A/N: After Party Time! I hope you like some of the cameos here! Keep your eyes peeled. The theme in this chapter is all about Fame and how our young heroes deal with it. ;)

Opening Song:

"Lost in Time", by Survive Said the Prophet

CHAPTER FIFTY-TWO: FAMOUS

"Seriously, what do you think Gohan's up to?" Mina mused, holding her hands behind her head as she, Eijiro and Videl made their way to towards Gym Gamma. "Mister Aizawa's special mission, I mean… Sounded like some secret hero stuff, huh?"

Adjusting his red necktie, Eijiro nodded.
"Man, I hope it's not anything serious. But Gohan is one of the Big Guns of 1A; maybe it's another villain attack?"

"Aw jeez, not another damn villain attack," Videl groaned, rubbing her temples with her fingerless-gloved hand. "We could all use a peaceful night for once."

"Well, you heard what happened to Iida's big brother and his mom, right?" Mina said, dropping her arms to hug her elbows. Her voice dropped down to a serious, hushed tone. "Some villains got to them in Hosu."

"Wait, some villains got Ingenium and Chromea?" Videl paused, her eyes widening with concern. "When did this happen? Isn't crime always at its lowest during the Sports Fest?"

"That's probably why they chose to attack during the Fest," Kirishima said, clenching his jaw. "They knew that the entire country would be distracted."

"Yeah," Mina nodded sadly. "Iida got the call right after his match against Todoroki. Toru and Ojiro went with him to the hospital. Maybe we can visit them after the party?"

"I'm down," Kirishima said. "We can stick around for an hour or two and then catch the train to Hosu. What do you say, Videl?"

"Yeah, I'm in," Videl said, glancing away at the Gym's open doors. "Maybe we'll get lucky and find some villains to beat up."

"Yeah, I doubt it, babe," Kirishima laughed nervously. "I heard Hosu's flooding with the Police Force by now. Ahh, I'm sure Iida's family will be alright. For now, let's relax and enjoy the party."

The distant sounds of celebration grew louder the closer they got to the gym.

"Ahh, this is so exciting, you guys!" Mina squealed with a playful grin.

As they approached Gym Gamma, the doors swung open to reveal a transformed space, pulsating with vibrant lights and energetic music. Mina gasped, her eyes widening in delight.

"Whoa, they really went all out!" she exclaimed, taking in the lively atmosphere.

UA High's largest gym was a showered in colors, adorned with vibrant banners and sparkling lights that cast a festive glow. Clearly, the Business Course students had spared no effort in getting everything set up for all UA Students and their families.

"Holy shit, look over there! Is that Kyoka?!" Eijiro exclaimed excitedly, pointing at the stage at the far end of the gym. Up on the stage in front of a spacious dance floor, Kyoka pulled and slapped at her bass guitar next to her parents and their band, Deep Dope, playing a medley of upbeat tunes. A dance floor had formed in the center, where students and their families swayed to the music or danced with all their heart.

"Whoa," Videl breathed, staring at Kyoka. "Girl's got talent!"

"No kidding! And check out that dance floor! C'mon Videl, let's go hunt some cute upper-classmen!" Mina said, threading her arm around Videl's arm and pulling her along.

Food stalls lined both walls, offering a mouthwatering array of dishes from various culinary traditions. The air was filled with the delicious aroma of takoyaki, ramen, street tacos, fresh pizza, and skewers of grilled vegetables. People mingled about, holding plates piled high with these delectable treats.

But the centerpiece of the party was a colossal stage at the front, dedicated to honoring the triumphant participants of the Sports Festival with meet-and-greet sessions. Positioned behind the students were three enormous screens, projecting highlights from the day's intense and thrilling battles.

With a practiced All Might smile firmly stretched over his face, Izuku stood off to the side of the stage, which was filling up with people eager for autographs, meet-and-greets and pictures. His green eyes darted around nervously between the sea of faces, excited but a bit anxious at the same time, as he waited for someone to approach him.

But unlike Todoroki, who was completely swamped in the attention of adoring fans beside him, Izuku found himself standing alone, off to the side. His small crowd consisted of one person — his mother, Inko.

Inko held up her camera, snapping pictures with tearful enthusiasm.
"Oh, my baby Izuku, you look so heroic!" She squealed. "C'mon! Strike another pose, dear!"

"Uh, thanks, Mom. But you really don't have to take so many pictures," Izuku groaned, but obliged, bringing his arms up, his face reddening with embarrassment.

But Inko was unstoppable.
"No, no! This is a proud moment! Awww, look at my hero son!" Inko's tears welled up in her eyes. She zoomed in, capturing every detail of Izuku's bronze medal. "And you placed third! Oh, my little hero is growing up so fast! I'm just so proud!"

Izuku's face reached a new shade of red.
"Mom, please, you're embarrassing me."

Suddenly, two cute girls who had just finished taking pictures with Shoto ran up to him with bubbly joy. Izuku gasped and straightened up as the two girls surrounded him.
"Excuse me, are you Midoriya from Class A?" one of them asked, a hopeful glint in her eyes.

Izuku's face lit up.
"Uh… Yes, I am! It's, uhm, super nice to meet you. How can I help you?"

"Oh, we were just wondering if you knew when Gohan would be here," one of the girls inquired. "We're huge fans!"

"He's just so dreamy!" the other squealed, cupping her cheeks with her hands with a girlish giggle.

Reality crashed down on Izuku. It wasn't him they were excited to see; they were here for Gohan. Deflated, he nodded, "Oh, um, sure… he, uh, should be here soon."

