A/N: God, a full month to write one chapter, I'm sorry everyone for the long wait, this chapter just didn't want to come to me. thank you everyone for your patience. I have recently gotten myself a beta-reader who helped me with this chapter, and I hope that they will help me get future chapters out faster.

"No." Izuku mumbled in his sleep as he tossed and turned, drenched in sweat. "Stop. Don't! NO!" He screamed as he shot up. His instincts kicked in, and he slammed his hands over his mouth as his fear skyrocketed.

It wasn't long before his mom came into his room, looking like she just wanted to rush over to him, but restrained herself to not frighten him more. Izuku sat where he was, not moving a single muscle, afraid of the beating he believed would come if he did. He just sat there staring at Shoka, eyes full of fear, as she calmly got closer to him.

As she got to his bed she sat down and gently put a hand on his shoulder. It hurt any time she saw him in this state, and even more so when he jumped at her merely touching him. It tore her heart to pieces. But he was slowly improving. Just last week he was jumping away from her when she touched him, she was glad that progress was at least being made.

"Izuku, it's ok. It's not real." She said gently, as she brought her free hand to one of his arms and gently lowered it to show he didn't have to stay silent. He let his mom lower his hands from his mouth. His breathing started to slow down as the fear in his eyes transitioned into sadness. On seeing this Shoka brought him into a comforting hug, one he slowly returned after a couple seconds as he started crying into her shoulder.

Shoka gently rubbed his back with her right hand, while

the left was on the back of his head. "It's ok, you're safe. No one is going to hurt you." Said Shoka gently. She was a little confused when she felt him shake his head no.

"It... it wasn't that." Said Izuku quietly.

"Then what was it?" Shoka asked, concerned. But Izuku remained silent. Shoka released Izuku and cradled his face, making him look at her as she used her thumb to wipe away his tears. "Izuku I just want to help. I can't do that if I don't know what's going on." Said Shoka, voice filled with the concern and compassion only a mother could possess.

Izuku stayed silent for a couple seconds staring at his mom before looking down sullen. "It was the sludge villain." He replied.

"The one from a couple of days ago?" What about it?" Asked Shoka.

"I dreamt I was back there again when he held that girl hostage. Only when I tried to save her I got stopped by Death Arms, and no matter what I tried he wouldn't let me do anything. I watched as the life faded from that girl's eyes, while the villain just laughed. Then... then..." Said Izuku before he started to sob again.

Shoka grabbed and held his hands in hers, giving him a reassuring smile, giving him the strength to continue. "Then suddenly everyone was gone, just me and the Sludge villain. Or so I thought. Mei and Kinoko showed up. The villain just tossed the girls body, and grabbed the two of them. But instead of suffocating them, he just brutally killed them!" He said, starting to panic. He closed his eyes as the image of the villain tearing Mei in half at the waist and crushing Kinoko's head came back to him. Izuku started to hyperventilate as tears poured out of his eyes.

But Shoka wouldn't let him suffer. Izuku started to calm down as he felt her squeeze his hands reassuringly and gently cupped his cheek. "You don't have to continue if you don't want to." She said gently. Dream of not, she knows the pain of losing someone close to you before your very eyes. Her heart hurt knowing Izuku was suffering that pain.

Izuku on the other hand after calming down just couldn't stop, and continued to explain his nightmare. "Then more people kept showing up. Aunt Midnight, aunt Mic, Uncle Nezu, Mr. and Mrs. Hatsume, ...you. Everyone just kept showing up. And you were all murdered by the villain. And... and I... I couldn't move." Said Izuku as he gripped both of her hands tightly, not noticing Shoka wince in pain. But she didn't care about that, all she cared about was comforting her son. "I couldn't do anything at all! I wanted to stop him so bad. But I was useless." He said growing quieter as he spoke until it was just a whisper, before he started sobbing again as the memories of his dream flooded through him. The memories of watching everyone he's grown to care for get murdered before his very eyes.

Shoka enveloped Izuku into another hug, doing what she could to sooth him. They stayed that way for several minutes as Izuku cried and Shoka kept whispering things like "It's ok.", "I'm here.", And "Everyone is safe." Hoping to help ease his pain.

Izuku eventually managed to calm down, he peeled away but Shoka maintained contact. "I'm sorry." He said quietly as he looked down ashamed.

Shoka gave him a loving smile. 'Every time.' She thought. "You have nothing to be sorry for. Everyone has nightmares. And before you say you're a nuisance, you're not. I WANT to help, and I will be there for you every time."

Izuku quickly wrapped Shoka up in another hug, but this time not for comfort. "Thank you. I love you mom." He said quietly.

A lone tear appeared in Shoka's eye. She will never get tired of hearing that. "I love you too." She replied. After a few seconds they separated, and Shoka wiped the tear away. Looking over Izuku he still looked completely exhausted, yet he didn't look like he'd fall asleep any time soon. "You want to go watch some TV on the couch with me?" She asked while gesturing to his door with her head.

Izuku simply nodded his head yes in response before they headed to the living room. Shoka grabbed a blanket they kept in the living room and the remote, turning on the TV as she sat down next to Izuku. As soon as she got settled, he leaned up against her, something she knew he was going to do. As time went on, he's been craving more and more physical affection. Hound Dog told her that he was most likely excruciatingly touch starved, and probably made worse by the fact his quirk required physical contact. But she would never complain, she would cuddle with him all he wants. It's funny, she didn't use to be one for physical affection, but now she'd openly admit she enjoys it. To Izuku. Only to Izuku. She would never live it down if she said it to her friends and colleagues.

