Author's Notes: Fellas, this story is going to get crazy. If you can't wait to see what happens next, check my profile. I usually have the title of the next chapter posted, along with a 2 sentence summary of what to expect.
Reminder: I'm shooting for 40 chapters. So we got 18 left to go! Woohoo! By now you might've noticed a pattern. Every 10 chapters builds towards the climax of a specific arc.
For example;
Entrance Exam Arc: Chapters 1-10
USJ Arc: Chapters 11-20
The third arc will be familiar in setting but will contain several twists to keep you on your toes.
The fourth and final arc will be something completely new and different. My hope is it will be unlike any MHA/Crossover fic you've guys have ever read, and that is by design.
Also, I'd really like to know what you all thought of chapter 21. It was by FAR the most difficult piece of writing I have ever worked on. It pushed me to my creative limits and took me places I never thought I would go. Do you think I should make more Ben 10 centric chapters moving forwards? LMK.
...
TEN TIMES THE HERO: CHAPTER 22
CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
...
Upon entering the hideout, Shigaraki prepared himself for the imminent shame to come.
If an army of invisible nomu, a platoon of thugs, along with Kurogiri, Shirai and the All Might Buster wasn't enough– then what would it take? What would it take to kill at least one of those UA brats? For Sensei to sign off on it, the plan must've been foolproof!
Sure, Thirteen kicked the bucket, but that victory was marginal at best. Shigaraki was beside himself. Maybe this batch was more resourceful than he initially gave them credit for.
Pushback was to be expected, but the way they rallied together made it seem as though the group had experience far beyond that of first years. Which made partial sense. Izuku Midoriya had fought his fair share of battles. That was public knowledge– and Shigaraki, begrudgingly, had to respect someone who was willing to get their hands dirty.
While Midoriya's late game heroics saved them all in the end, Shigaraki was willing to look past the fact. Currently he was more interested in 1-A's wild card: Kevin Eleven. Shigaraki's blood turned acidic at the mere thought of him.
That smug look on his face after he sent Nomu flying was seared into his memory. Not to mention he had the nerve to mock him after getting impaled through the chest. God, what he would give to watch the life wilt from his eyes again.
"Tomura." The grating, labored voice of Sensei commanded him to stop.
"Come here."
Hand vibrating with a dull pain, Shigaraki obeyed.
"Sit."
Between the pounding in his eardrums and his obsessively violent thoughts, he could pick apart the sounds of Sensei's ventilator neck brace operating— fighting to keep the demon king alive. This handicap merely proved that Sensei's conviction equaled the strength of his will. He truly believed in what he was doing, a trait that Shigaraki greatly admired.
"Let the doctor patch you up." He gestured to the bald, overweight man pushing a medical cart towards him.
Hesitantly, he allowed Dr. Ujiko access to his wounded palm. A bullet was still lodged partway through the throbbing, swelling flesh. He dared to gaze up at the unnerving, black mask which clung to Sensei's mutilated face. His disappointment was palpable.
"Tell me what happened." Sensei demanded sternly.
Wasting no time, Shigaraki told him everything.
He explained how easily they had gotten the drop on UA. Supplied explicit details about Nomu's titanic battle with the symbol of peace. Shirai successfully stalling both Eraser Head and Midoriya. How the students subdued Kurogiri, and what resulted in them losing despite their number advantage.
Shigaraki resisted the temptation to flinch as the doctor plucked the bullet out with a pair of tweezers. He refused to show weakness of any kind in front of Sensei. The idea of being anything less than a pawn to him…
"...They're all headed into the system. Some, like Kurogiri, are probably being admitted to Tartarus as we speak. Shirai… Midoriya— he dealt with him. I'm sure of it. None that I can think of escaped– none except for me." He finished the recap.
Dr. Ujiko tightened the final stitches in deafening silence.
"You think? Or you know, Tomura?"
Shigaraki immediately sensed he had made a huge mistake. The doctor wisely stepped away.
"I'm sure of it, Sensei."
All of a sudden, he was pulled from where he slouched on the stool and thrown against the wall. Fists pummeled his head, breaking his nose, and busting his chapped lips.
"Did they know of this place!?" Sensei yelled.
Another sickening punch.
"No!? Sensei!? H-how could they!?"
A knee slammed into his gut, knocking the wind from his lungs.
"Answer me straight! DO ANY OF THEM KNOW?"
"I don't thin-CK!" Sensei slapped him, sending him sprawling to the floor.
So Shigaraki couldn't look away, Sensei roughly squished his cheeks between his brutish fingers and artificially breathed, "DO. THEY. KNOW?"
Suffocating on bloodied saliva, he sputtered out a frail response.
"No… Sensei, they… don't… KNOW!" He gulped air as the criminal overlord relinquished his strangling vice on him.
"Forgive me… Sensei… I failed you…"
Sensei reigned in his anger, straightening his crooked tie.
"I taught you well, Tomura."
Shigaraki shakily rose to his knees, using a trash bin for added support.
"I never expected you to succeed." He revealed with no remorse.
Shigaraki stared back in disbelief. Sensei turned his attention to the doctor.
"The task of slaying All Might belongs to me. While Dr. Ujiko's work is impressive… no specimen of his is capable of finishing the symbol of peace."
The pudgy man stiffened as his ability was placed into question. Pride wounded, he adjusted his goggles and disposed of the bullet.
"Your objective, Tomura, was to inspire fear in the hearts of those foolhardy children who call themselves heroes. Thanks to your efforts, we can expand the potential of the nomu further." He said harshly.
"Based on your description of this, Kevin Eleven, figure–"
Shigaraki glowered at the mention of his name.
"–It's clear that he is the inheritor of One For All. At last, my old nemesis has found a successor to dethrone me." Sensei mused.
"With a quirk strikingly similar to my own. Could it be? Did All Might choose him to spite me?"
"Toga went through the boy's files at UA. There was no date of birth, home address or medical records of any kind. It's as if he hails from another universe entirely." Dr. Ujiko informed his master.
"So the decision to pass One For All down to Kevin Eleven was made on a whim." Sensei gathered.
"Such dramatic timing would indicate All Might believed his luck was close to running out. He's weak. Far weaker than I originally anticipated."
"Sensei…!" Shigaraki crawled to his master's feet, bowing.
"Shall I redirect Toga onto this new assignment?"
"Her current assignment has proven plenty useful to our operations. Endangering the unwitting Midoriya now would be strategic death."
'Sensei is letting them all go free?'
"Of course…"
"Rest now, Tomura, for a great war is coming." He reached down to pet Shigaraki's hair.
"But first, clean this mess you made."
Like an apparition, Sensei disappeared.
"Yes… Sensei…" Shigaraki whispered to himself, curling inwards on the tepid tiled flooring.
—
3 MONTHS AND 29 DAYS UNTIL ARMAGEDDON...
—
"GOOD AFTERNOOON, JAPAN!" A charismatic voice boomed from the loudspeakers.
"I'M YOUR HOST…!" The camera zoomed forward, beams of light intersecting on a metallic desk located at centerstage.
"...HANS LUECHI!" The final light cast downward, revealing the anchorman as he thrust open the curtains, already waving and blowing kisses toward the cheering live audience.
His attire consisted of a glossy red suit paired with a bowtie to match. A pale rose rested in his jacket pocket. The cherry garment clashed tastefully with the stark white dress shirt tucked beneath it.
As was tradition, the anchorman jogged over to his swiveling chair. Hopping on rear first, the momentum caused him to skirt and spin. Nearly losing his balance, he slapped his arms on the desk to stop himself from toppling over. Wiping invisible sweat from his brow, he stared into the camera, trying not to laugh.
He caved in after a few seconds, unable to contain his excitement. The moment of levity was mirrored by a majority of the audience members. Spirits were high as orchestral music flowed from backstage. Neatly folding his hands together, a charming smile plastered itself on his pristine features.
"Welcome to C.B. News! Short for Cherry Blossom News! At twelve!" He winked as if the audience were in on a joke.
What joke that was, who knows?
