A Desire for Heroism

by Road2Radahn

U.A is the place for gifted and ambitious students who strive to become the best heroes they can be. But what if there was another who did not have that desire despite his unique and overwhelming talent. Can the students of U.A help stroke the fires of heroism in the boy to make him into a great hero, or will his past outweigh their efforts.

8. Countdown to the Event

Chapter 8

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The school has been cancelled for the week because professional heroes and academy staff were inspecting it for damage and security leaks. It was a precaution applied to every other student in each course U.A. gave out. There were some complications regarding the support course, where one of their students refused to leave the metallurgy workshop.

So, for the few days Elijah had free, he played video games.

Or at least he planned to, if it wasn't for Adrian forcing him to come to the store.

"Come on, E! Don't just stand there like a statue! We need to make the shop look presentable!" Adrian cheerfully called out from the kitchen, his apron dusted with flour and powdered sugar.

The young Lokadi groused as he stood at the front of the shop behind the glass window that peeked into the store, donning a short apron over the uniform provided by Adrian. It was a far cry from the comfort of his gaming setup at home, and he seethed silently at the injustice of it all. His gaze wandered over the array of colourful sweets behind the glass display, arranged in an alluring manner to entice passersby. Eli had little interest in the art of confectionery, much less selling it to customers. But unfortunately, he had been tasked with making the display look presentable.

"You know, you could at least pretend to look enthusiastic, Elijah-kun," Fuyumi, Adrian's second in command, offered a gentle word of encouragement. The Todoroki stood behind the counter as she packaged sweets for a customer. She smiled at the man as she handed the sweets over and politely waved as the customer thanked her and turned to leave. "You'll rarely get to come down here now that you are in the Hero course at U.A., so please try to enjoy it."

Her kind demeanour did little to quell Eli's irritation. He continued to rearrange the candies half-heartedly, like a restless spirit bound to mundane tasks. He knew he wouldn't win any arguments against the two managers of Charity's Delight. Adrian was as stubborn as a mule, and it was hard to shake him off when he was set on something. Fuyumi, while gentler, had an air similar to a kindergarten teacher who was really into their job. Yeah, he knew he wouldn't win that fight against the two of them. He might as well grumble about it.

"This is a follow-up report on yesterday's incident at the U.A. rescue training facility where villains attacked hero course students," The voice of a news anchor declared from the television at the corner of the room, providing a momentary distraction.

Eli glanced at it from his position but continued his work of low effort, slowly refilling any missing delicacies. Still, he made sure to listen to the news anchor.

"According to police investigations, the criminals call themselves the 'League of Villains' and have been plotting to kill All Might, who has been a teacher at U.A. since spring this year."

Heh... 'League of Villains', what a stupid name.

"Police have arrested seventy-two villains, but they suspect that there may be a handful of villains who managed to escape, including their ringleader."

Seventy-two?

Huh, really? It felt like there were way more than that.

The news report then swiftly shifted to some unrelated topic about some guy named Best Jeanist and his clothing brand. While it did, Eli's mind wandered back to the U.A. incident. In truth, the whole ordeal didn't bother or interest him one bit. After all, why should it? It was just about some social outcasts looking to kill so they could do whatever they wanted with no consequences. It was a dull and distant tale to him, holding no personal significance or interest.

However, as he thought about the incident, the image of the dark-skinned villain that attacked his classmates appeared in his mind and how he took the man's glowing axe. A small part of him sought answers—Who was that man? Why was he in Japan, of all places? How did he acquire a Mythic?

But the absolute strangest thing about the man was the eerie familiarity about the villain, as if he and Eli were connected by an invisible thread of shared experiences, almost like a kinship between them. It wasn't a familial bond; instead, it felt like a connection to a dark mirror image of himself. But try as he might, Eli couldn't recall any past encounters with such a man. The uncertainty gnawed at him, leaving him teetering on the edge of a forgotten memory, a void he was hesitant to explore.

Yet, despite the questions and the inner turmoil, Eli chose to suppress those thoughts, burying them deep within himself. His focus shifted to the mundane task of arranging sweets at the store, his mind and heart returning to the yearning for the freedom of virtual worlds.

The sound of the bell above the door caught Eli's attention as he was lost in thought. He glanced up and saw Komi Yuusei, a familiar face. Yuusei was a 23-year-old aspiring actor with a charming and well-meaning personality. His delicate facial features and spiky orange hair made him hard to miss. His green coat had spiky brownish-white fur trimming, adding to his distinctive appearance.

As Yuusei entered the room, he greeted everyone with a bright smile that could light up the entire place. His hazel eyes shone through his azure-tinted sunglasses. He wore a light red shirt with flower-like motifs that added a touch of flair to his ensemble. Completing the look, he wore black pants and whitish sneakers.

"Hey, everyone! I hope you're all having a fantastic day!" Yuusei greeted with his usual exuberance, effortlessly flowing words from his lips.

Fuyumi, who was helping a customer at the counter, looked up and returned the smile. She had always appreciated Yuusei's positive energy, even on the dullest days. The young actor had a knack for lifting spirits and brightening the atmosphere, making him a beloved regular at Charity's Delight.

However, Eli couldn't help but flinch at the loud entrance. He had nothing against the guy, but Yuusei's constant cheerfulness was overwhelming, especially when trying to focus on something else. It was as if the orange-haired man inadvertently drew your attention. Nonetheless, Eli knew that Yuusei had good intentions, and he held no personal grudges against him. It was only because he struggled to deal with extremely bright and lively individuals.

Eli blinked.

Wait... Am I some kind of vampire or something?

Komi Yuusei strolled over to the glass display of sweets, his eyes alight with childlike wonder. The colourful assortment of confections presented a kaleidoscope of sugary delights, each inviting him to indulge.

"I swear, I can't decide what to get whenever I come here!" Yuusei exclaimed with genuine enthusiasm, tapping his chin in playful contemplation.

"I can always recommend something if you'd like," Fuyumi offered, her smile warm and welcoming.

Yuusei chuckled and nodded, taking Fuyumi up on her offer. As the two engaged in a friendly conversation about sugary delights, Eli continued with his task, keeping an ear on their chatter. While he didn't mind Yuusei's presence, the actor's exuberance was enough to make anyone feel like they were part of a live television show.

Eli couldn't help but ponder the enigma that was Komi Yuusei's struggle to make it as an actor. To him, the man exuded a natural charisma that could command the spotlight effortlessly. Handsome and charming, Yuusei possessed all the qualities Eli thought an actor should have. Yet, despite these apparent advantages, Yuusei faced a series of rejections, and his dreams of starring in T.V. shows or movies were constantly dashed. Instead, he found himself relegated to small commercials, a mere glimmer of the limelight he so desperately sought.

Yet, despite this uphill battle, Yuusei wore a facade of boundless enthusiasm whenever he stepped into the store. Eli found it perplexing and awe-inspiring at the same time. How could one hide the pain of countless auditions gone awry behind such a radiant smile? The young man's boisterous laughter filled the air as if the sweetness of Charity's Delight was a balm to his soul. Perhaps it was the delectable confections that drew him in or the fact that his little brother, Sakuriya, worked here, providing a sense of familial comfort. But if Eli had to give another reason for why Yuusei visited so often, Eli would guess it revolved around the man's crush on Fuyumi Todoroki.

Just as Eli found himself lost in his thoughts, Adrian emerged from the kitchen, his apron still adorned with flour and powdered sugar. The store's owner smiled warmly, welcoming everyone who entered Charity's Delight.

"Ah, Yuusei! Good to see you again, my friend," Adrian greeted with a smile that could light up the darkest corners of the room, extending a hand dusted with flour for a friendly handshake.

Yuusei returned the handshake with enthusiasm. "Hey, Adrian! How's the best sweet shop owner in town doing today?"

Adrian chuckled at the compliment. "Oh, you flatter me, Yuusei. I'm just trying my best to keep this place running smoothly, you know."

Eli admired the easy rapport between the two, the effortless connection that seemed to blossom like a well-tended garden. Unlike his own struggles with social interactions, Adrian possessed a natural talent for weaving bonds with customers and people alike. It was a symphony of camaraderie he played with skill, a harmonious melody that resonated with those around him.

"I was just telling Fuyumi here that I can never decide what to get," Yuusei chimed, his eyes dancing along the tantalising array of confections behind the glass.

Adrian's eyes sparkled with playful mischief. "Ah, indecisiveness, a common ailment among our beloved customers. Well, what did our lovely manager suggest?"

Fuyumi smiled. "How about we surprise you with something special today?"

Yuusei's face lit up with childlike excitement, like a small candle illuminating a vast room. "Oh? I'm all for surprises!"

With a knowing wink, Adrian turned his head towards the sanctuary of the kitchen, where creativity and sugary alchemy intertwined.

"Hey boys, we got any more of the new ones?" He called to the back.

