(A/N) I REACHED 100+ followers! That's not even Including the people who add my story just to their favorite's list. Thank you all so much for reaching my fic, it truly means a lot to me. I'm sorry it took so long to get a new chapter out. I'm not going to make excuses, but every time I tried to write, I kept getting distracted with the idea's I have for other stories. I'm debating on if I want to write two stories simultaneously, just to get some of the ideas out of my head, which in theory should help me update both stories faster.
To those that comment, I truly appreciate you taking the time and effort to leave one, but I don't have the vocabulary to respond to each one in a unique way.
DarkPaladin89 - I'm glad I was able to pull that off :-) I was hoping to hit people in the feels. I do have a plan for All Might, I just don't want to spoil it.
Bastidaswilliam2005 - I'm happy you enjoy my story :-) their fall will come, and so will the lemons. I do promise that Melissa will be part of the harem. In all honesty, when I read you're comment I was wondering if english was your first language, but I truly appreciate the comment!
Middernacht - I don't know whether to apologize or be proud that I made you cry lol. I don't want to spoil what Izuku's and All Might's meeting will be like, but it will be... interesting. I've also never heard about that anime before, I'll check it out when I have some free time. I do have some of his costume planned out, but not completely. when it comes to his costume, I want it to evolve through the fic as he comes to accept his quirk more and more, and have it represent that. And yes, Shoto will be a girl.
Izuku woke up the next morning to the sun beaming through his window, and immediately started to panic. But after taking a couple seconds to process where he is, he started calming down. 'I'm not with Chiaki. I'm not with Chiaki. I'm not with Chiaki.' He kept mentally repeating, while hugging himself and rocking back and forth, trying to calm himself down.
"I'm safe. They've been nothing but nice." Izuku mumbled to himself. He looked around the room, it was plain but it was more than enough for him. He considered simply having a bed a major blessing. After sitting there for a couple of minutes he decided to get up, he didn't like just not doing anything.
Grabbing his cane he stood up from his bed, and was surprised by how much easier it was. Giving a small smile, he thought that maybe the physical therapy was helping. Slowly making his way out of his room and down the hallway, he looked around but didn't see his mom. 'She must still be asleep.' He thought. Not knowing what to do he decided to just watch some TV. Maybe he could watch a report on a hero.
Right as he lifted the remote to turn on the TV, his face went pale when he heard yelling. "Where the hell is my breakfast!" Came a yell from the hallway.
Izuku started shaking in panic as he saw his mom stomp over to him. She didn't look happy. "W-What?" He said, words barely escaping his mouth.
"You heard me! Where is my breakfast!?"
"B-But..." He mumbled.
"God! I adopted you for a reason! Now get in the kitchen and make me my food!" She Yelled. Acting automatically he ran straight to the kitchen. Not even bothering to grab his cane. "And make sure that kitchen is spotless when you're done!" She yelled angrily.
Izuku was rushing around the kitchen grabbing ingredients. 'Wh-whats going on? I-I Thought...I-I thought things w-would be different this t-time. Th-that She c-cared a-about me.' He thought panicked and dejected.
Barely any time after he thought that he heard the front door open, taking a look he saw Aunt Mic, Aunt Midnight, and Nezu walk in. 'Thank god. They'll help me.' He thought relieved.
"Who said you could stop?!" Yelled Shoka.
For a few seconds he stood there thinking the others were going to say something to his mo... no Shoka.
Only for the three to sneer at him.
"You heard her. Get to work." Said Present Mic.
"And while you're at it. Make something for us to eat too." Said Nezu.
He stood there horrified, tears started forming in his eyes.
"Hurry the fuck up!" Yelled Midnight. She pulled her whip out, seemingly out of nowhere, holding it looking ready to strike. "Do I need to give you a real reason to cry?!" She threatened.
"NO! I'M SORRY!" He screamed as he got back to cooking. Tears streaming down his face. 'How could I get my hopes up? I KNEW this would happen.' He thought.
"Quiet you brat!" He heard. This time it sounded like Recovery Girl. Seems she entered when he wasn't looking. The tears started to pour out faster, only he knew it couldn't slow him down. He had to hurry to not get a beating.
It took a little time, but he finished everyone's breakfast and started bringing it out to them. As he finished bring the plates out, Shoka Yelled at him again. "About time! Now get to cleaning the shower!"
"Y-Yes!" He said as he ran off. Shortly after getting into the hallway a thought came to him. 'Tsukauchi! I can call Tsukauchi! She'll help me!'
After making sure no one was watching him, he snuck into his bedroom to grab the phone Tsukauchi gave him.
Izuku quickly scrolled through his short contact list and started calling Tsukauchi. 'You think she's going to help? Please, she tricked you like all the others.' Said a voice in his head.
'No! She promised to protect me this time!' He argued back mentally.
'Just like they all did. Face it. No one cares about you. You're nothing but a villain and a slave to them.' Said the voice.
Before Izuku could answer back, Tsukauchi answered the phone. And what he heard made his heart drop. "What do you want?" She said annoyed.
"I-I-I need h-help. Th-there acting l-like Ch-ch-Chiaki!" Stammered Izuku.
"So?" Came Tsukauchi's reply, making Izuku drop to his knees in horror. "Don't bother me again until I can earn more prestige from you." She said snidely before hanging up.
Izuku's arm dropped to his side and dangled there as he sat there just staring into space. Terror and sadness written all over his face. 'No. It's true. They don't care about me.' He thought. He slumped forward putting his forearms onto the floor, banging his fist. 'I'm so stupid! It's happening again. I KNEW it would happen again, but I still got my hopes up.' He banged his fist against the floor again when one last Idea came to his mind. 'The Hatsume's! Maybe they can help me?!'
'They don't care about you either.' Said the voice.
Izuku ignored it as he shakily started to call Mei. His hands just couldn't stop shaking as he brought the phone to his ear.
Then he heard ringing from the living room.
"Izuku! Get in here you brat!" Yelled Shoka.
The phone slipped from Izuku's grip, his phone fell to the carpeted floor with a light thud. "No." He whispered in anguish.