"Today, we will be discussing and uncovering the events of the terrorist attack which took place on UA high school! Resulting in the deaths of two guardians of the law! Detective Naomasa Tsukauchi of the Musutafu Police Department! And the space heroine, Thirteen!"
The angle cut, alternating between close ups and panning views of the live audience's varying reactions to the information.
"While there is still much to be learned," the camera crew returned their focus to Luechi, currently busy shuffling a stack of printed papers, "There are rumors we can either confirm or dispel right off the bat!" He squared his perfectly chiseled jaw.
"The attack occurred at 1:36 P.M. yesterday, during one of UA's mandatory field trips to an onsite facility– the USJ. The acronym stands for Unforeseen Simulation Joint. The purpose of the USJ, is to teach students how to react during the case of natural disasters. Such as the aptly titled, Flood Zone: A GIANT swimming pool dedicated to handling seafaring mishaps. Now that's a pack you don't want to smoke! According to eye witness testimonies, that pool wound up flooding an estimated 40% of the facility prior to the evacuation crews arrival.
Now that the concept behind the USJ has been drilled into your noggins, you may begin to see the utility a project like this provides the school. It cuts down on several expenses…" He counted with his fingers to help demonstrate.
"...Transportation, food, storage, connections, rented venues for training, yadda yadda, etcetera, etcetera…" The anchorman drawled.
"Basically, it's a win-win for everybody involved! …Unless, of course, you attend UA as a student– and rather than being taught a valuable lesson about fire safety, these kids were instead given a harsh reminder of just how cruel and unforgiving our world can be.
Lying in wait of UA's esteemed class 1-A, were ninety-eight villains! Each hellbent on murdering every last one of them! Morbid, I know! But it goes deeper than petty grievances with children! The presumed leader of this attack, Shigaraki, demanded All Might's head be brought to him on a silver platter! Buddy, you'd be lucky if you got to touch a single strand of his glorious golden hair!" Detested, Luechi threw his pages in the air, uncaring of how they scattered along the desk and floor.
"Nuh-uh! You want him, you have to go through ME!" He shook his head once the energetic audience sedated itself.
Staring at the teleprompter, Luechi debated internally whether or not he should go off script.
"There was another villain involved in the attack– a figure some of you may be already be familiar: Shirai." He allowed the audience time to gasp, and shrugged, as if he were equally disturbed.
"For those of you who still doubt his identity, we can confirm this was the same man responsible for hijacking the Musutafu monorail with the intent to commit mass suicide a year ago today. As if that knowledge wasn't foreboding enough, apparently… Shirai happens to be a retired pro hero." The anchorman revealed, adopting a serious tone.
"Codename Seer, his claim to fame was being the only underground hero to ever break into the top 10. Word on the street is, he aligned himself with the League of Villains, to exact revenge on the man who took his family. By murdering Endeavor's prodigy, Shoto Todoroki. You can fact check me, but I assure you– it's all there."
Taking a second to gather his thoughts, Luechi continued, grimacing.
"Obviously, he failed. Shirai's body was found during an investigation, buried beneath debris. Evidence concludes that he was unable to escape in time before the dome fully collapsed, crushing him to death."
Exhaling carefully, "I have a confession to make."
The audience was quiet. The teleprompter froze.
"Eleven years ago, I was living inside a storage unit. I ate breakfast, lunch and dinner at a gas station. I had no bank account, no credit, no diploma to my name, nothing! Zilch! That was my life… but all of that changed after I met that man." He gestured behind him at the wide flat screen, displaying an image of the hero donning a scarlet costume with a black visor.
"Because of the attention his interview got me, I was able to land my first sponsorship deal. With the money I saved from that, I launched my brand. I was able to move off the streets and afford real, organic food! I owe everything I have," His jaw set, "to that man. Because of him, I continued doing what I loved– bringing people– the proud, citizens of Japan– the hard truth. The truth I knew they deserved!" He slammed his trembling fist on the desk.
"I am just as shocked, disgusted and appalled by what Shirai did. What he attempted to do. To some, he might've been a familiar face… but do not be fooled. This, sorry excuse of a man was a fake all along! Really, it just goes to show you, that people are more than the shiny costumes they wear. Presentation, is one thing, but it is the choices of the man which defines him." Luechi paused to catch his breath.
"And what better way to bring the people of Japan– the people of the world, the truth… other than the principal of UA himself!" The anchorman started applauding like a maniac, spurring the audience members to follow suit.
"GIVE HIM A HAND EVERYBODY!"
Nezu parted the curtains, spotlights following him as he waved politely to the crowd. He had to climb the base of the upholstered chair to properly sit in it. But he wasn't dissuaded by the giggles. He was used to people regarding him as inferior.
"Thank you for agreeing to have me on, Luechi. It's a pleasure." The rodent nodded at the host respectfully.
"Oh, no, the pleasure is all mine!"
"I've been impressed with your work for a while now."
"You're a fan of the show?"
"No one gets information out as fast as you."
"I'm flattered."
"Flattery only gets you so far in this business. I'm sure you're aware."
Luechi threw his head back and laughed.
"Whatever that means, you are so right– please, make yourself comfortable. I know this must be a difficult topic for you, seeing as all this is still so fresh, but could you allow us some insight? Who exactly, was Thirteen?"
"Thirteen was a close colleague of mine. I remember when she attended my academy as a student– even then, she was one of our brightest. Despite the dangers her quirk, she always insisted on becoming a rescue hero."
"Mhm. How old was she?"
"Twenty-nine."
"I am so terribly sorry for your loss."
"We're all going to miss her, very dearly. I pray for her loved ones."
Luechi paid tribute to the fallen hero with a brief moment of silence.
"Reports indicated a separate casualty occurred following the evacuation effort. If I am not mistaken—"
"—Detective Tsukauchi of the Musutafu Police Department. He was their finest officer of the law, but he was an even better man. The circumstances of his death are harrowing."
"Tell me, Nezu: How were these villains able to infiltrate UA? Your security systems must be state of the art."
"The electronic systems were jammed. The disaster doors were locked shut. The dome's protective plating was active– Luechi," Nezu snapped to keep the host awake, "the USJ was constructed with a vilified threat in mind. However, that protocol did not account for said threat already being inside with them."
"UA personnel are the only people granted keys to access such a facility?" The anchorman frowned.
"That is correct."
"Is it possible," Luechi leaned forward on the desk, "the act of terrorism committed against your school– could this have been an inside job?"
The principal remained stoic throughout the insinuation. He knew his answer would have to be incredibly concise.
"I have the utmost trust and faith in my staff. Regardless of status, Extensive background checks are performed on all of our employees and students." He tip-toed cautiously.
Leuchi nodded in understanding, transferring his weight on the arm of his swivel chair.
"Before our time here is up, I have a couple more, pressing matters, that I would like to discuss."
"What is preventing these villains from attacking us again in the future, perhaps?" Nezu guessed.
Cornered, Luechi offered a smile that didn't quite reach his eyes.
"You read my mind!"
"I can't disclose the exact procedure on national television. That would violate my contract."
"In layman's terms?" He desperately needed something.
"Next time, we'll be ready."
Anything.
"And Izuku Midoriya?"
"...What of him?"
"Well, he has been involved in four major incidents within the past year alone. To some, that would be a red flag. Some wonder why you allowed him into your school at all?"
"I can't fathom why. None of those incidents are connected." The principal refuted swiftly.
Luechi chortled contentiously.
"Seems, awfully coincidental that he's encountered so many villains. He may be only fifteen, but I'd bet he's got more blood on his hands than some pros do! Shouldn't that raise concern?"
Nezu tilted his snout in a dignified manner.
"Midoriya has had a rough go of it, certainly. That he keeps pursuing his dream at all, after baseless accusations of motive and senseless slander, proves his heart remains in the right place. I am proud to have him attending my institution."
"Well, I think that's all the time we have for this segment!" Luechi rose from his desk and knelt to the shake the principal's paw.
"Thanks again for inviting me on your show!" Nezu smirked, teeth visible only to the sweating anchorman.