With a polite thank you, the girls left without a second glance at Izuku. Sighing, he dropped his smile, which had begun to feel more and more forced by the minute, and closed his eyes. The room suddenly felt constricting and stuffy, and feeling a bit out of place, he decided to take a break. He gently tapped his mother's shoulder.

"Hey, Mom," he said, trying to be heard over the buzz of the crowd. "I'm gonna go to take a little break and grab a drink. Okay?"

"Of course, dear!" Inko said, looking up from her camera. "You go ahead. I'm gonna try to take some pictures with Todoroki!"

Izuku smirked at his mother's innocent excitement. With a nod, he began to wade through the enthusiastic crowd, making his way toward the refreshment bar. The lights, the music, the laughter—it was all a bit much. He could sense the energy, the joy of the moment, but he needed a moment of calm.

Arriving at the bar, he leaned against it. The bartender, a friendly face from UA's support course, greeted him. "Midoriya, right? What can I get you?"

"Hello. Something refreshing, please," Izuku replied with a grateful smile. As the bartender prepared a fruit punch, Izuku's gaze wandered back to the dance floor. He let out a sigh, allowing the rhythmic beat of the party to become a distant background melody. What is this sinking feeling in my chest…?

Was it envy? Jealousy of the way everyone clamored over Todoroki and left him behind without a second thought? Izuku's lifelong desire had always been to help people with a genuine smile, and that noble aspiration is what had driven him to become a hero in the first place. But still, a lingering emptiness persisted, a feeling that defied the logic of his altruistic goals and filled his mind with a quiet doubt.

Is it just the desire for recognition that I'm missing? he wondered silently. His gaze returned to Todoroki, whose popularity had soared to new heights, and a hint of envy tinged Izuku's thoughts. But it wasn't envy for the fame; it was envy for the ability to connect effortlessly, to be a beacon that drew others in.

The paradox deepened. Izuku had always envisioned himself standing at the forefront, a symbol of hope with a beaming smile, bringing comfort to those in need, just like All Might. Yet, the very act of seeking recognition seemed to overshadow the essence of his initial motivation.

Is it wrong to want to be recognized? Seen, at the very least?

Maybe it's not about the spotlight, he mused, the revelation settling in his heart. Maybe it's about the connections, the genuine bonds that we forge with those whom we protect.

A soft sigh escaped his lips, and he closed his eyes, allowing the clamor of the event to fade into the background. In the silence of his contemplation, a newfound clarity emerged. The answer wasn't in the grandeur of popularity but in the authenticity of his actions, wasn't it? And maybe the key to dispelling the loneliness was to refocus on the essence of heroism, on helping others not for the applause but for the impact it had on their lives.

Izuku sighed and took a long gulp of his drink. Then, a familiar voice interrupted his thoughts. Ochaco rolled up next to him in her pink wheelchair with a grin.

"Hey, Midoriya!" She called, slightly out of breath from pushing on her wheels. "Taking a break from the spotlight?"

Izuku nodded.

"Hey, Uraraka. Yeah, just needed a moment to recharge. It's getting pretty lively out there."

Ochaco chuckled. "Tell me about it! I haven't stopped signing autographs since I got here. And I didn't even make it to the finals of the Tournament. It's super fun, but a little embarrassing, to be honest. I'm not used to all the attention yet, you know what I mean?"

"Uhm, yeah, the... attention," Izuku stuttered, taking a sip of his punch. "Lots and lots of attention… Can't even get a break from it!"

Asui approached them from behind with a content smile.

"There you are, Ochaco," Tsu said. "Wanna join me by the stage? Jiro's music is pretty good!"

"I know! She's super talented, isn't she?" Ochaco's eyes brightened. "Sure, Tsu! Let's do it. Izuku, you want to join us?"

"Nah," Izuku smiled appreciatively but shook his head. "Thanks, Uraraka, but I'll pass for now. You guys go and have a great time!"

With a nod, Ochaco wheeled her chair back a bit, then turned to Izuku.
"Alright, we'll catch you later then!"

Asui took the handles of Ochaco's wheelchair, and together they made their way to the edge of the dance floor.

Alone again, Izuku watched them go, a contented expression on his face. He sipped his drink, taking in the lively atmosphere of the party. As he scanned the celebrating crowd, his eyes, were inevitably drawn to the center of the dance floor, where Melissa and Fu twirled and danced together.

A ring of Melissa's friends from I-Island as well as some support course students surrounded them, forming an exclusive dance circle. Izuku couldn't help but feel that twinge of loneliness rearing its ugly head inside his chest again, as he watched the festivities unfold without him. Yet, mixed with that feeling was genuine happiness for Melissa. Her radiant smile and awkward, yet carefree dance moves… she looked so happy.

As Izuku sipped on his fruit punch, a well-built man with striking red hair, sea-blue eyes, and thick, horn-rimmed glasses casually approached. Leaning next to Izuku at the bar, he flashed a charismatic grin.

"Hey there, little pal," the man inquired with a hint of mischief in his voice. "Mind if I join you for a moment?"

Izuku smiled with a friendly nod, not taking his eyes off Melissa.

The man then turned to the student manning the bar and raised an inquisitive eyebrow.
"Hey, my new best friend! Got anything with a little alcohol in it? Oh, just a splash, you know, for that celebratory spirit?"

"Uhhh, well…" the support student stuttered, eyes wide. The man, not missing a beat, held up his hands defensively.

"Kidding! Kidding!" He laughed heartily, waving his hands before him as if to ward off any lingering tension. "Punch is fine. I was just testing the waters!"