"Don't make me come get you or I swear to god you'll regret it!" Came the voice of Shoka.
He meekly got up off the floor and walked out into the living room where he saw the Hatsume's were in fact here, even Tsukauchi had shown up for some reason. They were all looking at him with disdain and disgust. It was shattering his heart as he looks at each one of them. 'No no no no no no NO!' He thought. Feeling every last shred of happiness he's ever felt these last two weeks coming back to bring him nothing but pain.
"I told you to clean the shower! Not make phone calls!" Yelled Shoka, face contorted into fury.
"Why would you even bother calling me? Why would I want to talk to a worthless villain like you?" Said Mei snobbishly.
"I...I...I..." Said Izuku, unable to get any words out as his heart was turning to dust.
"I. I. I." Mocked Shoka. "Well I think it's time to teach you a lesson." She said threateningly, getting her capture weapon ready.
Izuku's eyes shot open wide. "No! I'm sorry! I'll be good!" Bringing his hand up towards them, trying to stop what was coming.
Shoka launches her capture weapon and it wrapped around Izuku's wrist. Yanking hard Izuku was flung forward landing face first on the floor. "Oh I know. Just have to remind you of your place." Said Shoka condescendingly.
He looked up towards everyone as they heard them laugh darkly. "Mind if we join in? This sounds like fun." Asked Nezu as he flashed his claws.
"Of course. He needs to learn his lesson after all." Said Shoka said with manic glee.
He watched in terror as Present Mic turns on her speakers around her throat, Midnight cracked her whip, Tsukauchi, Mei, and Mrs. Hatsume pulled out a tasers, And Mr. Hatsume cracked his knuckles.
Izuku knew there was nothing he could do to stop this, but he saw his cane was just a couple feet from him on the ground. He quickly escaped the capture scarf and lunged for the cane, standing up, holding it like a sword. "St-stay back! Please!" He practically begged.
They all simply laugh. Next thing he knew he felt something slam into the back of his head, and he was feeling tremendous pain. He fell back I do the floor as stars entered his vision. "We can't go having any of that, now can we." Came a voice from behind him.
Izuku's breath caught in his throat. Turning around, eyes the size of saucers as panic was rising in him. Behind him was Chiaki. She was holding the same wooden bat she used in some of her punishments on him. It had several of his old blood stains on it, and now had fresh blood on it. "No. I was supposed to be taken away from you!"
Everyone laughed loudly. "Please. It was all a ruse. They don't care about you. So why would they do anything to me? I'm the one who was keeping you in line after all." She said in a sickeningly sweet voice.
"She's a real hero, having to deal with you." He heard Mei say. "God it was tiring doing it for two weeks. I can't even imagine having to do it for as long as she did."
"I did love hearing her stories. I'd have to say the time she beat you black and blue with that bat was my favorite." Said Tsukauchi looking like she was remembering that story with glee.
"How about when she took away his food for a week when he burnt dinner." Added Mr. Hatsume with a smirk.
"I'm particularly fond of when he was locked in the freezing attic during heavy snow in the middle of winter for three days." Said a jubilated Mei.
"I don't know, they are good stories." Started Shoka before she grinned at him evilly. "But I prefer HIS."
Izuku has an intense feeling of dread run through him. "No. Y-you don't mean...?" Said Izuku before losing his voice.
Everyone just smiled at him evilly. "Oh but I do. In fact, I've arranged a little reunion." Said Shoka, and everyone started chuckling.
Izuku's blood went arctic cold, panic skyrocketing ever higher, as he was hyperventilating. "No! Not Him!" Yelled Izuku. He started crawling backwards away from everyone. Suddenly he ran into something. And he could tell it wasn't a wall. Izuku went pale as a ghost, scared out of his mind, and the looks everyone was giving him told him everything he needed to know. He slowly turned around and it felt like time stopped. "Murisaki." Whispered Izuku.
Murisaki, a man in his mid 50's, had a mix of black and dark gray hair, was in good shape, and classified as a good-looking man. He only stood at 5'6, but to Izuku, it felt like he was staring up at a giant. Murisaki have him a predatory smile. "Is that all you have to say to dear old dad?" He asked. His voice was smooth, with words like honey. It was the kind of voice people just love to listen to. To Izuku, it made him feel ill.
"S-stay away f-from me!" Yelled Izuku. As he quickly backed away, which only brought him closer to those he once believed in. Several pairs of hands grabbed him, picked him up facing Murisaki, and held him in place.
Murisaki walked over to Izuku, with Izuku bracing himself. Murisaki grabbed hold of Izuku by the chin and forced him to look at him, but Izuku had his eyes slammed shut. "Look at me boy." He said sternly in a voice that promised greater pain if not listened to.
Izuku reluctantly opened his eye's, looking frightfully at Murisaki. "How? You're supposed to be on death row."
Murisaki and everyone else laughed. "Please. It wasn't that hard to get me out when they were told I was needed to put you back in your place. Your... oh what did you think they were? Friends? Family? People who even gave a single fuck about you?" He said as he forced Izuku's head to the side in a throwing motion. "They helped me out. But I have to stay here." He gave Izuku an ecstatic deranged smile. "But that just means I have more time to play with you. Now. Release that stupid quirk and let me admire my work."
Izuku shook his head rapidly as he was hyperventilating from all the anxiety and fear. "N-no!" He yelled. All of a sudden he started feeling strange. He looked down at himself and his true form was being revealed. 'How? I'm not...' He started before he noticed Shoka using her quirk on him. Everyone stared at him.
"So that's what he looks like? I've got to say, you have got to be the ugliest thing I have ever seen." Said Mei snidely.
"While you're not wrong, the work is beautiful. You can almost see the agony." Said Nezu.
"It would have been fun if I saw how it all happened." Said Mr. Hatsume.
"Well how about I give a demonstration?" Said Murisaki.
Izuku's eyes shot open wide. "No no no no no no." He begged.
"Oh yes. We're going to have so much fun. Now, let's get you to the play room." Said Murisaki as he gestured towards a wall. Only now it had a door with a spotlight over it, everything else was dark in comparison. The rest of the room seemed dark in comparison. But it wasn't just any door. It was a door Izuku had been through hundreds, thousands of times. It was THAT door.