Shoka threw the blanket over the two of them before wrapping her arms around him, which Izuku instantly relaxed in the embrace.

On the TV it seems to be a rerun of the news from yesterday. This was a new news station. Seemed after the press conference Ishida Azumi got fired for unprofessionalism along with a few others. But they all started this new station about a week after, and it has been soaring in popularity for quite a few reasons. They don't tiptoe around sensitive subjects, they tell people nothing but the truth, including not glorifying everything a hero does, don't twist things around to make the story better, and Shoka's favorite part, they think about the consequences of their stories and care about the people on the other end of it. Which is why Shoka exclusively watches this station for news now. So she had seen the story they were about to report about next, and it's why she didn't immediately change the channel.

"Honestly it looks more like Mt. Lady blindsided that villain that was on the cusp of being defeated by Kamui Woods, and then used sex appeal to her advantage. Hopefully it's not going to be a trend in her career." Said Ishida, reporting on Mt. Lady's debut, and sounding unimpressed. Suddenly she looked excited. "In other news, yesterday afternoon there was a second major villain siting in Musutafu. A currently unnamed villain, whose quirk seemingly turns his body into sludge hijacked a convenience store. During his escape All Might herself appeared on scene and started to chase down said villain. At first, it was believed All Might easily apprehended the villain, but three hours later, the same villain was found to be holding third year secondary school student Bakugo Katsumi hostage." She reported, as an Image of Bakugo being held hostage with a picture of just Katsumi right next to it appeared on the screen next to Ishida.

Izuku's eyes went wide hearing the girl's name. "Kacchan?" He said quietly, barely loud enough for Shoka to hear, with a surprised look on his face.

"What was that?" Asked Shoka.

"I... I knew her. Back before I got my quirk." He said trying to hide the pain in his voice as he rubbed his chest, feeling some phantom pains.

Shoka's worry rose at his reaction. Quirkless people are treated horribly. Due to his original diagnosis, she could only imagine what she might have done to him. She wanted to ask about it, but due to his nightmare, now wasn't the time. So she settled with giving him a reassuring squeeze, which seemed to work as he seemed to relax a bit, and they both went back to watching the news.

"... and Death Arms stopped attempting to rescue Bakugo." Said Ishida, looking disgusted. "And their excuse was not having the right quirks? Sounds like these guys need to retake their hero classes." Suddenly her mood seemed to improve. "Thankfully there was a civilian in the area who was willing to do something to help, successfully rescuing Bakugo before All Might showed up to finish the villain off. We have obtained footage of the events from a bystander."

The screen shifted to shaky footage that started from Death Arms attacking the villain, all the way to a few seconds after All Might made it rain. "See? Everyone is safe thanks to you. You did good there, I'm proud of you." Said Shoka after the part where he pulled out Bakugo. Izuku looked up at her with a loving smile and turned around to give her a hug, which Shoka returned as the story continued.

"Due to certain circumstances, we will not be releasing the identity of the rescuer for his safety. But we are happy to say that despite not having a hero license, he was not arrested, and was let off with a warning. I for one, hope he becomes a hero. Not only did he look awesome, he showed a great deal of courage and selflessness." Said Ishida with obvious sincerity, before continuing to talk about All Might.

Izuku and Shoka let go and got back into the position they were in. "Seems you have a fan." Said Shoka, earning a chuckle from Izuku.

"I admit, it feels nice. But I was just doing what I felt was right." Replied Izuku.

Shoka felt pride well up inside her. Here was a boy who had every reason to hate the world, but wants to save it instead. He was going to be an amazing hero, she just knew it. And she will happily help him every step of the way.

After the news was done reporting the story, Shoka changed channels to something she knew Izuku enjoyed. It didn't take long for Izuku to fall asleep, but by the time he did Shoka was too tired to carry him to bed. So she opted to just turn off the TV, and sleep on the couch while happily holding her son.

*A few hours later.*

Shoka was slowly roused from her sleep as she heard what sounded like clicking. At first, she was confused by the weight she felt on her, before remembering the events of last night. She slowly opened her eyes, getting adjusted to the light. When her eyes were finally focused, she saw Present Mic and Midnight, both holding their phone out in front of them.

"You're taking pictures aren't you?" Asked Shoka annoyed.

"Of course." Replied Present Mic as more clicks were heard from her phone.

"You expect us not to immortalize such an adorable sight?" Asked Midnight.

Shoka was about to instinctively threaten them to delete the photos before remembering what exactly they were taking pictures of. She looked down at Izuku and smiled as she saw him sleeping peacefully. She looked at the two with a slight annoyed glare, before sighing. "You better send me those." She grumbled, with a light blush of embarrassment.

Present Mic and Midnight both giggled as they put their phones away. "Of course." Replied Present Mic.

"What are you two doing here anyways?" Asked Shoka.

"Nezu wanted us to make sure you're both prepared for the meeting." Replied Midnight, as a frown crossed her and Present Mic's face. Shoka sighed sadly before checking the clock. It was 8 AM on a Sunday, a couple of hours before she and Izuku had a meeting with HER.