"Yeah, we got about 5 more," Setsuno responded before putting three delicacies onto the counter, which separated the kitchen and the front of the store where the register was.

"Ah, good!" the store boss thanked before picking up one of the delicate masterpieces —a raspberry cream puff adorned with a hint of lemon zest.

"Here you go, my friend. One of our newest creations—is a raspberry cream puff with a hint of lemon zest. We call this a Red Ribbion," Adrian announced, his voice carrying the pride of a chef unveiling a culinary masterpiece.

As Yuusei's eager fingers embraced the delicate pastry, his eyes widened with delight, like a child unwrapping a long-awaited gift on Christmas morning. The first touch sent a shiver of anticipation down his spine, and the soft crinkle of the cream puff's golden crust whispered promises of indulgence.

Bringing the confection to his lips, Yuusei hesitated for a split second, savouring the moment before surrendering to the allure of the pastry. As the first heavenly bite touched his taste buds, an explosion of flavours burst within him, igniting a symphony of sensations that overwhelmed his senses.

His eyes closed instinctively, allowing him to fully immerse himself in the experience. A kaleidoscope of emotions danced across his face, each a testament to the masterful artistry of this raspberry cream puff. Joy intertwined with bliss, and the burdens of everyday life seemed to momentarily fade away. It was as if each ingredient had been carefully chosen for taste and the emotions they could evoke.

The raspberry's tartness intertwined with the cream's sweetness, creating a delightful dance of contrasts that made his taste buds sing. The hint of lemon zest acted as a vibrant conductor, orchestrating a symphony of flavour that seemed to reverberate through his entire being.

A soft hum of contentment escaped his lips as he surrendered himself entirely to the experience, his senses intoxicated by the culinary enchantment woven into every bite. At this moment, the boundaries between Yuusei and the delectable pastry blurred, and it was as if he merged with the essence of the dessert itself.

Every morsel became an intimate exchange, a profound connection between the young man and the pastry. His breaths quickened, matching the rhythm of his heart as it pounded with exhilaration. Time seemed to slow, and the world outside faded into the background, leaving only Yuusei and the masterpiece in a divine duet of flavour.

A soft gasp escaped him, an involuntary expression of awe and wonder. It was more than just a dessert; it was a revelation, an awakening of his senses to the true artistry of taste. The world's colours seemed brighter, the air felt charged with newfound energy, and each moment held the promise of delight.

As he savoured the last heavenly crumb, Yuusei opened his eyes. A soft smile graced his lips—a smile that held the memories of every delightful experience he had ever known, now enhanced by the magic of this single, remarkable pastry.

With the last traces of the raspberry cream puff lingering on his taste buds, Yuusei opened his eyes to find Adrian and Fuyumi watching him eagerly, their smiles warm and expectant.

With his voice filled with genuine admiration, Yuusei spoke the following words from the heart, "Wow, this is incredible! I can't even describe how amazing it is. You guys are culinary wizards!"

Adrian's chest swelled with pride, his hazel eyes gleaming with joy at the compliment. "Thank you, Yuusei! It's always a pleasure to see our customers enjoy our creations."

Fuyumi's cheeks flushed with a soft blush at the praise, her smile brightening the already radiant atmosphere. "I'm so glad you liked it, Yuusei-kun. Although, you say that about every one of them."

Yuusei couldn't help but nod enthusiastically, a sparkle of excitement lingering in his eyes. "No, really, this is one of the best things I've ever tasted! You guys are incredible! Seriously, how do you do it? It's like you are using a quirk or something."

Adrian only smirked. "Trade secret."

The trio continued to chat among themselves, discussing the recipe for the raspberry cream puff and other things, such as Yuusei's search for work. As they were, Eli continued to quietly and begrudgingly arrange sweets, his thoughts drifting elsewhere even amidst the friendly banter of the trio. Yuusei, feeling the need to include him in the conversation, looked over and called out to Eli.

"Hey, Elijah!" Yuusei's voice was warm and inviting, his curiosity piqued. "How's the famous U.A. Hero School treating you? Must be pretty awesome being there, right?"

Eli glanced up briefly, his expression aloof as he shrugged nonchalantly. "Yeah, it's okay, I guess."

Yuusei's eyes sparkled with enthusiasm, and he leaned in, eager to hear more. "Just 'okay'? Come on, man, it's U.A.! You've got to tell me more than that! What's it like studying at the most prestigious hero school in the country?"

As a child, Komi Yuusei had been an ardent admirer of the legendary institution where the finest heroes were forged. The walls of his room were once adorned with posters of the very heroes who had emerged from U.A.'s hallowed halls: Best Jeanist, the Fiber Master; Endeavor, the Flame Hero; and the beacon of hope himself, All Might, the Symbol of Peace.

In his younger days, Yuusei had dreamt of donning the iconic U.A. uniform, joining the ranks of those who stood at the pinnacle of hero society. But as time passed and reality began to cast its shadow, the vibrant hues of those dreams began to fade. With the emergence of his Quirk, 'Throwable Voice,' Yuusei realised that his dreams of attending U.A. and becoming a full-fledged hero were slipping further out of reach.

With his Quirk, he possessed the unique ability to project his voice from any location he desired, granting him the power to make it seem like his words were coming from a completely different place. Much like a master ventriloquist manipulating his voice, Yuusei could create the illusion of sound in a way that defied logic. Yet, for all its intrigue, his Quirk had limitations, confining his vocal projections to a measly 10 meters.

This realisation, this stark understanding of the limitations of his Quirk, brought him to the crossroads of his dreams. No matter how much he had idolised U.A. and its heroic legacy, he understood that his Quirk was not destined for the grand stage of heroism. The aspiring dreams of youth were gradually replaced by a mature realism that settled upon his shoulders like a heavy cloak. So instead, he chose to follow his other dream of becoming a famous world-known actor.

Despite Yuusei's enthusiasm, however, Eli's expression remained unchanged as he rearranged the sweets. "I guess. But it's not really my thing."

Yuusei's brows furrowed slightly, genuinely intrigued by Eli's lack of excitement. "But you must be learning amazing things! Using cool powers, teaming up with other students—sounds like something straight out of those old superhero comics!"

Eli responded with a shrug. "Yeah, I guess so," he admitted, but his tone suggested he wasn't very enthusiastic. "Being a hero just isn't really my thing." The dark-skinned teenager was being truthful.

Yuusei was surprised. "Really? But being in U.A. is a dream for so many people!"

"I didn't choose it. Adrian made me apply," Eli explained, his eyes shifting to the sweets before him. "I was placed in the Hero Course, so I just go with it." His words conveyed a sense of acceptance, as if he had come to terms with a fate given to him rather than chosen.

The orange-haired actor's excitement faded at the disinterest of the teenage boy, confusion taking its place as Yuusei was unsure how to continue the conversation. "A-Ah, right..."

Amidst the exchange, Adrian and Fuyumi exchanged knowing glances, aware of the deeper currents flowing beneath the surface of the young employee's demeanour. Eli's lack of enthusiasm for heroism was no secret, and his candid remarks about the hero course had become a familiar aspect of his presence in the store. Thankfully, Nemuri had somehow convinced him to continue the course until a particular festival later in the year. While Eli had ceased complaining about being in the hero course, his longing for the festival's arrival was now a common grumble.

As the momentary awkwardness lingered between Yuusei and Eli, Fuyumi stepped in with her characteristic gentleness, sensing the need to shift the focus to a more comfortable topic. She smiled warmly at Yuusei, gracefully changing the course of the conversation.

"Yuusei-kun, you are here to pick up Sakuriya-kun, yes?"

Yuusei's eyes brightened as he recalled his purpose for visiting Charity's Delight. "Ah, yes! How could I forget!" He chuckled lightly, scratching the back of his head. "I got carried away with the idea of trying new sweets."

Fuyumi's gentle laughter intertwined with the sweet ambience of the store, creating a tranquil atmosphere. "It's easy to get lost in the delicious wonders of this place," she remarked, her eyes glancing fondly at the myriad treats behind the glass display.

The oranged-haired man gave out a genuine smile to not only Fuyumi but to Adrian, too. "Also, I wanted to say thanks for looking after him. I can't state how thankful I am."

Fuyumi's smile grew even more radiant, her gentle demeanour a balm to the young actor's soul. "It's always a pleasure to have Sakuriya here," she said, her words a testament to the genuine affection the employees of Charity's Delight held for their young colleague with autism and a Quirkless nature. "He's such a diligent and sweet boy."

Adrian pointed towards one of the corners of the room. "He was in charge of arranging the sweets."

Komi Yuusei nodded enthusiastically, his love for his brother evident in every gesture. "Yeah, he's the best. And he loves this place, you know?" He chuckled softly, recalling how Sakuriya had once declared Charity's Delight his "second home."