"What can I say? I love giving the people what they want!"
...
Shoto Todoroki couldn't feel anything below his waist.
He was told that he would regain the ability to walk within two weeks. Unsurprisingly, his father reacted poorly to that news about his temporary paralysis. No walking meant he couldn't train. So for now, the flame hero would have to find other ways to fill his spare time.
Not that Todoroki minded.
He despised his father to no end. The man had robbed him of any semblance of a happy childhood. Any excuse to not see his father– was a positive.
The attack led by the League of Villains on the USJ had broken headlines around the globe. Questions concerning security were raised for hero academies. This prompted numerous governments to bolster their funding of private schools, fearing they would be seen as easy targets.
Todoroki recalled one report he read off his phone earlier that morning. The article covered all the bases in regards to what happened. The sea of low-ranking thugs, the scare surrounding All Might, and the apparent "brains," behind the operation: Shigaraki.
A brief interrogation with one of those aforementioned grunts, had suggested there were additional powers at play. Like Kaminari and Levin, he already told the police detective everything he learned. Behind Shigaraki, there was a boss– a man that evidently doesn't like to show his face. As well as the inclusion of an unethical scientist, specified to be a doctor.
As far as he could tell, there were no mentions about the nomu anywhere. If he had to guess, the HPSC must be trying to hide the existence of the mindless beasts.
He's visited their headquarters in Tokyo dozens of times over the years. Against his will, his father made sure to introduce him to some of the chief executives in charge of running the place. He didn't particularly care for any of them, but he still paid attention during the business meetings. It wouldn't make sense to ignore what they had to say. These men were filthy rich for a reason. Whether they were fueled by greed or disdain wasn't exactly Todoroki's problem.
What he did find rather problematic, however, was the unscrupulous amount of journalism outlets that appeared less interested in the terrorist actions of the League, and more so leaned into their harsh criticisms directed at his classmates– one in particular: Izuku Midoriya.
The boy who risked his life to save him.
Whatever adjectives they wanted to use to describe him– Todoroki knew better. When the dome came crashing down around him, he was certain that he was going to die. But somehow, Midoriya found where he'd been buried beneath the rubble. Even going as far to miraculously lift the debris long enough for Todoroki to claw his way to safety– not before getting himself trapped as result.
With the amount of carbon dioxide he inhaled, Todoroki assumed he hallucinated what happened next: A hero turned villain putting aside their differences to toss him outside the collapsing USJ. Barring the absurdity of the world they lived in, it almost seemed too ludicrous to be real. Tamakawa Sansa, the leading detective on the case following his partners death, confirmed that what he saw was true, placing Todoroki in a precarious position.
"...Son of Endeavor… your blood… runs through me…"
Cryptic at a surface level, what Shirai said to him could be interpreted quite literally. He had used blue fire to melt the USJ barrier– that part, he knew he didn't imagine. Which meant his brother, Touya, was still alive. He had to be.
Todoroki had only known one person with a quirk so volatile. Between the twisted versions of Midoriya's transformations and portal generating butlers… Touya's DNA was apparently out there somewhere.
He didn't bother to bring this information to his father's attention. The man had not cared for Touya in the slightest when he was around, so he doubted this news would change that. So neglecting the flame hero, Todoroki felt he had an obligation to share this knowledge with Fuyumi and Natsuo. Including his mother.
Todoroki was ashamed that he hadn't yet gathered the courage to visit her at the psychiatric ward. He was afraid that if his mother were to see him now, she could potentially relapse. That guilt was the last thing he needed on his mind.
Once Sansa started started prodding him for details of his family's possible connection due to Shirai's blue fire, he refused all further questioning and demanded he be left alone. For the likes of Endeavor, ruining people's lives wasn't anything new. Speaking of it openly was especially irksome.
A few minutes later, having calmed down somewhat, Midoriya inquired about the relationship he had with his mother. They were treated in the same room, so he couldn't just ignore his classmate– not after overhearing everything. Well, he definitely could ignore him, but Todoroki amended that he owed him at least some respect for what he did.
Upon hearing the tale of his mother's fate, Midoriya was adamant that Todoroki go see her– as soon as he could. While the thought of it is nerve wracking, it's still better than carrying that regret around everywhere he went. He even offered to join him if he was too uncomfortable going on his own.
He was glad Midoriya didn't pry any deeper than that. Another thing Todoroki appreciated– he understood where boundaries were set. Which got him thinking, because Todoroki didn't really make friends… but perhaps an acquaintance could be found in Midoriya? He didn't seem at all bothered by his lack of conversational skills. Maybe it wouldn't hurt to give it a shot.
Ashido sent them a group text, addressing everyone in the class to meet at Kirishima's room so they could properly "air things out." Todoroki wasn't sure how turning a fan on was supposed to help, but Midoriya got the meaning behind the text instantly. Insisting that Todoroki not waste his energy, he took on the responsibility of rolling him around the hospital in a wheelchair.
Once they were all huddled inside Kirishima's room, Midoriya pushed him beside the water cooler. Taking a tentative sip from his paper cup, he counted the classmates who were missing from this impromptu meeting; Iida, Aoyama, Jiro and Bakugou.
Bakugou wasn't added to the contact list. Todoroki suspected no one was upset about his exclusion. The remaining three classmates were discharged from the hospital earlier that morning and placed in the care of their families. Some of the students, including himself, were requested they stay an extra night for additional observation.
"Thank you for all coming." Ashido sighed, resting her knuckles on her hips.
"What's this about?" He cut to the chase.
Ashido pursed her lips worriedly.
"I thought it would be a good idea if everyone had a chance to vent about yesterday. I get that we're training to be heroes, and one day, we will have to face villains again… but none of us were prepared to be fighting for our lives. Not this soon."
Levin scoffed at the suggestion.
Undeterred, Ashido rambled on. "What we all experienced was nothing short of traumatic."
Todoroki closed his eyes, preparing to take a nap.
"This is a safe space." She declared.
"If there's something you feel you need to get off your chest, now's the time. If you aren't totally comfortable mentioning it out loud, you can always refer to the class group chat. Just remember, you aren't alone."
"OK." Hagakure spoke first, on board with the idea.
"Um, Kirishima… when that Nomufied Slipstream grabbed you… I seriously thought you were going to die. I-I would've done more, but it all happened so fast…" She sniffled, floating hospital gown trembling.
The Crimson Riot enthusiast was encased head-to-toe in a full body cast. Nearly every single one of his bones had been broken during his scuffle with the zombie speedster. Remedial quirks were a staple of modern medicine, meaning most trips to the emergency room could be handled swiftly and effectively. Surgery was still a vital practice, but the correlation between these powers and the drastic rise in survival expectancy in the last century was undeniable.
In Kirishima's case, the severity of his injuries made the healing process tedious. Multiple sessions would be required before he could get back on his feet. Todoroki would likely be up and walking before him.
"You almost died protecting me! If you hadn't made it, how would I be able to live with myself!?"
Despite the swollen mass sealing his left eye completely shut, he managed a playful smile.
"I'm sure you'd figure it out."
"Oh my god! I don't care how manly you are, that's crazy talk!" Hagakure huffed, causing Kirishima to begin giggling hysterically.
"Hey, hey! There's no reason to feel bad! I'm still in one piece, that's got to count for something! And it's not like I blame you for what happened to me! I vowed to live my life without any regrets, and saving you isn't one of them! Besides, there's no better way to die than doing what you love!"
Seeing their most physically beaten in such high spirits, had the spontaneous effect of raising class morale.
"That's precisely why you're grade A hero material!" Sero complimented jovially.
"Thank you bro! That means a lot!" Kirishima grinned wide, piranha teeth visible.
"No matter how many villains stand in our path, I'm rolling you with you guys until the very end!"
"There's no one else we'd rather have fighting by our side, Kirishima!" Yaoyorozu beamed, inspired by her classmate's optimistic attitude towards heroism.
"Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it." Shiozaki quoted passionately.
"Right." Shoji nodded convincingly. "We're all in this together now."