Shoka got off the couch, careful to not wake him quite yet. "Come on, let's make breakfast real quick while he gets some more sleep." She said as she made her way to the kitchen, as the two followed.

"So I take it you two are on the couch because he had another nightmare?" Asked Midnight, as she started helping get things ready.

"Unfortunately. He dreamt about us, his friends, and everyone who's cared for him dying in front of him." Replied Shoka dejected.

"Those are always horrible." Replied Present Might solemnly. "Do you think we should call Nezu to cancel the meeting."

"I don't know." Sighed Shoka. "We should probably leave that up to him."

"I guess you're right." Replied Present Mic before she looked through the hatch at the still sleeping Izuku. "I'm just worried. This wasn't going to be an easy meeting from the start."

Shoka slowly nodded her head as she remembered her and Izuku's discussion with Nezu. He came over to talk to the two of them. He told them that All Might wanted to meet with Izuku to discuss something important. Izuku was obviously uncomfortable with the idea. But Nezu assured him that he didn't have to, and if he accepted he could leave at any time. Izuku remained silent for a few minutes, looking thoughtful. Shoka was worried, but waited for his reply. She doesn't know what went through his head, but he accepted. And while he was given the choice of when, he chose to do it today. The look in his eyes showed the same determination and fierceness as the when he first stepped in to protect Mei.

"That's true. But he's tough, I doubt he will back down." Said Shoka in a confident and caring tone. "So let's make him a good breakfast to help him out."

*later*

Shoka and Izuku were on their way to Nezu's office to speak with All Might, neither of them even saying a word. Izuku was conflicted. He truly wanted to just cancel the meeting and not have anything to do with her, but he felt this was something he needed to do. He needs answers.

Shoka was keeping an eye on Izuku the entire walk, she couldn't help but worry. She doesn't know the extent of what All Might said to Tsukauchi, or even how Izuku heard it, she only knew it wasn't good. But she does know that if All Might would have convinced her to stop the investigation, Izuku would have stayed in Murisaki's hands. And Murisaki would still be on the loose.

The two made it to Nezu's office door, and stood there. Izuku just stared at the door while Shoka watched him. Eventually after a few minutes of standing there, Shoka put her hand on his shoulder. His mind seemed to have been elsewhere because he jumped when she touched him. "Sorry, didn't mean to scare you." Said Shoka apologetically.

Izuku shook his head. "You don't have to apologize. I was just lost in thought."

"What were you thinking about." She asked.

Izuku clenched his fists. "Just…. remembering." He replied, a chill to his tone.

"You know you don't have to do this?" Asked Shoka concerned.

Izuku looked at the doorknob. "Yes I do." He replied before opening the door and entering, Shoka right behind him.

As they walked in they noticed Nezu sitting at his desk, with All Might standing next to his desk. "Ah welcome, I'm happy to see you came. Come, take a seat." Said Nezu in his usual chipper tone with some pride mixed in. Izuku and Shoka sat in the two chairs in front of Nezu's desk, with Izuku sitting away from All Might.

"I'm glad you could make it, and that we could talk so soon." Said All Might, oblivious to Izuku's cold demeanor.

"Would either of you like some tea?" Asked Nezu.

"No, thank you." Replied Shoka.

"No. Could we... could we just get to why we're here?" Asked Izuku, trying not to direct his negative feelings towards All Might at Nezu.

"Why of course! All Might?" Replies Nezu, directing the attention towards her.

"Erm, while it's good to see you Eraserhead, this is a fairly sensitive matter. Could we just talk to Izuku in private." Asked All Might, a little nervous.

"I'm not leaving unless Izuku wants me too." Replied Shoka with finality.

"And I don't want mom to leave." Said Izuku coldly.

All Might nearly spat out blood and lost hold of her muscle form hearing that. "Wait! Mom? I didn't know you were a mother Eraserhead." Said All Might dumbfounded. For some reason she felt the room instantly drop a couple of degrees.

"What do you want All Might?" Asked Izuku curtly. His anger and pain from All Might seemingly not even remembering who he is, overriding any fear or panic he would experience from acting this way. It also helped that Nezu and his mom didn't seem upset by him either, they were just watching All Might, waiting for her response.

"Er, well..." said All Might fumbling with her words. She didn't know what to do, she truly didn't want to reveal what she believes to be such a monumental secret to Eraserhead. True Nezu says she can be trusted, but she didn't know. Looking at Izuku, memories of what he did a couple of days ago flooded through her mind. She remembered his courage, his selflessness, and what he said that day, about moving before he even thought. She sighed, coming to terms that if she wanted the chance to make Izuku her successor, she had to bring in Eraserhead too.

Both Shoka's and Izuku's eyes went wide as a huge burst of steam shot from All Might, and when it cleared, a very skinny version of her was standing there. "What the hell! Who are you?!" Yelled Shoka, before turning to Nezu, noticing he is unaffected by all this. "I thought you said we were meeting All Might?!"

"And you are." Replied Nezu.

"I assure you I am All Might. But my real name is Yagi Toshino, and I ask that you call me Toshino when I am in this form." She then proceeded to lift her shirt, showing her gnarly scar. She went on to explain about her being injured five years ago, and how her ability to maintain her muscle form is dwindling.

The two of them listened intently. Shoka was shocked that someone was able to hurt All Might this badly. She may not like her, but she still knows that her power was off the charts.

Izuku didn't know what to think. A small part of him couldn't help but think she deserved it. But a much much larger part felt sorry for her, he knew the pain of losing the life you knew.