As Yuusei moved toward the corner of the store where his little brother, Sakuriya, was diligently arranging the confections, Eli couldn't help but observe the brothers' interaction. Sakuriya, unlike Elijah, seemed entirely focused on his task, occasionally smiling to himself as he carefully arranged each sweet with precision. He looked up when he heard Yuusei's approach, and a radiant smile spread across his face.

"Big brother Yuusei!" Sakuriya's voice rang with pure joy as he rushed to greet Yuusei, his excitement evident in every movement.

Yuusei kneeled slightly to meet his little brother's gaze, his expression tender and loving. "Hey there, champ! How's my favourite confectioner doing today?" He asked as he ruffled Sakuriya's hair affectionately.

"I'm doing great! Look, I arranged all the cookies by colour!" Sakuriya pointed proudly at his meticulous arrangement, a rainbow of sweet treats before him.

"Wow, that's amazing! You've got a real talent, little buddy," Yuusei praised, his eyes shimmering with genuine admiration.

Adrian approached the brothers with a gentle smile. "Sakuriya's been doing an outstanding job as always. We're lucky to have him on our team."

Yuusei beamed with pride, his heart brimming with affection for his brother. "Thank you, Adrian. You guys have been wonderful to Sakuriya. He really enjoys working here."

Fuyumi nodded, her eyes gleaming with warmth. "Sakuriya is a valued member of our little family here at Charity's Delight. We're grateful to have him with us."

Despite his usual disinterest, Eli couldn't help but smile at the genuine affection between Yuusei and his little brother. While he had never talked with him, Eli had seen Sakuriya around the store. Though the boy struggled with certain aspects of social interactions, there was a unique bond between the siblings that transcended words.

Yuusei turned his head to his brother. "Are you ready to ?" He asked, to which Sakuriya nodded. And Adrian chimed up cheerfully as the two were about to leave the store.

"Hey, before you leave, Yuusei, why don't you take a bag of our newest raspberry cream puffs with you? It's on the house."

Yuusei's eyes widened with gratitude and delight. "Really? You're too kind, Adrian!" he exclaimed, his genuine appreciation making the owner's heart swell with warmth.

Fuyumi handed Yuusei a neatly packed bag filled with delectable pastries, their sweet aroma wafting like a fragrant melody. "We insist," she said, her voice as sweet as the treats themselves.

With a heartfelt thank you, Yuusei bid farewell to the employees of Charity's Delight, his heart full of gratitude for the sanctuary they provided to his little brother and their kindness.

Guiding Sakuriya gently by his side, Komi Yuusei stepped out of the store and into the outside world, but he carried more than just a bag of cream puffs. In his heart, he held the precious memory of a place where kindness thrived, dreams nurtured, and the sweetness of life was savoured in every moment. However, just before he fully stepped out, the oldest Komi quickly turned back and said one last thing before exiting.

"And Elijah! Good luck with the Sports Festival! Make sure to try your best!"

Eli questionably raised an eyebrow.

"Sports Festival?"

That sounded familiar, like he had heard it before but couldn't quite place it from where. Was that the event that Nemuri had told him about? But before he could question further, Adrian's voice chimed in, cutting through the haze of his thoughts.

"Hey, Eli! Stop lazying about. Now that Sakuriya has gone, I need you to do double time!"

The demand pulled Eli back to the present, grounding him in the reality of the shop once more. A tired groan escaped him that carried the weight of his reluctance. He wished he could be the one heading home, escaping the confines of the store to find solace in the realm of virtual adventures and untamed worlds. But, like at the start of the day, he was again stuck in the labours of hard work in Charity's Delight.

---

A few days later, the walls of U.A. High School echoed with the familiar chatter of students returning to their classes. The halls buzzed with a curious mix of excitement and unease revolving around the still-lingering shadow of the USJ incident. Class 1-A, a group of young heroes-in-training, found themselves caught up in the whirlwind of discussions and speculations.

Perched on their desks with a sense of pride, Hagakure couldn't help but break the ice with her usual cheerful demeanour. "You guys! Did you watch the news last night?"

Ojiro, standing nearby, chimed in with a hint of surprise in his voice. "Yeah, I'm surprised they mentioned us. I guess because we're All Might's students, after all."

The invisible girl, ever optimistic, added her perspective. "It was so cool that we got a few seconds of screen time! Though I bet nobody noticed me hanging out in the background."

Shoji, calm and straightforward, didn't hold back his honesty. "Probably not."

In an attempt to console his unseen friend, Ojiro playfully remarked, "It is difficult to stand out when you're just gloves."

As Jiro twirled her earphone jack thoughtfully, Kaminari took a moment to relish in the excitement. Leaning back in his chair, hands resting on the back of his head, he couldn't resist sharing his thoughts with Kirishima. "We're totally big deals," he declared. "Those news channels love us—we're basically celebrities."

"Yeah, it's kinda crazy, right?" Kirishima replied, his eyes gleaming with a mix of amusement and wonder.

Yet, Jiro's pragmatic nature quickly brought them back down to earth. "Get over yourselves," she retorted. "The Hero Course that pumps out heroes was attacked, and that's all they care about."

Sero leaned on his desk with his arms crossed. "Who knows what would've happened to us if the teachers hadn't shown up."

That just made Mineta panic and freak out. "WHY'D YOU SAY THAT!?" He screamed with sweat and tears, joining the conversation from his seat. "I'm gonna pee myself just thinking about it!"

"SHUT UP! BE QUIET, SCUM!" Bakugo suddenly yelled at Mineta after getting very annoyed at the small boy.

"But man, All Might was great!" Sato added as he ignored Mineta retreating behind him. "He pushed back all those villains and managed to get them to retreat!"

Tokoyami nodded. "Yes, his strength is worth marvelling at…"

As the conversations swirled around him like a torrent of words, Elijah withdrew into his quiet sanctuary. He sat quietly in his assigned seat, his head cradled on his arms atop the desk, pretending to sleep. With closed eyes, he listened to the discussions, letting the waves of conversation wash over him like a gentle lullaby.

Unfortunately, the lullaby ended when Iida strode into the room.

"Everyone, class is about to begin, so please take your seats!" The blue-haired teenager addressed the entire class, only to realise that everyone except him was seated in their chair.

"Uh, we're all in our seats."

"That's right; you're the only one not sitting."

The class representative slowly walked to his seat, his shoulders hunched and his body shaking with frustration. "Dang it!"

"Eh, don't worry about it," said Uraraka.

"Morning, class." To everyone's surprise, the significantly injured Aizawa was at the door—face, broken arms, and every other injured area entirely wrapped in bandages.

"Mr Aizawa, what are you doing here?!" Everyone yelled at the man in shock.

"Whoa! To even come here with his injuries! What a Pro!" Kirishima said with admiration.

Iida quickly shot his arm up into the arm. "Mr. Aizawa, I'm glad you're okay!" He exclaimed as Aizawa wobbled over to his desk.

Ochaco couldn't believe it when she saw Aizawa's body covered in bandages. "You call that 'okay'?" she asked in disbelief.

Meanwhile, Eli slowly got up from his resting spot with a solemn expression. He looked at the injured teacher with mixed emotions, his eyes clouded with guilt. Despite having seen worse injuries in the past, some of which still haunted him, Eli couldn't help but wince involuntarily. He knew that he could have intervened sooner and potentially prevented the extent of Aizawa's injuries. His guilt was heavy on his shoulders, and he struggled to shake it off.

Elijah still dislikes Pro-Heroes and intensely dislikes the system. But in the end, isn't he just being a hypocrite? Sometimes, he couldn't help but think of himself as 'better' and wiser than his classmates, whom he sees as silly and idiotic for idolising people who dress up in costumes like characters from old comic books. Elijah couldn't help but compare his home country to Japan and think his home country was 'better' because, at least there, everyone is true to their desires; at least there, people know that survival is all that matters. And while the Wasteland is cruel, they are not liars. But as Elijah watches Aizawa Shōta struggle to walk to his desk despite the whole day he had spent healing, He couldn't help but click his tongue in guilt. Despite its flaws, Japan is safer and much better than his homeland. Even though Japan can be delusional with their hero worship and could improve, they at least try to protect their children, while back home, it's normal for children to die just as much as adults. It's normal, Eli had learnt, it's a tragedy, but it's normal. And because it was normal, he couldn't help but think everyone in this class, the civilians and the pro heroes, was nothing more than childish and delusional.

As Eli thought that, an image of someone smiling appeared in his mind as if to challenge his statement directly.

Kayama Nemuri

"My well-being doesn't matter right now," Aizawa said from the podium. "I've recovered enough to teach, so that's what I'm going to do… More importantly, the fight's not yet over."

"Our fight?" Bakugo asked, his interest getting caught in the aspect of a fight.

"Don't tell me…"

"T-The v-villains again…?"

Aizawa lowered his head, two slits that revealed his focused and narrowed eyes.

"…The U.A. Sports Festival is drawing near."

What...

It took a few seconds for those words to sink in before it finally hit the students' minds.

