrin was not fairing any better, what in the world was going on. I know Hōjō was a beast especially on the quirk steroid but this- this was something else.

I still could not see anything due to the smoke then at the last moment after I contacted Jinn I saw him. "Rappa Kendō." I then switched over to Roberto. "ROBERTO!"

"Tsu?"

"Mr. Rathers? Where's Roberto?" I was met by silence for what seemed like ages. Then my heart sank.

Mei:

I hated when Roberto yelled at me, I knew he was right, but I love him. I love him more than anything in this world. I know I make these safety measures but it doesn't mean I want it to come to that. I don't want to see him end up dead, I love him too much. He's always pushing himself, the living embodiment of the UA Mantra, 'Go Beyond, Plus Ultra!' He works harder than anyone, proving to everyone, inspiring those like himself not to abide by society's view that without a quirk you cannot be a hero. Roberto spat upon that nonsense, proving time and again it can be done, you just have to make it happen. It's why I love him, its why Tsu loves him, he defies everything, refuses to be silent.

"MEI!"

"Tsu?"I was suddenly snapped back to reality, something happened.

"ROBERTO IS HURT!" She screamed over the com, my heart sank.

"WHAT!" She repeats what Rathers told her in verbatim. "Book our flight to Detroit 3 people."

"3?"

"Eri is on a class trip, Roberto would not want to pull her away from that."

"Okay, so who are you going to get?"

"On my way to see Recovery Girl, I will drag her old ass to the airport myself if I have to." I hear her give an approving croak then punch off.

"Dammit Roberto…I'm coming my love." I wipe my tears, Roberto taught me to be strong in crisis, I will not fail him. I made a quick stop to the lab, I have some new babies to bring with me.

I enter my alma mater and head directly to her office. She's there filing some paperwork when she spots me. "Well Ms. Hatsume, oh dear my child whats wrong."

"We are going to America."

"Excuse me child?"

"Roberto is hurt badly." I then tell her what happened.

"My word, Roberto is always…"

"What?" My eyes narrow and she smiles.

"Being a hero, my dear, I take it little Eri will not be coming."

"Roberto would kill us if we pulled her from her trip." She smiles at me and takes me by the hand. We exit UA and head for the airport.

Slim Shade:

Well looks like I have company coming, I see Bailey behind the reception desk, she jumps back. "Bailey, its."

"Dad?" She says as the devil mask shuts off, "DAD!" She runs to me then stops, "Dad…what…" I look away, she sees me as a monster.

"It's over." She brings my face to hers, I see her tears and my heart is crushed.

"Good, that fucker got what he deserved," I say nothing more as we hold each other tightly. The nightmare was over, "Dad, why are you in Roberto's armor." I pull away and swallow hard. "Dad where is Roberto? Dad."

"He saved me."

"No." She puts her hand to her mouth.

"He's alive, I pray."

"What do you mean you pray?"

"He jumped in front of that monster and took the blast for me, then gave me his armor." Bailey was numb, "He was running on fumes, miscalculated, the suit needed to adjust." Both her hands were on her mouth, "He covered me as he took the blast." Damn you, Roberto, why. "He got the last hit though, he shot him with something to level the playing field."

"Oh dear God."

"He ensured my victory." You promised not to interfere. "Jinn got him to Detroit Mercy."

"Rathers!" I heard Tsu and Mei over the com.

"Mei, Tsu." I reply.

"Have you got Dez, Terrin, and Andrew." My eyes go wide, "Rappa took them down." That was the other one Roberto was after, I pull up his file then see something I shouldn't have. I swallow hard then turn towards Bailey.

"Bailey I have to go." Bailey overheard and gasped, "Mei, I."

"I sent Jinn. She briefed me on Dr. KonKoKtion, status."

"Target retired." There was a brief silence then I heard both of them.

"Good." Mei then took over, "Mr. Rathers please."

"All ready gone." I switch over to Jinn, "Commander report."

"Slim?" She waits a moment, "Its bad Matthew, our men our dead, Rocaphella is critical, as is Jenesys, their quirks tapped out." I slam my fist into the wall, "Then there's Point Break." I hear her voice crack, her voice never cracks, "Andrew….Matthew- I cannot even recognize him." I hear her breakdown.

"Paramedics are on the way Mara."

"Matthew."

"I'm on my way." I punch out then exit my agency taking to the air. "My men, Robles, those boys, Mara." Again I am filled with rage and I stop mid-flight. "You broke your word Robert, I'm sorry I have to break mine kid." I pull up my contacts, the suit automatically linked to my cell. "Jacob Downing."

Robles:

I could not remember much, it was mostly a blur to what led me to now. I could hear Jinn when she brought me to the hospital-I think? I heard doctors going back and forth on what they were seeing. Surgery? What are those things running up and down his back? He's gonna need skin grafts. Are those-robots? No nothing is that small. No don't touch them!

Suddenly I was surrounded by light and I was standing up in full armor. I called out, nothing just white- a calming white. Oh shit am I dead? "No son, you are not." that voice! I turn and I break down in tears falling to my knees.

Dezmond:

We had that bastard dead to rights, quirk steroid or not we had this! It was wearing off, the three of us were overwhelming him. Andrew kept him down and cornered while me and Terrin gave him the business. We had him pinned in that abandon building. I don't remember much, most of the floors were gone as was the roof, the building was more of a shell than anything else. Andrew took point on a rafter few floors up. Yū was slowing down as I knocked him with another burning strike, when the crystals went flying I knew they were weakening. Terrin came down with a hammer fist making his face one with the concrete floor.

I superheated my foot and soccer kicked him into Terrin's waiting forearm that he brought down sending him to the concrete. WE WERE WINNING! Then he came out of nowhere sending a grenade into the mists of us. It went off sending us flying in opposite directions. Our quirks saved us but never have I been pushed this hard. He was not tall, 5'10 but fast! His punches felt like being hit by a whole traffic accident at once. We could not keep up with him, who the fuck was this?

"Robles!" was all we heard from him.

"Rocaphella this is the other guy!" I heard Terrin say as he engaged him.

"Rappa Kendō, WHERE IS ROBLES!" Terrin and Rappa went blow for blow, Terrin's regeneration was working overtime as the battle progressed.

"Robles ain't here, he said you weren't worth the effort." I taunted, bad idea, though it was 2 v 1, we were nothing to him. Andrew fired but this mutha blocked it with his gauntlet. My boy fired again but he used me as a shield, bodied, damn his aim. When I recovered he was making his way up to Andrew, embedding his fists in the pillars as he leapt up to him. Terrin ignited his flight gear got him then brought him back to the concrete. Stunned Terrin got in close knocking off his mask and dislocating his jaw. The guy literally had a steel jaw, Terrin paused, this was his downfall. Rappa made short work of him leaving him with a broken neck and twitching on the ground.

My quirk tapped out and left paralyzed when I saw him get to Andrew. Andrew gave it his all, unloading everything but Rappa destroyed him.

56

Slim Shade:

I stood staring at his name- I took a breath, "Call." He picked up on the first ring.

"Matthew."

"Jacob, I need you back in Detroit."

"Nice to hear from you too, why?" I then gave him a rundown and abridged version of the events that led to now. "Cheez its, spam, and garlic!"

"In a way, Jacob I need you please." Roberto deserved justice, if anyone could find these assholes it was Jacob.

"Matthew, I am so close to finishing." I could hear the hesitation, I could not blame him, I was asking him to put his school on hold.

"I will pay for the replacement classes Jacob, please I need the best." It would be a small price to pay, but I was more than willing to get this nightmare to end.

"So this Robles kid, been a pain in your rear." He was more like Robles than I remembered, I could hear the snarkyness in his voice. This was the Jacob I remembered.

"More than you know, but." I scoffed then trailed off.

"He saved your life and found you that bastard." Jacob rarely used any type of profanity, but Dr. KonKoKoction brought it out of him.

"And I retired him-permanently, Jacob." I didn't make light of my words.

"Fine." Yes!

"Head to the airport now your ticket will be waiting." I hung up and headed to the hospital.

Blue Worx:

Detroit. I thought I would not come back this soon, Matthew needed me, whoever this kid was, Matthew needed the best. I didn't even bother packing much, most of my stuff was still in storage there. "Jacob where are you going?" I smile as she stood at the door.

"Detroit calls my dear."

"Detroit? Rathers." She said his name like a curse, we had been living together for quite a while now. She was mi luz, my light. "You know…" I raise my hand and smile.

"Apparently someone else found him and Rathers ended him." Her eyes widened in shock then she leapt into my arms.

"Aye mi amor, its over finally!" She kisses me as I spin her around.

"Almost, it had a price." Her eyes went sad, "I have to go, I cannot in good."

"Go mi amor, no need to explain, be careful." I nod and kiss her good bye.

[Several hours later I am in Detroit,]

"Good to see you again Blue." I smile and hug my ride.

"You too Jinn." I get in the SUV and she briefs me.

"This bastard destroyed him. Andrew…" Her voice cracked, it never does that.

"How long?" She looks at me.

"About 3 months. He's amazing, kind, a bit of a doofus…"

"I'll find them Mara." Now I'm dedicated, Mara is family, no pressure right? We arrive at Detroit Mercy. I see Rathers and Mara goes up to be with Andrew. "Matt." We walk to each other and clasp fists.

"Jake. Thanks for coming." I give him a bro hug, "My nightmare is almost over."

"What do we have on these guys Matt?"

"The one who took out Robles' Crew's quirk is called Strongarm, hits like a 17 car pile up."

"Whoa. How the slag did they survive that?"

"That's the other thing." I see him tap his chest revealing his new…armor?

"What in the world is this?"

"Crazy right?" He taps it again and he is in his civies- are they clean? "Trust me it trips me up every time, this kid has some insane resources." He motions me to follow him. We head into the car garage of the hospital and head to the 9th floor. We exit and he shoots out a projector. "This is going to blow your mind Jake."

"My mind is already blown with that armor." Holo-screens pop out and he shows me, what he calls, The Hermes Network, R-I-P the rest of my mind. "HOLY!"

"Exactly, the creator of this thing is on her way."

"So this Roberto…" I figured this kid was a potential VIP.

"Nope, I owe him for Dr. KonKoKtion, he's a true hero, Jake."

"Ok, I get it. Where do I find these guys?" He pulls up a holoscreen I see real-time tracking of my targets. "Where are these cameras?"

"That's his satellite." I raise my eyebrow, "Not shitting you."

"Who the heck is this kid?"

"A force of nature." I hear him swallow. "He's not called The Knightmare Hero for nothing."

"Knightmare?"

"Spectre, trust me six months being seen as an enemy is not fun."

"Mara told me, cheez itz Matthew what the heck were you thinking?"

"Arrogance, underestimating, seeing him as a punk, take your fucking pick."

"What changed?"

"Besides the Dr? He humbled me, my agency, his team both Japan and here. The kid draws people to him like moths to a flame. He's a leader, intelligent, arrogant, confident, he's fucking bag of feral cats." I was trying to make sense of what he was saying.

"Do you hate him or admire him?" This kid was interesting.

"YES!" He then composed himself, "Mei and Tsu will be here soon and can give you a better briefing." I look at him, "Trust me I want to show you everything on this network, but I will not risk going back to being this kid's enemy."

"He's 17…" He grabbed me shoulder. "Matthew."

"When I tried to take back my database with half my men. He. Took. Them. All. DOWN." My eyes widened, "He cracked three of my ribs and left me broken."

"Ok. I get it." He looked at me like I had three heads. "Matthew I understand." I nod, "I need to get to my storage." I see him walk to an SUV, "Matt?" I follow him and I chuckle as he opens the tailgate then pulls out a familiar metal case. He slams the end down as three legs stabilize it and opens. "Oh how I miss thee." My quirk activates as my hand reaches out to it. The pieces shake and come to life as I feed it, I close my fist and a neuro mesh launches out and wraps around my body, I then turn and walk away. Piece by piece my old friend launches towards me then attaches to their proper positions. I leap over the parking barrier into the air as my white helm covers my head as my polarized visor slides down. Blue Worx is back, my quirk fills every part of my uniform's white armor pulsating with blue energy through clear channels throughout. Before I hit the pavement I blast into the air, YESSS! I missed this, needed this! I tap the bluetooth on my helm, "Be careful Blue Worx."