"For better or for worse." Tokoyami agreed, Dark Shadow snoring on his shoulder.
Ashido bawled, "I love you guys, so freaking much!" and hugged an unsuspecting Koda.
Eventually, the cathartic moment between newly forged friendships transitioned to more practical discussion.
"I don't want to be the guy that brings the mood down…" Sato started, drawing everyone's attention "…but I think we should address the giant elephant in the room."
"Sato, ribbit, what are you talking about? Elephants are already giant."
The sugar reliant teen frowned, as nobody seemed to get what he was hinting at.
"The attack was Midoriya's fault."
That got a reaction.
"Hah!?" Sero blanched, convinced he heard his classmate wrong.
"Bro, not cool! Ouch!" Kirishima scolded from the bed, wincing as the frame jostled.
"Is that supposed to be a joke?" The last comment came from Todoroki, his nap all but abandoned.
"Since when did you become so fond of him, Todoroki? I thought you held a grudge against him for what happened to your father's agency?"
"Hmph Now that's a joke. I could care less about what happened to that place. When that train demolished my father's agency I laughed for two hours straight." Todoroki said with a serious look on his face.
"I find that very hard to believe." He sweat dropped.
"Fine then, don't believe me. But money is not an issue for someone of my father's status. The whole fiasco was a nuisance to his checkbook at most."
Sato groaned, pinching the bridge of his bulbous nose. Studying the faces of indignation around him, "Never mind that! But can any of you explain why the nomu looked exactly like Midoriya's transformations!?"
He searched the cluttered room for any objections, finding none to be had. Todoroki had to admit, the uncanny resemblance to Midoriya's transformations was oddly coincidental.
"For some reason, only a handful of people outside this room have a clue they even exist!" He recounted the events of the previous day.
"When Mr. Aizawa went lone ranger, guess who made the first move?" He gestured in Midoriya's direction.
"If anything, that proves he was brave enough to act when nobody else would!" Kaminari countered.
"Which is probably what he wants us to believe!" Sato spluttered.
"Izuku Midoriya– so virtuous, so courageous, so heroic! I'm sick and tired of people treating him like he's special. Why? Because his tragic backstory was televised?"
He sounded jealous, but Todoroki kept that thought to himself.
"So what if those nomu ARE related to him? What difference would it make? I doubt that decision was made on his own volition, and he still put his life on the line for our sake!" Mineta argued.
"Just because you guys are willing to roll the red carpet out for him, doesn't mean I am!" He jabbed a thumb into his pectoral.
"Sato, ribbit, calm down." Asui fixed him with an astute glare.
"NO! I won't calm down! Thirteen's DEAD!" Sato snarled, causing the amphibious girl to recoil.
Just like that, the reason for their classmate's inner turmoil became solidified.
"Consider this: If we had been attacked by nomu that resembled me, would that not be cause for suspicion? Midoriya is hiding something from us. Plain and simple. You've all got to be blind or nearsighted if you can't see that."
Kaminari stomped past the shorter stature of Mineta, invading Sato's personal space. Pointing accusingly in his face, "You know, Bakugou may hold the title for the biggest jerk wad in the class, but you're making a pretty strong case!"
"Oh, I'm a jerk wad? Because I'm willing to ask the obvious questions that nobody seems to have the answers too!?"
Before things could escalate further, Levin inserted himself between the pair of jawing boys.
"Shut up! Both of you! Quit acting like children!" He criticized them, appearing immensely annoyed by the dispute.
Grabbing a fistful of Sato's shirt with his free hand, he stared down the stocky teen with remarkable intensity.
"Not one soul in this room takes Thirteen's death lightly! Being a hero means putting other people's lives ahead of your own! She sacrificed herself to save us– that was her choice! You can't peg all your problems onto a single guy! That type of self-pity is the lowest form of cowardice!
Take some responsibility, and grow up! The best thing you can do from here on out, is try to improve. So next time, when those villains come for our throats, you'll be prepared. So that we won't lose anyone like Thirteen again.
Oh, and as a suggestion? Maybe let the dude you're accusing of being a traitor defend himself first?"
Levin released Sato's shirt and nudged him backward. His glower lessened somewhat when he shifted his focus to the electrified blonde.
"Kaminari, it's great that you're willing to stick up for your friends. I can't begin to describe how much even the smallest act of compassion can totally alter the course of someone's life. I would know. That being said…"
Kaminari bit his tongue.
"You also can't operate strictly on impulse. Fighting with the same people that are supposed to be your allies is a recipe for disaster. Have some patience… and try thinking before you speak."
Kaminari appeared torn philosophically. Taking a deep, obliged breath, he swallowed his pride.
"Sato, I am sorry." He drawled.
"As am I..." Sato mumbled, even less enthused.
Emitting a content sigh, Levin gradually smirked, "OK… now kiss."
The pair of feuding teens gawked at Levin, then at each other.
"I'm kidding!" Chuckling, "Did you think I was serious?"
With the tension in the hospital room slightly depleted, a new voice entered the fray.
"Sato is right to be suspicious."
Midoriya was perched halfway on the windowsill ledge. Todoroki had forgotten he was there, overlooking the hectic streets below. Throughout the discussion amongst classmates, he reserved his own comments, waiting for the opportune time to jump in.
"You deserve the truth. So I'll tell you everything I know." Midoriya said, expression pained upon witnessing how much conflict he indirectly sparked.
"I think I might have encountered a nomu once before. At the time I called it Mr. Mute."
"When was this?" Asui wondered.
"A week after the incident with Shirai and the train."
Kirishima paled at the memory.
Midoriya described a tall and bulky figure that wore a trench coat and fedora. The nomu's hideous face was hidden beneath a blank cloth. He and Bakugou encountered them nearly a year prior at his previous school, Aldera Junior, right as PE was to start. After tracking them for a bit as Shadeshifter, he arrived at the conclusion they must've been probing for him in specific.
"…And at that same exact sink– where the nomu stood– that's where I cleaned my wound. I think it was searching for traces of my blood– for Slipstream's DNA." Midoriya clarified, hands clenched.
"Wasn't long before it recognized my scent. It chased me off school grounds, and just when I thought I lost Mr. Mute… I ran into Shigaraki."
His classmates held varying reactions to that unsettling reveal.
"I can't be sure if he knew I was the 'blue vigilante' then– not for certain. Likewise, I had no clue he was involved with the League at the time. But he left us alone."
"You had Shigaraki, the leader of the League of Villains, right in front of you and didn't report it to the police?"
"That's part of my dilemma, Sato. I couldn't tell anyone about what I saw. When I said my quirk manifested last year– I lied." He confessed, shame written on his features.
"What I meant was, I didn't have any powers until then." Midoriya referred to the shiny emerald device on his wrist.
"This watch isn't like other support items: It's called the Omnitrix. It allows me to transform into ten different aliens."
"Aliens?" Ashido mouthed, eyes filled with intrigue.
"Aliens." He reaffirmed, patiently letting that information sink in.
"I can't speak for Bakugou, but if you're familiar with the discrimination that quirkless people face on a daily basis… well, people– they just don't listen to us. We're treated like second class citizens. I could go tell the police– or a hero, about what I saw, but the moment they check my file for verification, suddenly it becomes an issue not worth delving into.
Lots of opportunities for success are blocked off if you're born quirkless. Most fields are dominated by people with quirks that either benefit or directly contribute to their work. Even UA is guilty of this. It wasn't until recently that quirkless people were allowed to apply, much less be accepted."
"What kind of backwards society would peddle such garbage?" Levin ground his teeth, tangibly upset.
"I was unaware of the challenges you faced, Midoriya. I truly am sorry you had to go through that." Yaoyorozu offered him a comforting pat on the shoulder.
"Yeah, so…" He unraveled slightly.
"I don't know exactly how those nomu we fought– the mutated versions of my aliens– came to be. But if I had to guess, it started then– with Mr. Mute. It's not that I wouldn't go to the police– it's that I couldn't."
Todoroki envisioned a life where he grew up quirkless. Maybe then his father would've taken the hint that his eugenics experiments were futile. If not for his quirk manifesting, Touya might still be around. His mother wouldn't be trapped in a psychiatric ward.