"Why are you telling us all this?" Izuku couldn't help but ask.

"Because due to my ever shortening time limit, I need to find a successor to my quirk. And I want you to be that successor." Replied All Might in a serious tone.

Shoka and Izuku looked at All Might like she grew a second head. "What do you mean successor to your quirk?" Asked Izuku.

"My quirk isn't a normal quirk. It is called One for All. It is a quirk that can be transferred, and stockpiles power as it transfers from person to person. I am the eighth wielder of this awesome power. And after seeing that you possess the heart of a true hero, I want to pass the torch onto you young Aizawa." Said All Might somewhat theatrically.

Izuku couldn't help but stare with wide eyes. All Might wants to give him her quirk. A quirk with such tremendous power. Izuku looked down at his hands. 'A quirk that isn't villainous.' He thought. Suddenly the memories of what he heard All Might say to Tsukauchi ran through his head again. "Are you sure you want to give your quirk to a villain?" Said Izuku with a hollow voice.

Shoka's head snapped from All Might to Izuku in an instant, surprisingly not getting whiplash in the process. Shoka wanted to say something, tell him he wasn't a villain. But in the corner of her eye she noticed Nezu shaking his head no at her.

"Wh-What?" Asked All Might completely lost.

"That's what you called me wasn't it?" Asked Izuku not even looking up.

Knowing what he was referring to, fury rose through Shoka like a rocket. She found herself wanting to tear off the head of the number one hero. Even Nezu was feeling anger rise up inside him, and he knew about what All Might said. But hearing Izuku say it was triggering his protective instincts.

"N-NO! I never said that! I said you had the heart of a true hero!" Yelled All Might frantically.

"Five years ago." Voice still hollow. All Might didn't know how to respond, and upon hearing nothing but silence, Izuku decided to speak again. "Does the name Izuku Midoriya ring a bell?" Asked Izuku.

"Izuku Mi...dor..I...ya?" Repeated All Might, at first confused before it slowly donned on her as her eyes went wide.

Suddenly Izuku shot up from his seat, knocking it to the floor. He glared at All Might, though with tears in his eyes. All Might took a step back from him in fear, instinctively raising her hands in front of her to placate Izuku. "That's right, my birth name is Izuku Midoriya! I'm the kid you tried to have left in the hands of a villain without even so much as a glance into the situation!" Yelled Izuku.

All Might didn't know how to respond. She wanted to calm him down, but every time she opened her mouth, nothing would come out. And seeing this only seemed to upset Izuku more.

"What got nothing to say?! Can't even admit to your own guilt?! Do you even feel bad about what you said?!" Screamed Izuku.

"Of course I do! It's one of my biggest regrets!" Said All Might desperately.

"Then how come you never even apologized!? Why is it that even after Murisaki's guilt was proven, you did nothing to help!?" Yelled Izuku, tears pouring out of his eyes. Pain, anger, sadness, and frustration, all flooding through and overwhelming Izuku.

"Well... I..." fumbled All Might.

"That's what I thought." Said Izuku, voice hollow, as shadows covered his eyes and tears streamed down his cheeks. Izuku couldn't handle it anymore as he turned and ran out of the office instinctively using his quirk in his legs to run faster, and slamming the door behind him.

"Izuku!" Yelled Shoka, her worry for her son outweighing her anger at All Might as she quickly ran after him.

All Might stood there wide-eyed for a few seconds before flopping into the nearby empty chair with her head in her hands. "So that's what you meant by past sins." Said All Might.

"Yup." Said Nezu simply. All traces of his usual chipper attitude gone.

"Why didn't you tell me when I called?" Asked All Might.

"And what would you have done if I did? Would you have avoided this conversation? Ignored and forgotten about Izuku and looked for a different successor?" Asked Nezu.

All Might opened her mouth about to say 'of course not.' Before closing it again, looking down dejected. That's what she's done these past five years hasn't she? "What can I do to fix this?" Asked All Might.

"Do you know what one of MY biggest regrets is?" Asked Nezu.

All Might looked at Nezu confused. "No?"

"I regret not checking in with Izuku after he was put in a new foster home. He was horribly abused there too you know." Said Nezu, making All Night's eyes go wide. "It's true, and he even nearly died because of it. I helped with the Murisaki case a bit, and even after hearing about the atrocities he had gone through, I was complacent and believed the same system that let him down would take care of him. And it nearly cost that poor child his life. But you know what I did after I found out how wrong I was?" Asked Nezu. All Might shook her head no in response. "I apologized. One of the first things I said to him was 'I'm sorry' and I have done everything I can to make up for my lapse in judgment since."

All Might mulled over Nezu's words. It was obvious what Nezu was trying to tell her. Why hadn't she apologized much soon? Was it because she was too ashamed to face her own mistakes? Regardless, she needs to do what's right. She stood up from her seat. "I need to go find him." She said before buffing up.

"Hold on. You might want to give him some time to cool off first." Said Nezu.

"But I..." started All Might.

"In the mindset Izuku is in right now, do you think he would even listen to your apology?" Asked Nezu.

All Might stayed silent for a couple seconds before she transformed back to her true form. "I guess you're right." She said dejected. "Can you call me when I can apologize?"