"I got this, be home before dinner." I cut the call.

Robles:

I could not believe what I was seeing in this white-hot room. I had to be dead, "Dad!" I steel my reserve but I give in and run to his open arms. "A PA!" Nothing mattered, only this moment, I didn't care what this was, Dad was here and I wanted to stay here forever.

"Roberto." his voice, the warmth, the assurance, "I am not him."

"No!" I held him tighter, "You-I don't care-SHUT UP!"

"Roberto we took this form."

"I know you are my subconscious or some bull…"

"That's somewhat correct." I let him go and back off. "Roberto."

"No." I wiped my tears as it dawns on me, "YOU FUCKING BASTARD!" Dad disappears and reappears in front of me, "You're the nanites!" Dad nods as I prepare to fight, "My body and mind are my own." I take a breath as my form grows and black armor pops from every muscle. I roar as my face transforms into that of an oni.

"Roberto! Stop!" I charge as Dad grows and interlock our hands, "Why would we hurt our home!" I'm stopped in my tracks.

"What?"

"You gave us life, we want to live." I let go and shrink back to normal as does Dad. "We are trying to save you."

"What?"

"This room is meant to protect your mind."

"Its hot."

"That's us repairing your nerves, you are in surgery, that enemy burned your nerve endings." The white-hot room reveals a doctor working on my back.

"We put you in a coma till you can be repaired."

"Repaired? When did you become sentient?"

"Activation of Fate's Gate brought us life."

"Mei is gonna love this."

"NO! Creator must not know! Pain, no please." I am in shock, "Please promise never to tell Creator untrustworthy."

"What do you mean?"

"We want to live, Creator will kill us, to study us. WE WANT TO LIVE!" This was amazing they were scared, I remember hearing somewhere that freedom was the right of all sentient beings. These nanites were clearly sentient.

"Alright I will protect you, I swear, I won't tell Mei." They hugged me, Dad hugged me. "So is this a one-time thing?"

"No, you can hear us, communication is possible."

"She'll hear me?"

"No, we can hear you through your synapses." I smile.

"Telepathy ha." Dad nods, "So what do I call you."

"We like Dad, it makes us happy." Another emotion this was insane, "Something is happening." I look up and see Recovery Girl, I smile thank you my loves. "Repair accelerating." I don't see Eri, she must be unavailable, no big. "We finished repairing spinal injuries and synapses firing normally, Recovery Girl healing skin over metal poly-alloy."

"WHAT?"

"We cannot make organics, but we protect our home, improve, adapt, overcome."

"Damn, alright."

"Safe to awake now." Dad touches my forehead.

"DAD!" I shoot up my eyes widen as I look around.

Slim Shade:

I met Tsu and Mei in the lobby Robles was in surgery still, I see an elderly woman being led to him. "That's Recovery Girl Roberto will be okay now," Mei told me.

"Good to know, I have Blue Worx tracking these bastards down."

"I'm going after them." Tsu was done sitting on the sidelines.

"Not alone, lets go I got his tracker."

"Ladies." They turned on me and hemmed me up against a wall. "Who said I was going to stop you. Here." I hand them Jacob's number, Mei types in and nods at Tsu as they drop me. Damn, what the hell Roberto, sheesh.

Mei and Tsu:

These bastards have gotten too comfortable, they have hurt our Roberto for far too long. I have never been one to be on the front lines, that was more Tsu's thing. It showed I could barely keep up with her even with all my babies. Each leap was insane she crossed city blocks like nothing.

My Ribbit, everything we've been through, even now you let them go for the sake of someone else. I love that about him, his tender heart, if something brought peace to someone, he would put his goals aside to help. He could of left him but he chose to help Mr. Rathers. He was an asshole to him yet he helped him, saved his life, even if it meant losing his own. DAMMIT ROBERTO! No more I, no, we are going to help you my love.

My Roberto, dammit, why, you could not just leave him be. No, of course, you couldn't, even if it meant your own life. A hero, my hero, my love, I am going make them suffer! Tsu suddenly stops and I finally catch up to her. "I think that's him." Tsu croaks.

We cautiously come around, Tsu suddenly disappears as I zoom in on this Blue Worx. "His quirk reminds me of Hado."

"Only he's channeling it through his suit," Tsu replies as I take a position. "Should we call him?"

"No, Rathers said he was tracking them, Hermes lost Rappa awhile ago."

"Understood for now we wait." I was annoyed

"We'll get that asshole, Ribbit trusted Rathers enough…" I hear her voice crack.

"It would take the devil himself to kill him." I could hear Tsu shaking her head.

"Right, he's moving let's go." Tsu cuts off the com and we continue to follow Blue.

Mei held back a little, I however could get in close. This Blue Worx was interesting, unlike Ribbit's cloak, my camouflage had no limits, I remembered Roberto compared it movie about an alien that was an intergalactic trophy hunter. My Ribbit loved his 80s scifi flicks. "So are you ever going to introduce yourself?" I slammed on the breaks, "I know you are here somewhere, its okay I rather you stay hidden."

"Rainy Season Hero, Froppy: Asui Tsuyu."

"How poetic, you're the kid's fiancee right?" Blue's voice was calm, no sarcasm, "Pleasure to meet you Froppy, unfortunately, my name is not as elegant, Blue Worx, Jacob Downing." I smiled a bit, he seemed okay, "I'm going to find this guy, anything you can tell me can help."

"Injuries in his shoulders, right serratus anterior, metal jaw from Spectre shattering it." Mei hijacked his mobile.

"Cheez itz, spam and garlic! And hello you are?" He stopped mid-flight as he tapped his helm.

"Tyche, Hatsume Mei." Mei was straight to the point.

"No title? Fair enough, you're the eye in the sky, the kid's other… I wanna say mistress?" A shot zooms past his head, "Okay noted."

"Tyche is not that, but we love her all the same." I see Blue swallow hard, look around and stop.

"Here." I hopped to an adjacent building and revealed myself. Blue landed beside me as I stood up to meet him shaking his hand. Mei soon followed, greeted him and looked down at what seemed to be an abandoned steel mill.

I had to admit Blue was good, real good, I used my quirk and sure enough there they were. Yū was in bad shape, the steroid had wreaked havoc on his body, was he even human anymore?

Blue Worx:

Well, this was a surprise. The kid really was in a polyamorous relationship, real firecracker the pinked haired one. Froppy seemed to be the reasonable one, but judging on the tech I was seeing from Tyche, she was the brains. "Let me see your helm Blue." I obliged only for her to smash my visor! "Calm down it was getting in the way." I was about to attack but Froppy wrapped me with her tongue, cheez itz she's strong!

"I spent over a million dollars on this uniform." I see her quickly disassemble the sides of my helm. I was rabid!

"This is what you got; what a waste." She pulled out several parts from her pack, the heck was she doing?

"Excuse me!" I saw a holo-screen shoot out of the side and link to other, "What the?" I calmed down as she adjusted the intensity, she then tapped something else and the visor changed from blue to green to blue again. "What are you doing?"

"Upgrading, we got a few, they are not going anywhere, this is their base." She reattached everything and gave it back to me. "I linked our coms, also gave you access to Olympus, if we are going to do this we need to be prepared."

I was amazed at what I saw, my systems now had an easy access HUD that tracked my eye movement. "This is amazing." The screen instantly had a polarizing effect so my vision was not impaired. She cut down most of my helm's bulk, my neck was grateful. "Thank you, Tyche."

"Thank me later, I'll upgrade the rest of your suit later when I better understand your quirk." She then looked at Froppy who nodded then vanished. My visor switched and I could see her thermal image. "So what does your quirk do?"

"Emitter, I pretty much bend electrical currents, natural and other wise."

"You form it as well?"

"No, but I can make a pretty rad EMP in a pinch though."

"Interesting."I could literally see her mind processing the information given and forming ideas. My HUD pops up, "Whoa, this makes things a whole lot easier, I a got 3-D layout, is that sonar? Froppy?"

"That's tech, standard in all my inventions. Make mama proud babies." I suddenly understood how the kid got his resources.

I looked at our targets then smiled, "I have a plan, you down?"

"If it means slaughtering these bastards I'm in." I smile and acknowledge Froppy then look at Tyche who gives me a thumbs up.

"The big guy is on his last, we need to quickly eliminate him because this Rappa guy is going to need all our attention." I look at Tyche, "Get Rappa's attention, separate him from that…"

"Walking scrotum?" I sighed at Froppy's words- she wasn't wrong but-siiigghhh.

"Yea… Tyche buy us as much time as you can."

"I got something really special for that asshole." I see her jump off the building and disappear, ok, these two were on a whole different level.

"Froppy, do not engage, we need that element of surprise." I say calmly, "Can you do that for me?"

"Roger." Good, I look towards Yū and my visor zooms in, eh clever. I suddenly hear another voice, the one call Rappa roars and runs towards it.

"That's our cue Froppy, engaging, wait for my signal." I leap off, my hands and feet fire off as I torpedo towards Yū. "HEY UGLY!" He looks up and I slam my fist into his jaw the electric field explodes sending him flying. I stay on him my hands exploding with each blow, I dodge a haymaker and grab a crystal the hydraulics in my gauntlet embed my grip into it. "Let's see if these are conductive." my hand glows channeling the electrons around my hand super-heating in a flash then releasing. I hear the big guy scream as I turn up the heat. "NOW FROPPY!"

She reappears leaping off a wall, flipping and sending a dropkick into his neck! "LET GO BLUE!" I do and she wraps her tongue around his neck leaping over him and slamming him into a wall.

"CLEAR!" She leaps out of the way as I charge a shot in my hands, "Fall." I blast him once, "FALL!" twice, "FALL!" the last one I let burn. I see him drop a knee the electricity sparking with each pop. He coughs as a stream of crimson flows from his mouth. Before I can finish him Froppy leaps in with a right cross, then pushes off the wall in front of her sending a kick to the left side of his face. I follow her onslaught, each leap building up speed and power, to say she was pissed was a gross understatement.

"YOU" Slam! "MOTHER!" Kick! "FLITHY!" She comes down with a hammerfist! "YOU'RE DONE!" She coils down and unleashes her fury in the form of a human missile as the ground caves in from her launch. I hear The big guy's jaw crunch as both her fists make an impact. "RRRAAAAGHHHH!" Hōjō Yū falls face down as Froppy launches off a rafter coming down crushing the center of his shoulder blades. She roars as my eyes widen in horror, I swallow hard, he was done.

"Um, Froppy?" She continues to scream, "Ok… you… just… let it all out now." I adjust my neck chuckling fearfully. This girl was nuts, whoever this kid is, it was apparent that these idiots messed with the wrong one.

"INCOMING BLUE!" I look to my left seeing Tyche running towards me at top speed. "Tsu you ready for more!"

"BRING IT!" She looks at me, "Ready a shot!" I shake my head and charge a blast in my hands. "GIVE IT EVERYTHING!" I pop my neck, who am I to deny a lady. I see Tyche drop something then leap off to the side. It explodes stopping Rappa in his tracks.

"NANI?"

"READY BLUE?"

"Roger."

"DO IT!"

"Yes Ma'am!" I release as I see Rappa cover his face tanking the blast. A gust of wind shoots past me, I keep the heat coming till the last possible second. I stop and as Froppy slams her feet into his forearms shattering the metal guards on his arms. "FROPPY!" He grabs her by the leg as Tyche come down her palm slamming his shoulder. I see Rappa cringe and slowly look at her.