"Ugh! Why would you scare us like that?!" The students shouted before their attitude turned to excitement. "The Sports Festival!"

Full of energy and enthusiasm, Kirishima nearly jumped out of his seat when he shouted. "Alright! Let's go kick some ass!"

That was before a concerned Kaminari shoved his face away. "Now, wait just a sec! Is it such a good idea to hold the Sports Festival so soon after the villains snuck inside?"

Even Ojiro chinned in with his concerns. "They could attack once we're all in the same place."

Aizawa sighed, a little irked by the fact that the festival would still happen. "The administration thinks this is a good way to show that the threat has been handled and our school is safer than ever." He informed them. His voice was a little muffled by his bandages. "Plus, they're beefing up security compared to past years. This event is a huge opportunity for all students of the U.A. to show their potential. It's not something we can cancel because of a few villains."

This, however, didn't sit well with the already frightened Mineta. "Uh, I'm sorry, but why not?" He asked. "It's just a sports festival."

Eli, who only cared about using the event to drop out of the course, actually agreed with the short teen.

"Eh?" Midoriya muttered from in front of Eli. "Mineta, you've never seen the U.A. Sports Festival?"

"Of course I have, but that's not what I meant, man!"

Elijah was intrigued and blinked as he listened to Midoriya talk about the U.A. sports festival. He wondered how it differed from other school sports festivals. The youngest Lokadi had only attended one during his third year of middle school when he arrived in Japan. However, he didn't actively participate in any of the events, instead choosing to relax in the shade and play video games since it was optional.

"The sports festival is one of the most watched events worldwide." Midoriya continued, unknowingly answering Eli's thoughts. "Before quirks came into existence, people would flock to the Olympics and watch as athletes competed, but this event quickly decreased in scale and viewership once people developed quirks. So now, the world's most anticipated and watched competition is the U.A. Sports Festival.".

Eli had to stop himself from snorting.

'Okay, buddy. Maybe in Japan, but the world? Ehh~'

Eli highly doubted that many people from America or Europe, for example, would care about some teenage kids in Japan.

"That's correct." Sitting behind Eli, Yaoyorozu clenched her fist in determination. "And all the hero agencies and top heroes will be watching. It's where you'll be scouted."

Lokadi listened in silence while the other students clamoured amongst themselves about the purpose of the Sports Festival.

'Hmm, so this is the event that Kayama was talking about. Thank God! Finally, I can get out of this Hero course."

"It's true that joining a famous hero agency can garner greater experience and popularity. That's why the festival matters. If you wanna go Pro one day, this event could open your path." Aizawa said with a serious tone. His words sank into the hearts and minds of his students. "One chance a year. Three chances in a lifetime. No aspiring Hero can afford to miss this festival. That means you better not slack off on your training."

"Yes, sir!" The student responded enthusiastically.

"Class is dismissed."

---

During the lunch break, there was a noticeable excitement at U.A. High School that was unlike any other day. Students were chatting and laughing with big smiles, exuding a palpable enthusiasm. The hallways were adorned with colourful banners displaying the emblems of different classes, showcasing the competitive spirit brewing in anticipation of the upcoming Sports Festival. The atmosphere was charged with energy, with every student eagerly looking forward to showcasing their abilities and catching the attention of the esteemed Pro-Heroes.

However, Eli stood out as an outlier amidst the excitement. His usual sombre expression set him apart from the lively crowd. While others revelled in the thrill of the impending event, Eli couldn't care less about the Sports Festival and its potential to elevate one's status as a hero. He knew he had no interest in pursuing that path, and his participation in the event was solely due to Kayama Nemuri's insistence.

Standing in line at the busy cafeteria during the lunchtime rush, Eli realised he had forgotten to pack his lunch again. This was becoming a common occurrence for the usually organised and composed teenager. He felt out of place amidst the festive mood around him, and his discomfort grew as he shifted his weight. The crowd's chatter about the upcoming competition filled his ears, making it hard for him to ignore the excitement. Despite his best efforts, Eli couldn't shake off the sense of discontentment that gnawed at his mind. He wished that the Sports Festival would come and go quickly so he could return to his ordinary, lazy life. However, a small part of him couldn't help but wonder what role he would play in the upcoming grand spectacle.

"All Might and Midoriya Izuku, huh?"

A voice suddenly interrupted Eli's thoughts, coming directly behind him. It sounded familiar, but only vaguely.

With curiosity getting the better of him, Eli peeked behind, and he caught sight of Todoroki Shouto, Fuyumi's younger brother (or was it youngest brother?), standing directly behind him. The two-toned-haired teenager was looking off into the distance with a detached expression in his mismatched eyes. Eli couldn't help but notice how different Todoroki's demeanour was from the manager of Charity's Delight.

Eli felt uncertain as he looked at Todoroki, who seemed stoic and enigmatic. Despite Fuyumi's request to interact with her younger brother, Eli had never spoken to him before. Fuyumi had asked him politely at the shop to be friendly and talk to the younger Todoroki. However, Eli found the idea daunting, as social interactions were not his strength, and he was uncomfortable conversing with someone he barely knew. He saw Todoroki Shouto as a level 80 boss for social encounters, and Eli doubted his ability to interact with him. Fuyumi had overestimated his social skills, but she had begged him to at least try, saying she would appreciate any attempt.

As Eli prepared to speak, he took a deep breath and gathered his thoughts. Just as he mustered the courage to say something, Todoroki turned around and locked eyes with him. His ice-cold glare sent shivers down Eli's spine. Todoroki's heterochromia eyes clashed against Eli's Azura-Blue pupils.

Damn, dude, what did I do?

The intense look on Todoroki's face made it evident that he wasn't interested in engaging in any conversation or interaction. Elijah caught the hint and realised approaching him might not be wise. Todoroki's behaviour was as cold as his Quirk. The atmosphere around him felt burdened with a silent threat. Eli decided it was best to leave him alone and shifted his focus to his food tray while waiting to move forward in the line.

Well, that was an utter failure.

Eli couldn't help but think. Clearly, the guy didn't want to be interacted with and was very standoffish, even more than Elijah himself. But the most bizarre thing that caught Eli's attention was the contrasting personalities of Fuyumi and Shouto Todoroki, siblings bound by blood yet separated by emotional tides.

Fuyumi, with her gentle demeanour and nurturing presence, was like a calming stream that flowed gracefully through the hearts of those around her. On the other hand, Shouto stood like an enigmatic iceberg, a stoic presence guarded by the icy walls. His gaze held a distant hatred that focused on something no one else could see, and whoever was unfortunate to be caught in that gaze had that icy hatred forced upon them.

Clearly, the heterochromia-eyed teenager was carrying a lot of emotional baggage, which Eli felt he could relate to. As Eli turned his attention back to the line, he couldn't help but feel uneasy about the interaction. Although Eli was no stranger to being ignored or dismissed, which was common during his first months in Japan, there was something about Shouto's cold demeanour that made him feel like an unwelcome intruder. Eli wasn't sure if the look signified that Shouto thought he didn't belong there or if it was one of suspicion.

The black-sclerae teenager picked up his food and settled at an empty table in the bustling cafeteria. His thoughts were focused on Todoroki Shouto's cold demeanour and standoffish attitude, which intrigued him. It seemed as though there was an impenetrable barrier around the boy that Eli couldn't quite understand. Despite his own quiet nature, Shouto's harsh eyes and distant attitude left a lasting impression on him, which was a stark contrast to the lively and often chaotic world of U.A. High School. Shouto's harsh eyes and distant attitude seemed to hold a story, one that Eli suspected had deep roots in family reasons.

While quiet and terrible in social norms, Eli liked to believe he was pretty observant when studying people. Because of this, he had noticed how Fuyumi Todoroki, Shouto's older sister and manager at Charity's Delight, would subtly react whenever a certain Pro-Hero was mentioned. Eli couldn't recall the exact name, but he believed it was someone among the top 5 Pro-heroes in the country, someone whom Fuyumi seemed to have a strained connection with. While Eli had never seen the Pro-Hero before and had no confirmation, the boy with dark skin couldn't help but speculate that Todoroki Fuyumi was the daughter of a Pro-hero, someone who had a role in shaping the Todoroki family dynamics.

The more Eli thought about it, the more he suspected that the Todoroki household wasn't the picture-perfect, loving family many might assume of a Pro-Heroes'. There was a weight to Fuyumi's reactions, a pain that was carefully hidden but not entirely concealed. How her eyes would momentarily cloud over or the way her smile would falter at specific topics spoke volumes to the youngest Lokadi.

