Sorry for the long wait, but this story really makes me want to type I guess. Since so far every chapter has been over 10,000 words long.
Rosalina waited patiently as Midoriya calmed himself down, rubbing his back in a soothing motion while the tears reduced to just sniffles. The space princess ceased her movements as Midoriya finally raised his head for the princess to look at him with a kind smile.
"Are you alright?"
"Y-Yes, thank you," Midoriya confirmed as he rubbed his eyes with his arm, "Sorry you had to see that."
"It's quite alright, everyone gets down from time to time. And I think it's better to let it out than bottling it up."
Midoriya nodded hesitantly at the piece of advice before looking at the little apricot-colored Luma who was on his left arm and looking up at him with worry in his eyes.
"Are you ok Greenie?"
Midoriya's eyes softened just the slightest bit as he rubbed the head of the star creature, an act that he the Luma appreciated greatly as the worry seemingly faded from his eyes.
"Y-Yeah, I think so," he admitted with a slight smile, "I... I just wanted someone to call me that my whole life."
"A Greenie?"
"No, a hero."
The Luma he saved was confused by the notion, seeing how determined and caring he was when it came to returning him to his mother. A feeling that many other Lumas resonated with as they looked on and called out from the sides.
"But you are!"
"You got us home!"
"And saved us from those angry people!"
A bitter laugh rang out from the greenette, an act that only seemed to make the Luma in his arms worry even more. Rosalina sitting beside the teen with a caring look as she tried to make sense of what was going through his head.
"Does being a hero mean a different thing here? If so, I hope we didn't offend you."
"No, no, it has the same meaning I think," Izuku relented to the woman as he started to fiddle with the flooring underneath him with a sad gaze, "but where I'm from a hero is not just a title. It's also a job and a position. Saving those that are in trouble or in harm's way with the use of your powers, or quirks as we call them."
Rosalina frowned as the greenette turned away from her with discomfort, obviously struggling to get this next part out as she and the other Lumas looked on in confusion and concern.
"...And I don't have one."
Rosalina blinked at the statement as she tried to piece together what that entailed for her new companion, since as far as she knew many people had different types of skills and abilities that they were either born with or gained as they grew. Like Bowser being able to breathe fire due to him being a Koopa, or Mario and Luigi being able to jump vast distances in both height and length. However, these factors didn't hold much weight when it came to how she viewed others even when she had significant powers of her own.
Because at the end of the day, what really matters in a person is the strength of their character.
"...That doesn't matter to me," Rosalina said with a soft smile even as the teen stilled in shock after hearing his quirk status. "You still helped us whenever we needed it and helped Luma get back to us safe and sound. So even if you don't see yourself as a hero right now, just know that we are grateful for everything that you have done."
"Uh-huh," the apricot-colored Luma agreed with the space princess with a soft voice as it peered up to the teen, "I would've never found Mama if it wasn't for you..."
Midoriya's eyes glistened as he rubbed the head of the star creature with a smile, taking in the words of gratitude reluctantly as the Luma leaned into his touch. Garnering a pleased smile from Rosalina seeing the two get along so well. Yet she looked a bit amused with Midoriya's attention shifted from the Luma to her repeatedly, looking perplexed about something as he tried to muster the courage to ask with a slightly red face.
"Rosalina, these Lumas are your children, right?"
"Of course," she admitted with a smile, wondering where this was going.
"I was wondering how, s-since you look nothing alike. U-Unless there's some other Luma that I don't know who is the father?"
Rosalina blinked before a hearty laugh started to escape her lips, once that seemed much too kind and soft to mean any insult to the greenette. Even so, it didn't help his face from turning bright red as several of the other Lumas giggled alongside her.
"I-I'm sorry," Rosalina calmed down with a soft giggle as she covered her lips daintily with her hand, a smile still on her lips. "It's just that I am not used to being asked that question in that way."
The laughter that erupted from her drew the attention of the other various Lumas that were playing, garnering them to gather around the teen and the space princess to see what all the commotion was about.
"Mama, what's so funny?" one green Luma asked.
Rosalina looked at the crowd that had gathered with adoration in her eyes, seeing them all together and looking at her in curiosity.
"Midoriya asked me a question that caught me off guard is all," Rosalina explained while sparing the green-haired teen any more embarrassment. "He just asked me if you were all my children."
The Lumas blinked at the odd question, not quite sure what was funny about the idea of Rosalina being their mother as they looked at each other in confusion. Since to them, it was obvious why this was a given even if they didn't look the same.
"Of course, she's our mama!" one red Luma cried out with absolute certainty as several others nodded and joined in.
"She takes care of us!" a yellow one yelled.
"And loves us!" a green one gestured with a nod.
"And reads us stories!" another blue one boasted.
"And feed us star bits!" an orange one added.
"And helps us when we're sad!"
"It doesn't matter if we're not the same!" another Luma stepped forward with glee as it turned to Rosalina, with the others doing the same as they looked at the space princess with adoration.
"Because she's our mama!"
The unified cry from the star-like creatures made Midoriya flinch as several of them went to cuddle with Rosalina, causing a gleeful laugh to escape from her even as her eyes welled up with tears. She felt the absolute love and care they had for her in droves, rubbing the heads of some while cuddling with others the best she could.
Midoriya watched all of this from the sides with surprise in his eyes before a smile eventually leveled out, seeing the absolute trust and love that the star-like creature displayed with a sense of longing. Wondering to himself when was the last time he and his own mom did something similar, causing a slight ache in his heart as he recalled all the times he brushed her off.
The sudden thought made him flinch before standing up with wide eyes as panic started to flow through him. Finally realizing how long he had been away from home and how long it might take to go back now that he was in space.
"Oh no! I have to get home, my mom is probably worrying like crazy!"
Rosalina paused in her care at the sudden outburst, looking at the teen in surprise before understanding soon dawned on her features. Knowing that she had suddenly whisked him away from his homeworld in the moment of their escape and should return him to his loved ones. Getting up from the pile of Lumas cuddling her with grace and making his way over to him.
