Hello everybody my name is Mar-I mean, DraconisIgnitus and welcome to another chapter of Legion!

Nothing much to put out on here, but check the bottom A.N's for news.

Reviews:

The wolf god Fenrir:Thank you for your review, and don't worry, I will take care of myself.

Cainsdownfall: Ooh, now you gave me an idea!

Storm:Thank you!

Damian03p: Probably not but I'll do an extended one shot eventually.

Potates: Spoilers!

Edeath756: Thank you for your support!

Karicke: Dadzuku for the win!

Monkey D. Conan: Thank you, and yes! Protect the unicorn! Also, thank you for your comment, I admit that I struggle with maintaining that balance.

Megatronus Uchiha: Obvious reasons I'm sure.

Spartenpride11: I'll make an extended omake later!

Minotaur12: They'll come soon. (Spoilers!)

Yoto: Merci.

Chadbunger: Thank you!

Austin: As always I appreciate your reviews and ideas, but man, how did you basically guess the entire plotline of Megatronus? And add better stuff than I originally thought of?

Solbandgus: I'm totally gonna use that some day, I hope you know.

MisterMisplay: Yeah I'm still working on it, simply because Beskar Beskar'gam roll of the tongue differently.

AnimeFan13579: Omake time! I love your ideas. And yes, I do have a Ryujin Jakka in the works.

Maniacalharp747: I'll be honest, no clue as to what that's from.

Sabertoothfox: Thank you very much. I'm glad that I can provide this for you.

Jss2141:Thank you!

BoredKing: Well, if you're still reading, hopefully it's been explained by now. But yeah, I agree, Izuku telling Bakugo was the stupidest thing ever.

Dylancorna65: I don't remember, but it's in one of the earlier reviews by a guest.

Blaze1992: I would but there are already so many that I don't think I could do it originally.

Guest: Thank you!

Honorablemerc: Thank you!

AndrewEMack: Thanks!

Warrior of the Shadows: Yeah, that's fair, I'll combine them with this chapter.

R0gueMess1ah: Don't worry, here's the actual chapter!

The Cocoa Puffer: Shh, no spoilers, but it'll be coming soon.

Turtletipper123: Thank you.

Obcorbino2146: I'm on AO3 under LanternaEternal.

Cassnova5424: Ah, you reached that part didn't you.

CalicoFin: Thank you!

Everybody, I'm so glad to be able to do this for you all, you all inspire me to keep on going even when I don't want to. We've hit over 1k favorites and follows each and over 125k views!

As promised, these are the excerpts from the last two chapters added to this one.

9/11 Memorial

Look, I know I'm a bit late to this, but after realizing that I posted yesterday and how I forgot to mention this, I'm posting this short memorial to 9/11. Ironic since I'm in the Navy huh?

Regardless of anybody's personal views on the events surrounding that day, let us not forget the lives that were lost and how that's affected our lives today.

Like Yoda says, Fear leads to Anger, Anger leads to Hate, and Hate leads to suffering.

And unfortunately, there's a lot of suffering in this world. Maybe for a lot of us, for many of you that are reading this, were too young to even remember what happened, I certainly was.

But after 21 years, maybe we can take the time to look on ourselves and be a little bit better, more tolerant, more understanding.

I'll move this once I post the next chapter, but I really felt that I needed to get this out.

Take it easy everybody, until next time.

Happy Birthday Legion:

Hello everybody! I know that this isn't a chapter, but I needed to get this out, as it turns out Legion is now just a few weeks over a year old and I didn't even notice.

I want to thank everybody for their continued support throughout this year.

I'm already working on the next chapter for Legion, so bear with me, but again I want to thank you all, we've hit so many milestones and hopefully we can continue to hit more!

TBH I completely forgot about the birthday thing but I just wanted to put this out because I enjoy writing and I enjoy updating Legion for all of you.

Now, onto the story!


Legion: Conference

"No gift is more precious than trust."

Izuku woke up content, he looked to his side and saw that Eri was still at his side, the small girl breathing calmly as she rested her head against his chest.

'Reminds me of when mom used to hold me after I had nightmares as a kid, before Jango came by.'

Izuku's attention was grabbed by Recovery Girl who walked in with some food.

"Oh good, you're awake. I was wondering when you'd finally get up, I called your mother and she came by earlier this morning with fresh clothes, I also got Lunch Rush to make you and Eri some breakfast.

"Ah, thanks RG." Izuku said as he sat up as quickly as possible without disturbing Eri. She eventually ended with her head on his lap as he began to eat.

Eventually the smell made her stomach rumble and she groggily opened her eyes to find Izuku looking down on her.

"Sleep well?"

"It's not a dream?"

Izuku's heart broke a little as he heard her say that but simply smiled at her.

"I'm as real as you are," He said before caressing her head and slightly ruffling her hair. "Now, I imagine you're hungry. How about some food, no?"

Eri slowly nodded and sat up, a variety of wondrous new smells filling her senses.

"W-what's all this?"

Izuku's blood turned cold, what exactly had they done to her?

He still kept smiling.

"Well, we've got some rice, miso soup, and some fish on the more traditional side. Also got some American things too."

"American?"

"...I'll explain later, but we have some eggs, fruit, and even some toast…what would you like to start with?"

She looked at the tray and spotted something that caught her eye.

"I'd like the apple please." She stuttered and Izuku merely nodded before handing it to her.

Taking a quick bite, her eyes lit up and looked at the apple with wonder.

"It's very sweet…I like it."

"That's good, go ahead and keep eating." Izuku said as he began to eat. Throughout their meal, she picked a few other things to eat as well. Surprisingly enough, she didn't mind veggies as most children do, didn't really have an opinion on the rice, fish, or eggs and absolutely loved apples.

He swore to himself that one day he'd get her a candy one.

Once they were finished, Recovery Girl gave hrt another check up, Izuku offering to go first to show that she didn't mean any harm; it helped a lot to keep her calm.

Eventually he changed and got ready, and even helped Eri change with a fresh set of clothes and bandages.

It was saddening to see how little trust she had for other people, but it seemed that Izuku had managed to gain it completely.

Today was fortunately Saturday, which meant that he could spend the day with her…well mostly.

"Hey RG, what did you mean by a press conference?"

"Boy you were caught on live tv defeating a villain and then raced down a highway to rescue a girl while being pursued. What did you think was going to happen?"

"Oh."

"Yes 'oh', you silly boy." Recovery Girl chuckled and shook her head. "Fortunately, Nezu and Midnight will be giving you a crash course in Public Relations, so you should be fine."

Izuku let out a sigh before nodding, at least comforted by the fact that he wouldn't go in blind.

"That's fine, after all I spoke at the Festival, I can speak during the conference. When is it gonna be?"

"In an hour."