Eli's thoughts returned to the present as the cafeteria buzzed around him. The chatter of his fellow students, the clinking of cutlery, and the overall atmosphere of camaraderie and competition were starkly contrasted by the shadows that seemed to shroud the Todoroki family. As he ate his lunch, Eli knew he couldn't assume to understand the complexities of someone else's pain, especially when it related to family. Eli couldn't help but feel a pang of pity for Shouto and even Fuyumi. In this part of the world where heroism was glorified, it was easy to forget that life was far from perfect, and even those with impressive quirks carried their own struggles and burdens. The young teenager couldn't presume to fathom the intricate web of emotions that wove through the Todoroki household, especially when it concerned family dynamics—something Eli himself was unfamiliar with.

He picked at his food before chewing his food thoughtfully, his gaze drifting towards the windows as he wrestled with his thoughts. His heart resonated with compassion for both Shouto and Fuyumi. It was a sentiment born from his own experiences of solitude and a longing for connection. But as much as he yearned to extend a helping hand, Eli knew his grasp fell short of the complexities at play. He hadn't grown up in the nurturing embrace of a proper family; his life had been painted by the presence of Adrian, his brother and guardian. In this realm of familial struggles, he was an outsider.

Eli's empathy wasn't tainted by ignorance; it was painted by a clear realisation of his own limitations. He acknowledged that the labyrinthine paths of pain that the Todoroki family tread were paths he couldn't fully comprehend. While he had his own share, these scars, emotions, and stories were different and were buried beneath layers he could never peel back. He wasn't equipped to untangle the intricate threads of their lives.

So, it was better for everyone for Eli to stay out of the family affair and not stick his nose where it didn't belong. He could only watch from a distance, even if his heart wanted to help, to soothe; a voice within him reminded him of his place. It was a voice that spoke of humility, of recognising that sometimes the best support comes from those who possess deeper bonds, greater understanding, and the ability to truly make a difference. Adrian, with his warmth and genuine concern, was one such person.

As Eli tasted his food, he couldn't help but let out a sigh. While he empathised with others, he knew that he and Adrian couldn't risk getting involved in anyone else's problems. They had their own set of challenges to face, and it was vital that they didn't draw any unwanted attention to themselves. They needed to keep a low profile to protect themselves from their past and from the authorities.

Elijah was acutely aware of the potential consequences if their true identities were ever discovered. It wasn't just a theoretical possibility - it was a genuine threat that hung over them constantly. That's why they had a carefully planned strategy of staying off the radar to protect their lives, their secrets, and their freedom.

As time passed, Eli began to notice Adrian's increasing involvement in various matters, some of which could attract unwanted attention. It seemed as though his brother's genuine concern for others occasionally overshadowed their need for secrecy. This made Eli feel both worried and frustrated, as it was a reminder that they had to balance being helpful with staying safe. Even though they couldn't afford to assist every person in need, Adrian seemed committed to getting involved in everything and didn't seem to care about keeping a low profile. For example, he brings outcasts rejected by society to work at the store, encouraged Eli to attend U.A., and even dates a popular Pro-Hero.

For Eli, the choice was clear. He recognised the significance of maintaining their low profile, of not risking their precarious position for the sake of others. As harsh as it sounded, they couldn't afford to help every troubled soul they encountered. His goal was simple: stay inconspicuous, make it through the Sports Festival, and then leave the hero course. The Todoroki family's situation was too complex to fully understand, and he wanted to avoid getting too involved like Adrian seemed to be. It was a balance he aimed to maintain, a balance that sometimes required suppressing his natural instincts to help, to intervene.

In the busy cafeteria, Eli's thoughts became clear. He was determined to focus solely on his path during the approaching Sports Festival and keep their anonymity intact. Although he could relate to the Todorokis' struggles and desire for connection, Eli had to let others fight those battles. In a world full of uncertainties, he held onto the certainty of his own purpose: to survive, even if it meant being a silent observer of others' hardships.

---

Elijah finished packing his bag and prepared to head home. During Present Mic's English lesson, he found it hard to focus since he was already familiar with the material being taught. Instead, he decided to flip through the student handbook, which he hadn't looked at since the beginning of the school year. He was hoping to learn more about the upcoming U.A. festival.

After reading through the handbook, Elijah discovered that Quirks were allowed in the tournament, just as he expected from U.A. The contest involved students from all courses competing in different preliminary games based on their year at U.A. There were three rounds, with the final round being a fighting tournament exclusively for students. The fights were divided by year, so everyone had an equal chance to compete without any unfair advantage based on experience.

The final round, however, caught his attention – a fighting tournament. A sardonic chuckle nearly escaped him as he mused on the irony. Heroes? More like gladiators, he thought, his scepticism brimming over. He couldn't shake the feeling that the festival's essence contradicted the very principles he had imagined a hero school would stand for. It's not as if this was a hero school meant to teach students how to rescue and save people. Oh no! Apparently, the students were only meant to fight. Wasn't Japan considered by others to be a peaceful country? Why were they obsessed with combat so much?

And that also brought up another thing. If Quirks were free to use in the tournament, and students from all courses would come together. Weren't the students not in the Hero course, like those from the General Ed and the Business courses, at a massive disadvantage? Class 1-A and Eli guessed 1-B also had already had battle training and simulations. He highly doubted that the General Ed students were given the same education. Additionally, he assumed that the other courses had Quirks that were less impressive than those in the Hero Course, especially if they didn't make it through the U.A's Entrance Exam.

Overall, the Sports Festival was solely used to show off students in the Hero Course, while everyone else was nothing more than NPCs. Reduced to mere spectators in their own school's event.

How cruel...

"All right, everyone, time to go. Remember what I said about the Sports Festival. If you want to do well and get the attention of the Pros, then Work hard and give it your all," Aizawa told the class before leaving the classroom and closing the door behind him.

Eli yawned as he stretched languidly in his seat, muscles protesting against the sudden activity after an extended period of stillness. His bag was slung over his shoulder, ready to be swung onto his back and forgotten until the next day. As he was about to do so, he noticed a shift in the classroom's atmosphere, a sense of disarray replacing the usual orderly exit. His curiosity piqued, Eli hesitated getting up from his seat, choosing to watch as his classmates hurriedly gathered by the classroom door.

Intrigued, he tilted his head to the side, his gaze narrowing as he caught sight of the sea of students blocking the exit. Once a straightforward entry, the doorway was now an avenue crammed with inquisitive faces. The unexpected crowd was jarring, making the classroom feel suddenly smaller and the outside world farther away. Eli watched as a cluster of his classmates engaged with the crowd, questioning their sudden congregation.

"Why're you all here?"

"Do you have some sort of business with our class?"

Bakugo, the fiery-tempered teen, sauntered forward, his demeanour disinterested. His words sliced through the speculation like a knife through butter. "They're scouting out the competition, morons," he proclaimed, his nonchalant attitude belying the weight of his statement. "Since we're the class that survived the villain attack, they wanna measure us up, see what we're like in person."

The sea of students before them parted like a red sea, the sheer intensity of Bakugo's presence clearing their path. "At least you all can see what a future pro looks like. Now move it, extras!"

Iida's reprimanding voice cut through Bakugo's arrogance like a blade, criticising the hero-in-training's lack of respect. Eli watched as the indigo-haired boy, Tenya Iida, tried to instil some sense of propriety into the situation, his hands gesturing animatedly.

Eli observed the drama with a mix of resignation and annoyance, not wanting to get involved in petty student disputes between classes. He had better things to do. Despite his desire to escape the chaotic scene, he was blocked by the pressing bodies surrounding him. He grimaced, wondering how to extricate himself from this situation. However, as he pondered a subtle escape, someone's words sliced through the tense air.

"So this is Class 1-A."

It was a voice laced with disdain, a voice that bore a grudge. Eli's gaze shifted towards the source, and his eyes fell on a figure who had now maneuvered his way to the forefront. Indigo hair flared out in tufts, a face that appeared almost perpetually tired, and eyes that emanated a cold, judgmental gaze – this was Hitoshi Shinso.

"I came here to see the class after hearing how well you did against the villains who attacked, but you sound like an ass. Is everyone in this class delusional, or just you?"

As the stranger spoke, the entire room fell silent, and it seemed like he was scrutinising every member of Class 1-A with his words. Eli had a strange feeling of familiarity, like he had seen this person before but couldn't quite recall where. The tension in the air intensified, and Bakugo's anger was palpable as the Indigo-haired boy continued to address the class. The atmosphere grew heavy, and everyone held their breath, unsure what would come next.

"This is a disappointment, Class 1-A," Shinso declared, running a hand along the back of his neck, his words a whip of condemnation. "I came here to see the victors of the villain attack, but it seems all I've found are a bunch of egomaniacs. People like me, who applied for the hero course but didn't make the cut, had to settle for other paths. It's life. But the sports festival offers a second chance – a chance for the teachers to reshuffle the deck, to let some in and push some out. Consider this a warning. If you don't give your best, I'll take your spot from under you. Consider this a declaration of war."

'Huh... That's the third time now someone has said to "try your best". I'm starting to notice a theme here.' Eli's eyes flickered to the students around him, their reactions a mix of fear and anger, understanding and confusion.