"That's not good," she conceded with sympathy on the state his mother might be in right now, "I can take you right back as soon as possible, we won't even have to move the ship to do it either."
While Midoriya let out a sigh of relief at the offer, the apricot-colored Luma in his arms looked up at him in shock. The idea that this new friend and savior was going away from them so soon filled it with sadness, its eyes tearing up just the slightest as it held into his arm tightly.
"...Greenie's going away?"
Rosalina and the green-haired teen both turned towards the speaking Luma with surprise in their eyes, with the space princess giving a sad smile seeing how much care the star creature had for their new friend.
"I'm afraid so," she said with a nod, "It's time for him to return home."
"B-But he can stay here! We have enough space for another room like you mama!"
A soft laugh came out from Rosalina's lips as she rubbed the head of the Luma with care, before smiling in slight amusement to answer its concerns.
"I'm sure his mother would like to see him again, after all, I was quite worried when you were missing. We wouldn't want her to be worried over him as well, would we?"
The Luma paused as it considered the words of its mother, recalling the way he was so worried about her when he got separated and the way they embraced when they finally met once more. It didn't want to take that away from his new friend either.
"...No."
Midoriya looked between the two oddly, not used to seeing this type of dynamic of mother and child even in his household. He blinked in surprise when the Luma finally left his arms and started to float beside Rosalina, a sad look in his gaze as it turned towards the space princess with a hopeful expression.
"...Will we see him again?"
The green-haired teen blinked in surprise at the thought of returning here and the fact that somebody wanted to see him again, unused to this kind of attention after being looked down on all this time. He was even more surprised when Rosalina smiled in understanding.
"Perhaps," she conceded with a nod, "of course, that is up to him."
Midoriya blinked when he saw both her and the Luma turn toward him with a look of expectancy, with many of the other residents looking at him for an answer.
Of course, he didn't really have a reason for coming back to them as he already helped them out enough by escaping the authorities and helping their spacecraft into orbit. Yet he couldn't help but feel sorry for the pleading gaze from the Luma that he saved, who was looking at him with such a hopeful expression that left very little doubt about what his next answer would be.
"S-Sure," he said with a nervous smile that slowly evened out to a calm expression, "I don't mind coming again."
The Luma was so overcome with joy at the idea of being able to see its new friend again that it rushed towards him with a large and loving embrace. One that made Midoriya's eyes widen in shock before eventually returning the gesture with slight tears in his eyes, unused to being wanted by others so much.
Rosalina watched the interaction with a fond smile, seeing the two get along so well despite only meeting for the first time brought joy to her heart. Both for the Luma that was lost and the green-haired teen, who she suspected was unfamiliar with these kinds of gestures and affections.
She stepped forward next to them just as they separated, looking at the greenette with a questioning gaze. One that he understood as he nodded back with a firm look, letting her know that he was ready to head back home.
Returning the gesture, Rosalina held the wand in her hand firmly as she looked at the rest of the Lumas reassuringly as a bubble surrounded her and their green-haired friend.
"I'll be right back darlings, please remain on the ship until I return, ok?"
"Ok, mama!"
"Be safe!"
"Goodbye, Greenie!"
"See you soon!"
Midoriya waved sheepishly at the numerous farewells from the Lumas, as the bubble around them slowly faded away and the sight of the Observatory disappeared.
Midoriya and Rosalina slowly faded into existence onto the surface of the planet, seeing the familiar sight of the buildings and concrete in front of him. He could also still see some plumes of smoke still rising from the crash site, along with several helicopters in the air taking surveillance.
Rosalina frowned at the sight of so much attention on her presence, not meaning to cause so much trouble for the residents of her new friend's planet. She wondered to herself if there was something that she could do to fix the mess she caused.
Midoriya glanced at the space princess for a moment with concern seeing her expression, unsure of what to say to ease the tension. Yet before he could say anything, Rosalina decided to ask her own question.
"Is your home far away from here?"
The greenette paused at the sudden change in topic before looking at the area where they landed with familiarity, seeing that they were only about a fifteen-minute walk from where he lived.
"No, I can get by with this," Midoriya stated with a sense of relief, unsure if the short distance was due to coincidence or luck.
"Do you mind if I accompany you?"
Blinking in surprise, the teen turned to see Rosalina's visible eye looking at him in curiosity, no doubt wanting to make the most of their time together before she had to return to her Lumas.
"Sure."
With that, the two headed off toward the direction of Midoriya's home, crossing through sidewalks and passways that had Rosalina intrigued. They were sights unfamiliar to anything that she had seen before in her own world, which Midoriya was more than happy to answer. Along with the few questions she had about quirks after hearing about them from Midoriya.
"So everyone manifests them around 3 or 4 years old?"
"Usually," Midoriya answered with a nod, "But there have been rare cases when it happens later in life."
Rosalina nodded in understanding before turning her gaze forward in thought, taking in everything that the green-haired teen had told her of this world.
Midoriya welcomed the silence as they neared the entrance of his home, surprised that he didn't see anyone out and about during this time but supposed that it was natural given how late it was and the recent events that took place. A small blessing in disguise given how he didn't have to explain what he was doing with an older woman who wore such a different attire.
The two finally stopped when they finally made it to the front of Midoriya's residence, both looking at the building with a small sense of finality after everything that occurred that evening.
"Well... I guess this is it."
"I suppose so," Rosalina stated with a slightly disappointed tone before turning to the teen with a smile, "but I am glad to know that you were able to get back safe and sound after everything you have done for us."
Midoriya didn't know how to respond to her constant praise and gratitude, only resorting to mumbling soft denials with slightly red cheeks. An act that made Rosalina smile as she laid a hand on his shoulder to gain the boy's attention.
"I loved hearing about the differences in our world as well, even if some of it doesn't make sense to me. I would also love to meet your mother sometime."
The greenette stilled at the idea of the two meeting, a gesture that didn't go unnoticed by Rosalina as she looked at him with concern.
"Is that a problem?"
"N-No, it's just..."
Midoriya sighed while rubbing the back of his head, feeling uncomfortable at the idea of introducing someone new to his mother.