It was only due to the fact that Eri was right next to him that he didn't yell.

"Can you repeat that please?"

"It's in an hour." She said with a grin.

Izuku took a deep breath and counted to ten.

'Brothers help me.'

"Now Chiyo, I'm sure you're having plenty of fun with the boy but let's not give him too much agitation." Nezu said as he walked into the room. Izuku noticed Eri hiding behind his leg, but was still peering out at Nezu with some curiosity.

"Hello there, little one. Am I a dog, a rat, a bear? Who knows? But I am Principal Nezu, it's a pleasure to meet you." He greeted, keeping himself as small and unassuming as possible.

"H-hello…I'm Eri…What's a principal?"

"Oh, that's simple. I'm in charge of a school that teaches heroes."

"What's a school?"

The only sign that Nezu had been affected by her words was the slight twitch of his ear, and he looked up at Izuku who sadly nodded at him.

"A school is a place of learning, it's a place where we can grow and expand our minds and ourselves. If you'd like, I can tell you more, we can even have young Midoriya here with you." Nezu said with some cheer, already making plans in his mind to utterly decimate whoever had Eri before.

"Midoriya?"

"That's my last name, Eri. Izuku Midoriya."

"Oh…I thought it was vod…"

"Ah, vod is actually a word in Mando'a, it's another language-"

"Now officially recognized!" Nezu interjected with gusto.

"Yep, it means brother, like I told you, we're all brothers."

"Oh…c-can you…"She began to mumble something that he couldn't quite hear and he knelt down to her level.

"I'm sorry Eri, I couldn't quite hear that. Can you say that again, please?" Izuku softly asked as he grabbed her small hands. She stared for a few moments at the scars that criss-crossed them, a dark red against his light skin.

She looked like she wanted to say something else but instead repeated her earlier question.

"Can you teach me?" She asked and Izuku's heart filled with warmth as he smiled gently at her.

"Of course, I'd love to."

Nezu and Chiyo both gave each other looks, the former quite surprised at how quickly they'd become attached to each other.

Izuku then turned to Nezu and stood back up, continuing to hold on to Eri's hand.

"So Principal Nezu, what can I expect?"

Fortunately you have far more than an hour, while we wished to push the conference back a bit more, this was unfortunately one of the few concessions I had to make to the HPSC. It'll be today during lunch time."

"That means that a lot of people will be seeing it live during their lunches right?"

"Correct, and it goes without saying that it'll be on repeat for the next few days."

Izuku took another deep breath, and gave a slightly annoyed glance at RG who merely smirked at him.

"Alright, what do we have to do?"

"Well, unfortunately Public Relations isn't my strong suit, one of the few downsides of being a quirked animal, but fortunately Midnight has graciously volunteered herself." Nezu said as he motioned for Izuku to follow him.

Izuku moved forward, Eri following behind with RG's approval so that she could walk around and see some sun.

It was early morning and it was Saturday, so that meant that there weren't any students and clone activity was actually quite low since interior patrols were limited during the weekends.

Eri trailed along his side, her eyes full of wonder at seeing how big the school was.

"It's empty…"

"Well today's Saturday, so most everybody's home, during the week it's a lot busier."

"Oh."

"Principal Nezu, you said that Midnight would be doing my Public Relations training, is she uh-"

"You have no need to fear, young Midoriya, Midnight will behave herself. I've already briefed the staff about our new ward, and besides, Bly has been most helpful in keeping her in line. Which reminds me, you should really see her recent interview with her and Mt. Lady, Bly was most upset with both of them."

It was actually really odd and really funny. Granted, it wasn't strange to see clones follow around teachers, some of them had taken to learning directly under them (with their permission) to better improve the Vod'e.

For example, Ponds had taken a liking to Aizawa and the two could sometimes be seen drinking juice packs and going over assignments.

Fordo, when he wasn't training with Yuga and the others, could be found many times with Hound Dog, the latter helping him process the events of the USJ and the life he'd been forced to take.

Cody served as Marshal Commander of the Vod'e so he served as the main liaison between them and Nezu.

Nezu would admit to himself that he enjoyed Cody's fresh perspective, but still missed Jango and sometimes had to remind himself that they were different, that Cody was not a replacement, but a new friend.

Bly was now constantly at Midnight's side, but not for the unsavory reasons that many of the students thought. Although Midnight would do her best to fluster him by flirts, teasings, compliments, and more, he remained steadfast.

Bly had quickly become the envy of almost every male student at UA.

However, much to the amusement of Present Mic and Eraserhead, he'd taken to disciplining her with a water spray whenever she got out of hand.

Hizashi had told Bly to call her a 'naughty kitty' only once within her hearing.

He never did so again for fear of her crop.

As they reached a classroom, they were greeted by the sight of Bly using said water spray on Midnight making her sputter and pout at him.

"One day I will make you break, Bly."

"Of course, ma'am."

"Don't call me ma'am."

"Of course…ma'am."

"Bly I swear I-"

"Ehem." Nezu coughed, catching both of their attention. Bly immediately straightened up and saluted while Midnight tried to do a pose.

The effect was slightly muddled by her wet hair.

"Glad to see you two up to your usual antics."

"Just doing my duty sir." Bly nodded as Midnight gave him an annoyed glance.

"Excuse me, I am not just some 'duty'-"

Squirt!

"Bly." She said with a deadpan.

"We have guests, Ms. Midnight, a particularly small one as well." Bly motioned to Eri who was looking at them with some confusion but also the barest hint of amusement in her eyes.

"Right, well. On to work then, hello there, cutie, I'm Midnight and this is Bly, we're here to help Izuku with a Press Conference." She said with some cheer.

"W-what's a Press Conference?" She asked and Izuku absentmindedly thought to himself that he was glad that she was comfortable enough to ask some questions.

"Well, basically some people are going to ask Izuku some questions, you see people want to know more about what he's been doing as a hero."

"Like when he saved me?"

"Exactly! Aren't you a smart girl?"

Eri hid slightly behind Izuku's leg but he could tell that she was pleased.

They sat down, Eri sitting on Izuku's lap as Midnight began to go over what to expect during a press conference, questions they might ask, traps that they might use and general actions he should take.

Fortunately, they'd have some allied reporters in the midst that would help put him in the bad light but conversely, it was obvious that the HPSC would have their own plants to try and trick him into a hole.

"Oh, and you'll also be dressed in your hero costume for this, fortunately it's been repaired and polished."

"Really?"

"Yep, public approval of you is mostly good, but we still want to show you off, so our plan is for you to walk in with your armor and once you reach the table, you'll take off your helmet and smile."

"Okay, I can do that." He said nervously

"Relax, you'll be fine. Eraser and Nezu will be right beside you, and the Vod'e will also be around."