"Everything I have been able to do was because of the Omnitrix. Without it…" He gazed vacantly at his transparent reflection in the glass pane.
"...I'm nobody."
Todoroki frowned at the admission. Midoriya hadn't needed the Omnitrix to rescue him. That had to indicate he was more than some anonymous 'nobody.' It seemed redundant to Todoroki, that Midoriya would reject a part of himself that had gotten him so far.
"So you mean to tell us," Ashido twiddled her fingers, "there's like, thousands of Iron Jaws, Slipstreams and Meltdowns sort of just… chilling out in the universe somewhere?"
Levin snorted at her phrasing, earning him a vivacious pout in return.
"That's… where things get a bit complicated." Midoriya rubbed the back of his bandaged head.
"The Omnitrix originated from a universe entirely separate from our own."
"And we're supposed to take your word for it?" Sato scoffed.
"Is that too difficult to accept? We live in a world with quirks. There are tons of things we do that shouldn't be humanly possible. Aliens aren't that farfetched." Todoroki reminded him.
"There has to be some suspension of disbelief! I'm not going to accept that some magic watch fell out of the sky, landed on Midoriya's doorstep, and gave him those absurd powers! What proof does he have? Because–!"
"–Because I'm from that other universe." Levin interrupted his rant.
Kaminari made a face similar to when he exerted his quirk too hard.
"The Omnitrix belonged to my best friend, Ben Tennyson. Before he died, he swore to me that he left it in capable hands. So far, I've yet to find a reason to prove him wrong." He motioned to the greenette proudly, who blushed at the praise.
"After Eon sliced my arm off," He waved his nub for emphasis, "I was taken hostage and put in stasis. Next thing I know, I'm in Japan, the city I lived in doesn't exist– and apparently, I found the time to learn Japanese.
It was actually the detective who found me– the guy that got killed at the USJ– he pulled the strings so I could meet with principal Nerd-zu. As it turns out, what I did back home is pretty damn similar to what you guys are doing here. Only you guys get paid for it.
Until I can find a way back to my universe, I'm a full-timer at UA… even though I dropped out of school in the 4th grade."
"The fourth grade?" Mineta echoed.
"Eon was a time traveler, hellbent on wiping the timeline." Midoriya added.
"And during our fight, he said my use of the Omnitrix has kickstarted events into motion that never should've occurred. So if anyone's to blame for Thirteen— for Tsukauchi– it's me."
Sato, frustrated and perplexed by what he was hearing, promptly stormed out of the room. Midoriya, distressed, went to follow him, only to be halted as Todoroki latched onto his wrist.
"Don't waste your breath on him."
Ashido insisted, "I'm sure he'll come around eventually, Midori."
"We know you mean well, but shifting the blame onto yourself won't solve a thing. The reality is we all have to shoulder this burden equally. I'm sure to some degree, Sato also blames himself for what happened to Thirteen, and rather than directing his anger inwards, he's chosen to direct it at you." Shiozaki nodded, eyes laden with concern.
"You did the best you could." Koda added softly.
"Exactly! If doing the right thing makes you the bad guy– then I'm the Pope." Kaminari slung his arm across the greenette's shoulder and squeezed.
Sero casted a sidelong glance at Shiozaki, who was resolutely frowning at the analogism.
"I'm calling him out– Eon? Dude was full of shit. Whatever he told you that day, it was all mind games to fuck with your head because he knew you were vulnerable."
"You guys…" Midoriya looked stunned. "...I don't know what to say?"
"Then don't say anything." Shoji demurred.
"Actions speak louder than words."
Tokoyami folded his arms. "For All Might to be dispatched like he was…"
"…It's alarming." Yaoyorozu agreed. "And if Shigaraki was willing to go to such lengths to infiltrate UA's campus, then–?"
"–This was just the appetizer." Levin surmised, cracking his neck.
"Now they got a score to settle." Hagakure grumbled, kneeling to ink her signature on Kirishima's elevated leg.
"Do you like unicorns?" She asked.
"Unicorns? Yeah, super manly."
"Manly unicorns." Humming, the levitating marker scribbled a rough depiction of the mythical horse flexing.
"I don't get it. What did we do to piss these guys off?" Kaminari accepted the pen from Hagakure.
"It's not a matter of what we did specifically– it's about sending a message." Mineta said, eyes soulless.
"UA is the top hero academy in the world. Who knows what bright ideas this will give villains in other countries? If we're vulnerable to an attack– what does that say for the schools below us? What chance do they stand?"
"I hate to say it, but that's a good point, Mineta." Asui tapped her chin thoughtfully.
"This mass hysteria is only the beginning..." Tokoyami spoke forebodingly.
Knock-Knock.
The class ceased all conversation, reorienting their focus on the doorway. Todoroki glared at the uninvited guest.
"Shoto."
"Father." He made no attempt to hide the resentment in his voice.
"What are you doing here?"
Endeavor was a mountain of a man. Standing six feet, five inches tall, he towered over ordinary civilians and fellow heroes alike. He was in costume. The navy blue fabric stretched to fit his immense muscular physique. Another one of his 'feats of strength,' was the constant flow of regulated flame emitting from his face, meant to resemble facial hair. Personally, Todoroki thought the burning mustache was stupid and unnecessary.
"I came to pick up my son from the hospital." He said as if it were obvious.
"I'm supposed to stay for another night, bare minimum. You weren't made aware of that?"
"I already signed you out. You may gain the proper amount of rest at home."
Todoroki mentally scoffed at the notion. He preferred to be anywhere but home. Begrudgingly, he rolled the wheelchair in front of the man.
"Before we go… there's something I need to do."
Todoroki rotated where sat, locking eyes with the greenette from across the room. Briefly, he considered against saying anything. Like him, there was a part of Midoriya that hated the baggage that came with his powers. He was willing to sacrifice himself for someone he barely even knew, and that kind of dedication was awe inspiring. Ten years from now, would he still be the same isolated, tactless and spiteful person he was today? It was disrespectful to someone like Midoriya, who embodied the heroic attributes his child self aspired to be– delivering his all into everything he did.
Never had the difference between he and Midoriya been so black and white. Given his quirkless background, he had every reason to be harsh and vindictive. Yet, he refused to stoop to the same level as the people who looked down on him his entire life. So, what excuse did Todoroki have?
"Well?" Endeavor prodded impatiently.
Just this once, Todoroki concentrated on being honest with his feelings.
"I don't think you're a nobody." He said, delivery genuine.
Endeavor crossed his arms over his chest.
"Is that all?"
Todoroki internally sighed.
"Yes. Let's go."
He hoped he hadn't imagined that smile on Midoriya's face.
...
Toga lazily plopped her head in her folded arms. Across the flat surface of the bartop, she gazed at Shigaraki with half-lidded eyes as he drowned his sorrows in alcohol. The hideout felt stunningly drab without the presence of Kurogiri fixing together her favorite drinks.
Manipulating Izuku for the last week proved more difficult than Toga realized. As if being a confidant for the League of Villains wasn't stressful enough, said group just led an attack on the USJ, resulting in one dead teacher and leaving several of his classmates in critical condition. At this time she wondered if this would all be worth it.
It seemed Dabi shared a similar sentiment. Dressed in a tattered black leather jacket and pants (Singed at the ends due to exposure to his quirk), he looked like he narrowly avoided a high speed motorcycle crash. A large duffel bag was slung over his shoulder. Wordlessly, he strode past Shiggy, and began unlocking the assortment of locks welded to the cast iron door.
"Where you headed this time?" The villain asked between sips of whiskey.
"None of your business."
Facial muscles twitching sporadically, "What do you mean, it's not my business? I'm your boss."
"Do I gotta spell it out for you? Or are you really that dense?"
"Enlighten me." He bristled, taking a long draw of the bitter liquid.
"I decided I hate it here. So I'm out."
Faster than Toga was prepared for, Shigaraki whirled around on the stool and hucked a bottle at the wall beside Dabi's head, sending shards of jagged glass raining onto the floor.