Suddenly following Shinso's declaration, another student with long, silvery hair in the back of the crowd lashed out, the frustration in his voice palpable, aiming his words like arrows at Class 1-A. "Hey, you! I'm from Class 1-B, the class right next door to you! I heard you fought some villains and came to see if that was true, but you're just a bunch of brats with a superiority complex! You can talk big all you want, but that'll only make it more embarrassing when you're wiped out!"

Bakugo paid no mind to the teenager's words of warning and merely walked through the crowd of people, which only elicited greater fury from the angry student. "Bastard! Don't you ignore me!"

"Yo Bakugo!" Kirishima wanted to avoid the image Bakugo was putting for their class and tried to stop him before he left. "You can't just insult everyone to their faces and walk away like that! Say something!"

"These people don't matter," Bakugo responded.

"Huh?"

"The only important thing is that I beat them. Once I reach the top, nothing will get in my way." Bakugo finished as he walked off past the crowd.

Kirishima was quick to echo the sentiment, admiring Bakugo's straightforward determination with an exclamation of "So simple and manly!"

Kaminari blinked. "Huh?"

Sato nodded in contemplation. "He's got a point…"

"Huh!?"

"The top…?" Tokoyami muttered. "There is some truth in that."

Mumbles reverberated across the classroom, an unspoken consensus forming, an agreement with the essence of Bakugo's statement, if not the abrasive manner in which it was delivered.

As the buzz of agreement ebbed, Eli's thoughts swirled in the midst of it all. Though he harboured no fondness for Bakugo, the dark-skinned teenager recognised the fire that burned within him, the unyielding determination to be a hero. If Eli had ever considered the path of a hero, he might have found a peculiar source of inspiration in Bakugo's unapologetic drive. But that path wasn't his, and he knew it.

The need to leave this cacophony of emotions and ambitions clawed at him. Pushing himself up from his seat, Eli resolved to exit the chaos. The crowd around the entrance was thinning, students seemingly satiated by their inspection of Class 1-A. He moved forward, his intention set on leaving this sea of noise behind.

But during his retreat, something caught his eye. Amidst the dispersing crowd, the indigo-haired figure of Hitoshi Shinso turned, his gaze fixing upon Eli. Their eyes locked for a fleeting moment, and then Eli saw it – a widening of Shinso's eyes, a shift in his expression, morphing into a glare so intense that it sent shivers down Eli's spine. The harsh gaze was only momentary before Shinso turned away and disappeared from sight, having made his declaration and having no reason to stay.

Startled, Eli's footsteps faltered for a split second before he resumed his exit. What was that about? Why had Shinso looked at him with such intensity? What did he do to deserve such a look? Eli didn't even know who he was!

The youngest Lokadi couldn't help but let out an exasperated sigh.

Geez, the longer I stay in this course, the more problems arise. I gotta get out real quick; otherwise, it will escalate, and soon someone might try to even stab me.

With that last thought, Eli quickly and, without much attention, made his way out of the classroom and on his way home.

---

As Eli stepped out of the school, the busy city streets provided a welcome break from the classroom's chaos. He found solace in the digital world of Monster Hunter on his handheld game console, which offered a much-needed distraction from the school's drama. The game's vivid graphics and engaging gameplay captivated him, providing a stark contrast to his reality at U.A. High School.

Eli's steps were casual as he strolled, absorbed in the game, his strides matching the rhythm of the bustling city around him. The handheld console was his escape, a temporary sanctuary he had managed to sneak out of the house. Carefully stored within his shadow using his Quirk, it was a secret treasure he could enjoy without Adrian's interference, a little indulgence amidst life's responsibilities.

Eli was lost in a world of monsters and adventure, with his headphones on and every button press a deliberate move in a far-off realm. However, as he continued to the train station, his digital excursion was momentarily interrupted by a voice that sounded somewhat familiar, stuttering and unsure.

"A-Ah, L-Lokadi-san?!"

Eli's fingers paused over the console's controls, his eyes lifting from the screen to meet the gaze of Midoriya Izuku. The green-haired boy stood behind him, a mixture of awe, uncertainty and nervousness in his expression. Eli's brows furrowed slightly, his attention completely diverting from the game.

"Oh...Sup," Eli responded with a short nod, his voice even and unassuming.

"Ah, sorry. I-I didn't mean to startle you," Midoriya quickly apologised, his cheeks slightly pink with embarrassment. "I saw you ahead, and it just kind of came out."

Eli gave a casual nod, not particularly bothered by the sudden interaction. His fingers tapped absentmindedly on the console as he resumed walking. He wasn't entirely sure if Midoriya had a reason for calling out to him, but if not, he was content to continue on his way.

Midoriya, for some reason, seemed intent on keeping pace with him, now walking beside Eli. The green-haired boy appeared to be gathering his thoughts as if trying to find the right words. This attempt at conversation reflected a mix of uncertainty and nervousness, making their interaction a little awkward.

"So... um, how are you finding U.A. so far?" Midoriya's question floated into the air, hesitant and tinged with uncertainty. Eli's gaze shifted from the game to Midoriya's face, a brief, contemplative moment before he answered.

"It's alright, I guess. Just school," Eli shrugged, his response calm and nonchalant.

He was surprised to receive a response from Lokadi Elijah, the mysterious African student in his class. Many considered him an enigma, as he kept to himself and hardly conversed with anyone. Despite sitting in front of the black-sclera teenager during lessons, they had never spoken before. Lokadi often disappeared during lunch breaks, making it challenging to observe his whereabouts. This led Izuku to wonder about the reasons behind his quietness. Was he simply a timid person, like Izuku himself had once been? Was he silent and serious like Tokoyami? Or he was more like Todoroki Shouto, standoffish and reserved by choice. The truth remained a mystery to Izuku, and he couldn't deny that his curiosity had been piqued. In retrospect, Izuku wasn't even sure why he had called out to the sole foreigner of 1-A in the first place. It had been more of a surprised reaction than a deliberate attempt to start a conversation. But given that the dark-skinned boy hadn't outright rejected his attempt at conversation or coldly tuned him out, Izuku took that as an encouragement to keep going.

His face lit up with a mix of relief and determination, but it still possessed a hint of uncertainness. "Y-Yeah, school. Definitely... um, I've seen you in class, but we've never really talked. I guess it's pretty busy at U.A., so that's normal, but, um... It's nice to talk now, I think."

Eli's gaze remained steady on his game console, his fingers gliding across the controls. "Hmm... Yeah, that's true," Eli replied with a nod, with a quiet and composed voice.

An awkward silence settled in as the two U.A. students continued their stride toward the train station, still a noticeable distance away. Midoriya's eyes flitted between Eli and the ground, his nervousness betraying itself in the slight fidget of his fingers.

Midoriya couldn't help but sneak another glance at his classmate, and it suddenly dawned on him that Lokadi was quite tall. This fact had gone unnoticed before due to Eli's slouched posture. The African student's imposing presence made Midoriya realise that if Eli stood up straight, he might be one of the tallest in their class. Additionally, Izuku couldn't help but observe the bandaged left hand and arm of Lokadi. Throughout their time in class, he had never caught a glimpse of exposed skin on that hand or arm. It was wound tightly throughout Aizawa-sensei's entrance test, training sessions, and even ordinary classes, all day, every day, without fail. Izuku wondered if the bandage was there to protect an injury or conceal some unsightly scarring. Regardless, it added to the mystery surrounding the normally quiet boy.

Deciding once again to fill the awkward silence, Midoriya tried to continue the conversation. "S-So, Lokadi-san, have y-you always wanted to be a hero?"

Eli glanced at the green-haired boy briefly before he replied in a soft, almost monotonous voice. "Not really. It just sort of happened."

"What, really?!" Izuku suddenly raised his voice, slightly taking his classmate aback. "I think you would make a great hero! Especially since your Quirk is so amazing!" He gushed his nervousness and uncertainty that used to be present, now forgotten.

Eli's reserved demeanour remained unchanged as Midoriya's excitement filled the air. The green-haired boy's enthusiasm was evident, his words flowing rapidly as he elaborated on the potential applications of Eli's Quirk. Despite the genuine interest and kind words, the dark-skinned boy's expression didn't alter much. But he decided to listen politely, giving Midoriya his attention, even though he wasn't particularly fond of discussing his Quirk.

"Your Shadow Quirk is really impressive. I saw how you used it during Aizawa-sensei's test at the start of the term. It's so versatile, and you have so much control over it," Midoriya rambled on, his voice full of energy. "Like seriously, it's so cool!"

Eli listened to Midoriya's enthusiastic praise of his Quirk, the boy's words coming in a rapid stream of admiration. While appreciating the compliment, Eli remained reserved and somewhat detached from the conversation. It wasn't that he didn't value his Quirk or its potential applications; the boy knew exactly what it could do. It was just that the African had already heard this plenty of times before, and at this point, it was all a tad annoying.