"Alright." He said before a thought came to him. "There's going to be a lot of people, who's going to take care of Eri? I don't think she can handle large crowds."

Eri slightly tensed at his words, knowing them to be true but also not wanting to let go of him.

"Fortunately, your mother has just arrived, I'm sure if we explain the situation she can watch over little Eri here."

Izuku nodded and then knelt and explained that to Eri.

"My buir, sorry, I mean my mother is a very kind person, she's why I am who I am today, you'll be safe with her, alright?"

Eri slightly nodded and they kept walking along to where his mother was.

Upon opening the door, he was quickly fussed over by his mother who was now scolding him again for getting into a fight with Stain and then immediately getting into a deadly chase.

"Buir! Please, we have a guest." He said as he finally managed to pry her off him.

"Hm?"

Izuku sighed before kneeling next to Eri, who had hidden behind his legs again. "Buir, this is Eri. She's the girl I saved during the chase. Eri, this is my mother, she's a very kind person and she'll take care of you during the conference."

She gave him a pleading look but he smiled at her.

"It's going to be alright, I'm still here. I just want to make sure that you're safe, okay? As soon as the conference is over, I'll be right back by your side, okay?"

She looked down at her feet and shuffled them a bit before looking back up.

"Promise?"

Izuku blinked in surprise before smiling and nodding.

"I promise. I'll be back soon." He said as he ruffled her hair and pulled her into a hug. Eri slowly hugged him back, basking in his warm touch.

Once they let go, he passed her hand on to his buir, the latter who was looking at him with tearful eyes.

"Buir?"

"You know, I was hoping that you'd at least get a girlfriend before making me a ba'buir."

"Buir!"


Press Conference

"Pass and badge, please." A clone asked and the reporter quickly complied.

A few tried to get comments from them but they were quick to refuse and simply guided them along.

Soon enough the press conference began as everyone was seated, Nezu was the first to speak as he thanked everyone for their attendance.

"Now I understand that recent events have caused many questions, and we at UA strive for transparency and accountability, which is why we now have the pleasure to officially introduce to you UA First Year Student: Midoriya Izuku."

Hearing his cue, Izuku walked through the door and marched with his head raised high until he reached his spot between Nezu and Aizawa. Bowing, he then took off his helmet and smiled at the crowd in front of him.

'Smile to trick the fear in your heart. Thanks for the advice, buir.'

Sitting down, he spoke into the mic and introduced himself. "Good afternoon everyone, it is my pleasure to be here with you today and I hope that I will be able to answer the questions that you have for me."

He set the helmet down on the table and was immediately assaulted by flashes and questions.

"Uh…"

"We'll start one by one," Aizawa began and motioned to a reporter. "You may begin."

"Mato Sato, Mustufasu Local. Mr. Midoriya, you're already a popular topic due to your actions during the Sports Festival and with the most recent events, what are your intentions as a hero?"

"Oh, that's a very good question. Truthfully, what I want to be is a hero to the people. I want to inspire hope and let everybody know that they're safe whenever they see my brothers and I."

"Next question." Aizawa pointed and Izuku grimaced, it looked like they wanted to get the plant out of the way.

"Nakamura Hitomi, JP News. Mr. Midoriya, considering how you just mentioned the idea of inspiring hope and safety, yet worries have risen due to your lack of experience and damage that has been unintentionally caused by you and your clones. We must also consider the two confirmed deaths at the USJ."

"Is there a question there, or are you bringing up what's already known?" Aizawa said, making the reporter grimace, she already partially knew Eraserhead and he was one of the few heroes whose skin she couldn't get under, especially since he was an Underground and thus, did not care at all about popularity.

"The point is, that we're wondering how exactly accountability is going to be held, especially since UA is well known for maintaining it."

Nezu's fur slightly bristled at the underhanded insult.

"We understand that Midoriya's decisions could have been completed differently but we also understand that as a student he is bound to make mistakes, nevertheless every action that he has taken has been to save others." Aizawa began, glaring at the woman.

"As for those deaths, it was already determined that, while unfortunate, were necessary to prevent further loss of life, especially with the circumstances at hand. As for recent events, without Midoriya's actions, UA would have lost a student, and families would have lost two loved ones." He finished as the woman looked at him with some annoyance.

Nezu then took over the conversation.

"However, we understand that more training and regulation is necessary, which is why he will undergo a revised training schedule to prepare him for this cycle's Provisional License Examination therefore not only being under the guidance of UA and his internships but also under more extensive regulation from the law."

Izuku gulped as more questions arose from the crowd, the flashes from the cameras practically blinding him.

Another reporter was chosen.

"Akamora Kiyo, JP National. Mr. Midoriya, considering everything that's been discussed so far, and the actions that you've taken, special light has come to the fact of you imitating All Might's classic victory pose and him helping you do so during the Sports Festival. Tell us, are you intending on replacing All Might?"

Izuku blinked in surprise before pondering the question for a moment, bowing his head slightly as he spoke into the mic.

"You know, when I grew up, I imagined myself like all kids do of being a hero like All Might, somebody who saves people with a smile. After going through what I have, I realized something very important. All Might's not going to be around forever, eventually one day, we'll have to step up to the plate, and by that I mean all of us, not just heroes."

The audience was quiet, taking in his words, only the sounds of cameras clicking being heard.

"But before we can truly achieve that, I know that villains will also rise up and cause chaos and discord. Which is why I want to be more than the Symbol of Peace; when darkness or terror are around them, I want people to see me and feel hope." He said as he then turned to face the cameras.

" Hope for a new day, hope that things will get better, that they'll be able to come home safely whenever they see me or one of my brothers. It's why I chose the epithet with my hero name."

"Ah yes, UA has been tight lipped about your hero name, would you care to tell us what it is?"

"I am the Rising Symbol of Hope: Mand'alor. So yes, I want the world to know that no matter what comes our way; I am here."

And the crowd roared.

Izuku slightly leaned back from the flurry of questions that were being flung at him.


Across Japan in another city, Sir Nighteye narrowed his eyes in disapproval. While he could see the tactical advantages of a clone army, he still felt that the boy wasn't worthy enough of One For All.

Not like Mirio, who surely was more qualified to become the next Symbol of Peace.

Hope…hmph…while he could understand the necessity of hope, only someone who didn't feel capable of living up to All Might's legacy would say that hope would be needed more than peace.

Hopefully as time passed, he would be able to convince Toshinori of his mistake…and the boy as well.

Perhaps an internship invitation was in order.


Kurogiri was slightly worried about Tomura, the boy had been laughing incessantly for the last few minutes, ever since the Midoriya boy declared himself to be All Might's potential successor.

"-Hahahaha, aaahhhh, I get it now!"Tomura said with an insane grin. "It's All Might, it's always been about All Might."