"I don't remember giving you permission!" Shigaraki jabbed a gaunt finger into Dabi's chest.
"I don't need anybody's permission– including yours." He swatted the offending digit away.
"We housed and fed you! I even paid you for those recon missions out of my own wallet! You're indebted to the League!"
"Maybe I realized, this ain't the job for me? Thanks for the pocket change though." He shrugged carelessly, and continued picking at the locks.
"The only reason Toga and I joined your shitty 'League of Virgins,' was because Shirai promoted you on his forums. So forgive me, for not wanting to follow the schmuck who willingly sentenced that man to death."
"Have you forgotten what our memo is?"
"Oh, yes, the memo? Yes, the memo! Remind me what that is again? Hero society is a disease. Purge is the only cure!"
Presumably in an attempt to intimidate the grievously scarred man, Shigaraki stared at him, unblinking. His dark, red eyes tracked his every movement in threatening silence. Toga knew such petty tactics would never achieve their desired effect. Not on someone like Dabi. He wasn't easily cowed.
"IF you really believed in that…" Dabi leaned in, now almost nose-to-nose with Shigaraki.
"...Endeavor would be dead."
"Endeavor isn't the pillar."
"The pillar? Give me a break! You're so fucking delusional, it's not even funny!"
Shigaraki's eyes bugged. He compulsively choke slammed the scarred man against the door.
"Disrespect me again! YOU'RE DEAD!"
"Go for it." Dabi said, stone-faced.
The temperature skyrocketed, prompting Toga to use her sleeve to soak the sweat collecting on her brow.
"My flames can melt solid tungsten. You think you'd fair any better?" Dabi called his bluff.
Regretfully, Shigaraki loosened his grip around Dabi's collar, the latter shoving him. They watched, repulsed, as the ill man drunkenly stumbled backward and collapsed at the base of the couch. The gauze wrapping on his palm had bled through, stitches pulled.
"You took advantage of a broken man. You used him like a guinea pig." Dabi snarled, on the verge of bursting into blue flames.
"A humanitarian, huh?" Shigaraki slurred, struggling to get up.
"Shirai was no fucking saint! He asked to be nomufied! You know what that means!? You barbeque reject! It means he wanted to die! He didn't care if he lived, he only wanted to go out with a bang!"
Dabi's fingers curled around the door handle, thrusting it ajar.
"Wait!" Toga spoke for the first time since the verbal spar began.
"Please… don't go." She hoped her eyes communicated her intentions.
'Don't leave me alone– not with him.'
"Sorry Toga. But for now, you're on your own."
"Blood is on both our hands, Dabi. When we bite it, both of us are going straight to hell! To what moral high ground do you stand on!? You fucking hypocrit!" Shigaraki spat vengefully.
"We're all a bunch of hypocrites. The difference is whether we acknowledge it." The door slammed shut behind him.
Just like that, Toga's best friend was gone.
"Fucking prick." Shigaraki commented, moving to pour himself another glass.
The sudden urge to make a break for freedom compelled Toga to slide from her spot beside the bar and pad towards the front door.
"You better not be doing what I think you're doing."
"I'm out, too."
"No. You're not." Shigaraki spoke with a tone of finality.
"You let Dabi off with a slap on the wrist, but you're gonna hassle me? What gives?"
Shigaraki disintegrated his drink, storming over to her, looking supremely deranged.
"The difference is YOU DON'T GET TO LEAVE!" He bellowed.
"I don't want to do this anymore! Fuck you, Shiggy!"
Growling like a feral coyote, "What we do here, is called organized crime. You're either in the game, or you're not in the game."
"Pbbt!" She blew a mean raspberry at him, crossing her arms rebelliously.
"You already made your choice."
"Well, I'm done playing!"
"Nothing has changed. Why the switch?" He demanded.
"What Dabi said is true– you're no leader. You're just scared of what'll happen to you if I choose to walk." She countered smartly.
With inhuman speed, Shigaraki grabbed the back of her head and forced her onto her knees. Toga squirmed as he roughly tugged a lock of her blonde hair. His index digit remained poised to fall.
"You listen to me bitch."
She recoiled at the scent of his sour breath. Has this guy ever heard of heard of flossing?
"You do what I tell you, because if you don't…?"
He contorted her face in the direction of the hall, where an eerie, trench coated figure with a white mask stood. Apathetic toward the abuse unfolding before it, she recognized them as the 'seeker edition nomu' that Dr. Ujiko so proudly boasted about. Its savage claws were on full display.
"...Maybe I'll give the doctor the green light? Finally put poor little Uraraka out of her misery?" He steered her gaze into his simmering one.
"I don't care what happens to Ocha-chan." She fibbed unconvincingly.
"Yeah, and I'm sure you got a reason better than, I'm not having fun anymore! So why drop the act so suddenly? Unless…" He analyzed Toga with no lack of scrutiny.
"Unless you've been compromised."
"No!" She felt her face flush.
"Unbelievable… that twerp is why I LOST! He's why Kurogiri is in Tartarus! He's the one who put Shirai in the dirt! He's why Sensei– RRAAH!" He screamed, jerking her skull around in a fit of rage, eliciting a panicked shriek from Toga as she feared being dusted.
"You disgust me."
"That's not it! I swear!" Even Toga didn't believe those words as they left her mouth.
"Killing you right now doesn't sound so bad– punishments be damned." He surrendered his hold over her and returned to the bar to finish his drink.
Toga, still reeling from the unexpected whiplash, flinched when a dagger hilt was presented to her.
"Don't lose this one."
"What do you-what are you giving me this for?" She stammered.
"Did that second quirk make you deaf too? I said, you got a new mission. A test of loyalty, if you will."
She hesitantly gripped the weapon, inspecting her reflection in the dull blade.
"Kill Izuku Midoriya by midnight..." His chapped lips curled in the shape of a cruel grin at her mortified reaction.
"...Or Uraraka dies."
...
"...Your call has been forwarded to an automated voice message–"
Izuku thumbed cancel, rubbing sleep from his eyes. He was an absolute mess. The bandages binding around the circumference of his head were uncomfortably tight. If he dared loosen them, an appointed nurse would lecture him about the importance of taking care of himself. Meaning the gnawing headache was here to stay. Izuku appreciated their concern– really, he did– but they should be prioritizing the other patients.
The Omnitrix had done a nifty job of repairing his damaged cells. The majority of his injuries were strain related– unlike the previous time he ended up in a hospital bed due to a surprise villain attack. In comparison with some of his classmates, Izuku was thankful he got off relatively easy.
After the twentieth attempt over the last hour to contact Jiro's parents, he gave up. So far, every call and voice message had gone unanswered. Were they ignoring Izuku on purpose? Faceplanting on his pillow, he rationalized that his best friend must still be adjusting to life without the use of sight.
It's understandable that they would be preoccupied with their daughter. He knew from living with Kyotaku and Mika, that they were sincere, responsible people. If a bit goofy at times. But they took him in when Izuku felt he had nowhere else to go– an act of goodwill he didn't overlook. There would always be a special place in his heart for the kindness the Jiro's had shown him.
They were usually pretty quick to respond. So to be shunned like this? It was honestly terrifying. Izuku considered them the only real family he had left and that family seemed to be slipping through his fingers. The inability to communicate with his best friend– after everything that happened at the USJ– it tore his waning spirit to shreds.
Izuku couldn't blame them if they hated him now.
He failed to protect their daughter. She was permanently scarred. Blind. The chances she returns to UA are slim to none. Even if Jiro did make a comeback, it wouldn't be in the hero course. That thought alone crushed him. Because if he had just chosen a different alien– if he'd been stronger– none of this would've happened.
Since Izuku woke up, Eon's static vocalization had been noticeably absent from the forefront of his mind. Granting Izuku some peace and quiet at last. However, the solitude the hospital room provided him actually worsened his nerves. The awful sensation in his gut told him that he was constantly being watched.
By what? Izuku couldn't say for sure.