Izuku couldn't help but smile at the man's playful demeanor. Relieved, the student poured a glass of the punch and set it in front of the man, who chuckled and took a sip. As the man drank, he saw Izuku from the corner of his eyes, staring at Melissa, who awkwardly tripped on her own foot and stumbled forward into the arms of Fu, who caught her. The two teens threw their heads back in cheerful laughter.

"You know, if you go talk to her she's probably not gonna bite," the man advised with an amused tone.

Izuku blinked in mild surprise, his focus shifting back to the man beside him.

"Oh… Yeah, you're right," Izuku replied, managing a small smile. "I just don't want to interrupt them. Melissa looks really happy, and I wouldn't wanna disrupt that."

The man chuckled, a hint of wisdom in his eyes.
"Ah kid, sometimes a well-timed interruption is the best way to make something memorable. Besides, I have a feeling she wouldn't mind your company at all."

"I dunno…" Izuku sighed. The man paused to finish his drink.

"You know," the man continued, passing a napkin over his lips. The bartender quickly refilled his glass. "Many years ago, it was me in your shoes. I was the socially awkward nerd, staring at a gorgeous blonde, afraid to make a move—that is, until a friend of mine convinced me to go talk to her."

The man shrugged.
"Anyway, I took a deep breath and talked to her. We hit it up at the speed of light. Turns out she was a nerd, just like me. We ended up dating through college and getting married once we graduated... We worked together and built up our very own support item company… even got a little famous together. And a few years after that, Melissa was born."

Izuku's eyes widened. "Wait... don't tell me... you're-?"

The man chuckled, extending his hand for a friendly shake.

"Haha yes. Name's David Shield. Nice to finally meet you, Midoriya!"

Izuku's surprise turned into admiration as he shook David's hand forcefully.

"Professor Shield! It's an honor to finally meet you, too. I've read all your research papers on support items, and your work with All Might to design costumes for heroes is legendary! Oh, and your breakthrough inventions alongside Doctor Sam Gero and Tights Briefs have inspired me since I started at U.A. The Gravity Gauntlets, the All Mobile, the Patrolbots, the Android models and the Patrolbot Juniors-"

David laughed, beaming with pride. "Well, I'm impressed. You've done your homework, Midoriya. Those projects were collaborative efforts with brilliant minds, but I appreciate the recognition. You know, All Might's been singing your praises as well, and so has Melissa, and today, I got to see why. Your dedication and not to mention that Quirk of yours is remarkable. You kind of remind me of All Might back in the day."

"Oh, really?" Izuku chuckled nervously. "Everyone keeps saying that…"

"He was so strong, and he never knew what it meant to give up or back down," Dave smiled and stared down at his glass. "That man is truly remarkable and touched the lives of so many people. I have no doubt you'll get there one day, too, Midoriya. These people here may not see it now, but I do – you're a diamond in the rough, kid. Just remember to look out for yourself too. I noticed that some of those big, fancy moves you pulled off ended up hurting you. We wouldn't want our future heroes hurting themselves in the process, know what I mean?"

Izuku nodded, grateful for the advice. The weight of loneliness he had felt moments ago eased a bit.
"Thank you, Professor Shield. I'm still learning to manage my Quirk without hurting myself, and even with my costume, it's still a challenge. But I'll keep that in mind."

"A bit of costume trouble, hmm? I might be able to help with that. Here…" Dave reached into the inner pocket of his tuxedo jacket and produced a business card with glowing blue holographic letters, handing it to Izuku. Izuku's face lit up with excitement. "Listen, Izuku. If you ever want to upgrade your costume to make it more suitable to your Quirk, send it over to I-Island. I'd be more than happy to give it a look."

Izuku couldn't hide his geeky joy. "Wow, r-really?! You'd do that for me?! Oh, thank you so much, Professor Shield! It'd be an honor – no, a privilege! It'll be a costume passed down for generations upon generations!"

Dave chuckled, his gaze drifting back to Melissa who was chatting animatedly with her friends. "No problem, Izuku. Now, don't waste any more time talking to me when you should be chatting with Mel. Mustn't keep a young lady waiting too long."

Izuku looked at the card for a moment then nodded, his confidence renewed.
"Right, thank you very much!" He said. "It was so nice to finally get to meet you, sir!"

"Pleasure's all mine, squirt," Dave said with a smile, turning back to the bartender. "Mmm. This punch is really, really good! You know what will really make it taste better?"

"Gee, I can only imagine," the bartender said dryly with a nervous chuckle.

Izuku took a deep breath and left the bar, making his way towards the group at the dance floor. Melissa caught sight of him as he approached and a bright smile lit up her face as she waved him over.

"Deku! Perfect timing! Come join us!" Melissa called. She grabbed him by the wrist and ushered him to the center of their circle, introducing him with genuine enthusiasm. "Everyone, this is my amazing friend and classmate, Izuku Midoriya! Codename – Deku! You all saw him out there during the events, right? We won the Obstacle Course together."

"Hey yeah, I remember him," said a redhead from the group. A pair of sharp, keen green eyes flicked over to Midoriya behind a pair of large, thick-framed circle glasses. "He's the guy who kicked your ass, Mel!"

"...more like pinned it," said someone else, eliciting raucous laughter from the group. "You two looked so cozy down there together..."

Izuku blushed, trying to suppress a smile at the good-natured teasing. Melissa shot a playful glare at her friends before turning to Izuku with a grin.