It wasn't like the two had a bad relationship with each other, in fact, he loved her very much. And was grateful for the love and support she gave him throughout his life even without his father in the picture. Indulging in his passion for heroes by providing all the notebooks and All Might merch when she didn't need to. She did pretty much everything a son could ask for when it came to raising him and showing him proper love and care.
But it was ever since that day when he didn't manifest his quirk that opening up to her on certain topics was hard, ever since he stared at that screen on the computer of All Might saving a group of people from a fire. Recalling the tears streaming down his cheeks that day as he asked his mother if he could still be a hero without a quirk. And all she said was:
"I'm sorry Izuku! I'm sorry! I'm sorry!"
It felt like she had given up on the idea of him ever becoming a hero the moment he didn't have a quirk. Like she had somehow failed him when he didn't manifest a quirk of his own, taking in all the blame when he just wanted her support. An incident that made it very hard to open up as time went on, even when the bullying from his peers started.
...
"...Izuku?" Rosalina asked in concern as she crouched so that they were at eye level, looking at him with worry at the momentary silence that occurred.
"I-I'm ok," Midoriya said with a small smile with quickly vanished, a troubled look on his features as he kept his gaze away from the space princess. "It's just that... I don't think she would get it, introducing someone from another world. And she is probably worried about me enough after everything that's happened, so I think if it would be better for another time."
Rosalina watched the green-haired teen carefully as he stated his reasoning, feeling like he was hiding something from her even if he seemed truthful in his explanation. Yet she knew that it would do no good to force whatever was bothering him out right now, reining herself as she nodded in reluctant understanding.
"...Ok, if you truly think it's unwise for us to meet then I won't right now. But I feel like she should know where you have been during this whole fiasco."
The greenette could only nod slowly with a guilty expression on his face, unsure if he would be able to do that right now.
"...But I do hope you can see us again soon, when do you think you can come back?"
The thought of seeing her and all the Lumas and Toads again brought a slight smile to his face, seeing everyone in the Observatory happy bringing him momentarily out of his funk. Gazing at Rosalina again with a smile as he made plans in his head.
"Hopefully tomorrow, I will be sure to ask my mom if I can meet you guys again."
Rosalina nodded at the idea, already excited at the idea of bringing the greenette back to their home with all the Lumas, who have taken a great liking to him after everything that he's done for them.
"Very well, do I just show up here? I can teleport you right to the Observatory."
"No!" the green-haired teen panicked at the idea of his mother accidentally seeing Rosalina as he fumbled for a solution, "W-We can meet up at the park instead, the Luma I found knows where it is."
Rosalina nodded slowly as her worries for her new companion seemed to grow, seeing him so uncomfortable at the thought of his mother finding out about her. Nonetheless, she accepted the solution already knowing how excited the Lumas would be to hear from their green-haired friend again.
"...Very well, I think we can manage that."
Midoriya let out a small sigh of relief, a sight that made the space princess smile as she made his way towards him. Grabbing him by the shoulders in a rare showing of affection before she crouched and embraced him in a hug.
"Thank you again for everything Izuku," she said in complete seriousness as her eyes shined with gratitude behind him. "It means a lot to me and the Lumas."
The green-haired teen could only stiffen under Rosalina's touch, not being used to affection of any kind other than his mother. Only turning red at the contact as he awkwardly patted the woman's back in an attempt to return the gesture.
Eventually, Rosalina separated from the greenette and stood tall once more, wrapping herself in a bubble with a smile as Midoriya stared in fascination. Even if he had already teleported with her just a couple of minutes prior.
"I hope to see you soon, Izuku."
Midoriya watched the smiling form of Rosalina slowly fade away from existence, leaving him alone at the front of his house once more.
He almost thought it was a dream, seeing someone who was so elegant and thoughtful while caring for others so deeply. Someone who didn't outright dismiss him whenever he told them that he didn't have any real power of his own.
It was kind of... nice.
His gaze then shifted towards the household where his mother was, a sinking feeling in his gut growing as he made his way up.
He didn't know how to begin describing where he was during this whole fiasco, unsure of what to say to ease any worries she might have of her son being gone for an hour or two when helicopters and heroes were dealing with a foreign object from outer space.
Finally making it to the front of the door and pausing only for a moment, Midoriya took in a deep breath to prepare himself for whatever sight may lay ahead of him as he entered the household hesitantly, shutting the door with a grimace as he prepared himself for the bombardment of questions from his mother. A gesture that he didn't have to wait too long for given how she nearly tackled him just a moment later.
"Izukuuu! Where were you?! I tried calling you, but you didn't answer! Then the news started talking about how something crashed in the forest nearby and how everyone should stay indoors!"
The green-haired teen barely caught on to the bombardment of questions that her mother went through, feeling guilty about the amount of worry he put her through. Looking at her in the eye to try to calm any anxious thoughts from increasing.
"I-It's ok, Mom, I just had a bit of trouble getting back because of what happened," he said with a slight grimace knowing that the statement was only half true and that he'd been out of the planet's orbit just half an hour prior, "but what do you mean that we had to stay indoors for the time being?"
"Something had crashed in the forest nearby; they were just talking about it on the news."
Midoriya's attention was directed towards the television, which was at a reporter at the scene where Rosalina had crashed their observatory. Yellow police tape surrounded the enormous crater where the ship crashed while several officers and heroes were at the scene, investigating alongside many officers and officials and collecting strange objects and materials as well as Power Stars. With the only ones carrying the stars being officers in gas masks and gloves.
"As you can see here, many of us here are unsure of what just happened here in the forest just outside Mustafa. After a large unknown spacecraft suddenly crashed onto the ground while sending out thousands of these star-like objects out to the area, a feat that left many of us unsure of their origin or their purpose."
Izuku along with the others at home were greeted by the sight of a hero trying to get a grasp of one of the Power Stars that were left behind at the crash site, Death Arms, before he anxiously pulled his hand back with an uneasy expression.
"I don't know about this... it makes me feel... off," the hero said on screen uncertainly.