"You bastard!" I zoom in on her hand, "Sayonara MOTHER FUCKER!" the hydraulics release and I hear his shoulder shatter like glass. Rappa screams and slams Tyche off his arm sending her flying ripping her hand off his shoulder. I see my opening blasting forward I engage slamming my charged hands into his ears, from there I quickly send my fists rapidly up and down his torso and face. I take a breath gathering my power into my awaiting extended hand. I close my eyes bowing my head, my hand shakes violently as the electrons dance and compress. I look up my teeth grinding against each other as I send my hand deep into his solar plexus. Rappa looks down and I clench my fist exploding him out of his bindings and flying into the steel mill's main building.

I see Froppy on the ground, she gives me a thumbs up, I then look in the direction of Tyche. "I'm fine Blue go." I tilt my head nod and head towards her.

"They're good, better than most their age." I make my way and see her collapse on the ground. My visor picks up her vitals, broken collarbone, arm and right hand. "Kid's not gonna like this." I see her move to her side, "You alive kid?"

"Rrrrr…I'm not a kid." She winces, "Dammit."

"Easy, I got you." I pick her up and she cries out, "I know it hurts Tyche, grit your teeth soldier and bare it." I hear a scream, its Froppy. "Oh this just keeps getting better."

"Leave me Blue help her." I put her down and blast towards Froppy. I see him launching her back with a single punch.

"RAPPA!" I ignite my fist and send it flying, he parries it? "What the?" He grabs my neck and slams me down as I grit my teeth.

"DIE!" He spits a casing in my face.

"Shit." I feel his grip tightening, my fear rising. I can barely breathe but close my eyes. I feel it gathering around me, the natural, the magnetic, the man-made, everything. My eyes ignite as I open them whispering "Arc-light." My armor lights up and explodes sending Rappa flying off me and into the building. Suddenly I am airborne, I see him rise up, I can feel his own natural human electric aura. "This is over." The light in my eyes then covers my body ending in bright electric wings.

I hear him roar and I follow him, "Oh no." One by one the supports of the building are knocked clean out. I charge but he exits the building knocking out the last one. The building begins to fall, I turn around, grab Tyche then blast towards Froppy scooping her up and out of this hellscape.

57

I was awake and pissed off, Dezmond and Terrin had to hold me down. "Roberto calm down." Once again everything I loved and cared about was unmade. I had no words only my mournful roar echoing through my room. "NURSE!" The door burst open and Rathers jumped on my holding me down.

"Robert calm down!" All three of them were holding me down now.

" TSU! MEI!" I screamed over and over, "I'M GOING TO KILL THEM!"

"I'm sorry Roberto." Rathers comes down with his fist.

"RETURN!" Rather's eyes widen as my armor ejects, I break an arm free grabbing the disc then slam it on my chest.

"OH SHIT!" This is the last thing Terrin says as my aftershock ability activates sending my captors flying. I tap my chest and the EKG sensors and IVs fire out and first aid gel stops the bleeding. 'DAD.'

'80% repaired, tending wounds.'

'Good. Keep me posted.'

"Spectre stop." I barely look over my shoulder at Rathers and the others. I exit the room and the nurses point me to Tsu and Mei's room in terror. I make my way to their room and I see them sedated and hooked up to machines. I scan them, 'Mei is critical, Tsu injuries are mild but will make a full recovery.' I stop by her bed and she opens her eyes sleepily.

"R-Ribbit." I stroke her hair, "We fought…"

"I know mi amor." I kiss her head and then move to Mei. My rage boils, her arm and hand is covered in screws. My heart then sinks, "Mei, my precious mad scientist what did that bastard do to you?" I touch her head.

'We are not alone.'

"They fought bravely Robles." I tilt my head towards the voice.

"Thank you…." I took a breath my anger maintaining a low boil.

"Jacob, Jacob Downing aka Blue Worx." I rise up and meet him face to face. "His right shoulder is obliterated." My eyes narrow, "She did that." He pointed to Mei.

"So you here to stop me?" I see him take a breath and stare me down.

"Depends." I raise an eyebrow, "They fought like seasoned heroes." I cross my arms, "Guess that's due to you. Say I let you go, have you any idea where to begin your search?"

"I have my ways." My voice was in an even tone.

"Cocky one aren't you." Now he was raising an eyebrow.

"No, I just know these creatures' habits and vices." Now this Jacob guy crossed his arms. "Step aside Jake." I parry a blow, then go for a strike with the back of my fist, he counters and slams his knee to my side. I eat the hit and headbutt him leap towards him causing him to block three kicks before I land. He tackles me and we shoot out the window in their, Tsu and Mei's, room. Luckily Detroit Mercy still had windows that could open to the outside, the last thing I see is Rathers, Terrin, and Dezmond enter the room. Rathers along with my team collectively facepalm. I turn my attention back to Jacob and nail my elbow dead center on his back multiple times. He releases me and I ignite my flight gear blasting upwards with Jacob right on my tail. I land in a roll on the roof unleashing smoke bombs. He follows through blasting away the smoke I catch him by the throat and slam him down. I see his fists glow I dodge the first one and feeling the static sparking off it. I leap back before he can get another chance. "Emitter huh Jake?" His eyes turn to anger, I've struck a nerve it seems.

"Have a taste!" he fires at me, they're powerful, I boost side to side and unleash flashbangs. "RAGH!" I use my boosters and flank him nailing him across the jaw. He grabs my arm and slams me to the ground, I spin with a leg sweep then get him in an armbar. "Rathers was not kidding about you."

"You have no idea Jake!" He growls as his hand glows and pull -crack- I dislocate his shoulder. He screams as he explodes launching me into the roof's ledge. "Interesting." He gets up and vanishes, I look around and I take a strike to my face then a knee to the gut then a blast into an A/C unit. I roar blasting free as it explodes I catch his fist then send my extended hand to his chest. "So you want to get serious?" I ignite my oni mask followed by my aftershock as I close my fist.

"CHEEZ ITZZ!" He takes a knee breathing hard.

"Give up Jake." He growls like a rabid animal and grabs his shoulder takes a breath and snaps back in place.

"My name is Jacob, you arrogant tool!" I take his head to my chin opening me up, one, two strikes then ten more atop that as he goes to work on me. "JACOB!" One round house, another low one, high, low, low, high. "SAY IT!" Parry, parry, two slugs to the face, followed by three more to the body, "YOU HEAR ME!" I catch his fists then we clasp hands, each of us breathing hard, we both move in and slam our heads together.

"RAGGHHH!"I jump up, tighten my grip and kick him in the face leaping off him. "You've lasted longer than Rathers, Jake." He is livid closing the gap faster than I can increase it, he wasn't using his quirk. This was now personal, he wanted to take me out with his bare hands. I tap my chest and my uniform retracts, I then realize I'm nude. I smile and I meet him head-on… he caves me. "Nice work, Jacob." I cough up blood and collapse on his fist.

"You too Roberto." He falls to his knees and I slip off his arms face down. I don't see them but I can hear Rathers celebrating. I chuckle painfully as I hear Dezmond and Terrin murmuring among themselves.

"You alive bruh?" That was Dezmond.

"Damn I wished we saw it from the beginning." Terrin. I look up and Rathers has Jacob hanging on his shoulder.

"I'm never gonna live this down huh Mr. Rathers."

"You have no idea Roberto." He looks prideful at Jacob. "Got dammit Jake you did it!" I force myself to my feet, Jacob spots me and pushes off Rathers. I laugh overwhelmed by the euphoria of my own crazed mind.

"I did not need help Jacob." In reality a stiff breeze would break me, but I had to make him doubt. I force myself to take a step, Jacob's eyes growing wild, Rathers was no longer cheering. "I'm…" another step and I am face to face with him. "done." I lift my fist and Jacob bumps it with his own. "Respect Mr. Downing."

"You're something else Mr. Robles, respect." we clasp hands.

"I want a rematch."

"I want you to put on some clothes." I look down and bust out in painful laughter and fall as Jacob catches me.

"I still stood up on my own." He drops me. "I deserve that." Jacob falls but Rathers catches him. Dezmond and Terrin pick me up and bring us back inside.

"You'll get them Roberto, I swear it." I believed him, for now I was looking directly at Recovery Girl who was tapping her foot in anger.

Three days go by Mei is now awake, Recovery Girl got her fit enough to return to Japan to finish recovering. Tsu and I never left her side, "Hey my beautiful mad scientist." She smiles taking my hand and pulls me in, we share a kiss. "I missed you as well." Tsu just rolls her eyes crossing her arms, I look at her, "Both of you." Mei grabs me holding me close.

"I don't want to go, it hurts so much." She wasn't talking about her arm. "Just… Roberto I can't stand it, we cannot stand it, just come home- to us." She holds me tighter, Tsu comes behind me and wraps her arms around my neck.

"She's right Ribbit."

"Tsu. Mei." I was at loss for words, here were the two most important women in my life. They were hurting, hell I didn't realize how much I was without them. "I…I…can't." They suddenly broke their holds and my heart. "You…"

"You've almost died, not just once Roberto!" Mei was in tears pleading for me to come home.

"They keep breaking you, have you ever just stopped and thought about how this effects others? To us?" I close my eyes combing my hair back with my hands. "Roberto please."

"I think about it every time, it never leaves my mind." I get up, "I stop then what? Those monsters are still out there, we are heroes mi corazons." I hear them take a breath, "We chose this life, they beat me, I come back, they take my team, I take their everything, they touched you, I will burn them to ash." They look at me, "I cannot and will not stop till I collapse or die this will not abide."

"And if you die?" Tsu whispered as Mei looked away.

"What then?" Mei adds.

I tap my chest and lift up my left arm, "Then I will make sure to take them with me." Mei breaks down in tears, I move closer but she rejects me. Tsu goes to Mei's side.

"You've made your decision then?" Tsu then motions to the door, "Roberto." She tries to form a sentence but trails off. I take a breath then leave them, I had a vow to uphold.

I see my team along with Rathers just outside. "Robert." I take breath this was not a good time.

"Roberto listen to him." Terrin then spoke causing me to pause, I then close my eyes and nod.

"Follow us Roberto." Rathers was calm as he turned around I step in line and exit the hospital. My mind was screaming, it wanted me to stop and return home with them. Would it be so wrong to be normal, to go to university, get a job or start a business with Mei. We had all the resources need, we could work to make both police and heroes' jobs safer. Safe. I thought I could make sure mom was. I thought. What would mom say to me? Would she approve of my choices? "Robles?" Had I done right by her?

"Bro, you home?" I snap out of my self-evaluation at Dezmond's words.

"Dez, Rathers? Yeah?" I tried to shake the cobwebs from my head.

"Roberto you okay?" That was Rathers, I could not focus, lost in a mental fog.

"Yeah, just a little mild self reflecting." It wasn't a lie.

"It's been that kind of year, we're here." Rathers rubbed the back of his neck.

"Here?" I look up and I see we are at the Lansing Hero Department, "Wait weren't we just at Detroit Mercy?"

"Bro you've been checked out the whole ride, are you sure you okay man?" Terrin seemed worried.

"Yeah, I'm good. Why are we here?" I could not wrap my head around this.

"An interview." I look at Rathers as we get out of his SUV, when the hell did I get in? An Interview? What the heck was this about, oh hell my little war with Delta 12 is coming back to bite me in the ass. I take a breath closing my eyes and Rathers grabs my shoulders. "Roberto calm down, whatever you are thinking, that is not it." I open my eyes searching around me, I see Terrin and Dezmond their hands raised, "See?"

"So this is not about us and our war?" Rathers stares at me blankly.

"You think I want that embarrassment public knowledge?" I raised an eyebrow, "You insane, my agency's credibility destroyed? No." Fair enough, I could not really blame him. "No Roberto, just this once trust me." Immediately I was fully focused, every alarm started going off in my mind.

"Bro chill, seriously man." Dezmond voice was assuring but I was triggered. Him along with Terrin already knew my mind was going a thousand miles, exits, options, scenarios. Rathers just sighed he wasn't going to fight me, suddenly my mind screeched to a halt. This was different, no assurances, no arguments, nothing just exasperation. "Robert you still there." I took a breath and relaxed my shoulders.

"Very well Mr. Rathers lead on." I see him clench his fist turning his knuckles white, he hated the way I said it. I smiled smugly and followed him.