"Sorry, Deku, these are my friends being their usual chaotic selves. This is Luz," she said, pointing to the redhead with glasses. "She's a prodigy from Peru who is an absolute whiz when it comes to optics and laser technology. If you need something to light up the night sky, Luz is your go-to genius."

Luz extended her hand to Izuku with a friendly grin.
"Nice to meet you, Izuku. Melissa's told us a lot about you."

"Next, we have Cyber," Melissa continued, indicating a tall, lanky guy with spiky blue hair that almost seemed to glow in the dark. A pair of transparent headphones hanged around his neck. "He's practically a human computer. If it's digital or requires coding, he's your guy."

Cyber grinned and gave Izuku a quick nod.

"And then, there's Rocket," Melissa said and everyone gave off a playful groan. Melissa motioned with her head at a short, muscular boy with an unruly shock of spiky black hair that lifted into a cowlick over his head and hazel eyes that sparkled with a perpetual sense of mischief. His youthful face, splashed with freckles, glowed as he was engrossed in an lively conversation with Mei Hatsume.

"… uh, Rocket?" Melissa called, attempting to pull him into the circle, but Rocket was in the middle of recounting one of his daring experiments to Mei. His excitement and Mei's fascination created a bubble of enthusiastic conversation that seemed to blur out the world around them.

"…so I lit the wires and they made contact then – BAM!" Rocket continued, throwing his arms up with wild enthusiasm. His hazel green eyes widened with mischief. "The whole thing lit up. Just like that, my body was on fire!"

"Omigosh, I bet that hurt!" Mei gasped, hanging on to every word.

"Eh, burned my eyebrows off. But at least I discovered that the suit was fireproof." The two teens burst into laughter, lost in their own little world. "Then, I thought, what if I add some extra boosters to the back of the suit? You know, for that extra oomph!"

Mei's eyes widened with awe and admiration.
"Rocket, you're a genius! I love the way you think."

Melissa rolled her eyes, trying once more to pull Rocket's attention away from his thrilling narrative.

"Rocket!" she called, a hint of annoyance in her voice. "Get over here, there's someone I want you to meet."

But Rocket was completely absorbed in his spirited conversation with Mei.

Melissa chuckled and shook her head. "Well, I guess he's a little occupied at the moment, but you'll get to know him. Rocket's our resident daredevil! He's the genius behind some of our most daring inventions!"

"Yeah, he's pretty much the Five's guinea pig," Luz explained. "He's always testing out the latest inventions and gadgets, even if it puts his own bacon on the line."

"Wow, brave guy," Izuku commented, glancing back at the wild-haired boy.

"Yeah, they say his great, great, great, great-grandfather was a Saiyan," Cyber shrugged. "Maybe that's where he gets his wild side."

"A Saiyan, huh?" Fu rubbed his chin with a grin. "Hmmm… Interesting…"

"Don't even think about it, Fu," Melissa interjected. "He can't fly or control ki energy like Gohan can. He wouldn't do your experiments and research any good."

"Aww," Fu groaned playfully. "That's a shame…"

Finally, Melissa indicated the tallest boy in the group with bright gray eyes and striking red hair. He towered over everyone else in the room and Izuku found it difficult to accept that this was a student anywhere near Melissa's age.

"And this is…" Melissa paused, glancing at the giant boy expectantly.

"Hello. I… am Sixteen," the boy responded in a monotone voice.

Izuku raised an eyebrow, a little perplexed. "Sixteen? That's... an interesting name."

The boy nodded slowly and repeated, more a question than an answer this time. "I am Sixteen…?"

Melissa chuckled, shaking her head.

"Don't mind him. He's still working on the whole name thing. C-16 is his Android model. Sixteen, say hello properly. What's your name?"

Sixteen blinked, as if this was the first time he had encountered such a request.
"My name is Gebo."

Mei looked up from her conversation with Rocket and leaned over to Fu discreetly with a strained, excited glint in her eyes, grasping his arm forcefully.

"OMG! One of the Famous Five is a robot!" she squealed silently.

Izuku chuckled at the interaction. "Nice to meet you all."

"And well, that's the gang," Melissa concluded. "We're the Famous Five of I-Island!"

"More like the Famous Four ever since you left, Starlight… you traitor," Rocket growled playfully, finally turning to face the group, a lighthearted glint in his eyes.

"Starlight, huh?" Izuku couldn't help but smile. "That's a cool codename. Why Starlight, though? I thought your hero name was going to be Miss Might?"

Melissa blushed, a hint of embarrassment coloring her cheeks.
"Well, it's what my dad used to call me when I was little. It kind of stuck."

Izuku grinned. "I like it. It's kinda cute. It suits you."
"Heh, thanks Deku," Melissa said with a shy smile. "I'm glad you think so..."

The other members of the Five caught the moment immediately. Luz nudged Cyber with a mischievous grin. "Looks like we've got a ship sailing here, Captain."

Cyber nodded dramatically. "Aye, aye! Starlight, all hands on Deku, setting sail for the high seas of romance!"

Melissa tried to hide her embarrassment behind a playful scowl.

"You guys are the worst. I have no idea what you're-"

"Sixteen, scan her," Cyber commanded with a sly grin.

"Scanning," Sixteen responded, his silver eyes glowing green for an instant.
"WHAT?! No, don't scan me-" Melissa yelped, but it was too late.
"Scan complete," Sixteen announced in his monotone voice. "My scanners indicate a slight uptick in Melissa's heartbeat during this exchange. I also picked up a rush of blood in that boy's nether regions-"

"SIXTEEN!" Melissa gasped and Izuku's mouth practically dropped to the floor.