Almost as soon as he saw the door he used every ounce of his strength, which admittedly wasn't much, to break free of their grips as he made a rush for the door. Only to have some kind of force start pulling on him. It didn't feel strong at first as he still continued running, but it stopped him a mere inch from grabbing the door knob. He tried as hard as he could to reach it but couldn't move forward.
Then he started being pulled backwards, away from the door. And towards the other one. He glanced back, seeing everyone enter the room and Murisaki gesturing for him to enter. "Can't keep everyone waiting now can we?" He said with a devilish grin before entering himself. The pull got stronger and stronger, pulling him faster as it did. He did everything he could to resist it, from trying to run, to grabbing furniture, even falling to the floor to claw at it to stop him. But it was futile. He felt himself flung back hard into the room, as he saw the door slam shut immediately after.
Izuku's room
Izuku sprang up from his bed, gripping his mouth by instinct. He was covered in so much sweat, even his sheets and blanket were soaked. He brought his knees-up, getting into the fetal position muting "it was just a dream." To himself over and over.
The door flying open got his attention. He saw his mom standing there looking very concerned. "Izuku! What's wrong!?" She almost yelled as she started rushing to him. Only for his mind to flash over to a vision of how livid she looked in his dream.
Izuku backed away from her scared out of his mind. 'It wasn't just a dream. It will happen.' Spoke a voice in his head intimidatingly.
"Stay away from me! I will not go back to him!" Yelled Izuku in fright.
Shoka stopped a few feet away from Izuku's bed when she noticed how terrified of her he is. She stood there trying to look as harmless as possible. "Go back to whom?"
"You know who I'm talking about! I am not going to be given back to Murisaki!" He Yelled in a mix of fear and defiance.
Shoka was confused. "Why would I give you to Murisaki? I promised to protect and care for you." She spoke gently.
"No! You're lying again! I won't fall for it!" Screamed Izuku.
"When did I lie to you? I'm sorry for any lie I told you." She said as she slowly started inching towards Izuku, so she can try to calm him down.
"Stay away from me! I won't fall for it!" Bringing his right hand up in a stop motion as he futilely tried backing away, only for the wall behind him to prevent it. He was backed into a corner.
"Izuku I promise no one will hurt you. Not me, and definitely not Murisaki." She said calmly, as she continued to walk towards him slowly. It was her hope that once she got to him she was can prove she wasn't going to hurt him. Only to get a major surprise.
"NO! Stay away!" He Screamed. Suddenly he felt a sudden surge of energy flow from his chest to his outstretched hand. His hand started to glow for a second and a ball of energy flew from his hand towards Shoka. Due to the combination of his fear and confusion on what just happened, he didn't process that the number in his head went down by 1, leaving it at 170.
Shoka didn't expect the attack, so she didn't have a chance to dodge. Getting hit square in the stomach sending her stumbling back to towards the doorway again. Her nightshirt she was wearing is now singed, has a hole in it, and her chest felt warm enough to hurt, but she was too concerned about Izuku to check for a burn. The impact didn't feel pleasant either, it felt like she got punched square in the stomach. All in all, it hurt like a bitch.
Right as Shoka was regaining her bearings she noticed Izuku running away, and straight to the closet, probably trying to escape, but she was in the way of the door. Before she had a chance to try to stop him the closet door slammed shut and a solid bang was heard on the other side. She assumed he slammed his body against the door to keep it from opening, probably not processing that it opens the other way due to his panic.
Walking towards the door she knew better than to open up the door, she could hear Izuku mumbling. Putting her ear to the door she heard him repeating the same thing over and over again. "I'm sorry, please don't hurt me." It hurt seeing him in such a state and not knowing what to do to help him. She felt like a failure.
Before she knew it her phone starting ringing in her pocket, she had forgotten she had it on her. Looking at the phone it was a call coming in from Recovery Girl. If she wasn't so worried about Izuku, she'd be curious on why she was calling her at 1 in the morning. But right now this was a blessing.
Shoka answered the call, but before she had a chance to speak, Recovery Girl started talking. "Eraser, what's going on? Izuku's heart has been dangerously high for the last couple minutes and it just keeps rising."
'Right. She has a receiver to his heart monitor too.' Thought Shoka. "I don't know. Right as I was going to bed, the receiver starting alarming. When I went to check up on him, he seemed to have just woken from a nightmare. When I approached him, he started yelling at me, telling me to stay away, and that I was lying to him again. Next thing I know he... he..."
"He what?!" Nearly Screamed Recovery Girl In worry.
"He shot a ball of energy at me. I think he was just as surprised as I was about it." Answered Eraser. She wasn't mad at him in the slightest. Just heartbroken that he subconsciously felt the need to protect himself from her.
"How did he?.. You know what, not the time. Are you ok? And where is he at now?" Replied Recovery.
"It hurts but I'm fine. But Izuku has hidden himself in his closet. I don't want to enter in case I make things worse." Said Shoka near in tears.
"I understand. I'll get Hound Dog and be over there soon!" She said quickly before hanging up the phone.
'Hound Dog!' Thought Shoka. How could she forget about Hound Dog?! She was a rescue hero and licensed therapist. Placing her face in her hands. 'This is why I don't do emotions much. It gets in the way of logic.' She thought. As if drawn she looked back towards the closet door, still hearing Izuku mumbling. 'But I wouldn't have it any other way. I will help him. I will show him all the love he deserves. Love that I'm happy to give.' She thought resolutely.
Shoka lightly knocked on the door, hearing a small yelp from inside. "No! I'm not going back to him! I'm sorry for hurting you! Please don't hurt me! You lied to me!" Izuku Yelled, sounding like his emotions are running wild. In just those few sentences, he sounds scared, brave, apologetic, back to scared, then upset. He was struggling, it hurt so much to see him in such a state. One she hoped she would have been better prepared for. She knew something like this could, scratch that, she knew something like this was GOING to happen. She just wished she had more time. Looking at the app on her phone that connects to his heart monitor, his heart was racing. It's currently at 180, which is dangerous for anyone his age, but in his. Condition it could turn lethal quickly if it keeps up.