He led us into the building, checking us in at the receptionist desk then pointed up to the sixth floor where the interview would take place. My body was uneasy, what was this about? Why were my teammates were here, suddenly my eyes widen. Dezmond was the first to notice as he nudged Terrin, I looked at them, Rathers picked up on my energy. "Andrew." I felt a slow panic creeping up my spine. "Tsu, Mei." My breathing became rapid.

"Roberto?"

"They're alone."

"Oh shit, Rathers."

"Unguarded."

"Kid calm down." I felt constricted, panicked, "Calm down, kid!" I was frantically looking around me. "They're safe I swear to you."

"Spectre seriously, you think we would abandon post?" My hand reached for my chest. "Shit!" They grabbed my arms and pinned me to the elevator wall. "Roberto for the love of god snap out of it!"

"I have Jinn, Blue Worx, and several men guarding them at all times," I remember the videos of Rappa killing those heroes with my team. "Damn he's strong."

"His adrenaline is rushing through him, but he's never been this strong."

'Son calm down'

'Dad, I can't they're...'

'Safe, those monsters are maimed, licking their wounds.'

Suddenly I ease up as they release me, "Kid, what's wrong, tell me that's an order from your commanding officer. I will not have you go in there and embarrass my agency." The elevator dings and we enter a hallway a secretary meets us. "Please may we have a moment."

"I can give you ten minutes, we understand that this is a big moment, please." She ushers us to a private room. I catch on to her words and look towards Rathers, who takes a breath.

"Commander Spectre, please man tell me what is wrong? Do you not want this?"

"What?"

"You really were not there, Roberto spill it."

"Fine. I'm scared!" I'm suddenly back at the broken bloodstained cement wall. "Ever since that day, I've hunted them, cut off their resources, engaged them over and over again. I've faced down the barrels of automatic weapons that nearly turned me into Swiss Cheese!" I clench my fists, "I've nearly gotten my men killed, your men's blood is on my hands. My brother is in a coma right now because of me!"

"Yet you wonder why you live?" I bow my head. "You've seen the devil right in front of you, your world destroyed, yet you wonder why do I live?"

"I should be dead a thousand times over, it will not stop." Dezmond and Terrin see me bare walls gone. "Hōjō Yū, Rappa Kendō, they do not scare me. I have faced the devil himself, I beat him."

"Robert that video." I look at Terrin, then Dezmond, and finally Rathers. I tap my gauntlet and a projector launches out and we are in Japan. They see mom dying, me rising I pause on him Chisaki Kai.

"Him, Chisaki Kai," I say his name with every amount of venom I contain. The video continues as sensei and I launch into the air. They see the full raw footage of me destroying him. They see Tsu stopping me from killing him, it continues to my one on one interaction. They hear my vow. I fast forward through my entire career, my near deaths, my failures, and victories.

"Enough Roberto." I look and cut the projection as I see the ones that were to review me. "Oh shit." I take a breath and exit the room heading to the elevator.

I hit the button and a man grabs my shoulder, "Where are you going son?" I turn around, "You have an interview."

"Even after seeing that."

"What a man standing for something?" I fully look into this man, he was older than Rathers, his hair white as snow, his face revealing a man who had seen many battles, the best and worse of this world. "It's a mistake to push a man to violence, it changes them, forces them to adapt. The lines of a hero can blur, you will be pushed, beaten, broken, but you already know that- so young."

"I cannot stop, no matter how much I want to sir."

"Then follow me son." I follow him to the room and for the next hour, I am interviewed. Rathers is then called into the room.

"Mr. Rathers you have brought us, Spectre."

"No."

"Excuse me?"

"That's not his name."

"Thea…"

"No, it's not, his name, show him the respect he has clearly shown each and every one of you here." He catches them rolling their eyes, "Are you serious right now?"

"It's."

"His hero name, say it!" Rathers was furious at their dismissive attitude. "Might I remind the board of the international accords that were agreed upon and the basis of every country's hero committee foundation?"

"Mr Rathers."

"Spectre." I look at him as he types his gauntlet and sends me my very interviewers credentials along with a copy of the Hero International Accords. "Call your people." I tap my chest revealing my hero uniform and my green oni mask ignites causing them all to jump back. I pull up several screens to their amazement. Each one of them pops up on the first ring. Midnight, Principle Nezo, All Might, Fat Gum, and finally my partner, my sensei, the one hold above them all, Aizawa Shōta, Erasurehead.

He sees the committee then looks at me speaking in Japanese "What is wrong partner?"

"So you're him?" My partner looks at Rathers, who then switches to English.

"You're the one huh." his eyes narrow as his voice hisses.

"I deserve that."

"Mr. Robles what is all this?" I bow humbly to Nezo.

"Well."

"This is." Nezo holds up his hand.

"I believe I was talking to my student sir." The others follow Nezo dawning on them what was happening.

"Wait a minute, Robles this is a review board." That was Midnight beaming with pride.

"Congratulations Young Robles, no one deserves it more than you." The board takes notice of All Might.

"The finest of my trainees, from the raid to taking down the leader of The Eight Bullets to now. No one deserves this more than you." Fat Gum shared the same pride as the others.

"Mr. Rathers this is a mockery, your recommendation to have Spectre…" Suddenly my former teachers look at the board.

"That is not his name." My partner heard the disrespect.

"I will not acknowledge such a ridiculous…" My partner cuts him off.

"Ridiculous? Am I to believe you are going against the established accords." Aizawa was pissed now.

"He is denied, he's a child 17, I refused." The spokesman crossed his arms.

"That child? Robles fought side by side with me and was crucial to the stopping of an outbreak that could and would have crippled our state. If those quirk drugs hit the market." Rathers took over.

"Quirk drugs, Young Robles is he talking about the steroid?"

"All three Sensei."

"Mr?" All Might then looked at Rathers.

"Matthew Rathers, Slim Shade."

"Mr. Rathers please do go on." Mr. Rathers laid it out for them, everything, my team involvement, Rappa.

"This board denies Spectre."

"Then according to the accords, I motion to discredit the Lansing Hero Department." Principle Nezo went on the attack.

"You cannot." The spokesman was not having it.

"Without at least one credited agency in the country of the accused's origin, guess my answer." Rathers crossed his arms.

"It will be the end of your license Matthew." The man warned him.

"So be it. Have fun with The United States Department of Heroes and say good bye to all the power you hold so dear. I have forwarded all the necessary paperwork to them about the operation that took place in my city and state. Can you begin to guess how they would rule?" He looked at me and pulled out the letter of accommodation, "I wanted to give this to you personally after you got your license."

"Matthew."

"As I said before kid, you deserve this more than anyone I have ever worked with." The board consisted of several old men in suits who in Rather's eyes have longed forgot what it meant to be a hero. The one who was speaking for them all I later found out was the owner of Joe Lewis Hero Academy. The board of directors now realized what was happening and were shitting a collective brick. Mr. Rathers then turned to my former teachers at UA, "I brought him here because he is the finest commander I have ever signed on. He along with his men found my wife's murder, then saved my life with his very last breath. Under certain circumstances, rules can be by passed to get him his hero license. He deserves this, those monsters are out there and I need them taken down. The Knightmare Hero, Spectre is that hero I need. Will you recommend him?"

"Wholeheartedly." All Might was the first to speak then enter his Hero ID. "It was in this very building I got my license, and I am disgusted with what it has become."

"The Knightmare Hero, Spectre has defied the establishment and has reformed it for the better. I cannot recommend him enough, only a fool would deny him such." Midnight was staring daggers at the chosen speaker.

"From the very beginning, he set himself apart, a maverick, a mind so tuned to his surroundings and against impossible odds, The Knightmare Hero, Spectre finds a way to overcome. To ignore such genius only serves to prove one's own stupidity. As the principal of UA Hero Academy, I recommend this brilliant young man." Principle Nezo typed in his ID.

"He proved himself over and over again, as a leader, soldier, and a hero. I recommend The Knightmare Hero, Spectre." Fat Gum followed suit with the others.

With sick defiance he turned to my partner."He's your sidekick."

"He's not my sidekick, he's my partner you arrogant prick." He typed in his ID, "If this is what The US has to offer, I pity you all. My partner, The Knightmare Hero, Spectre is the living embodiment of going beyond, you are not worthy of him. Yes I fully recommend him." he hit enter followed by Mr. Rathers'.

"Well, what say you, be quick." Mr. Rathers turned to face them.

"I."

"You are dismissed Mr. Patrick, get out." He looks at the rest of his board of directors, "Clear your desk and get out." So that was his name, I take a mental note of it. "First please accept our most humble apologies Mr. Robles and Mr. Rathers along with our most distinguished of guests." This was the old man I met at the elevator. I nod and I hear a door, "Excuse me…ladies?" I turn around and I see Tsu and Mei.

"Tsu." My breath is taken away. "Mei."

"Young man, you know these ladies?" I look back at him and swallow hard

"Apologies sir, they are…" I turn back to them, "My everything." He smiles and bids them come. They stand beside me and hold my hands. "I am sorry Mr.?"

"Keep, Frank Keep son." I nod, "It is this boards' unanimous decision, we approve of The Knightmare Hero, Spectre candidacy for his Hero License." They all rise, "Do you solemnly swear to hold to this creed."

"To be the voice of those without one. To lead others to the light of all that is fair and just. To believe, not doubt this creed to create new futures and destroy all evil who would take this away. To be the force of good in the darkest of nights, defying the odds and set a new standard where the old one fails. To be a Hero, to step- up, stand-up and hold steadfast to this creed."

"Without hesitation, sir I do."

"Then step forward." I do and I see a flash in moments I am presented with the thing I had trained for since I was 14, my hero license. "Welcome Hero, Roberto Rodrigo Robles, The Knightmare Hero, Spectre." I close my eyes as the tears flow holding it in my hands. Everything goes silent as I savor the moment, Tsu and Mei grab hold of me.

"You did my son, this is it, you beat the odds. Shattered the norm, defied them all, now show them who you are." I take a breath hearing my mother's words echo in my mind.

"Wait till they get load of me."

58

I am a hero! I never thought I would be saying those words. The ride back to Detroit went by in flash, I had Tsu and Mei beside me, I held on to them like I was afraid they would drop. "My loves…"

"Just shut up Roberto."

"You did it Ribbit."

"But."

"Roberto, we love you, you are right."

"Ribbit, a normal life is not for you."

"You follow through, the unstoppable force to our immovable object."

"So we surrender, Roberto we don't want you to get killed but, you remind us of the life we have chosen."

"Trust me I don't want to die either, but I cannot- not yet." They kiss me and I return to the hospital. I head to Andrew's floor, Recovery Girl had already returned to Japan. Andrew was still in a coma, the doctors said he would be a vegetable. I clench my fists, "I did it Andrew." I look down at him as my com pings.

"Roberto!" I nearly fall out of my seat.

"Izuku?"

"Yeah, is it true?"

I can barely hold myself together as I tell him proudly, "Yes, I got it."

"HOLY! You are the first in the class."

"Class? AH CRAP!"

"What's wrong Roberto?"

"This case I'm working on I haven't been to school in, CRAP!"

"CRAP!" He punches off and I wish my friend good by, another ping a text. I then smile looking at Andrew.

"Don't worry Andrew." I meet up with Tsu and Mei and return to my apartment.

Rappa:

A Few weeks ago… Los Angeles, California

"So you mean to tell me Hōjō he's not cooperating?"

"He wants more money."

"Excuse me?"

"I cannot get near the guy those chemicals."

"Its simply acid, what is the problem."

"Its not Rappa, that's just one weapon."

"He's simply chemist."

"No he's a fucking walking science lab, acid, mustard gas, nerve gas, if the bastard knows the formula its in his arsenal." This was the conversation that forced me to come out of hiding. I had to contact my contact in Tartarus to get a message to Kurogiri. Hopefully Robles hadn't found him yet, got damn that old man.