Midoriya's excitement was palpable as he continued elaborating on how Elijah could utilise his Quirk for heroics. "With a Quirk like yours, you could create weapons on the fly! Think about it: You'd be an incredible asset in any combat situation. And that precision, the fact that you can craft different shapes and sizes... It's so versatile!"

"...Yeah, ah, thanks," Eli replied, his voice still soft. "It's... interesting, I guess."

Midoriya didn't seem to notice Eli's lack of enthusiasm for discussing his Quirk in depth. The green-haired boy was too wrapped up in his own excitement and his genuine belief in the potential of his classmate's abilities. His admiration for Quirks and heroes was boundless. This passion was showcased as Izuku quickly took a notebook from his bag titled 'Hero Analysis for the Future', and the boy began jotting down various theories and ideas, his handwriting becoming increasingly frantic as he spoke.

Listening with curiosity and discomfort, Eli caught a glimpse of the notebook and what Midoriya was writing. To his surprise, a whole page was dedicated to him, detailing his Quirk and even featuring a relatively accurate sketch of Eli himself in his 'Hero' costume.

This level of scrutiny unnerved him, reminding him of practices in his home country where secrecy about one's Quirk was crucial for survival. The idea of someone having detailed information about his abilities felt intrusive, and a part of him wanted to rip the page out and destroy it, as was expected back in his homeland. But Eli resisted that impulse, recognising that this was a different place with different norms.

Midoriya, still lost in his passionate theorising, was oblivious to Lokadi's internal turmoil. The page he had devoted to Eli in his notebook was mainly speculative and full of possibilities rather than concrete information. Although it still made Eli uncomfortable, he realised that most of Midoriya's writings were more fantasy-based.

With that in mind, Eli decided to let it go for now. He knew that once the Sports Festival came and went, he'd have no reason to interact with Midoriya anymore, and this peculiar page in the 'Hero Analysis for the Future' would likely fade into obscurity, like a minor footnote in his life.

As they approached the train station, Midoriya was again reminded that Lokadi might not be as talkative as he was. He slowed his pace, recognising that he might have overwhelmed his classmate with his excitement.

"A-Ah, sorry if I'm talking your ear off," he said with a sheepish smile. "I just get really into Quirks and hero stuff."

Eli merely shrugged, pretending he wasn't bothered by his classmate's behaviour. "It's fine. I don't mind."

The two stayed silent once more as they entered the train station, filled with people of various ages, all making their way back home for some rest.

Midoriya turned his head to his fellow classmate. "So Lokadi-san, which platform do you go to? Mine is Platform E." He said, pointing towards his right.

Eli merely gestured towards a set of stairs leading upwards. "C."

"Oh, w-well then, um, see you later!" The green-haired teenager gave a short wave before beginning to step towards the direction of his platform. But before he got another step, he quickly turned back around as if he had forgotten something. The urgency in his expression matched the determination in his voice as he addressed his classmate.

"Let's do our best at the Sports Festival, Lokadi-san," Midoriya declared with his usual sense of nervousness and uncertainty replaced with a fierce resolve. "You might not have much reason to become a hero, but I do. So, please, don't hold anything back! Let's give it everything we've got!"

Eli blinked in surprise at Midoriya's impassioned plea. This was the first time he had seen such seriousness in the green-haired boy's face. Wait, no, scratch that, the second time, as Eli remembered the boy's passionate gaze in the battle trails against the loud blonde guy with the explosion power.

Eli only gave a short nod at Midoriya's words. "Uh, sure."

Midoriya, seemingly satisfied with Eli's response, offered a final wave before heading off toward his platform, leaving Eli to make his way up the stairs to platform C.

As the train pulled up to the station, Eli found a seat, his handheld game console once again in hand. Even though he was playing one of his favourite games, Monster Hunter, he couldn't help replaying Midoriya's words, a nagging persistence in his thoughts.

"Try your best."

Eli let slip an annoyed groan as Midoriya's words seemed to strike an odd chord within him. While he appreciated Midoriya's earnest encouragement, an undeniable irritation tugged at him like a thorn that continuously dug deeper. It wasn't because Midoriya had said anything wrong, but rather, it was the persistence of this sentiment that was becoming unbearable. This, after all, was the fourth time someone had said the exact phrase or something similar. Having the words "Try your best" continuously said to him made the phrase steadily climb the ranks of his most despised expressions.

Another thing was the frustration he felt by the expectations placed on him, even though he had no personal stake in the Sports Festival or the path of becoming a hero. It felt like a burden he had no intention of shouldering.

With a sigh, Eli focused on the game console in his hands, trying to push aside these unwanted thoughts. The digital world of monsters and fantasy provided a welcome escape from the complexities of his own reality that felt suffocating. Eli was resolute in his plan: attend the Sports Festival, fulfil his agreement with Kayama, drop out of the Hero Course, and return to his preferred, unremarkable life.

---

Midoriya Izuku was hunched over his desk in his room, a heavy sense of duty weighing on his young shoulders. The soft rays of the afternoon sun filtered through his window, casting a final warm glow on his homework. He'd been working diligently, his thoughts consumed by the day's events.

"Izuku honey~! Dinner will be ready in 5 minutes!" His mother's voice called from downstairs.

"Okay, Mum! I'll be down in a bit!" Izuku replied, setting his pen down. His schoolwork was now completed and finished early as per his usual routine. It was a habit he'd cultivated to ensure he had time for everything, from his studies to his hero training.

But today was different. Today, the weight of Izuku's new responsibilities weighed heavily on his mind, refusing to let go. The words of his conversation with All Might were still echoing in his head, etched deeply into his thoughts. The looming threat of the ancient evil, All For One, hung over him like a dark cloud, causing him to doubt himself. Despite his bold proclamation to All Might that he was ready to face this formidable foe, his determination was tinged with uncertainty. The idea of confronting a villain who could rival All Might, the Symbol of Peace, was daunting, to say the least. All Might had always seemed invincible, an unbreakable source of hope. The realisation that there existed a villain capable of challenging that invincibility was a sobering revelation.

Izuku's thoughts were entangled in a web of uncertainty and curiosity as he recalled vague rumours about the sinister figure known as All For One. It had always been a name shrouded in shadows, rarely spoken of, like a ghost story shared among those who dared to delve into the darkest corners of the hero world's lore. Until now, he had dismissed it as an urban legend or perhaps a sensationalised conspiracy theory.

To learn that this ancient malevolence had a tangible form and one capable of challenging the veritable symbol of heroism was a revelation that weighed heavily on his young mind.

The compulsion to uncover more, to pierce the veil of secrecy that shrouded All For One's past and intentions, surged within him. A faint ember of hope whispered that the internet, with its vast knowledge repository, might hold some fragment of truth about this enigmatic villain.

He swiftly turned on his computer, and the screen came to life, opening up a vast digital realm. The machine hummed softly as he brought up a search bar, his fingers poised over the keyboard. At that moment, the dichotomy of Izuku Midoriya, a diligent student, aspiring hero, and zealous researcher, consumed him.

He began typing, each keystroke a declaration of his intent - "All For One." As expected, the search for "All For One" yielded no results. Frustration gnawed at him, but he refused to give up.

As Izuku typed away at his keyboard, he added the word "villain" to his search. Unfortunately, he was met with a jumble of unrelated articles, generic definitions, and photos of relatively unknown criminals. It was as if the digital world was conspiring to shield the darkest secrets from his probing eyes.

Despite his growing frustration, Izuku refused to give up. He kept scrolling through the search results, determined to find something useful. Just when he was about to lose all hope, he stumbled upon a title that caught his attention: "Top 20 Most Dangerous Villains You Don't Know About."

Curiosity piqued, he hesitated only for a moment before clicking on the article. He hoped, perhaps against all odds, that he might find something that would connect to the elusive All For One. Though he knew the chances were slim, he also knew that sometimes the most unexpected discoveries could come from the most unlikely sources.

Izuku watched as the page loaded, revealing a mysterious world of information presented in a style that resembled the aesthetics of conspiracy theorists. The black background with neon-green text looked more like a hacker's hideout than a reliable source. He chuckled at how cliché it was. He considered closing the tab and dismissing it all as nonsense, but then he noticed something that caught his attention - a list starting with the number 20.

20

Thunderdrum.

Quirk: Sonic Boom.

This Quirk allows Thunderdrum to produce a powerful Sonic boom from his mouth, creating a concussive shockwave. This shockwave is capable of stunning any targets that are hit by it or even killing anyone who is in close range.

This Villain from Louisville, Kentucky, is responsible for killing 2 of America's finest heroes and 6 civilians.

Thunderdrum was captured in 2xxx by American Heroes Elecplant and Cow Lady.

Extremely Dangerous, approach with caution.