Shoka didn't know what to do, she desperately wanted to help but this situation is unique. She's dealt with torture and abuse victims before, but never to his degree. His was so extreme, she doubts it will happen again worldwide in her lifetime. Or at least she prays it doesn't.
Despite not knowing what to do, she wasn't going to just do nothing. Kneeling in front of the door. "Izuku." She said, hearing him whimper a bit. "No one is going to hurt you, especially not me, everyone here at U.A. will make sure of it, including myself. You are safe and loved here."
"You're lying. You're lying. You're going to give me back to Chiaki and Murisaki." He said without so much as shred of doubt in his voice.
"I would never do that. I will make sure Chiaki gets sent to prison like she deserves. And Murisaki WILL be put to death. You'll never have to deal with either of them ever again." Said Shoka with convictions.
"You're lying. You're lying. You're lying. You're lying." He kept repeating. Shoka could tell he was completely freaked out in there. And he kept saying she was lying. When did she lie? What did she lie about? And how does she make it up to him?
Shoka sat down and leaned against the wall next to the door. "I don't know how I can get you to believe me, or how I can make it up to you. But I will be right here if you need me." She said, hoping she kept the sadness and frustration she felt out of her voice. She wasn't frustrated at Izuku, she was frustrated at herself. It was only his first night here, and she felt she was already failing.
Shoka sat there in silence, her heart crumbling as she listened to Izuku's mumbling a combination of saying she was lying, and begging to not be hurt. The only thing keeping her from breaking down herself was the rage that built up the more she listened. The more time she spends with him, the more she sees of his past suffering, and the trauma that came with it. And she feels that she hasn't even finished seeing the tip of the iceberg, let alone the stuff hiding underneath. All of it was led by Chiaki and Murisaki. Balling her hands into fists she silently promised that if she ever gets the chance, she'll give them exactly what they deserve.
Time felt like it was at a crawl, but eventually she heard the front door open and close. She had no doubt it was at least Recovery Girl, not wanting to waste time with pleasantries. Something she was thankful for. Standing up she faced the door. "Izuku. I'll be right back, I won't be far." She said calmly, but Izuku simply kept mumbling.
Sighing sadly, she left the room, and in the living room she saw both Recovery Girl with Hound Dog. One of the heroines she trusts and respects. She was a speed fighter only beat out by All Might and some with speed quirks like Ingenium. But that doesn't subtract from her power. She is definitely strong, and she overwhelms her opponents with her extreme ferocity. But that's not what she respects the most. She knows she has issues with her speech when she got angry, and that she had a bit of a temper. So she took psychology classes to try to figure out why, so she could correct it. Eventually she found out she could use it to help victims as well, and dove deep into learning as much as she could. Essentially Shoka thinks of her as a werewolf with a big brain and bigger heart.
(A/N here is my vision of Hound Dog. pin/144889312995003140/ only with clothes xD)
Upon seeing Shoka, Recovery Girl started waving her cane around at her. "Damn it Eraser, that hit you took is worse than you lead me to believe, I can clearly see the burn on your stomach from the fist sized hole." Ranted Recovery Girl.
Shoka started trying to placate Recovery Girl. "Look, you can yell and scold me later. Right now we need to take care of Izuku."
Aside from a little grumbling about her getting too old for this shit, the mention of Izuku did shut her up.
Seeing that Recovery Girl is calmed down for now, Shoka turned to Hound Dog. He"Thank you for coming. I'm sorry for dragging on you out of bed, but I really appreciate it." Said Shoka, her worry obvious as the nose on her face.
"It's ok. I even told Nezu I'll help with the boy as much as I can. I expected something like this to happen eventually. I just wish I could have met him under better circumstances first. But this isn't the time for that, tell me what happened." Said Hound Dog reassuringly, before getting down to business.
Shoka began to explain that she was sleeping when the alarm went off on her phone, upon seeing that it was the receiver app she bolted straight to Izuku's room, finding him looking like he had just woken from a nightmare. When she tried to run over to console him he tried to get away from her, looking more terrified than he did from the nightmares he had while in the hospital. She went on to explain in detail everything that happened after that, up to her sitting Besides the closet and her attempts to calm him down before they showed up.
"Unfortunately, as you know, having nightmares is common among those who have gone through tragedy. Is he having nightmares often?" Asked Hound Dog. Both Shoka and Recovery Girl looked down dejected.
"He seems to have bad dreams nightly, as painful as it is to see, he usually calms down after a bit. But he's had full on nightmares a couple times each week we were there. So four times total. But they weren't this bad." Said Shoka.
"You said he called you a liar and saying you broke a promise. Did you?" Asked Hound Dog, she believed she knew what was going on, but had to be absolutely sure.
"None that I can think of. I only remember promising to protect and care for him." Said Shoka, fighting back the tears, believing she must have done something wrong.
"Can you think of anything Recovery Girl?"
Recovery Girl shook her head. "Those are the only ones I heard, and I don't think she would have made a promise she couldn't keep, so I can't think of anything."
"One last question. You're positive he said you were just going to give him to Chiaki and Murisaki?" Asked Hound Dog.
"Yes. But I'd never do that!" Near screamed Shoka.
Hound Dog put up her hands to try to calm Shoka down. "I know. I just had to clarify." That seemed to successfully calm her down somewhat. "I think I know what's happening." She said sadly, causing Shoka's and Recovery Girl to look at her expectantly.
"What's going on? Why does he suddenly think I want to hurt him?" Asked Shoka, practically begging for an answer.
Hound Dog sighed. "Because you brought him home to live with you." She said sadly.
Shoka was confused, and a little annoyed by the answer. "How does that make him think I'm going to hurt him?"
"The thing is, the mind is very powerful, and a lot more organized than people think it is. Have you ever heard of the doorway phenomenon?" Asked Hound dog. All she got as a response was Shoka shaking her head no. "It's what happens when you enter a room for something and forget what you were going to do or get. That's because your brain associated that thought with the room you were originally in. The mind subconsciously associates a lot of things, places, and even words with certain memories and feeling. Usually the ones that are strongest."