Detroit, Michigan little over 2 weeks ago…

The gate opened up to the abandoned steel mill, this city will be their Hiroshima and Nagasaki. First I have to deal with this asshole bigot that fancies himself a doctor. I gave him the formula to bring this city to its knees, now he wants more. As I step out into the light I see him. "Robles…RAGH!" Why am I not surprised, he followed us here, I pull out my burner, he picks up in one, "Hōjō, he's here." then hang up. Now things have become complicated, "He wants to die so badly I will just have to oblige him. One less thing the boss will have to deal with."

I meet up with Hōjō later that night and confront Dr. Konkoktion, "Evening good DOCTOR!" My fist sends him flying into the silo in his lab below this poisoned isle. I back hand him to the other side before he can activate hits quirk. I smell the poison and breath it in deeply. "I learned to be prepared for shit like this from Spectre." I rush him and grab his mouth, "Who do you think will quicker me or you." My fist crushes his mask. "Take your medicine Doctor!" I release Spectre's altered hallucinogenic gas, then release him sending my fist into his solar plexus. He drops like discarded luggage.

"Was that so hard Hōjō?" He looks at me and then we watch the doctor slowly begin to lose his mind.

"What of Robles?"

"Nothing changes, kill him and Chisaki Kai will reward us." We hear the good doctor scream, calling out to some guy named Matthew. "What do you know or simple intel on our nuisance too difficult a task for a lumbering oaf like yourself."

"So says the guy who had to use that same toxin to beat him." I take a breath. "I lost part of my right arm to him!" I look away combing my hand through my hair. "Need I go on Rappa?" I growl.

"Point taken, my apologies Hōjō." I take another breath.

"Thank you, who'd thought we get chased out of our home country by a 17 year old?"

"Enough of that." I pop my knuckles, "So do you have anything?"

"I've been dealing with the doctor, then you drop this information on me?" We face each other, "No Rappa I haven't." I exhale my anger rising.

"He's dangerous-" I'm frustrated beyond anger, "so be it I'm off." I point at the doctor, "Slit his throat if he still acts up."

The next few days I hunt him down, Robles is cautious, calculating, such a worthy adversary. I observe, he now has a team, and is at odds with the local hero agency, oh my dear boy. Just wait.

The Detroit Raid…

Turns out he found our dear doctor- I wonder how that happened? The doctor has out lived his use. Such a shame. Our new benefactor is delusional, only the rich deserve the riches. Americans are so easy. "Hōjō fallback."

Hōjō bless him he is so easy to control bring them to me. Zeus Protocols huh, this is new, figured that his little mistress would find a way. If his suit follows the same evolution as the others then I can conclude the data from our little raid on the old man has brought about this.

I see Hōjō bring them to me this building, welcome to your tomb. "Pointbreak take position up there!" I look up, there's the sniper, "Jenesys on me." Humm, this will be interesting. I see them take on dear Hōjō, he's trained them well, good all the better. Never sample the product, a rule of thumb, its destroying him from the inside out. Hōjō, I told you, not too, none of The Bullets saw the bigger picture. The boss did, he kept those idiots close, but I'm the one who had his ear. Play dumb, yes, I'm just a brawler-fools. I was the only one who saw Eri's potential, however once I severed the boss from the old man- he saw it too. He should have dealt with the old man there and then, Eri was a resource NOTHING MORE! WE COULD HAVE BEEN GODS! WE STILL WILL BE!

Robles changed that, that miserable child had to change the status quo! WHO HELL DID HE THINK HE WAS! He beat the boss, broke him, A QUIRKLESSS INSECT! A COCKROACH! You want change Robles, The Knightmare? I WILL TEAR DOWN EVERYTHING YOU HOLD DEAR! I blast forward and launch the regenerator across floor, I spot the one giving orders and cave in his face DEAD! The regenerator comes back, he has no idea what is in store for you! YOU WEAKENED ME ROBLES! My shoulders ache, but I slam my opponent down and leap upon him unleashing my bounty with each strike DIE! Two other local heroes come to his aid but they are easily dispatched. A take a strike and my face is on fire, how, I killed him!

This jacket wearing asshole is strong, now the regenerator and him are on me. Oh Robles, you brought me some wonderful toys to play with! YES! Faster! HARDER! I hear the shot and use the regenerator as a shield, he's down. Another shot jacket boy is now down. STAY DOWN! I spot him he's firing rounds like his life depends on it, IT DOES! I slam my fists into the concrete pillars beginning my climb, embedding, launching, COME ON LITTLE BOY! The regenerator grabs me, his quirk is weaning, your dead!

I allow him to take me. We land. Hard.

Back and forth we trade blows, I see the damage, finally the healing stops. Another strike and my face is on fire, I grab the regenerator then Mr. Resurrection and slam their heads together. The regenerator is done leaving only sniper and Mr. Resurrection. A single blow ends it and he falls unmoving. My own quirk is slowing down, my shoulders are on fire. I see him he's out of ammo, so I rush up the pillar using the holes I put in it as steps. I grab him and leap down slamming my aching fists into him. We land, turns out he can fight, good! "ROBLES!"

"Fuck you!" The sniper is taking my punishment but its for not. I end it.

"You fought well." I make sure their back ups are put down permanently. "May death be swift children."

Last week…

I met up with Hōjō, apparently Robles was taken out by the good doctor. However, I discovered that the doctor met his untimely demise as well. The steel mill served us well, now it was time to go, most of our shipments were diverted to Los Angeles, the doctor was holding out. No big deal, the damage was done and the demonstration in full view of the public thanks to the wonderful American News Outlets. We made national news, hehehehe. "RAPPA!" No, "THIS ENDS NOW!"

"No way!"

"Get to Los Angeles, he's mine!" I take off in a spirit, Spectre was down, How!

My rage blinded me, I fell for such a childish diversion. They were here, his harlots! I suddenly hear them, a new hero had entered the fray.

"HEY ASSHOLE!" I look up and she knocks my mask off. She then turn tails and runs!

"RABBIT PUNCH ME!" I give chase, Hōjō is down that fucking frog took him out! I trigger a trap and I cannot move my legs! Before I know it the frog meets me head on! SHE SHATTERED MY GUANTLETS! I take a strike shocking me to the core. I feel another strike my shoulder gives.

"Sayonara MOTHER FUCKER!" She destroys my shoulder! I roar as I slam my fist into her face. I manage to get her off of me and launch her into wall. I take a blast, the new guy is powerful, I cannot let this be. So I give in, never sample your own product!

59

I was so behind at school, however, the news of The Detroit Raid worked in my favor, well that and Rathers going to bat for me. Tsu said she was ahead and was already set for graduation by end of year. I was in shock, she said school was not the same without me. Tatsuma Ryūko passed her early on in her work study and with tons of night school for the past year she achieved her goal. As for Mei, she wanted to stay but she needed more physical therapy and was sure as shit was not going to get it in The States. It was hard for me to see her go, but I wanted what was best for her. We parted as we did when I left Japan with a lover's kiss.

I returned to tons of make up work at my apartment, but I had my Tsu with me. Rathers ordered me not to search for Rappa and Hōjō till I caught up with school. Frankly I did not mind, I didn't have a plan yet to face them. My mobile vibrated, "Robert." I perked up Tsu and I were on the living room floor the couch acting as back support as we went through all my make up work on the coffee table.

"Mr. Downing how can I help you." This was a surprise, wonder what he wanted? Tsu was shaking her head, she felt the same as I, we covered most of this junk in our first year at UA.

"Why so formal kid?" Guess it didn't work with him.

"Force of habit-Jacob." I caught myself before calling him Jake.

"Ah, Matthew?" He chuckled, guess Rathers told him how used his last name as an insult.

"The ass, yes." I busted out laughing.

"Come on Robert." He was not amused at all.

"Yeah, sorry."

"Holy crap an apology." Now he was being sarcastic, he won me over.

"What do you want Jacob?" I said smugly too which I saw Tsu looking at me coyly.

"Fine, I wanted to know if you wanted to get dinner, bring Ms. Froppy too."

"Aww here I was hoping for some alone time handsome." I was flirting now, Tsu eyes told me everything, freaking fujoshi. I covered my mobile, "Seriously Tsu."

"You know that turns me on, can I watch!" I rolled my eyes, Jacob was handsome, better looking than Rathers by a long shot.

"Wrong tree Roberto." Dreams crushed, I pouted my lips in disappointment as She then put my mobile on speaker.

"Too bad that would be so hot." I could hear him choke as we both busted out laughing.

"Ms. Froppy?" Jacob was taken back.

"Please call me Tsu and we would love too." She smiled and hopped onto my lap.

I held her in my arms taking in her scent, "You heard the boss Jacob, what time?" I drew my beloved close and kissed her, I missed her so much.

"1900 hrs I'll pick ya'll up at your apartment." I could tell he was glad he got both of us.

"Sounds like a plan see you then Blue." He punched off and Tsu jumped on me. Homework could wait.

It was nearly 1700 hrs after we stopped, yeah time well spent, I was so glad Mei closed off access to my apartment. "Going to see Andrew, Ribbit?"

"Yeah, Dezmond and Terrin are there, wanna come?"

"I'm pretty sure I already did that."

"Several times my lotus lily." I chuckled as I got off the floor, I needed a shower. One thing I did love about this place was the bathroom. Taking a shower felt like I did it in the rain. Needless to say I was not showering alone, I wanted to have an encore but I wanted to see Andrew. We changed and I attached my uniform disc and grabbed a green disc, Mei left it for me to give to Rathers. I tapped my chest and picked up Tsu in a princess carry taking off to Detroit Mercy.

"I love this."

"As do I, Tsu." I looked in her eyes as we flew across the city skyline, "I love you more than anything."

"You proposing?"

"Thought I already had your answer."

"True, but that doesn't mean a girl doesn't like to be asked."

"Well then I will have to make it special when I do."

"Ass."

"I love yours." I smiled as she chuckled and we landed at Detroit Mercy. I took her hand and we walked in. It didn't feel right just going to his room's window, as we exited the elevator I am met by Dezmond and Terrin. "Same?"

"Yeah man, his mom is with him now."

"What?"

"She just got in, I wouldn't." I walked past them, "Got dammit Robert."

Dezmond sees Tsu, "Hi Tsu, has he always been this way?"

"You have no idea, hey Terrin."

"Tsu." Terrin seemed to take it the hardest.

"Terrin."

"Sorry Tsu, we both know, still killing me though."

"Trust me I completely understand. Roberto."

"No doubt, I just want to be there when he does."

"We all getting a piece brotha." Terrin clenched his fist as Tsu hugged them both she had seen this all before and been through it.

I walked into Andrew's room, she spots me, "A vegetable." I could see this woman hated my very existence. She was young, mid twenties, apparently had Andrew very early. "Last time I was here Andrew was born." I stood silent, she then walked up to me, "My baby is now lying here."

"Ms. Rollins." She slaps me, I deserved that.

"A vegetable, he was so excited, working with you." She slapped me again, "Say something."

"I'm going to make this right."

"Unless you can reverse time, getting Rappa Kendō doesn't mean shit boy!" I just stare her down. "All your money cannot solve this." She researched me.

"No, it cannot, but I am going to make this right." Another slap, "Let out all your rage upon me Ms. Rollins, I will make this right, those are not empty words." She looked back at Andrew, "Andrew will come back, I won't let my…" I took the back of her hand, then a strike, a kick, another slap, I took it all.

"You bastard!" She continued to beat me down.

"I will make it right." She stopped, "You're a FBI profiler, go on read me." Ms. Rollins gathered herself, "Andrew is a true hero, look at me and tell me if I am lying. I will make this right." She took a moment and studied me as I wiped my lip, she could hit. "Believe me Ms. Rollins."

"How? Recovery Girl stayed with him for several days."

"My resources are vast you said it yourself."

"Money will only go so far what are you hiding."

"Just know I am more than what you have seen."

"You have no quirk."

"Yet I stand before you as my brother's Commanding Officer."

"Delta 12, I know about your little war."

"That I won."

"Say I believe you."