"We have no idea what these strange new objects or items are, but we have found that they are non-radioactive. Nonetheless, we have advised anyone who has seen these star-like things to notify the authorities. And to not engage or make physical contact with them, as they give off an energy that may disrupt quirks."
Midoriya gaped in awe and a sense of dread at the information that was given to them since Rosalina only really showed them being used to power and fix the Observatory. Making him wonder what other use these Power Stars had and why they were so important to her.
"All these unknown objects will be transported to I-Island, where some of the top scientists will investigate what the purpose these entities have. Already they have made a large gathering of these strange objects at the sight of the crash, along with other items that we have no idea of their purpose."
Midoriya winced at the sight of so many Power Stars and item blocks being carried into several trucks and crates on the scene, which were all being loaded up so that they could be hauled off to I-island for further research.
"Well keep you updated if any new developments have been made, but residents in Mustafa are advised to stay indoors until they have given the all-clear. Wanting to search the area for any remaining residue or objects they may have missed throughout the night."
Midoriya stared at the screen dumbly as he started to list off the ongoing search for the unidentified spacecraft. Something about contacting NASA and other space agencies to see if there was anything about where the unknown spacecraft came from or where it was headed.
It seems like Rosalina caused more commotion than he originally thought, making it a point to bring it up to the space princess the next time they met. Yet he was brought out of his musings when his mother worriedly turned towards him with tears in her eyes.
"I was so worried about you when they made the announcement to stay indoors. You weren't answering your phone when I was calling and thought something bad happened to you. I just..."
The green-haired teen felt tears of his own start to build as his mother hugged him tightly, his heart filled with sorrow at the amount of worry he caused her. Bringing his own arm around her as he returned the gesture sincerely unlike the earlier encounter with Rosalina.
"I'm... I'm ok Mom, really."
Midoriya steeled himself as he fought the urge to dismiss her again, summoning the courage to tell at least some aspect of his activities this evening to appease her worries.
"...I actually met someone before this whole thing happened. But we were caught up in the whole commotion and I couldn't call you before we had to leave."
"...Really?" Inko sniffed before looking at him in surprise as he didn't really mention anything involving other people except for the occasional comment about Katsuki. A feat that she was seeing less and less of as time went on after elementary school.
"Yeah," Midoriya smiled remembering the warm, kind face of Rosalina and the eager, excited look of the Luma he saved. "They needed help during the whole evacuation, and I brought them back home."
Inko's eyes softened at the statement, feeling a mixture of pride and worry enter her being as she knew Izuku wasn't one to leave someone in need behind. Even if it meant putting himself at risk or in danger of doing so, having been that way ever since he was a child.
"They wanted to meet up again tomorrow too!" Izuku couldn't help the excitement in his voice as he looked at his mother with a beaming smile. "I think I really made a friend Mom!"
Inko's eyes teared up at the amount of joy that her son was displaying, not seeing this level of excitement ever since he learned about heroes and wanted to become one. Hoping that the bright new change in his life could distract him from becoming a hero.
"That's great Izuku. I hope that I will be able to meet them soon."
Midoriya winced at the reminder of the two parties wanting to meet, chuckling to himself nervously as he struggled to keep a straight face.
"But enough about that, how was the rest of your day? I want to hear all about it!"
The expression on Midoriya's face dimmed significantly remembering the words of his classmates and Bakugo, the looks of scrutiny and amusement at his person no matter where he was in school. Their overbearing sneers and snickers in the classroom nearly made him grimace at the recollection.
Inko seemed to have realized the mistake that she made, already opening her mouth to dismiss the attempt when her son stopped her first. Looking back at her with such a pained and forced expression that it nearly made her wilt in guilt.
"It was... ok Mom. I'm just a bit tired after the long day I had, so I think I'm just going to go to bed."
Inko kept a brave face as she smiled softly in understanding even as she cursed internally for her blunder, giving him a quick peck on the cheek as she gestured towards the kitchen behind her.
"Alright, there are some leftovers in the fridge if you get hungry. And I hope your meeting with your friend goes well."
Thankfully, Inko got a small genuine smile from her son as he hugged her back with a nod, feeling like she at least somewhat salvaged this interaction even if not much got through conversation-wise. Wishing each other a good night as they went to their respective room. With Inko hoping that whoever Midoriya was meeting with could see how special and kind her boy was as she turned to the television to see what else could be said about the incident that occurred.
Meanwhile, Midoriya made his way to his own room and closed the door softly before leaning back onto it with a sigh while covering his face with his arms in guilt. Feeling the repercussions of lying to his mother again.
It was something that he always went through whenever she asked him how the rest of his day went at school, where he usually simplified the experience with a simple 'fine', 'ok', or 'good'. But this time he seemed to lock up when he was asked this time, the encounter with Rosalina and the Lumas putting into perspective how lonely he really was.
Uncovering himself from his pity party he saw the familiar sight of his All Might collection in his room, remembering the idea that All Might installed in him the moment he saw him on the screen as a child. A small smile formed as he restated the mantra to himself.
"Anyone can be a hero."
He always recalled this whenever he was starting to doubt himself or the words of his peers seemed too much at times. Recalling the way All Might stood tall without a shadow of a doubt as he continued to save the day, recalling the way he smiled even when he was in the face of danger.
He knew that it was somewhat childish to keep repeating this to himself when everyone kept doubting him, but he felt like he had something to prove. Not wanting to bend down on his beliefs even when the world seemed to be against him, wanting to prove that he could help others without the use of a power.
That he wasn't worthless.
That he wasn't useless.
That he wasn't a Deku.
And now, for the first time, there was someone else who seemed to believe that the path he was on was the right one. One that saw his acts as a genuine need to help others and not as a feeble attempt to live up to the heroic standards of a quirk. One that gave him hope for what the future may hold for him.
"...That doesn't matter to me," Rosalina said with a soft smile even as the teen stilled in shock after hearing his quirk status. "You still helped us whenever we needed it and helped Luma get back to us safe and sound. So even if you don't see yourself as a hero right now, just know that we are grateful for everything that you have done."