Shoka's eyes slowly started going wide. "And he associates home with pain and suffering." She said in a stupor, as she put the pieces together.
"Exactly."
"But that doesn't explain why he didn't freak out after I brought him home." Said Shoka frantically.
"Because sleep is essentially restarting the brain. In your sleep your mind organizes your thoughts and memories of the day. So when it started going through the fact this was his new home, he started to have a nightmare due to the association to all the pain." Said Hound Dog.
"And it probably involved me breaking my promise and giving him to Chiaki and Murisaki." Said Shoka solemnly.
"Most likely." Said Hound Dog before looking towards Recovery Girl, then back to Shoka. "And there's a chance it wasn't just you Eraser."
"What do you...? Oh." Started Recovery Girl before putting the pieces together herself. Recovery Girl let out a sad sigh. "We knew this wouldn't be easy, but this just got a lot harder."
"Your not wrong, but tell me Eraser. Are you still going to go through with all this?" Asked Hound Dog looking serious.
Shoka looked at her with a mixture of anger and annoyance that she would even ask that. "Of course I am. Why would you think I'd back out now?" She said as if the answer was obvious.
But Hound Dog just continued with her deathly serious look. "Because we can't afford to make any mistakes."
Shoka's lost her annoyance and anger as her worry took back over. "What do you mean?"
"Exactly what I said. That boy has spent most of his life getting tortured, abused, assaulted, put down, and discriminated against. Think of something bad, he's probably been through it and more. He has walked through the deepest pits of hell, and just barely made it to the other side. There is no doubt in my mind that boy is the strongest of us. And I'm talking about more than just U.A. Hell, more than Japan! The moment Nezu told us that he was going to try to put Izuku under U.A. care, before I even knew you were going to adopt him, I quickly volunteered to help. I immediately went to reading his files. Learning everything I can about him." She said in her serious tone before adopting a solemn look. "It took me three days, not just because of how large they were, but because of how hard it was to handle. I lost my temper and my lunch several times. While I didn't have a psychological file on him, just from what I read I can already assume that he has trust issues, and believes not just that no one cares about him, but that everyone just wants him to suffer. I want to help him, but he is in such a delicate state right now that one wrong move can destroy him forever."
The three stood there in silence, Shoka and Recovery Girl taking in everything Hound Dog had just told them. "Please. Tell me it's not too late." Shoka begged quietly.
"No. You've done good so far. You've shown him constant care and love since his first day at the hospital from what I've been told. And I heard about what that doctor did. While I find his actions vile, it probably turned into a force of good, because you showed him that you WILL protect him. And not allowing the staff to throw a welcome party was a good call, I was about to tell them it was a bad idea to force him in a room full of strangers, but you didn't let it happen. And when you didn't retaliate to his attack, which Was most likely done subconsciously in perceived self defense, you showed you're not a threat. He may be scared of you now, but once the panic wears off, most of that should go away." Said Hound Dog.
It relieved Shoka knowing she didn't mess up, but one thing Hound Dog Said stuck to her. "Most?"
Hound Dog sighed sadly. "He's spent most of his life fearing his guardians, it's not something that's just going to go away so easily."
Shoka nodded sadly. "So what do we do now?"
"First, I know you want to help him, but right now, leave it to me. I'll talk to him."
"What? But..." Started Shoka.
"No buts. I told you we need to be careful. And right now he's perceiving you as a threat, and probably everyone else that he's met so far." Said Hound dog sternly, earning dejected looks from both Shoka and Recovery Girl. "After I talk to him, keep doing what you were doing, but make sure to give him any space he asks for. I'd also like to talk to him at least once a week. I'll even come here if he's more comfortable with that. I'd rather do it more, but he needs to get comfortable with me first. Now tell me which room is his, then you get healed by Recovery Girl." Said Hound Dog.
"Second door on the right." Said Shoka, feeling useless at being unable to help her son.
Hound Dog put her hand on Shoka's shoulders. "Hey, you are doing a great job. You most likely have helped him more than you know. Don't let this get to you. You should know that sometimes you just need a trained professionals help. It doesn't mean you're doing bad, or that you're useless." She said giving a reassuring smile. After getting a nod in acknowledgment she left to go help Izuku.
Shoka stood there silently, staring towards Izuku's room. She still wished there was something she could do, anything to help. But no, she had to leave it to Hound Dog. In her mind she knew that what she said was right, but it couldn't alleviate how she felt. The worst part is she knew something like this was going to happen, but she let her guard down because of how well these last couple weeks have been going. God she was such a fool.
Shoka was brought out of her stupor when she felt Recovery Girls hand on her leg. "Come on dearie. Let's get you healed and into some proper cloths."
Shoka looked down at her shirt, completely forgetting that it had a hole in it from Izuku's attack. How was he even able to do that? Didn't he need pheromones to use his offensive abilities? Shoka let Recovery Girl guide her to her room. They heard Izuku scream "NO! YOU'RE LYING!" When they were right outside her room. It further broke Shoka's heart.
After entering her room, she went straight to her dresser to grab a new shirt. Silently she removed her shirt, allowed Recovery Girl to heal the burn left by Izuku's attack, and put on the new shirt. She sat down on her bed, slouching forward with her face in her hands, not even moving when she felt the bed shift with Recovery Girl sitting next to her.
"She's right you know?" Said Recovery Girl putting her hand on Shoka's leg.
"Right about what?" Asked Shoka, voice hollow.
"That you've been doing a good job." She replied reassuringly.
Shoka couldn't hold back her frustration from being unable to help her son. "A good job? He's currently hiding in his closet scared out of his mind, and I can't even help him. Despite knowing something like this would happen but I wasn't prepared. I let myself get complacent." She nearly yelled. Barely keeping her voice down so to not scare Izuku if he overheard her.
"You can't do everything on your own. As a hero you should know there is nothing wrong with getting help. And right now you have one of the most qualified people helping him right now." Said Recovery Girl, trying to console Shoka.