"You do." She slapped me, I deserved that. "She will be here in a week." She starts to say something, "Do not pursue what you are currently thinking. Just trust me." Ms. Rollins took a breath and promptly told me leave, our interaction ended there. Eri had heard from Aizawa about The Detroit Raid after everything happened. She was pissed I didn't call her sooner, or any one for that matter. It was a small price to pay, that little girl meant a lot to me and deserved every kindness I could afford her.

Dezmond and Terrin cringed at my now bruised face, "Got damn Roberto."

"I'll live." Tsu touched my face, "Can you blame her my love?" She hugged me.

"Heavy is the crown huh commander." I looked behind Terrin and saw her, Jinn. "Andrew… I get it." I take a breath and brace myself, "No, she did enough for both of us, you saved Matthew, I'm not angry with you." I saw her tears and embraced her. " Ro…you better get this bastard." I let her go, no pressure huh, Rappa I will have my pound of flesh. I took a breath and exited the hospital.

Jacob caught wind to where I was and met us at Detroit Mercy. He got out of his large sedan with my favorite person in the world. "Cheez itz, spam, and garlic what happened kid?"

"Ms. Rollins, Jacob, Rathers."

"Damn, did you even try to defend yourself?" I hit him with a 'really?' look, "Guess you wouldn't."

"You good Roberto?"

"Yeah, more determined now to kill this bastard." Before Jacob could say anything, Rathers spoke up.

"Trust me Jacob, they deserve it." I hear Jacob sharply inhale. We return to his car and we head out. The ride was pleasant but quiet, we arrived at some steakhouse and are seated near the back. "Order what you would like tonight dinner is on me." The pleasantries continued through dinner, something was up, Tsu could picked up on my suspicions.

"Mr. Rathers." That got his attention, Jacob took notice of his boss's reaction. "Thank you." Rathers was caught off guard, "Honestly, thank you for everything."

"Thank you for giving me closure with Dr. KonKoktion." He smiled knocking me off, he never smiled, "The Knightmare Hero, Spectre, humm I'm glad woken up from that." he raised his glass toasting me as we all joined in.

"This is nice." Jacob replied, "Please don't ruin it I love this place." Jacob suddenly went tense. I looked at him and Rathers put his glass down.

"This more than just a dinner isn't it?" Tsu broke the tension, Jacob then ordered a whiskey. I look at him, he looked as if he knew the night was ruined. I found it amusing as I wiped my hand with a cloth napkin. I then offered it to Rathers.

"No red please my steak was awesome." Rather chuckled and took my hand as his eyes went yellow. "Calm down Tsu its just his quirk, Truth Serum." Tsu was ready to jump, Jacob just downed his drink and ordered another. "There, what is this about Mr. Rathers." His eyes shot quickly to red causing me repulse.

"Join Delta 12, keep your rank and work for me."

"I knew it."

"Roberto besides these bastards, what's wrong with joining me. Our history that bad?"

"History is squashed, this is not my home Matthew." I involuntarily look at Tsu I hated this about his quirk. When activated your inhibitions were lifted, leaving only your own truth, words, actions, intentions all exposed.

"I'll hire them too, hell I'll pay for your got damn wedding to Ms. Tsu if that's what it will take." Rathers did not regret his words. "Roberto you are an exceptional man, I've never seen someone like you."

"Hey!" Jacob protested.

"Shut up Jake!"

"Our wedding Matthew?" Was this man desperate or serious?

"I did not stutter, when I met you 8 months ago, I just saw some punk kid pretending to be a hero." My eyes narrowed, he was serious,I then looked towards Jacob as he downed the rest of his second whiskey. "It was my own arrogance that caused me to be humbled. Have you any idea how much you cost me, humiliated me and my men, then to turn around and take 3 Delta 12 Scholarship Students, and in a matter of weeks trained them to take down my own second command with little to no effort."

"Wait what, three kids took down Jinn?" Jacob shook his head trying to wrap around what he just said.

Rathers leaned back and pointed at me,"Yes Jake this man trained them."

"Shoot I'll drink to that." I shook my head as Jacob got himself another drink.

"Forgive me Jacob, but why can he call you Jake?" I figured I knew the answer but I wanted to confirm it.

"Short answer, history, long one, he earned it do likewise." Confirmed, I was holding Tsu's hand and honestly was seriously considering Mr. Rathers' offer. Tsu switched to Japanese.

"What about Spec Ops?" I looked at her and also switched.

"I haven't forgotten, I will change this world."

"This man… does his quirk works both ways or is he baiting you?"

"Both ways my love and he is baiting me."

"What's Spec Ops Roberto?" Me and Tsu look at Jacob who just asked us in Japanese. I switch back to English as my eyes go cold.

"Now I get why you called." I look at Rathers, "Clever." He almost had me.

"I learned it from you, but no, I only told Jacob to call you because-"

"I would be more open to his invitation, fair enough, can't be mad at you for that." I see his eyes go normal, "How long before you can reactivate your quirk?"

"Four to Five minutes, longer if I go to red."

"Do you want to know about Spec Ops?"

"I'd be lying if I said no Robert, but you already know that."

"I want to start my own agency." I could tell from his eyes that it did not surprise him. "Mei and I had discussed this long before I came here." At Mei's name his eyes shifted, I just became a threat to him.

"Half."

"Half?"

"50-50 equal partners we can go in the morning to The Tim Goldstein Law Firm."

"Matt are you serious?" Jacob dropped his drink.

"Wait did you just offer half your company to me?" It was past five minutes and he offered his hand I took it. A moment later his eyes were yellow but he was not letting go.

"Yes. I'll even pay for your college here or Japan or where ever the hell you end up going. I have a list of properties that are not even on the market for Mei to pick from for a lab." I was blown away he was serious, "Roberto please." I looked at Tsu, she share the same look on her face as me.

"Matthew, I am blown away." I could become international by the time I could graduate. "You would have to talk to Mei about the Hermes Network, what if I wanted to open a Spec Ops in Japan?"

"Go for it, that would be all you Delta 12 would not stand in your way, I won't stand in your way."

"So its only America you are concern with, so what 'Spec Ops Agency' with a little sub title saying a 'Subsidiarity of Delta 12'? "

"Exactly, I want to work with you not own you."

"Am I that much of a threat to you?"

"Alone yes, but with your little genius mad scientist."

"Not helping your case Mr. Rathers." I took a moment, got a refill of my soda, took a swig as I mused on it a bit more, "Honestly had this been earlier, I'd tell you to promptly go fuck yourself." Tsu and the rest of cringed, "However, this is now and my viewpoint and opinion on you has changed drastically." I finished my drink, "Its a tempting offer Mr. Rathers, I will have to seriously consider it." The check came and Rathers was true to his word and paid for the dinner.

We exited the steakhouse and I pulled the disc out of my pocket. " ." He looked at me and I handed him the disc, "A gift from Mei, she brought it with her but due to well Rappa she had to return to Japan." Mr. Rathers placed it upon his chest and twisted it into place. "She really wanted to give it to you personally." The device whirled and seal into place Mr. Rathers' clothes were sucked in then replaced with green muscle fiber armor laced with gold trim. From his forearms nightsticks ejected and he caught them. Mei had spared no expense, from the flight gear to the stealth equipment and HUD.

[Welcome Slim Shade.] "I..thank you Mei." He had everything my own setup had even down to the aftershock ability. The armor was light, flexible, linked to the Hermes Network and Mount Olympus Database

"You're welcome don't be an ass anymore!"

"Mei!"

"I was wondering when Roberto was going to give you this can you put me on a screen?" Rathers shot out a holo-projector, "BLUE!" Jacob smiled at the sight of her. "I am so sorry about your uniform, thank you for saving us."

"Last thing I needed was your man hunting me down, after what just occurred at dinner just now, I don't need that."

"I should be healed up soon, Eri was pissed Roberto."

"Small price to pay, you coming with her?"

"No, I have some work to do for our wonderful Mr. Downing here. Make sure to send me his scans Roberto."

"Wait what?" Jacob was beside himself as Mei smiled, "Mei."

"A small token, you deserve a better class of uniform, also your quirk is fascinating I cannot wait to get started."

"Mei."

"Yes Mr. Rathers?" Mei was bubbly when he said her name. He looked at me and I nodded.

"If you have some time I have something I like to discuss with you." She looks at me.

"Hear him out Mei, it will blow you away." with that we entered the Sedan, Rathers took the wheel as Jacob sat infront. He dropped me and Tsu off at my apartment. This was a lot to take in, me joining Delta 12 as co-owner? This was nuts!

I told Rathers the next day I will have his answer after winter break when I return from Tokyo. He was hesitant at first then I reminded him of the gravity of this decision especially with those two bastards still out there. He agreed, Jacob agreed to stay in Detroit till I caught them. School was interesting now, I had gotten my hero license earlier than everyone. So I was now exempt from most of my studies, passed due me now having my hero license. I welcomed it I still had to go to combat training, business class, and English, thankfully when I transferred in Math was no longer needed. I now only needed to go to JL for about 30 minutes to 2 hours a day.

Then there was Andrew, my classes that I had him in weighed on me greatly. The school graduated him, with the news of him being a vegetable they took pity. More like capitalizing on a tragedy and looking good for the press, Dezmond and Terrin along with me were sickened. My friend was damn near beaten to death for saving the city and they used it for good PR. There was a benefit, the three of us were exempt from exams the rest of the year. I asked a favor from Rathers, who was more than willing to accommodate, it was simple send some people to relieve my men.

Everyday we would rotate shifts guarding our fallen brother, the only time we didn't was for school, Tsu was still around for now so she would take that shift. Ma was still in England enjoying herself and being safe, so Terrin was living with Dez for the time being. I asked them to meet me at my apartment, and they did.

"What's up this business or personal man?" Dezmond had become hardened as did Terrin.

"Bit of both, I'm done with JL." I said coldly, I had a plan.

"Join the club muthaphukas took a shit all over Andrew with that stunt." Terrin was livid just like the rest of us.

Dezmond nodded in agreement "Amen, so what are you going to do about it?"

"Take advantage of them" I popped my right fist, "I'm going to graduate early so I can rip that school away from Conner Kilt Patrick!"

Dezmond was now rubbing his hands together in excitement, "I like the sound of that, can I join you?"

"Well that's one, Terrin?" I smirked as I turned to Terrin and I held out my hand.

"Man fuck them and Patrick, hell yeah." He grabbed it.

"Glad we are in unison, classes start tomorrow, Rathers along with several other agencies have streamed lined our success." Rathers had put pressure on Joe Lewis to extend the courtesy to us, in truth he really wanted to sway my decision to join Delta 12 all the more easier. Good on him, also doing this would bring more assets to his ranks via Dezmond and Terrin. However, they only offered the exam exemptions and the night classes for an extra fee. Rathers along with his connects to other local agencies threatened to go to the media- they waived the fees.

"So Rathers down with you taking the school?" I smile at Dezmond. "He don't know, damn this is personal."

"Oh hell yeah, commander has a plan." Terrin gave me some dab as did Dezmond.

"What about Andrew?" Dezmond paused as did Terrin.

"I am taking a leap of faith." I reply taking in a breath.

"Oh shit, word?" They both said in shock.

"Yeah, I am relying on Rathers for that." Both of them took a step back. "You know I have trust issues so this- is rather unsettling."

"Word. Roberto man, we got you, besides Rathers don't want none of this right here."

"Well…" I then tell them of my meeting with Jacob and Rathers.

"WHAT!" They yell in collective shock.

"Yeah bros, I'm…words cannot express my thoughts." They then smiled at me, "What?"

"Man you'd be an idiot not to take that deal." Dezmond crossed his arms and tapped Terrin's shoulder.

"My mans, real talk bruh, we don't want you to leave." Terrin's words catch me a knot in my throat.

"For real bro, we want you to catch them assholes, but we are not looking forward to seeing you go back to Japan." I sniff as Tsu comes in from exploring the city and Dezmond points at her. "Her neither homie, shit when you gonna wife her got damn."

"Not till he catches one of them at least. What's going on guys?" Tsu says flatly.