He then smiled at the screen, even taking off his hand mask so that he could look at him with both eyes.

"Mand'alor…it's a fitting name for my Player Two…I really want to see what you can do now so that in the end I can destroy you completely." Tomura smiled and continued to laugh maniacally.

Behind the screen All For One grinned in delight, he really needed to thank the Ninth personally, after all, if it wasn't for him Tomura's growth wouldn't have been so exponential.

And it looked like he would continue to grow.

But there was still one question.

"Midoriya Izuku…now why is that name so familiar?"


Ochako's eyes shined as she stared at the screen in slight awe. UA had stated earlier that they'd have a conference to discuss important matters and Aizawa-sensei had recommended that they watch it so that they could learn more about Public Relations.

Apparently it was a course meant for third years, but it would be illogical not to get a head start and at least learn some things.

So, her friends decided to group up at one of their houses to watch.

Momo, once she found out had insisted that everybody come to her house, she'd slowly become a part of their little group but hung out more with Kyoka and surprisingly Tenya.

So there they were, with Tenya, Momo, Kyoka, Yuga and Tsuyu and her inside Momo's room (which was absolutely enormous, just like her house) watching the conference from her personal tv while they had snacks.

It struck her mind that all of them had positive and sometimes very personal interactions with the Vod'e.

Momo had been with 3636 constantly since the internship.

Kyoka's had hers with Cutup.

Yuga with Fordo.

Tsuyu with Monkk, and Tenya with Waxer and Boil, which according to them, were desperately trying to help Tenya get the stick out of his ass. She wondered if it would work or not.

And finally her, who'd been Izuku and Jango's first friend and had quickly become a friend of the Vod'e in general, although it was extremely difficult to learn all their names…it'd be so much easier if their armor had something to tell them apart like the commanders.

Hmm, now there was an idea.

But anyways-

"That is an unjust question!" Tenya roared at the reporter, his arm chopping rapidly. "The Vod'e had no choice and neither did Izuku!"

"Tenya, please calm down, it's not like that reporter can hear you." Kyoka said with a grin, they'd never seen Tenya this agitated.

Tenya blushed and sat back down. "My apologies but I cannot withstand to see this travesty of journalism, it's practically an injustice of-"

"Tenya, you're at it again," Ochako pointed at the screen. "Besides, look at how Aizawa-sensei and Principal Nezu are defending him."

"Woah, I don't think I've ever seen Aizawa-sensei so passionate, ribbit."

"I think angry is the better word." Kyoka muttered.

"Sacrebleu, they're training him for a provisional license! We won't get those until next year at the earliest!" Yuga exclaimed and the group began to excitedly talk about it.

"That's so cool!"

"It is only fitting for such an inspiring hero like Izuku!"

"Bruh, the Vod'e must be celebrating super hard right now."

"My goodness, I hope that he'll be ready."

"Ribbit!"

"I do wonder how this will affect our finals." Momo wondered aloud and while the others did give the comment some thought their attention was soon grabbed by the next reporter's question.

"...are you intending on replacing All Might?"

They listened carefully as Izuku explained why he became a hero and also of what was to come and how he wanted to inspire hope to the people throughout the times.

"I am the Rising Symbol of Hope: Mand'alor. So yes, I want the world to know that no matter what comes our way; I am here."

"Yes, he said it!" Ochako exclaimed as she pumped her fist in excitement.

"Bravo, Izuku! Bravo!"

"Go on, mon ami!"

"Huh, Greenie actually decided to go through with it."

"He…he's actually intending on replacing All Might?"

"Woah, ribbit…"

It looked like the conference was currently being overwhelmed by the onslaught of questions and cameras, so they took the time to talk and explain to the new members of their group what Izuku's intentions were.

"But Izuku knows that he can't do it alone, which is why he wants us to stand by his side. I have no idea what he intends to do with us, but I trust him." Tenya said as the conference finally began to die down and more questions were answered.

But the question remained in their minds and they only half paid attention to the conference.

Izuku said he wanted them to stand by his side, so what exactly did he want to do?


Shoto smiled softly as he leaned against his mother's shoulder, the cool warmth, if that made sense, filling a hole that he didn't know existed until after the Sports Festival.

They'd been watching the conference as an assignment from Aizawa, and his mother expressed interest in watching it with him.

"Is that him?"

"Yes, he's the one who made me realize the truth. That this power was my own, and that I needed to take responsibility for my actions." He said as he looked at both of his hands.

"Such a vile reporter, I do wonder what they're thinking bringing up a question like that. Why it reminds me of when your fa-" Rei cut herself off as she glanced at Shoto who stiffened slightly at the mention of him.

"Anyway, it's nice to see that UA is supporting him so much, but isn't a provisional license a bit too much at that age? I know that UA reserves it for second years and above."

"With everything that's going on, I'm honestly not surprised, especially after he fought the hero killer."

"The hero killer?"

"Indeed. I'll tell you more later."

"I am the Rising Symbol of Hope: Mand'alor. So yes, I want the world to know that no matter what comes our way; I am here."

"That's a lofty goal…do you think he can handle it?"

Once, Todoroki would have looked at the conference with disdain and scoffed at Midoriya's declaration, assured that with only half his power he would be strong enough to defeat All Might.

Now, Shoto sees the truth, and knows that power is not all that is needed to become a Symbol of Peace, of Hope. As he sees Midoriya smile brightly even with the cameras blinding him and the enormous amount of questions launched at him, he realizes a simple truth.

"The journey ahead will be difficult, but I believe that out of any of us, Midoriya has the capability of being that Symbol of Hope. Him and the Vod'e."

And perhaps, once Shoto could find it in him to forgive himself for his actions…perhaps he could stand by him and show his support.


Bakugo could only tremble in his rage but he kept silent.

Ever since Deku's clone had popped up, everything had changed for him…and no matter how much he trained, how much he fought, how much he put into being the best.

It seemed that Deku was always one step ahead of him.

And now this…mockery!

About replacing All Might and being the Number One Hero, it was inconceivable.

So why?

Why were things changing so much?

When did Deku turn from the pebble on the side of the road to the unsurpassable mountain?

When did he become so…weak?

Bakugo steadfastly ignored the pain in his heart and simply let his rage fuel him.

"I'll show you, Deku. You and all your clones, why exactly am I going to be Number One."


Izuku tiredly walked out of the conference room, the entire thing lasted almost 2 hours and he'd been constantly bombarded with questions after questions. Fortunately Nezu and Aizawa had ended the conference and they'd been able to leave.

"Certainly not how I expected to live my Saturday."

"Now you know why I hate the media, bunch of vultures, give them the slightest hint of meat and they go tearing at it."

Izuku snorted at Aizawa's description but agreed.

Turning around the corner, he found his mother and Eri, the girl shyly coming up to him as if to ask him something.