Shoka stood up quickly and started pacing the room as she talked. "I know that mentally. But I just feel so useless. I... I feel like a shitty parent!" Said Shoka louder than intended. She went and sat back down on the bed next to Recovery Girl. "My parents always knew how to help me. How to cheer me up. How to make me feel better." She said sadly.
Recovery Girl placed her hand on Shoka's back and started rubbing comfortingly. "I know, you've told me some stories, and I've met your mom a few times. But you know this case is different. Your parents raised you from birth. You jumped into the deep end of the pool and adopted a 16-year-old. That alone would be difficult for anyone. But add on what he's been through? I don't think anyone would have all the answers." She said comfortingly.
Shoka ran her hand through her hair. "Yeah, I know that too, but..." Started Shoka.
"Ah ah ah. None of that. Tell me. Who adopted Izuku?" Asked Recovery Girl.
"Me, but..."
"Who provided a loving home for him?"
"Me."
"Who rushed to him when the alarm for his monitor went off?"
"Me."
"See? You're doing fine. And once he's calmed down, I KNOW you're going to shower him with love and affection." Said Recovery Girl, earning a smile from Shoka. "So stop beating yourself up over this, and continue being a good mom. And whenever you're having difficulty, you have dozens of people more than happy to help."
Shoka slowly nodded her head before giving a thoughtful smile. "I guess you're right." She said before her smile disappears and looks towards the door. "I just hope we make all the right choices for him."
"I have no doubt we will." Replied Recovery Girl confidently.
For the next twenty minutes the two sat there silently as they waited for word from Hound Dog. In that time they thought about what they're going to do to help Izuku in the coming days. This whole event has been an eye-opener for the both of them. They needed to be prepared for things like this to happen. They were going to be better prepared next time.
Eventually they heard a light knock on the door. Shoka rushes to the door hoping to see Izuku, but it was just Hound Dog. She visibly deflated. "Oh, it's just you."
"Well hello to you to." Said Hound Dog jokingly.
"Sorry, I was just hoping you were Izuku."
Hound Dog waved it off. "It's fine. But he was tired, so I put him back in bed."
Hearing that Shoka reanimated, and quickly checked the receiver on her phone and saw that his heart rate was back to normal. She sighed in relief. "Thank god. So did you figure out anything?"
Hound Dog's expression fell, and she scratched the back of her head. "Yeah, I figured out what happened."
"What is it? And how can I help?" Asked Shoka, almost begging.
Hound Dog went to explain that after getting Izuku to calm down, she got him to explain what was wrong. She confirmed that in his panic he couldn't discern between his nightmare and reality. Her fear was also confirmed when he told her everyone he'd spent time with so far sided with Chiaki and Murisaki and were just tricking him into believing they cared for him. "I did what I could to convince him that none of you did that, and that you care for him. Only there is no way to confirm how well it stuck. And for anyone who's gone through a sliver of what he has, it's not uncommon for them to lose trust in those around them at any moment. The best we can do is stick by his side and show him we don't want to hurt him, But give him space when he needs it." Said Hound Dog sadly.
Shoka and Recovery Girl stayed silent as they processed the story, and why he wasn't able to trust them. Shoka eventually gave a sad smile, surprising the other two. "I have my work cut out for me. But loving and supporting him will be easy. Is there more we can do?"
Both Hound Dog and Recovery Girl gave the same smile. "You're right. That part will be easy." Said Recovery Girl as she thought about her time with Izuku.
"No kidding. From what I heard, he's a wonderful kid. But until I learn more, that's all we can do for now. I'll be there anytime I'm needed." Said Hound Dog.
"Thank you. Both of you. I truly appreciate it. We only have the one guest room, but do you guys want to stay here for the night?"
"Thank you dearie, but I need my mattress for my back." Replied Recovery Girl.
"Thanks." Said Hound Dog before showing off her claws. "But I don't want to risk destroying the bed. But I'll come by tomorrow to check up on Izuku." Replied Hound Dog.
Shoka nodded in thanks. She escorted them out, and they said their goodbyes for the night. Shoka was just about to go back to her room to get some much-needed sleep but turned around to look at Izuku's door. She stood there for a couple seconds before silently entering his room. The light from the hallway illuminated the room just enough for her to see him. She leaned against the doorway with her arms crossed as she watched him, glad that he's ok.
Eventually she silently walked up, and kneeled next to his bed, and carefully placed her hand in his trying not to wake him. "I swear, I will do everything in my power to help you. You don't have to suffer alone anymore. I'm here to carry your burden with you." Shoka said quietly. She leaned over and gave him a gentle kiss on the forehead. "I love you." She whispered. As she backed away and stood up she noticed the small smile on his face, something she was happy to see.
Just as quietly as she entered, she left to go get some more sleep. It wasn't easy falling asleep with all that had happened, but she was an expert of falling asleep whenever she needed it.
*The next morning*
Shoka was sitting in the couch watching the news. She woke up early to try to ensure she was awake when Izuku woke up. Tsukuachi had texted her telling her that they were holding a press conference about all the arrests they had made yesterday. Apparently the news caught wind of the sting, because of course they did, and were demanding answers. The vultures already released news about the sting and it's spreading like wildfire. They figured the conference was the best way to prevent any reporters from twisting what happened, and trying to make Izuku look like the bad guy again.
Shoka had it on the only news stations she actually didn't hate, because at least the news lady was honest, and didn't blame victims. All in all she actually has a heart.
"And in other news, early yesterday police finished a large investigation ending in the arrest of fifty-three adults and four teenagers." Came the voice of young up and coming female newscaster Ishida Azumi from the TV. "It was a widespread investigation involving students, teachers, suburban families, nurses, doctors, and even police officers. Three heroes have also fallen under heavy scrutiny at the discovery of them turning a blind eye to the victims plight, and one facing charges for participating in the abuse. Each perpetrator was caught confessing to a range of crimes from harassment and assault, to near torture of one Izuku Midoriya." She said as she tried to maintain a professional demeanor, but she was obviously distraught about what she was reporting.