Nezu's smile returned, and gestured to the seat. "If you want to apologize as soon as possible, take a seat. Knowing Izuku it won't take too long." All Might nodded her head and went to sit down. "And could you pick up the other chair?"

*45 minutes later*

Izuku was panting hard. After running from Nezu's office he heard his mom yell after him, but he didn't stop. He didn't know if his mom tried to use her quirk to slow him down, because he turned a corner shortly after she called him. He didn't want her to see him like this, he didn't want to see the disappointment he knew she felt at him losing his temper like that.

Izuku just couldn't take it anymore. The memories of that day just kept playing on loop through his head over and over again. Even now he can't stop remembering it. And when he confronted her about it, she claims she regrets it, but still didn't apologize. He felt like she was just trying to say that, so she could have a powerful successor. To use his quirk just like Murisaki had all those years ago to feel good about herself. If she didn't change her mind, that is.

He didn't know where he was running to, he just let his feet carry him as he ran, tears streaming down his face as he did. By the time he stopped he had used just over 400 attar, and was down to 327. But when he finally did stop he was just outside of training ground gamma. The same place his mom, aunt, and Nejire has been helping train him, Mei, and Kinoko. He didn't know why he ran here, maybe because it holds happy memories for him, but he didn't want to risk going home where his mom would easily find him? What he did know was that he was still angry. Still, so much rage inside him that even he didn't know he possessed.

Maybe it was all the years of torment finally catching up to him, and it was just lashing out at the first person that he was already mad at. Or maybe what she said that day hurt him far more than he knew. Regardless, he felt the need to vent, so he walked inside the training ground and started training. Only there was a problem. With those memories flooding through him, he couldn't use his usual trick to keep his quirk under control. And he already had the problem of it didn't work all the time already. Now it was just like that first day of training. Only worse.

He may not have burned his remaining attar by activating his beam, or even have been unable to get the energy flowing. But the flow was so chaotic, that it was even more dangerous. He had already exploded 4 of his blasts in his hands, burning them to just on the edge of 3rd degree burns, but was still only 2nd. He tried using his quirk to amplify his strength, but it wouldn't go through the entire muscle, causing some of them to strain badly. There is even a chance that a couple of them were ripped. He even tried summoning his wings just to try a few seconds of flying, but he was only able to get one started, and when it was halfway, the bottom half stopped coming out, making the top half rip his wing. He instantly retracted it, not sure if he had a cut on his back now or not. But his back did hurt.

He was in tremendous pain, his whole body felt like it was on fire. But he didn't care. Heck, he's already been through worse many times. And in all honesty, he welcomes the pain. To him the pain has become akin to breathing. He had been in pain for so long, he felt weird when he wasn't hurting anymore. The pain was helping calm him down, it was bringing back his highly submissive self. But he still felt so angry.

"Why!? Why do I feel so angry!? I've been called a villain so many times! So why did her calling me a villain make me so mad!" Yelled Izuku to the heavens before falling to his knees sobbing, as the memory played through his head for what felt like the millionth time today.

*flashback*

Izuku was sitting in the children's room in the police station. It had been five days since Tsukauchi had taken his case, and in that time he had barely ever left this room. He had been told that this room was usually only for temporary use. But since he obviously couldn't go home, combined with his fear of living with anyone else they allowed him to stay here. It only calmed him down slightly.

He was honestly afraid of the police, his experience with them hasn't ever been pleasant. Before Tsukauchi, it was generally cops getting annoyed with him, or even yelling at him for "lying" about Murisaki. He even still sees some officers sneer at him when he leaves the room to use the bathroom. Those weren't the ones that terrified him the most though. He was used to people acting that way towards him. No, the ones that scared him the most were the nice ones. Those are usually the people that were Murisaki's friends. And they were only nice until they were in a private place. That's when the pain started. He's even met a couple officers that were Murisaki's friends a few times over the years, and one that said he was a lieutenant. So the ones who were nice to him now absolutely scared him.

Thankfully nothing happens, and they have limited their contact to giving him food and drinks. Some have even given him a few toys to play with while he's here. Other than that it was Tsukauchi asking him questions. Oh, and a man who said he was a therapist who asked him questions, but he never answered his. He couldn't help it, he was just too scared, thinking the man would hurt him.

Izuku was sitting in the seat at a table, reading a book that Tsukauchi gave him to read. He hadn't seen anyone in a little while, and he was feeling thirsty. Tsukauchi said it was ok for him to ask for things, right? He won't get in trouble? He slid out of the seat and made his way to the room that Tsukauchi said was her office and was where she could usually be found whenever she's here, trying to be as unnoticeable as possible, and ignoring the sneers and glares some officers were sending his way as he went.

As he made it to her office he noticed the door was slightly cracked, but before he could enter, he heard Tsukauchi speak. "I'm sorry All Might, I'm busy with an important case."

All Might!? She was here? Izuku remembered seeing some of her interviews. One in particular stood out to him. One where she said "It doesn't matter the size of the case, big or small, everyone deserves justice. Deserves to be safe and happy." So maybe she would help with Murisaki. It's true he hasn't had any good experiences with heroes in the past, but she was number one. So she had to be good, right? Izuku knew he shouldn't eavesdrop, but he just hoped to hear that she would help.

"Really? I haven't heard you were working on anything. What's it about?" He heard All Might ask.

"Yeah, people think I'm crazy for taking this case, but just hearing what the victim has gone through makes me sick to my stomach." Replied Tsukauchi.