Midoriya smiled at the kind words from the space princess as he wiped his eyes of any stray tears that managed to break through. Breathing a content sigh as he got himself ready for bed and shut the light off, lying down with a slight smile as he wondered what kind of conversations he would have with Rosalina tomorrow.
Midoriya waited anxiously with his overstuffed backpack on the bench where he met the Luma for the first time, the bush and crater still present from the Luma's impact the night before. He wondered for a moment if they were ever going to show up or if they just were playing a trick on him. Something that he unfortunately experienced before in his childhood.
He was lucky that he even had the chance to go out again after the whole fiasco the news made about Rosalina's appearance. The authorities releasing the momentary restrictions on the populace early in the morning, but with more increased patrols from the police and heroes as an extra precaution. This caused a bit of worry from the greenette over what Rosalina's reaction might be after hearing where they were taking the remaining Power Stars that were left behind.
Yet all those things were dismissed when Rosalina finally appeared around the corner with the Luma he saved, looking thoroughly relieved to see him again as the anxious expression on her face disappeared.
"See mama? I told you we would find him!"
Midoriya was just as relieved that he wasn't being left forgotten but blinked when he saw that same cyan-colored dress from the princess and floating Luma out in broad daylight. Making him wonder if they were being followed due to their odd attire before the Luma crashed into his arms with delight, giving him a tight embrace.
"It's good to see you again Izuku," Rosalina greeted with a slight bow and kind smile, "We almost got lost a few times, but thankfully we asked a couple of people to point us the right way. But I must say there were a few odd looks based on my attire, your world has such a different fashion sense than we do."
The green-haired teen took in Rosalina's slight bewilderment with a slight smile, understanding her confusion about the norms of his world after only being here for less than 24 hours. He adjusted the backpack on him with a bit of excitement at the idea of teaching someone the history of his planet.
"I figured as much, that's why I got a whole bunch of different books here about the planet. Some are about history and heroes, but I also added a bunch of space-related ones for you to learn about seeing how confused you were earlier about the constellations and planets."
Rosalina was touched at the consideration, smiling in gratitude as she waved her wand around them to conceal them in a bubble. Their image slowly faded away from the scene as they teleported to the Observatory.
The sight of the observatory slowly came to Midoriya's view, along with the many inhabitants that resided there as they turned to the new arrivals in excitement. Several of the Lumas floated towards them with excitement before stopping in front of the green-haired teen.
"It's Greenie!"
"He came back!"
"Can you play with us?"
"His hair looks so fluffy!"
Midoriya was unused to the massive amount of attention that he was receiving from the Lumas, smiling nervously as they floated beside him while one pulled on his right hand, and another touched his bushy hair in awe. The star-like creatures were happy to see the visitor keep his promise and return with their mother.
"Now, now, we must give Izuku a chance to relax." Rosalina softly chided seeing the overwhelming attention the green-haired teen was getting. "After all, he brought some stories and information about his world to share. It's quite rude to leave our guest in such a state now, isn't it?"
"Awe..." the Lumas pouted as they reluctantly released their hold on the green-haired teen. An act that made him sigh in relief while giving Rosalina a thankful smile, one that she returned with a nod as she gestured for them to all sit over towards a small part of the meadow near the Terrace.
"Now then, we are all curious about what Izuku has to say about the world he lives in, so let's all sit over there so that we can hear out what Izuku has to say."
Rosalina watched as all the Lumas made their way towards the meadow with excitement, with the Toads and Polari also making their way over after hearing that Izuku was going to share information on his world. Until one Luma managed to grab Rosalina's hand with a questioning gaze.
"Why aren't we going to the library?"
"Because there isn't enough star power to light it up yet," Rosalina advised while gesturing to the parts of the ship that were still coated in darkness. "We would have to find more Power and Grand Stars if we want to make the ship bright again."
The Luma that asked nodded in understanding while Izuku frowned from behind Rosalina's back, his question about what else the Power Stars could do being put on hold as a large semi-circle was formed. With ample seating made for some of the Toads while the center was empty, a spot was reserved for Izuku to tell his tale of how his world came to be.
Yet he was surprised alongside the Lumas when the princess sat beside the other star-like creature instead of next to him. Drawing confused expressions all around as one green Luma poked her arm with a raised eyebrow.
"Mama, aren't you going to help him tell the story?"
Rosalina just shook her head as she rubbed its head gently, a soft laugh escaping her lips in amusement.
"No, this isn't a story that I have heard before," she explained with kindness, "so I will be here listening to it with you for the first time too."
The Lumas all gasped at such a notion since Rosalina was always the one to tell stories about the universe they lived in. Making it a rare occasion for her to be a part of the audience as well, looking at her with awe and surprise.
"Mama is learning a new story too?"
"Wow, it must be a really good one if she doesn't know it!"
"I wonder what will happen in it?"
Izuku watched their eager and awaiting expressions with a bit of nervousness as he never really presented a topic to kids before, even more so when it involved the history of his world. Making him wonder how he would present this kind of topic to a bunch of toddlers. The sight of all the Lumas, Polari, and the Toads focusing their attention on him in the semi-circle made him anxious.
Yet when he locked eyes with the space princess who sat in the front, she only smiled at him softly and gave off a small nod. An act of encouragement to start his tale and semi-lesson as the last of the Lumas finally sat down, eager to hear what the green-haired teen had to say.
So with a deep breath, he thought about all that he learned in school and how to simplify it in a way that children would understand. Gathering his thoughts together before finally opening his mouth to start his 'tale'.
"...A-A long time ago, there was a time where people were just like me, ordinary people with no powers who lived on the Earth doing whatever they wanted."
Izuku could tell that the audience was at least interested as they took in his words with interest, leaning forward with fascination while others wondered where this was heading.
"But then one day, there was a baby that was born with a bright light shining around his body. Surprising many doctors and people at the time as they didn't know what the cause of the glow was."
"A glowing baby?" Rosalina asked with slight confusion, her single eye focused on the greenette as she took in this tale. "That must've been quite a shock."
"It was." Midoriya confirmed with a slight nod, "And over time, more of these kinds of changes happened as more children entered the world. Abilities that no one knew how to control or work, with many of them changing their appearance entirely to the point where they don't even look human."