"Midoriya is known for being a victim of death row inmate Ukon Murisaki." Azumi could be barely heard whispering "My god." Under her breath as she had a horrified look on her face. "The main aggressor Ms. Soka Chiaki was arrested on multiple charges of child neglect, child abuse, assault, assault with a deadly weapon, lying to an officer during an investigation, and even a charge for attempted involuntary manslaughter via starvation. Her actions leave her facing up to 50 years in prison." She said, distress becoming more obvious as she continues. Azumi took a deep breath to try to act more professional. It barely worked. "Now we bring you to live feed of a press conference to answer questions about the investigation."
The news flickered over to the press conference with Three people sitting at a table with microphones in front of them. From right to left was the local police chief, Tsukauchi, and Nezu.
Tsukauchi stood up and silenced the press. "As you all know, Izuku Midoriya, survivor of Infamous Ukon Murisaki, has once again been victimized by those that were meant to care for him. After a two-week investigation, we have discovered many who not only turned a blind eye, but participated in the abuse. Evidence shows that the motivation was quirk discrimination and false accusations made during the Murisaki case. Police, heroes, and society as a whole has failed to protect him in his time of need. A fact that we WILL rectify. We will Not fail again. Are there any questions?"
As soon as she said that many reports raised their hands and started trying to ask their questions over each other. Tsukauchi gestured to a random middle-aged male reporter. "This is the second time has been made a 'victim'" he said snidely making finger quotes. "But how can we believe that Midoriya isn't at fault?" A majority of the reporters looked eager to get the answer, like they had planned to ask something similar.
The three were flabbergasted by the question, but they were prepared for such a thing to happen. "There are mountains of evidence of the culprits being the aggressors, including recorded confessions." Said the police chief, answering because he knew how protective of Midoriya, Tsukauchi has become and wasn't sure if she could keep her cool.
"But this is the second time the supposed offender was a respected member of society. It seems highly unlikely Midoriya isn't the one at fault." He said.
"How society views people have no meaning on whom they truly are or what they do behind closed doors." Slipped Tsukauchi, doing what she could to suppress her outrage at this reporter.
The reporter smiled smugly. "Exactly, we have no idea about who Midoriya truly is. He very well has the means to control someone."
This time Nezu answered. "While he does possess some ability to manipulate people, he isn't able to outright control them."
"What's your proof of that? He hasn't had the necessary testing someone with his kind of quirk is legally required. How do we know he isn't lying about it?"
"That testing isn't required until he reaches the age of 18, and MY quirk has proven he isn't lying about his. Besides, the same could be said of you." Tsukauchi shot back.
The questioning continued as wasn't only that reporter but several others tried to twist the facts to make Izuku at fault, knowing it would make a better story. Eventually when the reporters realized they wouldn't get any further with the line of questioning, they started targeting heroes failure to protect a single person.
The three answering questions were at their wits ends dealing with the presses questions, but they managed to keep their cool. It was obvious to them they just wanted a good story. It doesn't matter who they hurt or the damage they could do to society. They were just about ready to call the conference when a well known reporter raised his hands. They all recognized him as Taneo Tokudo, a good man with cares about the effects his stories have.
"Guess it's up to me to ask the important questions." He said in a kind tone, making all the others look at him questioningly, some of them who already asked questions looked offended. "How is the kid doing? Will he be ok?" Some reporters who were so into the earlier line of questions actually had the decency to look a bit sheepish. While others merely rolled their eyes, looking annoyed by the question, either believing he was missing a 'golden opportunity' at a great scoop, or that he was just being self-righteous. While the few who weren't into the earlier questions, perked up.
The three mentally thanked him, though they still looked downtrodden. "While he is doing better, he is still far from well. When he was first found, he was nothing but skin and bone, and still currently is. His heart had stopped on the scene, later being chalked up to overexertion in his poor condition. Thanks to the help from some doctors he is on the road to recovery, but will have to be medically monitored for the foreseeable future." Answered Tsukauchi.
A good portion of the reporters looked downtrodden as they wrote down her answers, while the rest looked like they didn't really care or even annoyed, some not even bothering writing anything down. "What's going to happen to him now?"
"He has already been adopted by one of the U.A. staff and the two moved into the U.A. family apartments. Where he will be watched over and receive the care he needs. Periodic inspections will be made of his living conditions to help him feel at ease." Stated Nezu, already knowing the question will open a floodgate of other questions. To which he was right as the reporters who weren't caring saw another chance to make a juicer story.
Even Tokudo recognized what was about to happen. "Thank you, I wish him a speedy recovery and happy life." He said sitting down.
Right as more questions were about to flood in the three stood up. "We apologize but that's all the time we have." Said the police chief as they all bowed. They walked off as most of the reporters were frantically asking questions about 'How they can trust Izuku not to be abused again.' It disgusted the others how they quickly switched their tune just to serve their own purposes.
Including Ishida Azumi, as the news switched back to her, only she wasn't notified of it, the producer saw this own golden opportunity as he heard her speak. "Seriously? NOW they pretend to care? God what is wrong with them. They don't care about the facts or the victim, they even tried to make his seem like the bad guy. They just want their next big scoop." She grumbled to herself as she watched a monitor off-screen still showing the end of the press conference.
"Azumi, you're back on." Said the producer with a smile. He watched as she fumbled getting back into a professional demeanor.
"In light of the news of the arrest, we here at (Insert generic news station name here.) took to the streets this morning to hear the public's opinions." She said before the switching to the footage of a female news correspondent asking a young adult man his opinion.
"Sounds to me like the police are just framing an innocent woman to cover their asses for failing to arrest that Midoriya kid the first time."
It switched to a woman in her 50's answering. "It's disgusting how long the poor boy suffered. This is twice it's happened. How could police and heroes ignore him? At least there are some who care and are doing something about it."
Now to a snobby looking woman in her 30's. "Please, the kid is just a villain. Why should we worry about what happens to him? Sounds to me that women was performing a civil service."
Onto a teenage girl with orange hair in a ponytail to one side looking distraught. "I hope the guy will be ok, he deserves to have a good life. I can't imagine the pain he's been through. At least police and heroes are making up for their mistakes. Those mother fu-*beep* who hurt him need to be punished."