The group erupted in laughter, enjoying the friendly banter and the lighthearted teasing.

Melissa's face turned a shade redder, and she half-heartedly swatted at Sixteen.
"Seriously, Sixteen? Can't a girl catch a break?"

"So anywayyyys, Melissa," Cyber interjected, turning to Melissa, "You're coming to the I-Expo this year, aren't you? Your Dad and Sam have been working on something groundbreaking. I've seen glimpses, and trust me, this one's going to be a game-changer!"

"Whoa, seriously?" Melissa gasped, raising her eyebrows. "C'mon, give me the scoop. What's Papa working on this time?"

"Ah, Melissa, always eager for the latest tech scoop," a voice said behind them. Melissa turned and gasped to see her old teacher from I-Island, Sam Gero. He was a portly man with tired, but kind eyes and receding blonde hair. Laugh lines lined his eyes. He smiled, genuinely happy to see Melissa again. "I see my top student's curiosity is as insatiable as ever."

"SAM!" Melissa squealed happily and ran to her old mentor's arms. "I can't believe you're actually here!"

Sam grinned, extending his arms for a hug and catching Melissa with a hearty laugh.

"Well, I couldn't miss the chance to see my star pupil in action, could I?"

Melissa embraced him tightly, a sense of nostalgia washing over her.
"I've missed you, Sam. How have you been?"

"I've missed you too, Mel. Terribly!" Sam said warmly. "I-Island Academy just hasn't been the same without our little Starlight filling the halls of the academy with her inventions and stealing textbooks from the upper classmen."

"Heh, seriously?" Fu chuckled. "You're such a nerd, Mel!"

Melissa nodded, a genuine warmth in her voice.

"Absolutely,. Wait till you see what else we've got in store for the Expo."

Sam chuckled. "I can't wait. You always did have a knack for pushing the boundaries."

"Couldn't have done it without the best mentor. I mean that sincerely," Melissa's voice dropped into a sincere, grateful tone, a look of gratitude and nostalgia flashing in her eyes. "You've always been like a second dad to me, Sam; stirring up my imagination and encouraging me to keep working to turn my ideas and dreams into a reality."

"And you've been like a daughter to me, Mel." Sam's eyes softened. "Even if you didn't follow the Support Course, I'm proud of everything you've achieved."

"Well, enough of that," Melissa sniffed, wiping a finger over her eye. "You're making me cry! Anyways, what's this new invention you and Papa are working on?"

Sam smiled, savoring the anticipation.

"Nice try, but you'll have to wait until your father and I reveal it at the Expo. But let's just say, it's a perfect blend of cutting-edge cybernetic technology and bio enhancement. You won't be disappointed."

"Cyber tech and bio enhancement…" Melissa rubbed her chin thoughtfully. "Well, I'm dying to see it!"

"What about you guys?" Cyber asked Mei and Fu. "Any tech you'd like to show off at the Expo?"

"Ohh yeahhh, I've got lots and lots of sweet babies that I'm dying to debut!" Mei said, giving off a maniacal giggle. "Fu's working on something revolutionary as well, aren't ya, Fu?"

"Uh, yeah, you could say that," Fu said, scratching the back of his neck. "Still doing research, though. It won't be ready for a few years; decades, perhaps."

"Oh, I hope it's not Saiyan-based this time. It's about time you stepped out of that obsession," Melissa teased.

"Who said it wasn't?" Fu chuckled.

"Figures," Melissa sighed, shaking her head. "What's it called?"

"It's an AI based liquid-form nanobot suit, for lack of better wording. Pour it over a patient, and the liquid nanobots form a suit that combats illnesses, cures disease, and can even assemble to heal or replace broken bones, tissues and ligatures, imitating the wearer's DNA to create a precise reproduction," Fu gave off a triumphant smile. "In theory, it acts as repaired cells. It's the cure to humanity's greatest ills; oh, nothing much, just cancer, aging and death. No biggie. I call it, Baby 673-"

"No, no, no. That's the underwater jetpack," Mei muttered, interrupting Fu.

"O-Oh, that's right," Fu giggled. "I forgot. It's actually Baby 998-"

"Nope, that's the Hydro-Sword," Mei interrupted again.

"Baby 282?"

"The Quirk Meter? Try again."

"Ahh," Fu laughed nervously. "Leeeet's just ditch the designation and call it 'Baby', for now."

"Sounds exciting! I can't wait to see all the gadgets and gizmos the UA Support Course has to offer. We've been working on a couple items ourselves," Luz jumped in. "Though it's nothing as exciting as that. Anyway, you will be there, right Mel?"

"Of course! I wouldn't miss it for the world!" Melissa squealed. "Actually, now that you mentioned it... I have been working on a little something with a friend of mine in Namek City. If we can get it figured out in time, maybe we can present it at the Expo as well. Maybe we can get Rocket to be our test subject for a day or two."

"Depends," Rocket said, crossing his arms. "Does it blow up?"

"No, but it'd probably age you rapidly… like, you'd be an old man a few hours into it… maybe… we're still not entirely sure what the drawbacks would look like," Melissa responded.

"Ahhh, accelerated aging, eh? I can think of a few reasons why such a device might be practical," Luz commented.

Melissa shook her head and laughed.

"Well, that's just one of the effects, but not exactly the intended purpose. Think about this – a room where a hero can train for days, but when he exits, it's only been a couple of hours!"

"Some sort of time chamber, huh?" Cyber chuckled, rubbing his hands together. "That's some serious sci-fi stuff you're working on, Melissa! I love it!"