"I remember that!" the Luma that Midoriya saved before suddenly peaked up in slight excitement, "Me and Mama met one on the way to meet you! He was a cat man in a police uniform!"
Many of the Lumas perked up at the sudden intervention, asking questions to Rosalina and the star that spoke up.
"A cat man?"
"Does he lick himself?"
"Is it like the Super Bell?
"Sounds kind of weird."
Rosalina shook her head with a smile, the sight of all the Lumas interacting with each other during this tale made her giggle as she answered.
"No, he was very polite and helped us find Izuku when we got lost." She then turned to Izuku with a look of interest as a new thought occurred to her. "And there are many others that are like that too?"
"There are," the green-haired teen said with a slight smile before he frowned, "But when these powers first started showing up, many people were afraid of those that had them and what they could do. Of how different they looked from one another, causing them to fight one another."
A gasp rang out between the group, some Lumas holding one another in an act of comfort while others looked on in worry. A sentiment that Midoriya could understand after reading how much pain and suffering went during the beginning of quirks, when society as a whole went into a panic after quirked individuals started to outnumber those without one. Causing fights to spread out throughout the globe as differences tried to be resolved.
"...Then, how did it stop?" Rosalina asked carefully.
Admittedly, this area of history was a bit murky due to the vast scope this situation caused around the globe, but he knew the gist of the eventual proceedings that took place. Numerous laws and procedures taking place to create a fairer society. But if there was one subject that brought hope to all it was the concept of heroes.
"Eventually, there were those who thought they could use their powers for the greater good. Using them to help others during times of crisis or while others use them for the wrong reasons. A way to help others no matter what kind of danger remained in front of them: the heroes. A role that remains even to this very day."
The Lumas all looked at one another in slight awe hearing the descriptions from the green-haired teen, with Rosalina looking at Midoriya in a new light after seeing how passionate he was about the job he wanted.
"Is that what you want to be?" one of the Lumas asked with a raised hand like one would in a classroom setting.
Midoriya smiled softly at the question as he was soon brought back to reality, his eyes dimming slightly at the reminder of the role he wanted. Causing him to wilt slightly as a sad gaze formed on his face.
"Y-Yeah, I do..."
While the Lumas were surprised and excited for the green-haired teen, only Rosalina and Polari looked on with a look of concern seeing the downtrodden state of their new friend. Causing the space princess to stand up with a slight clap towards Midoriya for his story.
"That was quite a tale Midoriya, I think we all learned a little bit more about your world now wouldn't you say darlings?"
"Yup! Being a hero sounds like a lot!"
"I didn't really get it, but I think it was neat."
"Maybe Mama had a quirk and didn't tell us?"
Rosalina giggled at the slight confusion from some of the Lumas and looked at all of them with a sweet and kind expression. Midoriya gave a thankful look towards the princess for changing the tone, one that she returned in kindness before looking back towards the Lumas that were gathered.
"Ok then, I think it's time for a treat. How about I make some of my Star Bit cakes?"
The crowd of Lumas all perked up in excitement at the sound of their favorite treat being made, some already drooling in anticipation as they all cheered out in glee. Making another laugh emit from Rosalina as she made her way out of the meadows. Over towards the section of the Observatory where the kitchen used to be.
With a single wave of her wand, the remaining bricks and steel that were left behind in the aftermath of their escape turned into a small, brick house. One that had a funnel out the top to release any smoke and fumes that occurred when baking and cooking. The Space Princess turned towards Midoriya and gestured for him to follow.
"Izuku, would you mind helping me out in the kitchen? I could really use the help."
The green-haired teen blinked at the sudden request from her but agreed with a simple head shake as he started to make his way towards her. Until he was suddenly stopped by the Blue Toad wearing thick glasses, who was giving him a curious look.
"Izuku, while the story was quite a good base for how your world functions. I'm afraid that I still don't understand how it works. Like what kind of kingdoms it has or what kind of currency is needed to buy stuff. I know that it doesn't seem important right now, but I rather be caught up than be caught off guard."
The greenette blinked at the more studious interpretation of his short little 'tale', and only smiled before gesturing towards the large backpack that he brought with him. One that the Toad's gaze followed with curiosity and interest.
"There are several books that I brought along for us to look at, if you want you guys can get a head start on the reading."
The Toad nodded in understanding as he thanked the teen and made his way toward the overstuffed bag, letting Midoriya finally follow Rosalina into the small kitchen. Seeing that she was already setting up several bowls and plates for them to use.
"I know that we are from different worlds Izuku but I'm curious, do you have any Star Bits here?"
Midoriya blinked as he looked at the bowl that was set aside from the rest of the utensils and plates, one that was filled to the brim with large star-like spheres that came in a multitude of colors. Ranging from white and purple to red and blue.
"No, we do not."
Rosalina made a green one float from her wand and moved it towards the green-haired teen, who looked at the substance with intrigue as his gaze turned to the princess.
"Would you like to try one?"
Midoriya looked back at the princess warily before grabbing the supposed 'treat' from the hair, Rosalina quietly chuckling at his hesitation as she turned her focus back towards the bowls in front of her. Not wanting to put pressure on the teen should he want to refuse.
The Apricot-colored Luma made its way into the room as it took in the sight of Midoriya trying a treat with glee. Seeing the teen poke and prod the squishy substance and sniff it before slowly putting it into his mouth, the sweet flavoring filling his taste buds as Rosalina eyed him from the side.
"...It tastes like honey."
Rosalina laughed at the comparison since it was the exact same thing that she said when she was a little girl. With Polari and the other Luma chuckling in amusement at the reaction from the princess as Midoriya looked on with a slight blush.
"It does, doesn't it?" Rosalina said with a smile as she put the batter into several bowls at once with her wand. Stirring several simultaneously while three remained untouched for her guests to use, which Polari and the other Luma took without question.
The green-haired teen looked at the princess in confusion at the last remaining bowl, but she only gave him a nod of encouragement as she focused back on her task. Midoriya taking the last remaining bowl into his hands as he began to stir as well.