The news switched back to Azumi, looking like she's still watching footage again. "At least some people have hearts. How can anyone say someone deserves to go through that? Or that he's a villain when there is tons of evidence on the contrary.
"Azumi." Said the producer with a smirk, as she quickly continued the news cast. He couldn't help but smile ear to ear, he knew he was going to get in trouble with the station for that, if not fired, but he was tired of all the heartless professionalism with the news. And he was sure many people in Japan were as well. He knew Azumi was. She confided in him that her dream career wasn't what she hoped, she wanted to report the truth, not twist the facts to a juicer story. She wants to help people with her stories, and give her honest opinion. But the station wouldn't let her. To unprofessional and rude they say. She is a good person and what she says is only 'rude' to those that are cruel.
So he decided to take matters into his own hands, and this heart wrenching story was the perfect way to do that. Azumi was known to talk to herself during clips, when she knew she wasn't on air. Or at least thought she knew. He believes he can run his own station, and Azumi would be perfect, so he showed the nation who she truly was. She was already gaining popularity quickly, and he believed this will skyrocket her popularity. He believed this was the right thing to do to his very core, now he just needed to convince her to join him. And get some people to help fund him, but he knows just the people to talk to.
*back at the apartment.*
Shoka just turned off the TV. There were several times she wanted to shut it off. It was deplorable what some of those people said. She knew that the Media was full of vultures, but that took the cake. At least there are a few good ones. She was also pissed by what the random citizens for what they said. She started taking deep breaths to calm herself when she heard sniffling coming from the hallway.
When she took a look she saw Izuku sitting against the wall, hugging his legs and his head on his knees. "Izuku, What's wrong?" She asked as she knelt in front of him concerned clear on her face.
Izuku's head shot up when she spoke, and he immediately started guarding himself with his arms as he quivered. "I'msorryIdidn'tmeantohurtyou!" He Yelled out quickly in fright.
Shoka gently placed a hand on one of his arms, making him flinch and Yelp in terror. "It's ok I'm not mad. I know you were scared and didn't mean to." She said comfortingly.
Izuku barely moves, he was still quivering and in a defensive position, but he moved his arms stiffly, so he can see her. It hurt so much seeing him scared of her again, but she continued to give him a reassuring smile.
After watching each other for over a minute, Izuku lowered his arms. But he transitioned into a fetal position still shaking and looking scared, tears still streaming out of his eyes.
Shoka wrapped him in a hug. Once again he flinched at the contact, but he eventually relaxed and melted into the embrace and embraced her back. He kept repeating "I'm sorry." As he cried into her shoulder. She told him it's ok every time as she held him and rubbed his back comfortingly.
They stayed that way for about 10 minutes, before Izuku calmed down. When Shoka realized it, she gently caressed his face with both hands. "No matter what, I will always love you. You will ALWAYS be safe with me." She said give it him a loving smile.
Izuku looked at her hopefully. "Then am I actually An Aizawa?" He asked.
Shoka was a little confused about the question, but didn't let it show. "Of course you are. Why would you think you're not?"
Izuku looked down and to the side dejected. "They kept calling me Midoriya."
Shoka's confusion only grew, but it eventually clicked. "You mean on the news?" She asked. Izuku nodded his head in confirmation. "That was for your protection." She answered. Now it was Izuku who was confused. "For one the news is full of vultures who would do anything to get a hold of you for a story. Then there is also the people who support Murisaki, and the eventual Chiaki supporters. If we let them believe that your name is still Midoriya, then they'll leave you alone." Shoka said with a warm smile.
Izuku couldn't really wrap his head around people actually leaving him alone. He's been a target for so long it just sounded like some sort of pipe dream. But he wanted to believe it. "O-okay." He stuttered, and gave a small smile of his own.
Shoka helped Izuku up and over to the coach as she told him she'll go get breakfast ready. She had to stop him from trying to do it himself. He told her he felt like he was taking advantage of her by not helping out at least. To which she simply told him he needed to worry about healing and getting better first. They can worry about that after he is confirmed healthy. It took awhile but he finally relented. As she stood at the stove cooking she couldn't help but smile. As bad as the night before was, things are starting to recover. Sure he seemed apprehensive around her again, but it's not surprising. She'll gain his trust as many times as it takes, she'll never hurt or abandon him.
*across town*
In a run down bar sat a young man with light blur hair and a severed hand on his face sat at the bar, while a man with black mist covering his head in a bartenders outfit was washing a glass behind the counter. The blue haired man just shut off the TV that was showing the news. They just finished the story about Izuku. The man's creepy smile can be seen on the sides of the hand. "Well well well, seems like those worthless heroes show their true colors again. Turning a blind eye to a victim? Heheheh they're making the game way to easy." He said in a raspy voice.
"Indeed. How can they trust the supposed heroes if they can't protect one kid?" Said the bartender with an ethereal voice as more of a statement than a question.
"Exactly. But if they want to switch the difficulty to easy, then I'll be more than happy to take advantage of it." Said the young man. "Kurogiri, I think it's time to put our plans into action."
"Patience Tomura." Said a gravelly voice from the TV against the far wall that showed nothing but static. "We do not yet have the necessary power or recourses."
Tomura's demeanor changed in an instant. He shot out of his chair and looked towards the TV angrily. "But master, We should strike while this debuff is active!" He screamed, sounding like a spoiled brat.
"While this would be a great opportunity, our Nomu project has yet to yield the necessary fruit. We don't have the tools to take down All Might." Said the voice calmly.
Tomura stomped his feet like a child having throwing a tantrum. "You told me I can do what I want! And I want to destroy All Might now!"
"I also taught you to make sure you have the necessary preparations." Said the voice.
At that Tomura calmed down. He crossed his arms with his pinkies sticking out and grumbled.
"Now that doesn't mean we can't stir up some discord." Said the voice. Tomura's smile slowly returned. "The heroes have presented us with an opportunity and it would be a shame pass it up. All we have to do is spread the seeds of distrust, and once they fully bloom, we end All Might and this Hero society forever."
Tomura started cackling. "Yes Master." He looked back at the other TV with a malicious smile. "And I think I know the perfect way to pull that off." He said ominously.