Izuku tilted his head and asked her if she needed anything.

Eri could only shuffle her feet a bit before raising her arms up, asking him to carry her again.

Izuku softly smiled.

"Of course Eri, anytime you want me to pick you up, just ask." He said as he hefted her up and set her on his side. "Sorry about the armor though, it's probably uncomfy, huh?"

"It's fine." She whispered.

"Ah but I need to get out of it anyway. Here, let's go, I'll even show you how it works."

"Okay." She whispered as she leaned her head on his shoulder plating. Even though the metal was hard, it still radiated warmth.

Soon enough they made it to one of the locker rooms, Inko had joined them because she was secretly recording the interactions between them.

Eri sat down on the bench while Izuku took off every piece, showing her where the straps were before placing them in his suitcase. He had to temporarily leave her alone with his mother as he changed out of the undersuit but the process was quick and painless.

The final thing left was his helmet, which he noticed that Eri was paying attention to the most.

"Want to try it on?"

"Can I?"

"Of course." He said as he placed the helmet over her head. It was obviously far too large for her and slumped over her face, but it was also extremely cute to see.

Finally he took it off her and placed it in the suitcase. Closing it, he put it in the right bin where it disappeared into a chute and picked Eri back up.

"There, much better, right ad'ika [little one]?"

"Mhmm."

"Great! I don't know about you but I'm starving, are you hungry?"

Rumble~

"S-sorry."

"No need to be sorry, just means that you're hungry too, let's find something to eat, maybe we can even find an apple!"

"I'd like that."

"I'm sure you would, let's go!" Izuku said as he walked out the room with Eri on his hip.

Inko slyly pressed the button on her phone to stop recording, extremely happy to see Izuku so content and proactive with the girl.

It reminded her of when he was a young boy before Jango came.

'Jango.' Inko thought to herself as a few tears began to slide down her cheeks.

She pulled out her phone and sent a quick text.

You: Would you mind coming by for dinner tonight?

Toshi is typing…

Toshi: Of course not, are you alright?

You: Just…memories…I have a special video to show you later.

Toshi: I look forward to seeing it. I wish that I could have been there for the conference, but Nezu said it would cause even more problems.

You: I know, but Izuku did well. He told me that he followed your advice

about smiling.

Toshi: I'm glad. I'm very proud of him.

You: As am I.

Toshi: Tonight then?

You: Tonight.

Inko hummed as she grabbed a handkerchief and wiped away her tears, she didn't need her son to start worrying over her now.

After all, he was so busy nowadays.

No, she wouldn't add to his worries.

None at all.


Toshinori sighed as he put his phone on a side table and then leaned back into the bacta tank, Chiyo and Kix adjusting the straps for him.

"Any progress so far?"

"Very little but the fact that some of the agitated tissue is healing is a plus." Kix said as he put the mask on.

"Alright, let's do this." He said as he put on the mask and closed his eyes, the water was comfortably cool as it began to cover his body and he sighed as he eventually went to sleep under the water.

After a few hours, he was let go, and once he was dry and clothed, he would make his way back home to change into something more comfortable so that he could meet up with Inko.

Recovery Girl did his standard checkup, going over his vitals and some deep scans. Kix was actually with her to provide a second eye and some back up. He was doing well as her personal apprentice.

Toshinori was already expecting for nothing to have changed, after all, they'd already been through 5 sessions since the Sports Festival, and still no progress had been made.

Which is why he was surprised when Kix suddenly gasped and gestured at a spot on his deep scan, Chiyo's eyes widening soon after.

"Chiyo?"

She quickly did another more centralized scan along his abdomen and Toshinori gulped, the slightest bit of hope welling up inside of him.

She raised a hand and waited with baited breath for the scan to come back, once it did she and Kix looked it over and tears began to well up in her eyes.

"Chiyo? Kix?"

"Toshinori…"She shakily said as she flipped the scan to show his abdominal cavity, while it was mostly empty due to loss of his stomach, she pointed toward a small dot in the center. "These are gastrointestinal cells, the ones that make up the stomach…"

Toshinori gasped in shock as he stared at the picture in front of him.

It was small, perhaps only half a centimeter at most but if it's true.

"I'm regenerating…" He said as his heart began to fill with hope.

"Yes." Chiyo said with a trembling smile as Toshinori began to shake in excitement and shock.

"Ch-check my lungs!" He asked and they did so. With another scan, they saw the second part of a miracle.

"It looks like your tracheal keel, that's the bottom of your trachea where it branches out, on the left side is starting to extend again, more cells are reproducing…" Kix said with wonder.

"The scar tissue is being repaired, but on a far slower scale than the actual organs themselves. If we can expect these results, then you could have your lung and stomach back by the end of the year, you'll probably still have a scar but-"

"Who cares!?" Toshinori said with a grin as he picked Chiyo up and hugged her deeply and began to spin around, laughing loudly.

"Toshinori!"

"Hahaha-blegh!" He coughed out some blood and set her down before sitting back down.

"Damn it, you oaf!" Chiyo said but without any of its usual bite. "I get that you're happy, but the recovery process can't be exacerbated by you doing such strenuous physical activity!" She tried to be stern but the teary grin on her face betrayed her.

"Right, right. I just…I can't believe it."

"It's wonderful, if it's working with deep, old injuries like yours…we can definitely fix up Iida's older brother. Why, this could revolutionize medical technology as we know it!" Kix said excitedly.

"Which is why for the time being it must be kept quiet."

The three of them looked in surprise at the new voice, and it turned out to be Nezu who was smiling grandly at Toshinori.

"I'm very happy to hear about your recovery, Toshinori. But as it stands, we cannot let the general public know about young Midoriya's medical technology at this current time. As it is, he is already under heavy scrutiny due to his own strength and the increasing strength of the Vod'e both in numbers and in technology. "

Nezu walked over to the three and inspected the scans for himself.

"Just two days ago, he created a hovering motorcycle, something that has yet to be seen even with the current technology found at I-Island. Already we've seen that Legion has shown to adapt to his needs. When he needed companionship, the Vod'e. When he needed range and a way for his brothers to fight, an armory was formed. When his brothers needed medical attention, a Medical Ward alongside this revolutionary bacta."

Nezu then began to ponder out loud.

"Now begs the question, what will come next? He needed a quick escape, so the hoverbike was formed. What about when he needs more firepower? Will he create tanks? Or what about a way to quickly transport troops by ground, air or even sea? Will his quirk provide flight capabilities? Troop transports?"

He then gave a pointed glance to Toshinori.

"And that's without adding One For All as a factor. As we've already seen, he's been in contact with your predecessors, your Master primarily. According to him, Hikage has experience with swordsmanship, and after much research, I may have found a lead as to what, but that's a conversation for another day. And the same night that he created the hoverbike, he used Float."