For a moment, no sound was made as the four focused on making the cakes for the crowd of Lumas that were waiting outside. Polari patiently instructed the apricot-colored one what to do step by step as Rosalina spoke up.
"Your tale was quite something Izuku. I didn't think people would get so caught up on what kinds of differences they had from one another."
Midoriya eyed the princess from the corner of his eyes, only to see that she was looking right back from the corner of her own. Making him grimace as he shifted his gaze back toward the thick batter that lay in front of him.
"It hasn't always been easy, but I think we found a way to make it work. Even if some people use their quirks for bad reasons."
Rosalina only hummed in understanding, knowing several people back home who would also fit in the category.
Meanwhile, Midoriya slowed down in his own task as he looked at the princess with a furrowed brow. Still wondering about the aspect of Power Stars and what other functions they could have on a person.
"Rosalina, do you mind if I ask you a question?"
Of course," the space princess said nonchalantly as she continued to stir up the batter.
Midoriya pursed his lips as he looked at the calm gaze that Rosalina gave as she focused on the task at hand, almost wanting to ask this question another time. Yet he couldn't see another opportunity where they would be left alone from the other Lumas, mustering up the courage to ask something he thought of when he saw the report of the crash last night.
"You said that Power Stars and Grand Stars were used to fix and power the Observatory, but is there another use for it? A way for a person to use it for themselves?"
Rosalina frowned at the question coming from the green-haired teen, with Polari looking on from the side as he also felt his mood dampen slightly at the question. Slowly stirring the pot filled with batter as the other Luma continued to add ingredients, unaware of the conversation that the two humans were having.
"While it is true that Power Stars can be used to power or ship, there is another use of them that I do not entirely agree with, one that allows an individual to get power from them by absorbing their power. Making them grow to tremendous proportions while causing havoc on the worlds they live on. It's something that I have run into quite often in the universe that I am from and one that was being used by the person chasing us when we crashed."
Midoriya's eyes widened slightly at the new information, making him gulp nervously as he recalled how close he was to one just the night prior. Wondering to himself what kind of effects would happen if he ever made contact.
"I only ask because there were a lot of Power Starts that were left behind on Earth after your crash." Midoriya informed the space princess, "And I heard that they had some type of effect on quirks if people made contact with them."
"Oh dear..." Rosalina said worryingly as she poured the batter into several pans that were behind her with Polari and Izuku reluctantly doing the same before she put them in the oven, "That's... not good."
Izuku watched as Rosalina closed the hatch so that the cakes could bake, her eyes drifting off into thought as Polari and the other Luma watched on. Wondering what kind of resolution Rosalina had for this type of scenario as she finally looked up and locked eyes with Polari.
"Polari, please let the Toads know that I wish to speak with them when I deliver the treats."
"Of course," Polari confirmed as he bowed slightly and left the room.
Rosalina watched her advisor leave with a worried expression as she turned back to Izuku, who was also wondering what kind of plan she had in mind for all the extra stars that were left on Earth. Yet faltered when the space princess looked at him with a frown.
"Did they tell you what they were going to do with them?"
"...They said that they were going to ship them off to I-Island for further development and research since they didn't know what they were used for. Along with those big blocks with question marks that were left behind."
Rosalina took in the words for Izuku thoughtfully, thinking back on what she had been told so far about the kind of world her new companion lived in. And found it quite disheartening that everyone seemed to be hung up on their differences and the items she brought along with her. The smallest bit of guilt worming its way into her at the trouble she caused.
And yet, she was happy to see that Izuku didn't seem to be bothered by the strange objects that he got to witness, nor the way the Lumas seemed to hover around him when he first arrived. Making her eyes soften at the sight of the teen as they slowly started to put the materials they used away in silence.
"Izuku, do you want to be a hero so badly?"
Izuku paused as he put the last of the bowls away, surprised at the sudden questioning from Rosalina. Yet he answered truthfully to her when he met her gaze again head-on.
"More than anything."
Rosalina smiled softly as a new idea slowly started to build up in her head, hearing the utter conviction in the greenette's voice making her want to help in any way she could. Wanting to help Midoriya become a hero after seeing what he did for them and the caring personality he demonstrated to her Lumas.
*Ding*
The sudden sound of the oven brought the two out of their thoughts, making Rosalina divert her gaze from the green-haired teen and get out numerous plates with a wave of her wand as Midoriya followed closely behind. The greenette stood back as Rosalina pulled out the cakes and gently pried them from the pans. Making numerous fluffy desserts plop simultaneously onto the numerous platters as the Luma eagerly awaited beside them.
"Now then, time for my favorite part."
Izuku only smiled at the sight of a joyful Rosalina and Luma getting ready to decorate the numerous cakes that lay in front of them, making his way towards them to help in any way he could.
The Lumas all continued to play and chat with one another as they waited for their favorite treats from Rosalina, who was taking a bit longer than usual to decorate and bake. Until the sound of a door opening made everyone turn towards the trio who emerged from the makeshift kitchen.
"It's ready!" Rosalina called out cheerfully.
All at once, the Lumas hovered their way towards them in excitement and glee. Ready to take a bite out of their favorite treat made by their mother. With Izuku holding up one of the Star Bit cakes in his own hand while Rosalina made several other cakes float behind them, all decorated with white icing and Star Bits.
Rosalina divided the cake into pre-cut bits and floated each piece towards her children, each of them grabbing a piece in delight before chowing down in glee. With a single piece remaining for Midoriya on the plate he was carrying and several going over to the Toad Bridgae until all the treats found their way towards a Luma or person for consumption. The Lumas all looked towards their mother in gratitude as they shouted:
"Thank you, mama!"
Rosalina laughed at the shout, shaking her head softly before gesturing over toward the green-haired teen beside her.
"Izuku was a big help, make sure you thank him as well."
"Thank you, Izuku!"
Midoriya blushed at the massive sound in gratitude as Rosalina scanned the massive crowd for any signs of discomfort or those that were left out. Nodding to herself in satisfaction before making her way towards the Toad Bridgae, with the greenette and apricot-colored Luma following close behind as they nibbled on their own pieces.