'...You were not meant to receive power. You were not meant to be a hero… You weren't supposed to know that Jiro girl before you got into UA…'
He desperately wanted to believe Kaminari's assessment of Eon.
'...The balance of the universe– the multiverse– is now threatened because of YOU!'
Rationally speaking, there has to be some validity to his words. Because what did he have to gain by exposing himself? Why lay it all out there, only to risk losing it? Perhaps, Izuku thought dryly, the narcissist never conceived such an outcome being plausible.
Tennyson and Professor Paradox knew a great deal about him before they even arrived here. They had their first impressions of Izuku. That's why they both sought him out in particular. Which implies their visit was a subsequent one. The purpose– his purpose in this story still eluded him.
'How badly have I screwed up this timeline? Is there any way I can fix the damage I've done? Was Eon right to try and take the Omnitrix from me?'
The consistent ticking of an analog clock acted as counting sheep. Eventually, the weight in his eyelids became too much to bear, and slumber claimed him. Arm sagging off the side of the mattress, he dropped his smartphone. Izuku wouldn't register the ping of a text notification, originating from the number he had been attempting to contact:
Keep away from my daughter and do NOT attempt to reach her.
...
Toga may as well have been invisible.
Infiltrating the hospital was child's play. Disguised as a middle-aged nurse, she blended in perfectly. Not once did Security stop to ID her. If the schedule mounted in the break room was accurate, she had thirty minutes to assassinate the target before another doctor came snooping by.
Moving at a brisk pace, she shut the blinds and wedged a chair in the doorway– blocking it. Snapping on a pair of rubber medical gloves, she stared at the cot where Izuku's resting form resided– observing how his chest rose and fell with each snore. Reaching for the concealed strap on her upper thigh, she approached his bedside– footsteps light as feathers.
Toga brandished the combat knife Shigaraki had given her. Transfixed by the freckles flecked across Izuku's face. Gently, she threaded her painted fingernails through his curly green hair. Blade hovering an inch above his exposed neck, she found herself reluctant to carry out her superior's demands.
Personality wise, Izuku was unlike anybody Toga had ever met.
'If a villain needed help, would you save them too?'
That conversation between them flittered through her memories now.
'...Villains are in need of more saving than anyone else, right? They're people who feel like they're misunderstood by society– that… they are… somehow being forced to take desperate action…'
In Izuku's eyes, no one was exempt from saving– not even the villains. How would he react if he knew she was the UA traitor? Toga wondered if he'd make true on his words.
It's possible she misread the situation. They hadn't known each other long. His kindness might just be a result of her flirtatious attitude. Izuku shot her plans of seduction down after he indirectly revealed his heart belonged elsewhere. Perhaps most intriguing of all, he was adamant about them staying friends.
Her handle on the knife readjusted.
"If there was another way, Izuku… I would do it in a heartbeat…" She whispered.
Most days, being herself wasn't enough. In order to fit in, she had to become someone else. Literally. She hated that. Toga was unwilling accept the trajectory of a life restrained behind a muzzle. Heroes got to use their quirks in public, completely uninhibited– and were praised for it. Meanwhile, those who couldn't afford a license, were labeled as villains. All because free quirk usage is considered illegal. Which she thought was ridiculous and plain unfair.
There were exceptions to this rule– but everyone's different. Nobody asked to be born with these powers. Not her, not Dabi. Not Shirai.
Toga recognized that Izuku was one of the good ones, and had no qualms about labeling him a hero. And he certainly wasn't the kind of person to turn his back on someone in need, exemplified by how he came sprinting through the UA gardens the day of their first encounter. If more people took after him, Toga wouldn't have considered joining the League.
If she blindly followed Shiggy, she'd be no better than the people she swore to purge– the false heroes. Toga was certain– despite what everyone said– that she was no monster. She had only wanted to make the world an easier place to live. Killing Izuku would be doing the exact opposite.
"Maybe…" Toga delicately retracted the blade, "...there is another way?"
The door behind her shook with a resounding thud.
"Hey!" A muffled voice shouted from the other side, causing the boy to stir in his sleep.
"Midoriya!? You in there!?"
Another shake.
"I'm breaking this thing down on the count of 3!"
As rootlike tendrils snaked beneath the door, Toga sheathed her weapon and rushed to the windowsill.
"2…!"
Hopping onto the fire escape and with no delay–
WHAM!
–She leapt off the platform.
Before Toga could be flattened upon impact, she activated her secondary quirk: Zero Gravity. Successfully landing on the next building over, she dashed along the rooftop and shimmied down a gutter with the poise of a seasoned cat burglar. Descending into a cramped alleyway, she stealthily crouched beneath a ripped burlap awning and watched the hero's silhouette jump the gap between structures– unaware of the wide-eyed fugitive huddled multiple stories below.
Deeming it safe to continue, she allowed her nurse disguise to crumble and splatter to the ground, surrounding herself in a ring of clay clumps. Shivering in response to the frigid air of a moonless night on her naked skin, she snatched the bag she'd left behind the dumpster hours ago, and threw on a fresh set of clothes– including an oversized cargo jacket Dabi had lent her. She tied the outfit together with her pair of Vlad King themed tennis shoes.
Melding amidst a boulevard congested with food vendors, she found the nearest entrance to the subway and ducked inside. Once she was convinced nobody was following her, she snuck on the first train headed back to Kamino Ward. Tucking herself in the corner of an empty car, the pink flip phone in her pocket buzzed.
"Is it done?"
"Nope."
"...Why the fuck–?"
"–I wasn't born yesterday." She cut him off, coldly.
"This was a scare tactic. If I went through with it, you'd have a legitimate reason to kill me. Sensei wanted Midoriya alive so we could fleece more DNA samples off of him. We need Ocha-chan because she gives me a steady supply of blood so I can keep this ruse going. Those were his orders. If I am not mistaken, he outranks you."
Shigaraki was quiet. Toga had figured him out.
"You think you're so damn clever, huh?"
"I'll continue with my assignment at UA. I'll extract more information from sweet Izuku– but the next time you try to pin your pathetic loss on me? I swear to God, it'll be your neck that gets a knife jammed in it."
"Don't forget who has the power here!" He threatened.
"I don't care about your fragile ego Shiggy. Just don't ever cross me again. Bye-bye."
Grinning proudly, she hung up on her boss.
...
The Sakura High-rise Building regularly competed for second tallest in Musutafu. Behind only the iconic Goldman Tower, this is the location where his daily afternoon segment on Cherry Blossom News was filmed and televised. Currently inhabiting his personal office, was none other than Hans Luechi himself.
The self-made millionaire was one of the wealthiest men in the country, in fact. His fortune had been built atop a mountain of straw, propped up by sticks and reinforced using brick. The anchorman's rapid ascension also meant he was on the constant lookout for a wolf that could blow his house down.
Interviewing Nezu had been no small task. Luechi's sponsor requested he trick the principal of UA into outing himself for harmful negligence. The idea was to create public backlash so severe, that the rodent would be forced to relinquish his position as head of the hero academy.
Luechi failed in getting him to admit to anything. During the process, he managed to make Nezu look even more capable– the reverse of what he intended. Now he prayed that his sponsor would be gracious enough to let him off the hook. But with his temper? Not likely.
His phone rang, startling him so badly he fell out of his desk chair. Glimpsing at the unknown number on the screen, he tentatively pressed accept. Sweating with anxiety, he held the audio device to his ear.
"H-hello?"
"This the CB News guy?"
"How… how did you get this number? It's private."
"Doesn't matter."
"Doesn't matter?" He breathed.
"Who the hell is this? What do you want? If it's money, don't bother. I'm not in the mood for charity."
"I don't want your money, now get back in your squeaky chair. Don't even think about trying signal for help."
Fearfully, he complied.
"OK. I'm cool." Luechi traced his tongue along his front teeth.
"What is it you want?"
"I want you."
Chuckling scornfully, "Me?" as if he couldn't be responsible for any misdeed.
"Sorry, but I'm not up for sale."
"Unless you're confident that the bodyguards standing outside your door can protect you, I suggest buffing your security. You'll need it."