The words on the screen seemed surreal, like a glimpse into an underground world of villains unbeknownst to most. While it had nothing to do with All For One, Izuku's curiosity was piqued. With meticulous interest, he scrolled to the next entry.

19

Timberjack.

Quirk: Blade Saws.

This Quirk allowed Timberjack to shoot out and control large, razor-sharp, spinning blades created from his body. These blades could easily cut through most materials and be summoned and manipulated at will. He could generate multiple Saw Blades simultaneously, allowing for versatile and strategic attacks.

From the heart of Texas, this villain is responsible for killing America's former number 7 Pro-hero, Ironclad.

Apprehended in 2xxx by Captain Celebrity and Skycrawler.

Extremely Dangerous, approach with caution.

As he read through the entries, Izuku couldn't help but feel a bit annoyed. Were all these entries only about villains from the United States? He contemplated closing the tab as it seemed like a deviation from what he initially searched for - information about "All For One." Although the tidbits about these villains caught his interest to some extent, his primary focus remained on the enigmatic figure that had been on his mind since his conversation with All Might. Moreover, he was more intrigued by the Quirks of heroes - how they used them to inspire and protect, rather than the dark and selfish exploits of villains.

Leaning back in his chair, Izuku still felt unsatisfied with his curiosity. He contemplated closing the tab and returning to his original search but decided to give the list one more chance. With a hint of reluctance, he scrolled further, his eyes scanning the screen. The following entry, however, immediately made him lean forward in interest.

18

Peerless Thief.

Quirk: Unknown.

This enigmatic thief hailed from Japan and was known for adopting a Robin Hood-like philosophy. His modus operandi involved stealing from wealthy heroes and redistributing the spoils to the common people. He emerged during the early days of Japan's hero system, advocating for reform while returning purloined valuables to the streets.

Never been apprehended.

Extremely Dangerous, approach with caution.

Izuku was surprised to find a Japanese villain on the list, and his attention was momentarily captivated by this unexpected twist. The name "Peerless Thief" was unfamiliar to him, likely because the vigilante had operated during the early stages of the hero system's introduction in Japan. As he read about this peculiar villain with an oddly noble twist, Izuku couldn't help but acknowledge the unconventional nature of his actions, even though he disagreed with the criminal methods. To be honest, this thief reminded him of the Church of Masks, who were also vigilantes who engaged in unlawful behaviour despite their good intentions.

Noticing the time and realising he had only reached entry number 18, Izuku decided to speed up his search. He needed to find information about All For One before dinner. While the accounts of other villains had piqued his interest, they were not what he was currently seeking, and he could explore them further at another time.

Izuku quickly skimmed over the remaining entries in the article, each one a testament to the global reach of villainy.

Number 15 caught his attention: a villain named Pyroclasm from Greece, known for his devastating Quirk, Volcanic Eruption. Captured by the Greek Pro-Hero, Pankration.

12 introduced BOOM-erang, a notorious villain from Australia responsible for the bombings of Sydney. Extremely Dangerous, approach with caution.

Number 9, La Llorona de las Sombras, struck an eerie chord. A serial killer from Argentina inspired by folklore, targeting victims with psychological torment before death. The word "chilling" barely covered it.

7, however, brought something unique to the table. Los Destinos Oscuros, a family of criminals from Mexico, possessed a familial Quirk called "Familial Dominion." It granted them influence over other people's decisions. The fact that all four family members had been captured by Star and Stripe hinted at a compelling story of heroism.

Though these entries were fascinating, they still weren't what Izuku sought. His eyes quickly scanned whilst he scrolled downwards before he finally found something.

4

The Mastermind of Japan

Quirk: Unknown

The Mastermind of Japan is a shadowy and enigmatic figure known for his unparalleled power. His influence in the world of villains is profound, and he is believed to have been a key figure in shaping the criminal underworld, even in countries outside of Japan. His true identity remains unknown, and he operates from the shadows, pulling the strings of countless criminal enterprises and villainous organisations. His influence in the world of villains is profound, and he is believed to have been a key figure in shaping the criminal underworld.

Rumours persist that the Mastermind of Japan was once engaged in a monumental battle with the Symbol of Peace, All Might. According to these rumours, the clash between the two titans resulted in the Mastermind's defeat. However, concrete evidence supporting this claim remains elusive, and the supposed battle details are ambiguous.

Izuku's heart raced as he read the article about "The Mastermind of Japan." A shiver ran down his spine, confirming his suspicion that this enigmatic figure was indeed All For One. The description painted a terrifying portrait of unparalleled power and influence.

Izuku leans forward, prepared to delve deeper into the search for information about All For One. His determination is unwavering, but just as he's about to continue, his mother's voice calls out from downstairs.

"Izuku, dear, dinner is ready!"

As he snapped out of his trance, he was torn between satisfying his hunger for knowledge and responding to his mother's call. The hunger for food won out, and he decided to shut down the website and head downstairs for dinner. Just then, something caught his eye - the number 4 beside the name "Mastermind."

Puzzled, Izuku muttered to himself, "Why is All For One ranked number 4?" If what All Might had told him was true, the villain should undoubtedly be ranked number 1. This revelation sparks a growing curiosity within him. Who else could be listed above All For One? Tempted to just have a quick peek, he scrolled down the list with a sense of urgency, not wanting his mother to interrupt him again, until he found the entry for the number 3 spot.

His eyes land on the entry, and his heart pounds with dread and fascination as he starts to read.

The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse

Quirks: Unknown

Origin: Unknown

A mysterious and malevolent group of villains that has plagued Southern Central Africa for over two decades and is rumoured to remain active today. Their reign of terror has resulted in the deaths of numerous African Pro-Heroes and hundreds of innocent civilians. The group is rumoured to dwell in a desolate region known only as the "Wasteland." The lack of information about this inhospitable place adds to the mystique and fear surrounding the group. Those aware of Four Horsemen often describe them as the "Unholy offspring of the Devil himself."

The chilling entry concludes with a stark warning: Never engage these villains. Your only hope is to hide and pray to God that they do not find you.

Izuku feels a cold shiver race down his spine as he reads about this enigmatic group—the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. They've terrorised South Central Africa for over two decades, yet he's never heard of them? It leaves him with many questions swirling in his mind. How can such a malevolent group have gone unnoticed by the broader world for so long?

Izuku's mind immediately drifts to his classmate, Lokadi. The thought of his quiet and reserved classmate brings a spark of curiosity. He can't help but wonder if Lokadi, who likely has roots in Africa, knows anything about the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. While he's still determining the specifics of Lokadi's background, the wielder of One For All thinks this might be an opportunity to connect with his classmate. After all, today marked the first time Izuku had engaged in a conversation with Lokadi, and discussing these notorious villains might just be the bridge Izuku could use to establish a connection.

The Successor of All Might stored the information in his mind for future reference. He quickly checked the last two entries, hoping they would be as interesting as the previous ones. However, he couldn't help but break into a bemused sweat when he read them.

2

The United States Government

1

The President of the United States

"…Okay, that's enough internet for today," Izuku muttered with a wry smile as he closed the tab and turned off his computer.

"Dear, the food will get cold!" his mother called from downstairs, reminding him again.

"Right, Mum, coming!" He replied as he briskly left his chair and headed for the door. Thoughts swirled in his mind about the various villains he had just read about in the article. Many of them were unfamiliar and hailed from outside Japan. It was a sobering reminder that villains often lurked in the shadows, instilling fear in society despite the presence of heroes and the Symbol of Peace, All Might.

Images of All For One and the mysterious Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse floated through his mind. But despite the looming shadows, Midoriya Izuku's determination shone through. No matter where these villains hid or how dangerous they were, he vowed to wield One For All under All Might's guidance to protect society from harm.

That was a promise he intended to keep.

---

A/N: And Chapter 8 comes to a close. So to be honest, my first draft kind of just fast forwarded to the Sports Festival where i think everyone is focused on, even my self. But I realised that this build up chapter was likely needed and I couldn't just cut it out and do the Sports Festival straight away. So yeah sorry if this is a slower chapter and you were hoping to just jump straight into the Festival, next chapter will be the one.

I'm actually super excited about the Sports Festival, because thats where the bigger changes in the story are going to start taking place. I've already got most of it planned out just need to write it, which is always the hardest part. I hope you all enjoy when we get there.

Last thing, someone sent me a message saying that I forgot to state what Eli's Quirk is, and they are right. This is intentionally and that is something that will likely be revealed soon *Wink Wink*. Funny enough, someone has already guessed what the quirk is, which is crazy as I thought I hid it well enough, but I guess not. Anyway that will be revealed soon. With all that said, I will try to get the next chapter out relatively soon, but I can't promise when as there is some life stuff happening. That said as always, thanks everyone who favourited, followed and reviewed up until now. Many thanks, and wherever you are in the world, hope you have a good morning, afternoon, evening, or good night.

-Gaming Terms-

NPC = A non-player character, is any character in a game that is not controlled by a player.