A silence remained between the four as they began to ponder his words.

"So that means…"Kix began. "That you want to keep vod's abilities on the down low as much as possible, especially 'cause of the HPSC."

"Indeed, young Kix."

The Vod'e had already been briefed about the HPSC with the warning that they should keep it to themselves. All of them had agreed unanimously, and kept a wary eye for any disturbances that may occur whenever a representative would come by for meetings with Nezu.

"I think I see what you're getting at, Principal Nezu. Izuku already has the potential to be one of Japan's greatest heroes. Not only that, but alongside the Vod'e, one of the most widespread. In my prime I could move from one side of Japan to another in less than an hour. He'll be far stronger…any emergency, any situation, and he could be there in the blink of an eye with his brothers already on the case."

Chiyo gulped at the implications and could only hope that he'd have a handle on his power by the time he reached that point.

Nezu nodded grimly.

"Japan's Self-Defense Force is our only military organization…Midoriya's quirk practically makes him another."

"You're worried about him on an international level as well." Chiyo stated and Nezu could only nod in reply.

"Yes, but that is a conversation for another time, so far he does not have the reputation necessary for him to be a concern on that high of a playing field." Nezu assured them. "Right now our main focus is the HPSC and how we must keep him out of their hands."

"So then why the Provisional License, why not wait until next year?" Kix asked as his arms crossed in slight annoyance.

"To protect him, we intend to fully teach him the laws and regulations required so that he knows how far he can act before supervisory intervention is required, which gives him much more freedom to act and protects him by expanding his limits within the law."

"What about the rest of his classmates, his friends? He'd want the same for them." Toshinori asked.

"As would I, but at the moment, they are not ready for the responsibility. To be frank, neither is Midoriya, but our hand is being forced in this case. Class A will continue on schedule."

"I don't like it, sounds to me like your making ori'vod a chess piece…but I also know that you care about him, just like you cared about Jango." Kix said as he began to put up his stuff, after all, his shift was over for the day.

"Besides, we both know that if something were to happen to Izuku either 'cause of you or the HPSC, there'd be very little that could stop us." Kix mentioned as he walked out the door.

"Kix…" Chiyo said as she got up to go after him.

"No Chiyo, it's alright. Besides, he is correct, either way, I do have Midoriya's best intentions in mind, but right now his comparison is apt. Unfortunately, we are all pieces in this game but my priorities have always been the students." Nezu said as he began to leave as well.

"We'll talk more later, I do believe that you have a special someone to tell the good news to, don't you, Toshinori?"

Toshinori sputtered.

"Y-you know as well?"

"Please Toshinori, I put money on it, AHAHAHAHAHA!" Nezu cackled as he walked out the door.

"Huh, well that explains why Mic was so grouchy the other day with me and kept saying that I should have waited till after the summer."

"You dumb oaf."


That Night, Midoriya Residence

Toshinori excitedly walked through the door to what felt like an actual home, sure he had his apartment, but it sometimes felt so lonely there.

The Midoriya apartment on the other hand, truly felt like home.

"Toshinori! I'm glad to see you're here-oh!" Inko exclaimed in surprise as Toshinori buffed up for a moment and twirled her around, she began to giggle as he laughed in joy.

"Hahaha, what's got you in such a mood?" She asked with the smile that always made his heart flutter.

"I've got the most wonderful news, Inko! The bacta treatments, they're working!" Toshinori said as he poofed back into his skinny form.

Inko gasped in shock and then hugged him in elation.

"That's amazing cyare [beloved], so that means that you're healing?"

"Yes! Cells are starting to grow where my stomach was and it looks like my left lung is regenerating!" He said before kissing her deeply.

It was not their first kiss, that had come some time ago. Their relationship was still relatively new.

It had started a few days before the Sports Festival, Toshinori stopping by more and more to help the grieving mother and in turn share his own grief.

They had gone out for dinner, just some bentos, and sat down at the park and reminisced about Jango and their memories.

Then it just spiraled from there.

Soon enough, Toshinori found himself passing by everyday, sometimes more than once, sometimes for the entire day before or after work. Stopping by for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Sometimes she would cook, sometimes him.

It then continued with soft touches that set fire to his skin. His hand on her shoulder, her hand on his arm. Gentle hugs whenever he came and whenever he left, soft kisses on his cheek just barely, ever so slightly away from the corner of his lips.

He held her tightly whenever the days and memories became too much as she grieved her lost sons.

And in turn she held him as he broke down from the weight of the world on his shoulders, his heart broken by the people he couldn't save due to his reduced time.

And one day, as they were huddled in blankets on the couch as a movie finished, he turned towards her and she towards him.

And they simply kissed.

Toshinori felt complete with her, as if something had been missing for a long time that only just now he realized existed.

And Inko felt happy that she had found someone that was there for her and for her son after the demagolka left them.

Although they had yet to Izuku, they were still figuring out a way to break it to him, sure they had no doubts that he'd be happy for them and he already considered Toshinori a father, but it would still no doubt be awkward for the three of them.

As they separated, Inko smiled brightly at him as they sat down and grabbed her phone.

"That reminds me, I have to show you something, it is the most adorable thing ever."

Inko then showed him the videos she took of Izuku interacting with Eri and also a multitude of pictures.

"This is when he fed her an apple."

"Oh and this is when he decided to give her a ride on his shoulders."

"He let her try on his helmet, isn't that so cute?"

"Oh, and then she had to take a nap and he just held her so protectively, it was so cute."

Toshinori was glad to see her happy and smile so widely. Many times she looked so solemn and forlorn, that it was a relief to see her so joyful.

Eventually they had dinner (his portion was much lighter but one day he hoped to have a full meal!) and they talked about their day. Toshinori explained to her about what Nezu mentioned while at the same time promising that he would continue to watch over Izuku. Later they watched another movie and she fell asleep halfway through, her head on his chest, lulled to sleep by the rhythm of his heartbeat.

As she breathed gently, Toshinori could only look at her in admiration and love.

Still though, it was getting late.

As gently as he could, he got up and picked her up bridal style before carrying her to her room.

Gently settling her on the bed and covering her with a blanket, he kissed her on the forehead and quietly turned to leave.

A gentle hand grasped his wrist and he turned to see her looking at him pleadingly.

"Toshinori, stay."

"I-inko…I…"

"I just…don't want to be alone tonight, can you stay and hold me, please?" She asked.

Toshinori didn't even last five seconds before nodding and laying down on the bed as she made room for him. He then gently wrapped his arms around her as she pressed her body against his, the sweet smell of her shampoo and her warmth practically encompassing his senses.

She then turned so that she was facing him, giving him a gentle kiss to his chin.

"Thank you, Toshi."