"That does sound like an amazing invention," Sam added. "Imagine the skills someone could acquire in just a short time."

"No kidding!" Luz's eyes widened with interest. "Sounds like a game-changer for training."

"So that's what you and Dende have been working on," Izuku, hummed, rubbing his chin. "A controlled environment where time moves differently… it could revolutionize hero training, Melissa."

"Yup!" Melissa beamed at the reactions. "Just wait until you see it in action! We're still testing different power sources, though. We still haven't found a way good way to power the thing, but it's coming."

"Huh… well, as long as I don't come out with feathers or scales, count me in!" Rocket said happily.

"Besides, I've been feeling a bit homesick," Melissa sighed, her gaze drifting to the bustling scene of the after-party. "And somebody's gotta give Deku and the others the grand tour! No way I'd miss the Expo this year!"

"Awesome! It's settled then!" Cyber declared, grinning. "Starlight's coming home! We're gonna have a blast!"

Izuku chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck. "Actually, as much as I'd love to go, I don't think I can afford the tickets this time around. So it's okay."

"Nonsense!" Sam interjected, shaking his head. "The winners of the Sports Fest always get an invitation to the Expo. Which means, it's your lucky year, Izuku! You're gonna get to go to I-Island!"

Izuku blinked. "Wait, really? That's incredible!"

Cyber nodded enthusiastically. "Absolutely, man! It's like a hero's dream come true. And you've earned it, especially after your performance today. The Expo is going to be insane, and you'll get to see all the cutting-edge hero tech, maybe even meet some of the industry giants! Aside from Doctor Gero and Professor Shield, I mean."

Izuku's eyes widened with excitement. "I-Island is the pinnacle of hero technology! I've read so much about it, but I never thought I'd actually get to go."

Melissa grinned, nudging him playfully. "Well, get ready, Deku. It's going to be a blast!"

Izuku couldn't help but smile at the prospect, feeling a surge of anticipation for the adventure that awaited them at I-Island.

"Ahem…" a voice from behind the group called. They turned to see Tights approaching the group, her hands clasped together.

"Oh great," Melissa groaned. Her remark didn't go unnoticed, and the members of the Famous Five exchanged curious glances.

"Hey, who's that, Mel?" Cyber whispered to Melissa, his eyes narrowing slightly as she studied Tights.

Melissa sighed, her expression shifting.
"Oh, that's nobody. She's, uh, a teacher for the support course."

Sam recognized her, though.

"Tights? Is that you?" He asked, squinting his eyes. A fresh, subtle edge entered his voice, protective of Melissa. "I haven't seen you in ages! Where have you been off to?"

Tights winced at the description but held her ground. Ignoring Sam's question, she turned directly to Melissa, a serious look on her face. "Hey, Sam," she said dryly, as if he wasn't even there.

"Melissa, can I talk to you in private for a moment?" Tights asked, with a concerned, but stern tone.

Melissa hesitated, glancing at her friends.

"Can't it wait? We're having a party here."

Tights pressed on, lowering her voice.

"It's about the decision you're making, Mel. It's important. Come on, let's find a private place to talk… Unless you prefer to do this in front of your friends."

Melissa's brows furrowed, a conflicted expression crossing her face. She glanced at Sam and then at her friends, gauging their reactions, then reluctantly nodded. "Fine, let's step aside for a moment. I'm sorry about this, Sam."

"Nothing to apologize for, my dear," Sam said, giving Melissa an encouraging pat on her shoulder. "Go ahead. I'll try to pique the brains of UA's Support Class."

As Melissa and Tights moved away from the group, the students exchanged puzzled glances, their curiosity piqued by the unexpected interruption. Izuku stared at Melissa with concern as she walked away with her mother.

Melissa tore her gaze away from Izuku's and followed her mother to a quiet corner of the gym behind some bleachers and as she approached, she saw her father leaning against the wall, sipping on another glass of punch.

"Papa? What's this about?" Melissa asked, swiveling around, eyebrows furrowed in suspicion.

David glanced at Tights, who took a deep breath before addressing Melissa.

"It's about your decision to move to Namek City with Gohan," Tights said, choosing her words carefully. "I… I just found out about it, and I think we need to talk about the implications of such a move."

Melissa crossed her arms, defensive.
"No offense, but what's it to you? Papa already knows, and he's okay with it. Why does it concern you?"

Tights sighed, her gaze searching Melissa's face.
"Mel, moving in with someone is a big step, especially at your age. You're still in high school, and there are so many things to consider. Have you thought about your future, your education, your career?"

Melissa bristled. "Of course, I have! And I'm not 'moving in' with Gohan, I'm getting my own apartment in the same building where he lives. I'm going to have my own unit with access to a lab where I can continue my research. Honestly! You make it sound like I'm moving into his bedroom!"

"Ppffft!" Dave spat out his punch and gave into a violent cough and Tights blushed, clearing her throat.

"Nobody… is saying that, sweetheart," Dave managed, fighting the coughs.
"N-No, I'm not saying that either," Tights clarified. "Look, I'm not saying it's a bad decision, but it's important to consider everything else. Your dad and I just want what's best for you."

"Since when?" Melissa scoffed, rolling her eyes. "What? You suddenly care about what's best for me after all these years of being absent? I've managed just fine without you, Mom."

Tights winced at the words, a pang of guilt flashing across her face. She sighed, acknowledging the pain on her daughter's face. "I know I messed up, Mel. I shouldn't have stayed away for so long."