"What happened?" Asked All Might sounding concerned.

"It's Murisaki. He..." started Tsukauchi, before All Might started yelling.

"MURISAKI?! UKON MURISAKI?! What happened?! Who hurt him?! Why don't you have more help?!" Yelled All Might.

"No All Might, he's not the victim. He's the assailant." Spoke Tsukauchi seriously.

There were a couple seconds of silence before All night started laughing. "Hahahah! That's a good one. You almost had me."

"I'm serious." Said Tsukauchi deadpan.

"Really? Was it self-defense? I wouldn't be surprised if a villain attacked him." Stated All Might.

Tsukauchi sighed. "No, it was for his sick pleasure." She said, sounding disgusted.

"You really expect me to believe that THE Ukon Murisaki, did something horrible to someone for kicks?" Asked All Might incredulously.

"Yes! To a child no less, and it's been happening for years!" Said Tsukauchi, sounding like she's getting upset.

"Show me the file." Said All Might, still sounding skeptical. There for a couple of minutes, only the sound of shifting paper could be heard before All Might spoke again. "Seriously? You believe this kid?" Said All Might. Izuku felt his heart drop. The number one hero was against him too?

"Yes I believe him! Not only does my quirk tell me he's telling the truth, the look in his eyes alone tells you everything! The pain, the sadness, the fear, he is drowning in it!" Said Tsukauchi, getting angry with her friend.

"All that can be faked. According to the file, he has been reporting this story for years. It's obvious he's fallen for his own lie." Said All Might incredulously.

"And in that same file you'll find that not ONE officer investigated the report. We're supposed to verify every claim, but the moment Murisaki's name is even brought up, everyone just says Midoriya is lying to get attention." Said Tsukauchi, doing her best to not yell at her friend.

"Because it's Murisaki! This is the guy who donates to hero and children's hospitals. He donates to multiple charities, and even runs a few himself AND several non-profits. He helps get laws passed to assist people in need. Murisaki even runs the largest foster home in japan, and puts away the entire child fund to give to the parents who adopt each kid! His generosity and kindness has gotten 2 schools, 3 parks, and a hospital named after him. He does so much for people, he is pretty much considered a saint. There is no way he would do what this kid is claiming." Argued All Might.

"You know for a fact that there have been many known cases of people like Murisaki who have done horrible things behind closed doors." Argued Tsukauchi, anger rising up in her.

"None of them did nearly as much as Murisaki, and were only a fraction as well known. There is no way that if he was doing this kind of thing that no one would have found out by now." Claimed All Might.

"And if what Izuku says his quirk actually is, then that would explain how he has gotten away with it for so long." Said Tsukauchi.

"Clearly just another lie he made up. This kid has a history of quirk misuse, aggression, and lying. I can't believe someone like you has fallen for the lies of a villain in the making. You should quit now before you ruin your career." Said All Might harshly. Izuku's breath hitched. There it was, another person calling him a villain. But this wasn't just anyone. This was All Might, the greatest hero to ever live. He was foolish for hoping that she would help him. Foolish for thinking that any hero would ever see him as anything but a villain. And what's worse, she's trying to tell the one person who believes him to stop helping him.

He distinctly heard Tsukauchi yelling something, but he didn't pay attention to what she was saying as he stood there for a bit, tears pouring out of his eyes. He didn't know at the time that even though he had long ago mastered crying quietly, his sniffling could be heard inside Tsukauchi's office. Izuku didn't know they heard him until he started running back to the children's room, and he heard the door to Tsukauchi's office open up, and she called after him. But he just continued to run.

When he made it back he slowly walked over and laid down on the cot they provided for him, and curled up, letting his tears flow freely. Not that he could stop them if he wanted to. He didn't know how long he laid there before Tsukauchi came in to comfort him. At first, he just thought she was going to tell him she changed her mind, and was dropping the whole case. But was instead surprised by her telling him that All Might is just being a huge idiot and that she is going to prove Murisaki's guilt.

*flashback ends*

He remembers hugging her after she told him that, and she continued comforting him. It wasn't the first time they embraced during that time, or even the last. But it was one of the more memorable ones, because for the first time in years, he felt someone was completely on his side. It was only beat out by the hug they shared when she told him she had proof of what Murisaki was doing. That he was going to be put away, and he would be put with a new guardian.

(A/N *Bangs head on a table many, many times.*)

Izuku shakily got back onto his feet ready to continue training when he heard the door open. "Izuku! There you are!" Izuku quickly turned around, surprised at who found him. He was expecting if anyone found him, it would be his mom or aunts. Instead, he found it was Nejire.

Nejire wasted no time in using her quirk to help her rush over to Izuku, but she stopped when she got close enough to get a good look at him. His breathing was staggered, and he looked like he was barely standing. But what's worse is how bad he is shaking. "Izuku, you're hurt."

Izuku turned away from her. "I'm fine." He said, his voice hollow. "What are you doing here anyways?"

"I came here looking for you!" Nejire said worried, regaining Izuku's attention. "Your mom called saying you ran off from a meeting you had with All Might. She sounded worried, and so am I." She said, getting quieter as she spoke. Nejire started walking up to Izuku. "Come on, we need to get you to Recovery Girl."

"I said I'm fine." Said Izuku with a bit of annoyance in his voice, but it quickly went away as he looked down somberly. "I deserve it anyways."