"Of course, Inko."

Snuggling so that her head was against his breast, she murmured incoherently but contently as she listened to his heartbeat once more.

"I…I love you, Toshi." She whispered softly in the night.

Toshinori gulped as an incomprehensible feeling swelled up in his chest. Countless times he heard those words as All Might, but this was one of the few times someone had said it to Toshinori.

Most notably Nana and Izuku.

"I love you too, Inko." He whispered into her hair and she smiled.

Soon enough, they both fell asleep, more content than they had been in years.


UA Infirmary

Izuku gently stroked Eri's head as she fell back asleep again. The poor thing had another nightmare and was refusing to sleep.

He'd so far run out of ideas and therefore just went with his gut.

Nuhoy, ad'ika [Sleep, little one.]

Gar ner cyar'ika [You are my sweetheart.]

Ni ja'haili'gar [I will watch over you.]

Akay vaar'tur [Until morning.]

Nuhoy, ad'ika [Sleep, little one.]

Gar ner cyar'ika [You are my sweetheart.]

Ni laarari'gar [I will sing to you.]

Akay vaar'tur [Until Morning.]

Nuhoy, ad'ika [Sleep, little one.]

Gar ner cyar'ika [You are my sweetheart.]

Ni cabuor gar [I will protect you.]

Akay vaar'tur [Until Morning.]

(Credit to The Mischief of Tad on Tumblr.)

As he gently sang the lullaby, Eri's eyes slowly began to fall once more and she returned to a peaceful slumber.

Izuku continued to sing for a moment until he was sure that she was completely asleep. Sighing deeply he looked up towards the ceiling and his thoughts ran rampantly.

He was quite simply worried.

So far they didn't know anything about her, only basic health stats, no home of record, no birth certificate, nothing.

And she was obviously an extremely traumatized child, who'd undergone who knows what under her captors.

He'd spoken with Nezu and Aizawa, and although they regretted having to implement such a responsibility, they both agreed that he was the best option for taking care of Eri since he was the only one to have her complete trust.

Nezu likened it to imprinting behaviors that some animals would go through in their infancy.

His mother had joked about becoming a ba'buir, but now that he gave it some thought he was honestly petrified.

He was far too young, could he provide what she needed even with UA's help?

Could he be what she needed?

Izuku's train of thought paused as Eri mumbled and held him tighter, her head digging into his shoulder before she sighed contently.

He slowly turned to face her, although he couldn't see her face very well due to the angle, he could tell that her expression was calm, peaceful.

With him, she felt safe.

Isn't that what he was working toward? Isn't that what he wanted to become?

Wasn't that what it meant to be Mand'alor?

If he wasn't ready but Eri felt that he was trustworthy enough, then he would become what she needed.

Sighing deeply again, he kissed her forehead and closed his own eyes, ready to go back to sleep.

"Sleep well, cyar'ika."


The Next Morning

Izuku walked through the halls of UA, unheeding to the stares and whispers of those around him.

Fortunately, nobody decided to approach him.

Well, Monoma tried to but Kendo quickly knocked him out and dragged him away.

He stopped outside the door and with a deep breath walked in.

"Morning every-"

"Izuku!"

"Midoriya!"

"Midori!"

"Mon ami!"

"Dude, that conference was so manly!"

"Are you really gonna try and replace All Might!?"

"Bro, you're getting your Provisional License, we're not even done with our first term!"

Izuku blanked at the assault of words on his ears but was fortunately rescued by the bell ringing.

"Good morning, everyone." Aizawa said as he walked in to see everybody in their seats.

"Good morning, sensei!"

"Alright, so first things first. I'm assuming that everyone watched yesterday's conference. First off, we want to establish that this is in no way what we originally had planned. Provisional Licenses are a major responsibility, you have more freedom to act and conversely you are under that much more scrutiny. UA students don't apply for them until second year at the earliest." Aizawa said as the class began to get jittery.

"Sensei, does that mean that we will?"

"No."

Some of the class began to complain, Bakugo being the loudest.

Aizawa flashed his quirk and silence returned.

"As I said, Midoriya's case is special, especially due to him capturing the public eye. Many teachers, including me, don't even think he's ready, which is why he'll be undergoing an intensive training schedule to prepare him for this cycle's exam."

"Uh, Aizawa-sensei." Kaminari raised his hand. "What will we be doing then?"

"Good question, the rest of you will still be preparing for your finals, remember, you have both a physical and academic portion and you have a week left. "

Make sure you train your bodies and minds." He said before beginning class.

Once class was over, he reminded them about one last thing.

"We're nearing summer vacation, but it's not logical for you to rest during an entire month."

"Don't tell me…"

"That's why we'll have a training camp in the woods."

The class began to shout in excitement, wondering about all the activities they'd be able to do and the potential training they'd undergo.

"However," Aizawa exclaimed with a slight flash of his quirk. "Those who don't pass the final exam will instead be in summer school hell!"

'Training is already hell enough as it is, what could he have planned?'

"Everybody, do your best!"

"This is so damn stupid."

"Girls, you gotta make it!"

As the class began to talk, Aizawa walked over to Izuku's desk.

"Oh, Midoriya, with me."

"Yes, sensei."

They headed out to the hallway and Aizawa began to speak.

"I'm sure you have questions about what your finals are going to be like, as it is, you'll still have to do the academic portion, but instead of the practical we had originally planned, your license exam will be your practical instead."

Izuku nodded as they approached an office.

"Unfortunately, we only have a week to prepare you. Nezu wanted to push for the next cycle but we were forced to compromise with this one. Which means that it's going to be a serious time crunch."

Entering, Izuku saw that Nezu, All Might, and Cody were already there.

"Hello, young Midoriya!"

"Vod."

"Hello, my boy."

"Sirs, vod. What's going on?"

"Before we begin your physical training, we want to prepare you mentally for what the Provisional License Exam will entail." Nezu said as he passed a tablet to him.

Izuku looked it over and saw that he was the number one topic on social media sites right now.

Hero Student Aims to Take All Might's Place

Mand'alor: Rising Symbol of Peace?

Midoriya Izuku: From USJ to Stain

All Might's Potential Successor?

Earliest Student to take Provisional License Exam: Mand'alor

All that and more, and he didn't even want to look at the comments.

Izuku gulped as he considered everything that happened recently and backtracked. Eri's rescue, the fight against Stain, the internship in general, the Sports Fest-

"The Sports Festival…" His eyes widened in understanding

"Indeed." Aizawa said with a hint of contentment in his voice. "Good of you to catch on, what else?"

"I've gotten a lot of publicity lately, and there's bound to be people that have a grudge against me either out of jealousy of myself or simply envy since I'm a UA student."