"Stayed away?" Melissa's voice rose. "You downright abandoned us! You left Papa and me in I-Island, and you moved to West City for some 'top-secret project.' And now you want to come back and pretend to be the mother I never had? It's too late for that now. You can't just waltz back into my life and pretend everything's fine. You can't!"

Tights' mouth became a thin line as she listened to Melissa, but her daughter wasn't finished yet. Her eyes narrowed, her voice raw with resentment. Tears filled Melissa's sky-blue eyes, reddening them with resentment"You missed my inventions, my birthdays, my achievements… I tried to reconnect with you when I first got here, Mom. And you rejected me! Do you remember that? Well, I'm done reaching out. I've moved on without you. And now you want to pretend like you're here for me? What do you really want, Mom?"

David interjected, a reassuring smile on his face.

"Melissa, what your mom is trying to say is that moving is a big decision. Obviously, you know where I stand. Sure, I'm a bit iffy about it, but I trust you to make the right choices. If this is what you really want, and you have a plan in mind, then no problem."

"Why don't you consider staying with me at Capsule Corp?" Tights offered. "You'll be with family there, and you'll have access to the lab and all the latest tech. And we could maybe… start to reconnect a little…"

Melissa sighed, her anger turning into frustration. "I appreciate that, but my decision is made. I'm not a child anymore, Mom. I can make my own choices."

"You are sixteen years old, Melissa, for crying out loud!" Tights groaned, exasperated. "You are very much still a child!"

"I'm gonna be seventeen next month!" Melissa defended herself. "Don't you get it? This is my decision to make. I'm ready!"

"Ready for what, Mel?" Tights scoffed. "To run off and live your life without a second thought for the people who care about you? I just want you to be safe and happy, Mel. And I worry that you're rushing into things without fully understanding the consequences."

Melissa threw her head back and laughed, but her laughter held no joy.

"Yeah," Melissa said, her voice dripping with sarcasm. She crossed her arms. "It would be a shame if I moved far away all of a sudden without caring about my loved ones' feelings, kinda like you did, eh Mom?"

Tights winced at the jab. "Okay, fine… I deserve that," she said.

After a brief pause, David was ready to jump in again.
"Melissa, you're a strong, intelligent young woman, and I know you can handle whatever comes your way. Just be sure to communicate with us, okay?"

"You're not seriously encouraging this, David!" Tights gasped.

"Look," Melissa sighed, her tone softening a bit, "I appreciate your concern, really, I do. But I've made up my mind. I'm moving to Namek City, with or without your approval. Maybe in the future, you'll understand my decision, maybe you'll even come to respect it… or not. But quite frankly, Mom, you're not my guardian. You never have been. That means you don't get a say, got it?"

"Uh… hey, Mel?" Rocket called out for her. "Hurry up! You gotta see this. Get out your butt out here!"

Melissa took a stabilizing breath of air, compartmentalizing her rising emotions.

"So if you're done ruining my party, I gotta go," she mumbled, swiveling around.

Tights nodded, a somber acceptance in her eyes. Her voice came out as a rueful whisper.
"Okay. Just... promise me you'll take care of yourself, Mel. And don't hesitate to reach out to me if you need anything. I… I know I can't change the past, but… I want to make things right. After seeing you all day in the Sports Fest, I realized too late that I should have been there for you all those years, and I'm sorry. I'm really, really sorry, Mel. I need you in my life, and I want to be part of yours, if you'll give me a second chance…"

Melissa halted, her shoulders trembling. She turned to her mother, her face flushed red, and her eyes teeming with unshed tears. The weight of years of abandonment and emotional struggle hung heavily in the air.

"You need me? Do you?" she hissed through gritted teeth, her words poisoned with sorrow and resentment. The first tear finally broke free, tracing a path down her cheek, opening the dam for the cascade of tears to come rushing out. "How does it feel?" She whispered with venomous hatred.

Without another word, she spun around and walked away, leaving Tights standing there with David.
Tights' own tears had begun to fall but were interrupted by David's sudden laughter. Tights turned to him, confused.

"What are you laughing at?" She asked, wiping her tears.

"Ahhh, the mouth on that little girl," David laughed, shaking his head. "She is definitely a Briefs."

Tights scoffed and brushed a hand over her cheeks.

"I don't feel comfortable letting our daughter move in with a boy she likes. Remember what happened when we tried it?!"

"Pregnant pretty much immediately?" Dave laughed. "Don't worry. Gohan's not the guy she likes…"

"It doesn't matter," Tights protested. "Things happen sometimes. You know that!"

"She's not a little girl anymore, Tights," David said, walking over to her and nudging her arm gently with his elbow. "She's strong and independent, just like her mother. Come on, let's go get some more punch. Maybe we can talk a little, and catch up… yeah?"

Tights bit her lower lip and wiped her tears away, nodding.

"Yeah, I think that would be nice…"

…

Izuku was the first to notice the turmoil on Melissa's flushed face.

"Melissa...?" he whispered.

"I'm fine, Deku," she said, passing an arm over her face to conceal her emotions. "Really..." Her attempt at reassurance wavered, the strain evident in her voice. But suddenly she froze in place, her reddened eyes widening at the sight of the Business course students who were storming into the gym.

"Good evening, UA families! Hope you've had fun, but we're here to add a little excitement to your night!" The purple haired business course student who was apparently in charge of the group who had entered the gym and had begun to fan out carrying black duffel bags announced. "I wanna see everyone's wallets out. Take them out… NOW! Nice and easy!"

"Oh… my… God…" Melissa gasped, staring in horror. "No way… Is that… Gohan?"

"What have they done?" Izuku breathed, his mouth dropping.