Nejire stopped just a couple feet from Izuku. "What do you deserve?" Izuku stayed silent. "What do you deserve!?"

"To hurt." He replied calmly.

"Why would you think that you deserve to hurt?!" Nejire screamed, tears forming in her eyes.

"Because I'm a villain! And villains need to be beaten and suppressed!" Yelled Izuku, as his head snapped back to Nejire. The emotional pain is clear in his expression.

"Izuku, you are not a villain!" Screamed Nejire as the tears started pouring out of her eyes.

"And what do you know!? You barely even know me!" Yelled Izuku.

"That's where you're wrong Izuku Midoriya." Replied Nejire calmly.

Izuku's eyes widened in shock. "How?..." was all he was able to say before his voice died in this throat.

"I was curious. My home room teacher calls in a substitute for a full week after winter break? And then I come to find out the rumors of her adopting someone turned out to be true? It wasn't hard to figure out, since you were in the news about the same time she came back. But what I found out was horrifying." Spoke Nejire gently, as tears continued to fall from her eyes.

"So you were just keeping an eye on me then?" Izuku said solemnly as if he was stating a fact.

"You want to know what I found out? I found out that the person who your birth mom gave you to, what a demon disguised as a saint. To a beast so evil, his actions rivaled even some of the worst villains." Said Nejire. Izuku looked away from her solemnly. He couldn't help but be scared about where she was going with this.

"I also found you tried to report him over a hundred times, and no one believed you. No one came to help you. Instead, they all called you a villain. And when someone finally helped, they tried to stop her. Then when Murisaki was caught, he blamed you for his actions, and so many people believed him. But thankfully he was sentenced to, and is still on, death row. I also know that it wasn't the end of your suffering. You were left in a new foster home that beat you, neglected you, and nearly killed you. Yet no one helped, or worse, they participated." Spoke Nejire. Sounding like she had to use every ounce of strength to not break down. She closed the distance between the two and cupped his cheek, and was saddened when he flinched at her touch. She gently encouraged him to look at her, and gave him a caring smile. "Most of all, I know that you are a kind and caring person who would protect anyone in need. That you are by no means a villain. And that you will one day prove to the world that you are in fact a hero."

Tears started falling out of Izuku's eyes as he raised his hand to grab hold of the one Nejire was holding his cheek with. He didn't know why, but Nejire knowing his past felt like a weight lifted off his shoulders. He wasn't ready to tell anyone else, but it felt good knowing she was on his side despite knowing who he is. "Thank you." He spoke quietly.

"Now what happened?" Asked Nejire. "I know that being called a villain by so many people for so long can get to you, but something tells me there's more to it than that."

Izuku proceeded to tell Nejire the story of the conversation he overheard, and his interactions with All Might over the last couple days. But he told her All Might offered to train him. Even if he's upset with her, he's not going to just go announcing her secret to everyone. He spoke with such emotion and clarity that Nejire could practically see the events through his eyes, telling her that it was something that caused him a great deal of pain. While he spoke she guided him to a bench before he keeled over, but never let go of his hand. When he was done, she wanted to express her sympathies, but knew that's not what he needed right now. "So why did what All Might said hurt so much? Don't get me wrong, what she said was horrible and completely wrong. But from what I gather it wasn't the first time someone said something similar." Asked Nejire worried.

"Because she was the number one hero, she said so many times that she wants to rescue everyone in danger. Yet I wasn't even worth her attention." Said Izuku downcast.

Nejire felt there was more to it than that. "Was All Might your favorite hero?"

Izuku nodded his head. "She was even the one who inspired me to be a hero. Before I got my quirk, I watched the video of her debut every day. I wanted to be just like her and save people with a smile on my face." Said Izuku.

"Could that be why it hurt so much?" Asked Nejire.

Izuku was about to tell her no before he stopped and thought about it. He used to hold her in such high regards, so much so that he wanted to be just like her. He used to believe without a doubt that if he could tell her his plight, that she would save him. And if she thought he was a villain...

"That made you have to either lose faith in your idol, or believe you're a villain?" Asked Nejire, finishing his thoughts. Which made him quickly realize that he was mumbling, a habit he thought he got rid of in his time with Chiaki.

Though instead of fearing a beating, he just looked at his shaking hands. "Maybe I did both?" He said somberly.

"So what made you start getting angry at her?" Asked Nejire.

"I think I've always been angry. The things I've been through, it just didn't seem fair. And when I finally got help, my idol of all people tried to stop them. In my head, I knew that she was doing wrong by me. And her not even apologizing just felt like she was one of the people still on Murisaki's side." Said Izuku sullen.

Nejire places her other hand over his. "I'm not going to say that I know how much it hurt, because I can only imagine it. But I think you should accept All Might's offer."

"But how can I forgive someone who actively tried to stop the investigation!? Someone who didn't care enough to even talk to me and look into the claim!?" Asked Izuku despondent.

"I never said to forgive her." Said Nejire, getting a confused look from Izuku. "Why do you think All Might is number one?"

Izuku gave it some thought. "Because she's the best at rescuing people, and making them feel safe." Answered Izuku.

"And has that changed these last five years?" Asked Nejire. Izuku simply shook his head no. "Exactly. She is very skilled at being a hero, despite her doing something bad. And you don't have to like someone to learn from them." Advised Nejire. "Do you think you can put your anger to the side long enough to learn from her?"