"Correct." Nexus drank some tea. "The sad truth of the matter is that there are many who don't live up to UA's standards and therefore go to other schools. Although many take their defeat as a lesson well learned and grow, many more are resentful and take it out on UA students when the moment arrives."

"The Sports Festival broadcasted all my abilities as well as my recent fight with Stain." Izuku took a deep breath. "How many schools will be there?"

"At least ten, including our rival school Shiketsu and other notable schools such as Ketsubutsu. On average, there are around 1200 examinees per cycle, the majority of them repeats."

"And they'll all be coming for me, am I the only UA student this cycle?"

"Unfortunately, yes. All our third year students have their licenses, and while only half our second year students managed to get them during the last cycle during the break, the rest are in remedial classes, they're not going to take the actual exam again with you."

"So I'll be alone, against a thousand students all aiming to take me down."

"No, not alone. You'll have us, vod." Cody said as he punched his open palm.

Izuku grinned in relief.

"Well, it's always been us against the world, right?"

"Right. Now, unfortunately, the other commanders and I won't be available, another damn stipulation from the HPSC, they want to see how you do without potential 'risks' of cheating that we could bring as commanders due to our close relationship with UA faculty, but we've been training one of the Vod'e to take our place and stand by you." Cody said before facing the door.

"You can come in now."

Another clone walked into the room and saluted.

"I present to you, CT-7576, otherwise known as Captain Rex."


Later that Day

Izuku walked with his head a little higher. Granted, he was still worried about the exam itself, but he felt confident knowing that his brothers would be by his side.

Later on he would join the commanders in the so-called War Room, to discuss possible strategies and tactics to implement as well as plans for whatever situations may arise during the exam.

At the moment however, he had something far more pressing to take care of.

He had called for his closest friends, Ochako, Tenya, Kyoka, and Yuga to join him so that he could introduce them to Eri. He felt that having more human interaction would help her out in the long run.

Izuku knocked on the door and opened it and Eri immediately perked up once she saw him.

"Hello Eri."

"Hello." She said quietly but not as quietly as before, her eyes ever so brighter as she looked at him.

Still no smile but he could tell that progress was being made.

He quickly came up to her and gave a quick hug which she quickly returned. The clone that was with her gave a quick nod and salute and left.

"Eri, I'd like to introduce you to some more people, they're my closest friends and I trust them with my own life. They've fought beside me and have helped me get to where I am today."

"Oh."

"Is it alright if I invite them in?"

"Will you stay?"

"Of course. You guys can go ahead and come in."

Slowly, the four walked in and took seats in the room, they'd already been briefed about what Eri's life had been like so far so Tenya would keep his hand chopping to a minimum (he sputtered in response to that) and Yuga would keep his flamboyant tendencies down as well.

"These are my friends, Eri." Izuku said before nodding at them.

"Hi Eri, I'm Ochako. It's so nice to meet you."

"My name is Tenya. It is a pleasure to meet you."

"I'm Kyoka, nice to meet you, kid."

"Je m'appelle Yuga, mademoiselle Eri."

"Huh?"

"His name's Yuga, and it's nice to meet you. Sorry, he's a French Fry." Kyoka snarked as Yuga sputtered in offense.

"Mon ami, how many times must I tell you, french fries are not French!"

"Guys, please." Ochako said as she leaned forward towards Eri.

"Sorry."

"Desole."

"So…what do you like to do, Eri?" Ochako asked as they all got to know her. They spent the rest of the day doing drawings, and playing with some toys with her. Ochako used her quirk to make things float around as Eri curiously poked at them while Yuga made sparkles appear around her much to her amazement.

Izuku smiled as he saw Eri interacting with them, granted she was much shyer with them but he could see that she was slowly opening up her shell around other people and knew that this would do wonders for her recovery.

"Izuku…" Ochako whispered and he turned towards her. Eri was currently being presented a show with hand puppets by Tenya and Kyoka with Yuga doing voice overs.

It was super funny, he didn't know how, but Tenya still managed to make the puppet do arm chops with just his finger.

"Yeah?"

"The people who did this…are they?"

"They're still out there, and they might still be looking for her, but I won't let them touch her."

Ochako nodded.

"Good, well, you can count on us to help you with that."

"Thanks." Izuku said as he watched Eri pay rapt attention to the show, her eyes slowly getting brighter and brighter with each passing moment.

Izuku was glad that he could trust his friends to help him with her recovery, he was glad that well…that he'd met them in the first place. Already they'd been through so much, ever since the USJ.

As he pondered his closest friendships, he then wondered.

'Can I trust them with my biggest secret? Can I trust them…with One For All?'

Izuku gulped and steadied his breathing.

He would have to speak to Toshinori about it but…

He felt that he could.

And that filled his heart with peace.


A Secret Lair

"It's so interesting to see how much things have changed, wouldn't you say so, Doctor? First the Hero Killer is taken down by the Ninth, and quite publicly as well, I admit, I didn't quite expect that. But it looks like everything else is going just as planned."

"With his perceived connection to the League, those that have become inspired by him, or those that simply wish to relieve themselves of their shackles will flock to them to find that release."

All For One pondered as he sat down in his chair, hooked up to the various machines that kept him alive.

"Tomura Shigaraki will finally be put in the position needed to unify them but only if he can handle it."

"I still believe that things will progress faster if you go out before them, Master."

All For One chuckled. "Then hurry up and fix my body, Doctor."

"If only we'd managed to get Super Regeneration earlier, but once the wounds healed it became useless." The doctor said as he approached from behind. "Still, Leader of the League of Villains, huh? Do you truly believe that the child is ready?"

"It's fine, I'll have him work hard so that he can become the next 'me'. The boy was already born with the twisted sense needed for that but recently his growth has already been increased exponentially thanks to the actions of the Ninth." He said as he slowly caressed a screen with Shigaraki's image.

"Enjoy your false victory while you can, All Might. Enjoy this farce of a temporary peace."

All For One smiled.

"After all, soon enough the people will need hope, won't they?" He asked mockingly as he turned to another screen. Although he couldn't see, he knew very well the image the screen displayed.

"Midoriya Izuku."


TADA! Thank you all for you patience. I know that this chapter didn't have much action, but we'll be coming to that soon enough! I hope that you all especially enjoyed the interactions with Eri, protect the Unicorn child! And yes, ToshInko is now rolling!

No omakes for today, but I'll be doing extensions of previous omakes into one shot chapters with scenes that I want to do for those ideas, so keep an eye out for that!

That doesn't mean that they'll become full stories, but I do want to get the ideas out there.

I'm almost done with my schooling for my rate, so the next chapter will probably come out late November. Just so you know.

Thank you all again, until next time!

P.S. Could anybody help me with a Spanish translation?

Also I'm a huge sucker for MHA react fics to AU's if anybody would like to make one…wink wink.