"Listen bub, I don't know who you think you are, but you're sure as shit aren't going to intimidate me!"
"You sound like you're on the verge of having a panic attack right now." The voice on the other end laughed.
"What did I ever do to you? Are you that ice cream truck driver? If this is him– if you are him– the ice cream truck driver– I-I swear, I didn't mean anything by it when I said your wife looked like a pole dancing hippo–!"
"–Cut the shit! As if I wasn't already aware of what a slimy weasel you are…" They sighed.
Luechi did not enjoy his ego being brutalized by this vicious stranger.
"Oh yeah? I'm a slimeball, is that it? Well, if that's the case then I guess I'm no better than the gum stuck at the bottom of your shoe. A decade ago, I was living paycheck to paycheck– I had nothing to my name except for a birth certificate and my own ambition!
Nowadays, I can't even walk across the street without someone begging for my autograph! People tune into my station; twenty-four hours, seven days a week! What I earn in a single day, is worth more than you'll make in your entire life! I could rent out every penthouse in Tokyo if I wanted! Japan worships the ground I stand on! So if I go down, you go down with me!"
"I gotta admit: You're a good actor. I suppose that makes perfect sense, given the kind of crowds you attract."
"If you're calling me… that must mean your desperate. Which means you got something to lose?" The anchorman gambled.
"Desperate, is not the word I would use. I'm thinking more along the lines of, disillusioned. Not too long ago, I was involved with one of those… crowds I mentioned. I was decently close with someone who was trapped in that echo chamber of yours. Yesterday, they turned up dead."
"I'm sorry for your loss."
"Yeah, yeah– I know you are." They bit sarcastically.
"Maybe its my conspiracy theorist brain, but I find it incredibly odd that your news crew happened to report on the USJ Incident first."
"They were already in the area reporting a–"
"–A case about false theft? A crime that never took place?" They scoffed.
"We didn't know that it was fake. Our sources aren't always the most reliable. People make false claims to gain publicity off my image all the time. This was no different."
"Lets agree to disagree: Your crew was first on the scene– sure. So they got the story out hours before UA would even consider allowing the media inside their gates for interviews… again, doubtful– but hey? Maybe you really did happen to be in the right place at just the right time?
Here's where things started getting weird. It seems that, at least for the past year, whenever some inexplicable attack occurs, your station is the frontrunner to capture footage detailing that event."
"What are you implying? That I somehow staged everything? That's sounds ludicrous and you know it."
"The USJ? Goldman Tower? The train and Endeavor's agency? The Sludge Villain? Record profits– across the board. You've been on a roll, Hans."
"Don't call me that."
"I'll call you whatever the hell I feel like. That's why you had that detective killed. He was snooping in places he shouldn't have. When you realized there was a real possibility, he might find evidence connecting Shirai back to you… panic set in. You ordered the hit.
It takes balls to order a hit on someone while they're still at the scene of the crime. One costly misstep, and your reputation goes up in flames. It couldn't have been cheap."
"Seems you've done some detective work of your own."
"I know you're the middleman for the League."
"OK," Luechi took a deep breath, "this is what we're doing. You're threatening to expose me? What, you want me to throw you a parade? Will that make you feel better?"
"I have something far better in mind for you, Hans. The way you lie through your teeth is a talent– I'm sort of jealous. We're going to put that skill of yours to good use."
"What's stopping me from ordering a hit on you?"
"How can you assassinate a target you've never met?"
"It'd be easy enough to arrange… you mentioned that you were part of the league. I bet there's a file on you somewhere. I know a guy who knows a guy who would love to bash skulls in, such as yours, for fun."
"Good luck with that. I'm going to lay out some ground rules; When you see this number? You answer. I don't give a fuck if it's during your stupid afternoon segment. Secondly, everything you know? I know. If I find out you're keeping secrets from me, Hans, the League won't be the only ones hunting you down."
"You're not suggesting I double-cross my sponsors?"
"Would that be so crazy?"
"If they suspect anything is off, I'm a dead man!" Luechi blared into the phone.
"And the world would be better off without you— but that's beside the point."
"What you're asking me to do is suicide!"
"Are we crystal?"
Luechi silently cursed, banging his head on his fist.
"Well? Speak now or forever hold your peace."
"...Clear." He conceded through gritted teeth.
Computerized beeping told him the call had been terminated.
Dazed by the interaction, Luechi numbly trudged toward the closet installed on the far wall. Flipping open a wooden drawer, he ignored his collection of dazzling suits, rifling through boxes of spare rubber bands and staples– stopping when he felt the smooth texture of a laminated business card. The plastic sheen, riddled with folds, wrinkles and stains made his eyes glaze with budding moisture.
Eleven years and this articulate quotation benefitted him still. Rubbing his face, (Sore from quirk exhaustion).
If today looks dim– then tomorrow will surely be brighter. Contact Seer if you need help.
"You bastard…" He inhaled sharply, "...why? Why'd you have to make me do this?"
...
Shigaraki was scratching his neck raw.
"I didn't pay that dipshit anchorman to make me look like a dumbass!"
The villain was far too invested in the video flashing across the the television screen to notice Toga had returned from her assassination attempt. She silently slinked by the leather couch reeking of booze and ash and speed walked down the hallway.
Toga only wished she had thought of deserting the League sooner like Dabi. Hindsight was not a strong suit of hers, unfortunately.
Although, if she had, nothing stood between Shigaraki and Uraraka. At least with her around to keep an eye on things, the quirkless lass would have someone in her corner. Empathy lingered as she checked her phone's home screen again– a concerning five missed calls from her loving "parents."
Toga was not in the mood to fulfill her weekly facetime with the Urarakas. Quickly, she texted:
[Sorry Ma. Sorry Pa. Been feelin under the weather lately. I'll get back to you as soon as I'm at 100% again!]
Almost instantly, she got a response.
Dad: [That's ok. Make sure you get enough sleep. We understand the new environment and UA must be stressful. Especially after the attack.]
Mom: [Whenever you need to talk to us, we're here. We love you, sweetie.]
No wonder Uraraka cared for them so much. Her parents were caring and supportive. She replied by spamming a dozen heart emojis.
She pushed open the final door.
The sterile scent of the underground lab made her nose tingle. It reminded her of the numerous quirk specialists she visited as a child. Back then, her biological mom and dad did whatever it took to get a second opinion about the nature of Toga's morbid obsession. When it became clear her vampirism was linked to her quirk, they raised her to repress her innermost instincts– to never acknowledge the side of her that craved blood be spilt and consumed.
Years of torment convinced Toga that something was, indeed, terribly wrong with her– and it needed correction. The inhumane methods her parents used to keep her in line was for the sake of others. This made her resentful of what hero society had devolved into. Where people with flashy quirks were praised for their inherent gifts, while those stuck with lackluster or mutative quirks were ostracized. Why were people being vandalized simply for trying to live their lives, same as everyone else?
"Hey, Ocha-chan." Whispering through the bars of the cell, she gingerly placed a small box of mochi on the floor.
Toga knew, deep down, that she wasn't a monster.
"I brought you a snack." She scooted it towards the despondent girl huddled in the corner.
Uraraka had not felt the warmth of sunshine on her skin for months. She had no social interaction outside of anyone other than Dabi and herself. Living in lousy conditions such as this would turn anyone hopeless.
A twinge of hurt thrummed in Toga's heart when the haggard girl hugged herself tighter, sealing her eyelids shut. Completely ignoring the frozen treat– her favorite food. Nowadays, Uraraka lacked the motivation to speak. Instead, she resorted to nodding, shaking her head, pointing– basic gestures to convey her thoughts.
"Better hurry– don't want the ice cream to melt." Toga frowned sadly.
"Dabi's out," She mentioned, "Shiggy's gonna assign somebody else to watch you."
Toga secretly promised Uraraka that she would help her escape somehow, someway.
"Your parents say they love you, by the way. Not that it helps." Toga sighed dejectedly and slid down with her back against the cage.
"I guess we're both prisoners now."