Izuku mulled over her words. She wasn't wrong. Heck Endeavor is an absolutely terrible person, yet is number two because he is extremely skilled. When it comes down to it, he is being offered the chance to be an even better hero. The chance to save even more people. Is he really going to throw that away because he hates the person he's going to help him get there?

Nejire couldn't help but smile as she saw Izuku's expression turn from thoughtful to determined before he nodded his head. "You're right. I can do this." He said determined, shooting to his feet as he did so. But that was the wrong thing to do as his vision went blurry, head went light, and legs felt like jello.

Thankfully Nejire was quick to act and helped him steady himself before he crashed to the ground. She was completely oblivious to the fact that she was pressing her double d's into his arm. Something Izuku was acutely aware of, as he started blushing up a storm. "Th-th-thanks." He stuttered out.

Nejire gave him a bright smile. "Of course. If you ever need help, don't be afraid to ask. Now let's get you to Recovery Girl." She said happily, as she pulled his arm over her shoulder, helping him walk.

After reaching Recovery Girls office, Izuku got a grandmotherly kind of scolding from her. Telling him how his mother contacted her, saying that he ran off and had them all worried sick. It did remind Nejire to text her that she found him.

Just as Recovery Girl finished treating him the door slammed open. Right as Izuku turned to see who it was, his mom enveloped him in a hug. "You had me worried sick."

Izuku teared up, and returned the embrace. "I'm sorry." He said quietly.

Shoka pulled away, putting her hands on his shoulders and giving him a reassuring smile. "No, I'm sorry. I should have asked what happened between you and All Might."

Izuku shook his head. "No I should have been upfront about it."

Recovery Girl sighed exasperated, already seeing where this was going to go. She gently but firmly bonked both of them on the head with her cane. "You're both sorry, now just communicate better in the future." Said Recovery Girl. Nejire couldn't help but giggle at the sight.

Shoka and Izuku were both rubbing the spot Recovery Girl struck. It wasn't hard but it still hurt. "Ok, we will granny." Said Izuku with a heartwarming smile.

Recovery Girl returned the smile. "Good, now take it easy for the rest of the day, and come see me for a followup tomorrow." Ordered Recovery Girl, getting an affirmative nod from Izuku.

Shoka turned to Nejire, giving a thankful smile. It was still weird to Nejire to see this side of her. "Thank you so much for finding him."

"It's no problem. I'm happy to help. But I think Izuku has something to tell you." Said Nejire happily.

Shoka turned to Izuku expectantly, with an edge of worry. "Really? What is it?"

Izuku gave her a determined look, one that made the others so proud. "I've decided to accept All Might's offer." He stated.

Shoka was actually surprised by this. Just an hour ago he was running away from All Might absolutely pissed at her. And rightfully so in her opinion "Are you sure?" She asked worriedly.

"Yes. I want to become the best hero I can be, and save as many people as possible. And if that means putting my personal feelings aside, then so be it." Stated Izuku resolute.

Shoka felt pride well up inside her, but was now worried about something else. "Just don't push yourself too much, you matter too." Said Shoka lovingly.

"And if you ever need help in any way, don't be afraid to ask." Chimed in Nejire.

"And don't go hiding it if you're hurting." Added Recovery Girl.

Izuku could feel the immense love in the room, and it made him feel warm inside. "Of course." He said while nodding his head.

Suddenly the door burst open again, and before he could react, Izuku was glomped by his aunt Mic, and aunt Midnight. They were hugging him tight, while crying and blubbering about being worried about him. Izuku would normally appreciate the love and affection if it wasn't for one problem.

Recovery Girl hit both Mic and Midnight hard on their heads with her cane. "Gosh dang it! Let the boy breath!" She yelled at the two.

The two quickly released their hold on him, and started apologizing.

"*Cough* *cough* It's ok. How did you know I was here?" Asked Izuku as he rubbed his now sore throat.

"Your mom told us you were found and were here." Said Midnight sheepishly.

Izuku gave his mom a questioning look. "Who else did you ask for help finding me?"

"The rest of the UA staff." Shoka replies offhandedly.

"And might I add, those that I saw looked really worried. You've only recently started meeting our co-workers, and they already have a soft spot for you." Said Present Mic with a bit of a teasing smile. "So don't be surprised if they check up on you later."

Izuku couldn't help but smile thoughtfully. He felt such an abundance of love. Far more love than he ever believed he'd receive. "I look forward to it." He said without thinking, getting smiles from everyone. "But for now I've got someone I need to talk to." He said as he stood up.

"Do you need me to come with?" Asked Shoka.

Izuku shook his head. "No, I got this. But thank you." He said gratefully. He took a few steps towards the door before stopping in his tracks. "Oh, right." He said quietly to himself before quickly closing the distance between him and Nejire, and surprising her with a hug. Though her surprise faded fast, as she happily returned the embrace. "Thank you for helping me again."

"Any time." She replied happily.

Izuku pulled away from the hug and was blushing up a storm as he started poking his index fingers together. "And feel free to say no, but would you like to hang out sometime? Maybe after I finish talking with All Might?" He asked nervously.

Nejire couldn't help but giggle and find him to be super adorable. "I'd love to, I'll see you soon." She replied, giving him a warm smile.

Izuku smiled wide and gave her a firm nod, then left Recovery Girl's office. It was time to take the next step to becoming a great hero.