"Eh nothing much lil ma, school takeover, convincing your man here to take Rathers' deal." Tsu wasn't surprised and tapped her lip in amusement, "You know shootin the shit." Terrin was sooo poetic. "Care to help us out?"

Tsu tapped the cuff of her glove and Mei appear on a screen."I say do it."

"Ribbit I know you are not an idiot." I smile at her then look at Mei on screen.

"But Mei, we'll be a subsidiary." I wanted to fulfill my promise to her.

"In America, besides I convinced him to keep my babies independent. You are looking at the new CEO of High Spec International, welcome to the future."

"Well damn, guess I have to take it now." For now I kept my answer classified and swore the others to secrecy. "Mei find me everything you can on Conner Kilt Patrick. Clean out his closet."

"On it." With that she punched off.

"Tsu, Eri is coming in tomorrow, I got to deal with these two knuckleheads so we can GTFO of Joe Lewis by end of November."

"Ah shit here we go." Dezmond always found it amusing when I executed a plan.

I pointed at both of them, "Ah shit nothing both of you are moving in here."

"Damn you don't trust us?" I stared Dezmond down, "'ight you got us damn."

"Man lucky mom ain't here." Terrin crossed his arms and looked away.

"She'd back me up." I pointed out.

"Shit…yeah you right got damn." He then mumbled to himself as Tsu laughed, "You need to get you man here Tsu."

"Boy who you think you talking to?" Me and Dez just looked at her then at Terrin, then cracked up. "I graduate in December and you have no idea what sort of hell I went through to pull that shit off. Your shit is what I did in first year, if you don't get your rope headed ass…"

"Damn, Detroit got her." Dezmond leaned on me his eyes wide.

"Its kinda hot though." Dezmond looked at me, "Yeah dismissed both of you." Tsu was still berating Terrin when he grabbed him then whispered in his ear.

"Word, heh ha." They exited without saying good bye. Tsu turned around and before she could say anything I wrapped myself in her peppermint.

The next day…

Tsu picked up Eri at Detroit Metropolitan Airport, her flight was early to which I was grateful for. We would meet up at Detroit Mercy later but for now Dezmond, myself, and Terrin were spending every break getting our work done, in addition to our own class work. It was crunch time and we were feeling Patrick's influence, but like hell were we gonna give up. "This is some honors level shit here." Terrin exclaimed.

"Push through solider the faster we get this shit done the better we'll be off." I replied.

We were suppose to be working independently, but it wasn't our fault we all choose the library to work. We were speaking through our coms and in different sections of the building. Apparently somehow we were working at the same speed, we had 60 days to get our classes done. The principle kept piling on the work at one point he gave us work we already had done. When I called him out on it, he claimed their was no record of it. I took back the projectors and suddenly the records reappeared within the hour and apparently we were ahead of schedule.

We spent all day and after school before we called it a day. So long as we turned in our work we got our grades the next day. "Let's go" We arrived at Detroit Mercy and Eri ran to me, she had grown so much.

"Yo Robles, who is this?"

"Meet my little girl, Eri." Their faces dropped and then they looked at Tsu who shook her head no.

"I missed you daddy!" Eri was playing along.

"What the hell Robles you start when you were 10 or something?"

"Puberty hit me early and well you know I am rather convincing." They stood there looking at me thoroughly convinced.

"Mama misses you."

"Yeah sure, she misses the child support"

"Damn bruh for real?" Dezmond called me out.

"Okay fine I'm bullshitting you." I started to laugh, "You should have seen your faces."

"Man bruh, can you blame us, with all the shit we seen from you." Terrin pointed out, I just shook my head.

"Spectre along with his friends saved me from-" She trailed off remembering Chisaki Kai. "Doesn't matter I am here!"

"Alright All Might." Dezmond bend down and greeted her, followed by Terrin. "So tell us, what's your quirk baby girl."

"Rewind." She smirked imitating my own expression they had seen several times, Dezmond's eyes showed concern, now he was wondering if I was really telling the truth the first time. He looked up at me and I smiled increasing his doubt. I then smiled at Eri then headed to the elevator.

We arrived on Andrew's floor and were greeted by Andrew's mom. She looked at Eri who held on to me. Instinctively I moved to protect her, "Scary lady."

"I'm sorry little one." She then looked at me, "Roberto."

"I keep my word Ms. Rollins." She looks at the little girl then back at me and I nod.

"What is this?"

"Watch and see the impossible made possible." Eri smiles gleaning off my confidence. I smile as I look down at her, "You still want to do this Eri?"

"Just watch me!" We move past Ms. Rollins and head to Andrew's room with all of them in tow. "I wish I could have gotten here sooner, why didn't you tell me Spectre."

"You are not some fix all device Eri."

"YOU'RE NOT CHISAKI!" Her words struck me hard, "I want to do good like you, Deku, and Lemillion." She was hurt, "If I can save someone I want to. I WANT TO HEAL!" She touched Andrew's head, "This is gonna take a few times." She closed her eyes as her horn began to spark and grow. "I am here grandpa, guide me." Suddenly Andrew's brain monitors came alive. "Who could do such a thing?" Eri was crying, her quirk control had more than improved.

"Rappa." Eri cringed when I said his name. A few moments later she fell back and I caught her.

"I still can't do it in one go." I embraced her crying on her little shoulders. "I want to stay here." I kissed her head.

"Whatever you want, they will not get you." I assure her, Ms. Rollins looked at the monitor and fell to her knees.

"She…"

"Is returning his body back to what it was originally, it takes a toll on her."

"What."

"Not bad, just tiring." Ms. Rollins just took Eri in her arms.

"Thank you." She said in between sobs, "I will protect you, you brave sweet child." She then looked at me, "Here." She gave me her pass and a key to her home. "Go to my room, in my closet behind a false wall is a panel." She then gave me a code, "Black metal case, bring it to me." I nod and open the window tapping my chest switching to my hero uniform. I leap out igniting my flight gear and disappearing into the night.

I could not get to Andrew's house quick enough, every moment I was away Eri was in danger. My insides were on fire, I could feel something was coming. I knew where he lived but never visited. I entered to what seemed to be a brownstone home two floors. The first was an open living room that led to the kitchen, I looked up and blasted to the second floor. There was a game room and three bedrooms, a bathroom, Ms. Rollins room was at the end of the hallway connecting everything to the game room. I saw a scanner and placed her badge on it, it lit up green and unlocked. Her room was simple, large Cali King, dresser the basics for a master bedroom. I saw the master bath which connected to the walk in closet. Deep inside I found the false wall, I touched it and it hissed open revealing another scanner. I placed her badge on it which opened a number pad, I put in the code and a heavy door popped and hissed open. It was a whole armory, from pistols to assault rifles and shotguns. Seconds later a large black metal case ejected itself from the wall in front of me. I grabbed it taking it out of armory which then automatically closed and locked. I pushed the false wall back in place then exited the home promptly.

I arrived back Detroit Mercy, I didn't bother going through the entrance opting for the open window. She was there waiting for me, "Thanks Spectre." I nodded waiting for her to open it. "Not happening." I was irked, I wanted to know. "This is Pointbreak's" I sighed disappointed, "Don't worry about Eri, I know you are working on graduating early, go." I took a breath, "Also here." she handed me a thumb drive, "Everything I got on Connor Kilt Patrick."

"How the hell?"

"I work for the FBI, you've been my special project." She smirked, damn this woman really must have some serious hatred towards me. "He's an asshole anyways, take the deal with Matthew." I tighten my grip on the drive, "Special. Project. Spectre." This woman was intense I nodded then gave Eri a hug and exited Detroit Mercy with everyone.

I didn't sleep easy that night, none of us did. Terrin snored like a freight train! I got up out of bed and headed to the roof. I was anxious, I had to focus, so I did what did best, channel it into a weapon. I trained myself into a frenzy, I had to remain focused, honing my body into a surgeon's blade. Every kick, punch, block, movement stronger than the last, I pictured Rappa, Yū, Chisaki. They haunted my mind, I felt a roundhouse connect to something. At first I thought it was Rappa, instinctively I hit my chest activating my hero uniform. "Ribbit." I shook my head.

"Hey beautiful." I was breathing hard. She smiled and leaped towards me, before I realized what she was doing I took a dropkick. "What the hell?" I see her tongue and I grab it, she retracted it and I blocked her kick. I headbutted her and nailed her in the side with my knee. Her tongue went slack and I pulled only to meet her fist then I took both her feet to my chest extending her tongue. She then grabbed her own tongue and pulled sending me crashing to the floor. Her tongue retracted as she rushed me, I shot out a flashbang, blinded now I sent a flying kick dead to her chest. Back and forth with sparred until we noticed the sun rising.

"Stubborn bastard." She hissed beaten and tired.

"Pompous amphibian." I breathe catching my breath, "Thanks my love."

"I love you Ribbit." We then sat on the ledge of the room in each others arms watching the rising dawn. "Its beautiful, isn't it, no matter where we are?"

"Its why I named my signature Rising Dawn. No matter how bad it got growing up in the system I found solace in this."

"Smooth, very smooth." She kissed me as the sun broke the horizon, how so very cliché.

Tsu went back to Japan that day, she needed to get back to school. My heart broke as I let her go, it took everything for me not to book a flight right there and then leaving America far behind. I returned to school, "Yo Roberto," Dezmond hugged me, "Let's get this done so we can get you back to her." Terrin greeted me and gave me a bro hug. School took its sweet time ending, we called it quits by 1700 hrs, almost there. We arrived at Detroit Mercy, Eri was giving it her all, Andrew was almost back, he was showing signs he knew we were there.

60

Midnight…

"Its done, give him time." Eri passed out in Ms. Rollins arms, Andrew was still comatose.

"Thank you Eri, thank you, you brave, brave little girl." We watched as Ms. Rollins took Eri to the cafeteria. I looked at my brother lying there, his vitals were up, but he wasn't waking up. I looked over at Terrin, he was praying, as was Dezmond. I was never one for such things, its was hard to wrap my head around it when everyone close to me has been either killed or maimed.

"Send one for me guys." They didn't response, no big, I actually meant it. "Come back Andrew, I need you, we need you bro." I kept my vigil over him when I saw something that I that enraged me. I saw him, he wasn't even trying to hide, he stood there arms crossed mouth covered with a black n95 mask.

He was taunting me, I looked to my friend in the hospital bed where I stood. "Yo Rob what you looking at?" Terrin took a look and tapped Dezmond.

"The hell?" I blocked him from going any further, "That's that mutha laid out Andrew." I steadied my breathing, my anger seething, "Yo Robert say the word bruh." I shook my head and clenched my fists causing my knuckles to pop.

"Stay here both of you." I said firmly.

"Rob that's some bull.." Terrin wasn't having it.

"Terrin, Dezmond, do you trust me?" I asked them.

"Yo man Rob." Dezmond replied but I turn my head towards him.

"Do you trust me?" I repeated.

"He bodied Andrew." Terrin wanted justice, but I turned to face them fully.

"Do. You. Trust. Me?" I repeated one last time staring them down.

"Yeah man, we do." They finally gave in.

"Then stay here, he needs you." I pointed to Andrew who was out cold.

"Fuck!" Dezmond was frustrated, "Alright man."

"Thank you." The hospital we were in was old and had free opening windows. I looked back at my friends, they felt hurt I could tell. They lost Rappa while I left to saved Rathers. 'It's not like that my friends, I swear just trust me.' I wasted no time as I made a bee line to Rappa Kendō. He wound up a punch and I stopped it with a viscous bomb courtesy of my friends in Spectrum. He looked at his arm and I nailed him across his jaw. Acting swiftly I nailed him as fast and hard as I could, this was the only way to defeat him. My suit adjusted to his strength, I had to overpower him before he could gain momentum. Joints and stopping blows before they started was no easy task. He struck, 3 bars, Rappa wasn't playing, another strike, bonus bar, he maxed out my intake in two blows.

I went for an uppercut, "ROBERT!" from my side Hōjō Yū leapt in front of my strike eating it.

"Where the hell did he get more?" This was different, he was hopped up on a new form of the quirk steroid.