Most of the Toad brigade was chowing down on the treats provided to them by the space princess, all of them giving off smiles on the delicious dessert. Well, all of the members except the studious Blue Toad that is, who was looking at several of the books that Midoriya provided when he went off to bake with Rosalina. Along with the Green Toad who was looking over his shoulder as he took a bite of his own treat.
"This world is certainly a complex one, with different branches of government and countries that all have different sets of rules to follow. Not to mention the different kinds of currency that some use that make conversion difficult to follow."
Rosalina perked up at the sudden intervention, looking at Midoriya briefly before smiling at the ever-studious resident of the Mushroom Kingdom.
"It's not so different from our world if you think about it. With different kingdoms having their own citizens and rules to follow, and the Kongs are certainly fond of using Bananas as their currency instead of coins."
The Toad nodded in acceptance as he went back to reading, wanting to know more about the world their new companion lived in as the captain finally finished his treat. Shouldering on the backpack and making his way towards them before he was standing in front of Rosalina with a curious expression.
"Polari said that you needed to talk to us, Rosalina? I hope everything is going well on the Observatory."
"Yes, everything is ruining as intended even if we don't have all of our Domes at the moment," Rosalina conceded before making the point she wanted, "No, what I wanted to inform you is that Midoriya here said that quite a lot of Power Stars were left behind during our escape."
"Really?" the captain looked a bit alarmed at hearing that along with the other members of the Toad Brigade minus the yellow one who just snored next to a piece of uneaten cake.
"Yes, so I am thinking of an expedition of some kind where you all travel down and find any stray Power Stars."
The captain nodded in understanding as the Blue Toad finally closed the history book that he was reading and asked his own question worriedly.
"What did they do with the ones they found?"
"They are transporting them to I-Island," the green-haired teen spoke up seeing that he was the only one who knew about the place even if he had pieces of cake stuck to his face, "It's sort of a like a research facility that specializes in hero support gear and quirks. They probably took them there because they said that it had some kind of effect on people and their quirks."
Rosalina nodded in understanding as she considered her next move, thinking hard about how she could get as many Power Stars back to them as possible without the risk of her loved ones getting into harm's way. Not wanting to send them to a large research facility after the welcome they received in Midoriya's hometown.
"If I may suggest a solution?" Polari jumped into the conversation, "We still have the Power Star tracking system operational on the Observatory, and most sightings of Power Stars seemed to be on Earth. Theoretically, we can make a handheld version for the Toad Brigade to use to fix up more parts of the ship."
"Really?" Rosalina perked up at the quick solution.
"Yes, but I'm afraid that it will take some time for it to be complete, probably by the next week or so."
Rosalina nodded in slight disappointment but knew that she had to make the most of their situation when they didn't have much to go off on. She looked at the Toad Brigade in gratitude as she slightly bowed toward the Mushroom Kingdom residents.
"I am counting on you Captain for when the time comes, maybe then we can make our home whole again."
"You got it!" Captain Toad gestured with a quick response that had all the other crew members nod in agreement. Missing the anxious look that momentarily formed on the Blue Toad as he looked up from his book.
"Splendid."
Rosalina nodded before turning towards Midoriya with a look of contemplation, an act that was not lost on the green-haired teen or Polari as they watched the space princess.
"...Izuku, you said that you wanted to be a hero more than anything, right?"
The green-haired teen nodded slowly as she wondered what she was getting at, missing the startled look happening from the Toad Brigade and Polari behind her as they had an inkling of what was going to happen.
"What if I say that I can help you achieve that goal? That you can become a hero just like you always wanted?"
Midoriya stumbled backward in disbelief as a startled expression startled to take root, looking at the space princess with wide eyes and tears forming at the edge. Wondering to himself if this was all some sort of elaborate prank from Rosalina to lure him into a sense of insecurity. Yet the soft and encouraging look on her face told him that this was not the case, seeing that she was being truthful in her claim despite how crazy it sounded to him.
"B-But I don't have a quirk. I don't have any powers. I barely got you out of there before the authorities arrived. I can't become a hero!"
By now, the shout has drawn the attention of the other Lumas who had finished their treats by now. Making them gather around the duo in confusion and worry as Midoriya stood on shaking legs.
"I told you that it doesn't matter if you have a quirk or not. And it's not the first time that I helped someone who didn't have power become one either. What makes a hero is what kind of actions they take to help others, and you have certainly proven yourself to be a fine one in the making."
Midoriya fell to his knees even as he kept his gaze on Rosalina, who was slowly making her way towards him with a soft and proud smile as she crouched down in front of him. Brushing away the stray tears that dribble down onto his cheeks before uttering the line that will stick to the greenette for the rest of his life.
"You can become a hero Izuku."
Midoriya's willpower finally crumbled as she sobbed once more into Rosalina's arms, finally believing the sincere statement from the space princess as the Lumas all looked on in excitement. Seeing the big smile on Rosalina's face as she brushed the bushy green hair gently away from his face with a soft laugh.
"I take it that you accept my offer?"
"Y-Yes! If you can, yes! P-Please!" Midoriya sniffed out with a wet laugh of his own as he tried to calm down. Reigning in the tears much quicker than the last time he received praise as the apricot-colored one jumped into his arms.
"I must warn you though, it will be a hard road training to become a hero. Are you sure you are up for it?"
Rosalina was not surprised when Midoriya quickly wiped the remaining tears away from his face and stared into her own eyes with a determined expression. One that made her smile as the Luma in his arms looked on in excitement.
"Absolutely."
Rosalina smiled back at the conviction before standing back up on her feet, holding a hand out for Midoriya to take with a look of encouragement. A gesture that the greenette accepted as he stood up as well, with cheers of Lumas ringing out from all sides.
"Very well," Rosalina said to him with a smile, "I will be there to help you every step of the way."
Midoriya smiled back at the space princess as the two turned their gaze toward the empty void of space. Each of them wondering how this new path of heroics would turn out and what new challenges lied just up ahead.
Next up, training for Izuku