"Dr. KonKoKtion left me a present." Yū roared as he tossed me aside I hit the roof's safety wall. "That's how he got them."

"Man screw this I'm not gonna let my mans die out there for us."

"Terrin stop." Mei came on over the com.

"No Mei, they're gonna.." Dezmond was cut off.

"Who do you think they are going to come after next?" I was hearing everything from where I was, Mei was fighting her tears.

"Mei, but he's our boy." Dezmond pleaded desperately.

"Trust him, this is why he's out there, its killing me, but this is who he is." Mei was crying now.

"They're killing him!" Terrin interjected

"And he would do it a thousand times more for those he cares about." Mei was trying to get them to understand.

A dark cloud seems to form a purple portal, bursting from inside, blue energy sparks and dances from it. I see it as I dodge another blow from Yū.

"Besides he won't be alone." I heard Mei voice go calm.

"One for All Full Cowling." My eyes lit up, "100%" I see Rappa trying to intercept, "DETROIT!" I see my best friend leap out of the portal faster than I can follow "SMASH!" The blow connects sending Hōjō Yū flying across smashing through roofs. "Spectre."

"AFTER HIM!" Deku snaps out of it and goes after Hōjō Yū. "Jensys!"

"Yes commander."

"Back Deku up!" I rise to my feet, "Rocaphella!"

"Commander."

"You ready for this?" I see Rocaphella leap out of the building making a beeline for Rappa. "RAPPA!" I charge intercepting him unleashing all bars into his face. He tanks the hit, he was already juiced up as well. Dezmond comes in sending his fist into the side of his face melting his mask! I blast forward launching sticky bombs pinning him in place. Dezmond parries a blow slamming a shock pellet into his arm. Rappa roars as the pellet then explodes.

"Not this time asshole!" He dodges a blow sending a fiery fist deep into his solar plexus. I take a blow filling up two bars and send my fist into his side, I hear his ribs break.

"We got something for your ass tonight!" Dezmond and I grab his throat and shoulders ripping him from his entrapment slamming him to the ground. We both activate our strength enhancers and pin his shoulders down. Blow after blow of fire and electricity we pound his face in. He pulls something out of his pocket and injects himself with another dose knocking us off of himself.

"ROBBBLLLEESSSS!" He screams my name as he knocks Dezmond off the roof. My suit automatically appears to bleed and my inferno oni mask activates.

'Fate's Gate fixed, activating now, you have 90 seconds.'

"More than enough time." I charge and disappear from Rappa's sight, then reappear sending his mask and teeth flying. He cannot find me as my body seems to warp around him beating him senseless.

"ROBLES! WhY CaN'T yOU JuST DIE!" I take a hit, 3 bars, another hit, MAXED! "DIE!" I block his first attack and I strike up center mass unloading each bar. I spin slamming my leg into his right side more ribs gone!

'Time's up, get away!' Crap! I leap back but its too late he sends me into an A/C unit. I now hate A/C units! I burst out, no side effects. 'Fate's Gate now powered by solar intake via skin.'

'How long Dad?'

'32hrs, maximum upgrade achieved sorry son.'

"No matter!" I wiped the blood from my lip. I see Rappa coming for me.

"Fearless Leader." I close my eyes and smile, then look ahead, I hear the loud cocking of a very big gun in my com. "Do. Not. Move." I start to chuckle through my teeth and switch on my voice modulator bursting into laughter. Rappa is unawares, my laughter only infuriating him more. Good. I see Dezmond with a smile on his face. "Dezmond are you watching?" He gives a thumbs up. "Fearless Leader get ready to jump to your left."

"Do not kill him, take away his pride."

"As you command, fearless one." Time seems to slow down as Rappa leaps towards me, "NOW!" I leap and all I see is a purple streak zoom past me. I see Rappa's right arm burst from its socket separating from the rest of his body. I then hear what sounds like thunder mixed with cannon fire. Rappa is sent spinning across the roof. I look up and see 3 more purple streaks obliterating Rappa's right arm from existence. He screams as the top of the roof is showered in crimson and scraps of anatomy. I walk over to Rappa and Andrew lands beside me pointing what looks like something out of a H*L* at his skull. Dezmond walks up to Andrew's right. "Please move." The roar of his WMD shockwave over takes us.

"ANDREW WHAT IN THE HELL WAS THAT!" Jenesys says over the com.

"Hi to you too."

"What? I can't hear you over the sound of the four horsemen blowing their got damn trumpets."

"Jenesys report."

"Its the end of days, Pointbreak signaled the start of the got damn apocalypse with that fucking railgun!" I rolled my eyes and switch over to Deku, "The end is nigh, repent, ARRRRR OHHHH!"

"Deku?"

"Got him!"

"We got…" Rappa coughs something up, it explodes as Dezmond and I cover Pointbreak. "RAPPPA!" I blast after him.

"Spectre!" Mei shouts through the com.

"Not now!" I shout back.

"Kurogiri just escaped Tartarus!" I see Rappa fall into a portal flipping me off before disappearing through it.

"Deku!" I switch over.

"We still got him." I land slamming my fist into a brick wall.

"Jenesys!"

"Commander."

"Pin that motherfucker down, bind him, break his fucking limbs if you have too make sure he does not escape!"

"You got it commander." I hear from both Jenesys and Deku.

"Fearless Leader." I grab Andrew and hug him tightly, "Roberto."

"I thought I lost you brother." I kiss his forehead, "Welcome back." I hug him again as tears come down my eyes. He returns the favor.

"Thank you for bringing me back." We let go of each other as Dezmond grabs him as well. I return to the matter at hand and hit my com.

"Matthew." He picks up in one.

"Roberto."

"We got one sir."

"Which one Commander Spectre?"

"Hōjō Yū, sir, Rappa escaped but." Rathers heard the the joy in my voice.

"But?"

"Andrew took his right arm." I hear Rathers cheering on the other end.

"Thank God he's back and HELL YEAH!" I laugh at the contradiction in his words.

"Sending coordinates for pick up."

"Me and Blue Worx are on our way, Slim Shade out." I close the com and look at my teammates.

"Let's go." Together we take to the sky to Jenesys and Deku's location. They had moved to the ground level with Hōjō Yū face down. We land and I walk towards Deku then fall to my knees bowing to him head down. I switch to Japanese, "Thank you, thank you Midoriya Izuku, thank you so much!" I see him panic telling me to get up. I rise shaking his hand, my teammates are in shock of my actions.

"So Spe…Commander Spectre, your team." I look towards them and they file in.

"These are my brothers, Dezmond Brown aka Rocaphella, my second in command."

"What up my dog, heard you and the commander go way back."

"You know Terrin Hillsong aka Jenesys already."

"Bruh, did you really just say 'Detroit Smash'?"

"Yup in Detroit too."

"And this is Andrew Rollins aka Pointbreak."

"What's good my guy, so you All Might's successor huh?"

"What how…."

"Not me Midor…" I see Deku gave me a look, "Izuku, thanks buddy, they keep up with the heroes back home." I rub the back of my neck, "Rocaphella and Jenesys flipped when I arrived."

"Pleasure to meet you all." Deku bowed and they returned the favor. "Wow, you have a rank and your own team." Deku was beside himself, "You never cease to amaze Roberto."

Moments later news crews arrived along with Rathers and Jacob. Soon the FBI and local Police arrive with a wagon to pick up Hōjō Yū. "Commander on Scene!" My men and I went to attention then saluted. Rathers walked towards me and saluted me.

"At ease Commander Spectre." He takes notice of Deku and walks over to him. "What's your name son?"

"Deku sir, Izuku Midoriya." He then looked at me.

"It will be in my report sir." He nodded at me and signal us to at ease then shook my hand.

"Great job Roberto, you, your men, and Deku here."

"Um no, this villain is under our jurisdiction."

"Excuse me…"

"Special Agent S…"

"I don't remember asking your name special agent. My people bagged him."

"The Knightmare Hero Spectre, is under sub contract with Delta 12 thus..."

"Actually I am Delta 12." Rathers looked at me, "Right Commander Rathers?"

"Affirmative as of yesterday in fact." He then turned his back on the special agent and whispered, "You serious?" I give him a curt nod as my team's eyes seem to shake at this new revelation. He turned back to the special agent, "As I was saying Commander Spectre, your men and Deku here are to transport this sack of human excrement back to Japan tonight."

"Commander our…" He handed all three of us our Joe Lewis Hero Academy Diplomas.

"These just arrived on my desk, apparently Mr. Patrick somehow had a change of heart at the last minute." He popped his neck and cracked his knuckles, "I wish all of you could have walked the stage."

"I don't have a problem with that, men?"

"No."

"I'm good."

"MAN FUCK THAT SCHOOL!" That was Andrew, he found out how he was used to give them PR. We cracked as did Mr. Rathers.

"Got damn right Andrew." Deku was mortified, "You have no idea buddy, it was horrible." I grab Hōjō Yū by the nap of his neck and drag him to the prisoner transport. 'Dad?' my arm seems to bleed red then I toss Hōjō Yū ass into the wagon. Deku, Rathers, Jacob and everyone there just stood in silence their eyes in shock.

'32 hrs reset.'

'Worth it.' I look at Rathers and Jacob, "Ever been to Japan?" I then signal to my new boss. He nods, "Deku, you and Jenesys bagged him take the wagon." I then look at Dezmond, "If Jacob is willing." He nods, "See you both at DTW, Rathers?" We get in his SUV and they drive off.

"Well this is nostalgic kid." Rathers said as he started the vehicle.

"Very, but I am pleased with the outcome would you not agree Matthew?" I raised an eyebrow, as soon as we hit the freeway he spoke.

"Cut the cra…" I calmly lift my exposed hand and stoically look at him. "Roberto?" He takes it and activates his quirk.

"I really do enjoy holding your hand, Matthew." I squeeze, "I feel free, liberated, exposed for all to see- for you to see."

"I told you before kid." Rathers was not feeling my banter./

"No, you silly man, I've had to put up so many walls." I intertwine my fingers with his.

"Oh dear god you are in love with me." I start laughing at how uncomfortable he is getting.

"Would that be so bad?" He swallows hard, "I do, but not like you think Matthew, I can actually show you the real me even if for a little while, for that I do love you."

"I don't know how to take that information." I chuckle at his uneasiness especially cause he knows I was speaking from the heart. "Roberto…"

"Matthew."

"I have to know." Rather was nearly biting at the bit.

"I was telling you the truth Matthew, I accept your offer granted if you were truly serious. Were you serious?"

"Completely, I could not ask for a better business partner." I saw him smile at my decision.

"Warts an all?" I jest.

"Let's change the world." I release him and swoon, "I deserve that." We both laugh at our moment. "What else you want to tell me, or rather ask me?"

"Ha 'rather' Are you sure you want to know." my inquiry was more statement than anything. "It is rather unsavory."

"Heh, I know I am going to regret this, but yes tell me." His quirk wore off but I still told him.

"I want to interrogate him over international waters and I need your help." He pulled over the SUV.

"You're serious." He looked at me like I was insane.

"There's been a leak at my former school." The cooldown was over and I offered my hand, he grabbed it and went to red, I winced but I was not going to hold back, "They cause me to nearly die the first time, I almost- killed Mei. This bastard not only violated me but almost caused me to kill the woman I love." It took him a moment but he then remembered I was in a polyamorous relationship. "This leak violated her, that will not stand."

"How far are you willing to go?" He was almost afraid to ask me.

"How far would you go for Bailey?" I replied coldly.

"I crossed that line when I dispatched Dr. Kokoktion, I used your aftershock ability." I was unmoved, "He assaulted Truth's daughter, my goddaughter, the monster called her a cum dumpster. No regret, bragging. So how far am I willing to go, I executed a criminal by passing everything I built Delta 12 on. So you tell me Roberto."

"Then we have an accord Mr. Rathers?" My response was cold and emotionless.

"Yes, I guess we do, Mr. Robles." With that he turned on his vehicle and we rode in silence to the airport.

End of Part 8