…

Gohan rubbed his tired eyes, his head still spinning from the press conference as he stepped into the transformed Gym Gamma, expecting a lively after party. What he didn't expect was the tidal wave of chaos that hit him the moment he walked in. Gohan's hand slowly dropped to his side and his eyes widened.

"No… way…" he breathed.

Everywhere he turned, there were banners, posters, and cardboard cutouts of himself striking heroic poses. Tables were stacked high with action figures, keychains, and all sorts of collectibles with his face and likeness on them. T-shirt designs ranged from dramatic action shots to more serene hero poses, all featuring Gohan's trademark fiery energy. The chaos only intensified as fans clamored for the merch.

The instant they saw him, fans swarmed in around him, brandishing Gohan merchandise, clamoring for autographs and selfies. Gohan was completely taken aback by the frenzy. The sheer volume of stuff with his face on it left him feeling dizzy.

Recognizing the overwhelming enthusiasm of the crowd, some of the Pro Heroes assigned to the security detail sprang into action, creating a buffer zone around Gohan.

"Alright, folks, give Gohan some space! If you want autographs and pictures, please make your way to the center stage," one of the Heroes said. "We'll make sure everyone gets a chance!"

The crowd reluctantly complied, stepping back to create a more organized queue near the center stage, giving Gohan some room to breathe.

As the crowd began to disperse under the security guard's guidance, Gohan took a moment to catch his breath. One of the guards seemed to recognize him. He had a long mane of black hair that reached his waist. Black curly locks fell over the scars on his handsome, rugged face and he sported a confident smile. His eyes beamed with recognition.

"Gohan!" He called out. Gohan glanced up at his direction as the guard excitedly made his way towards him. "No way, it really is you! Hey, Tien! Get over here, man! Look who I found!"

"Thanks a lot for helping with the crowd, sir. That was... unexpected," Gohan admitted, still processing the flood of attention as another hero, a bald, muscular man with a third eye over his forehead joined them.

"Amazing!" Tien gasped. "Eighteen was right; He looks just like Goku!"

"Doesn't he?!" Yamcha exclaimed excitedly. "And did you see his little brother fighting in the Junior League Division? I had to pinch myself – he looked like a mini Goku from years ago."

"Wait, you guys knew my father?" Gohan asked.

The two Pro Heroes exchanged amused glances, realizing that Gohan wasn't aware of their close connection to Goku.

"Oh, we didn't just know him. We fought alongside him back in the day," Tien said with a nostalgic smile. "Your dad was something else. A true hero and an inspiration to a lot of us."

"You were very little the last time we saw you, Gohan," Yamcha said. "You probably don't remember, but your Dad and us, we were all part of the same crew, defending the Earth from all sorts of threats. Goku was the heart and soul of the original Z-Fighters. Good times."

Gohan couldn't help but feel a mixture of surprise and warmth hearing about his father's adventures from those who had shared in them.

"My Dad was a Z-Fighter?!" Gohan gasped. "I had no idea. I mean, I knew my dad grew up with All Might, but I didn't know he was part of the same team of heroes!"

"Well, not officially, anyway. Your Dad never could get his hero license, hehe," Yamcha chuckled, patting Gohan on the back. "But when the world needed saving, he was there with us. And now, it looks like you're carrying on the legacy."

Gohan smiled. "I'm just doing what I can. It's strange being in the spotlight like this, though."

"That's admirable. It's the trait of any good Hero to resist the allure of fame, though it comes with the territory," Tien gave him a reassuring nod. "You'll get used to it. Just remember, you've got friends here. If you ever need advice or someone to spar with, we're around."

"Well, it looks like you're back in demand," Yamcha said, gesturing to the crowd who was pooling around the center stage. "You handle the fans, and we'll catch up later. We've got our own duties to attend to. But we'll plan a reunion soon. Maybe a get together at Bulma's, like old times!"

"Great idea!" Tien said, turning to leave with Yamcha. "It was so nice to see you again, Gohan! Take care of yourself!"

"It would be nice to hear more stories about my dad," Gohan nodded with a smile. "Thank you so much for your help!"

"No problem at all, Gohan!" Yamcha said, waving at Gohan by tapping two fingers against his forehead. "Have fun. And just a little advice: Dealing with the first wave of fame can be a bit intense, but you'll get used to it. Trust me, I've been there. Back in the day, I was a bit more in the limelight. It's a wild ride, but a fun one. And it doesn't last forever, so you have to enjoy it lasts."

"I'll do my best," Gohan laughed. With that, the two heroes disappeared into the crowd, and Gohan finally spotted the mastermind behind the chaos – a girl who seemed to be orchestrating the entire operation with a grin on her face. Intrigued and slightly flustered, Gohan approached her. The girl shook a lock of purple hair from her face and flashed him a smile as she saw him making his way towards her.

"Hey there, Mister Son! You're the man of the hour, huh?" she said with a cheerful, excited bow, clasping her hands together. "I'm Ai Fumiko, Business Course Class 3K Representative. Welcome to the world of fame and fandom, Hero!"

Gohan returned the bow with an awkard smile, still trying to process the spectacle around him. "Th-Thanks, Fumiko. But what's all this about? I feel like I walked into a Gohan carnival."

Fumiko chuckled. "Well, you did, in a way. We've got a bunch of business-savvy students who are turning your heroic exploits into merch mania. We saw an opportunity to ride the Kamehameha wave, and we're here to make the most of it. It's a win-win situation, right? WAIT!"

With a gasp, she turned to her assistant, a round, short haired student who was half her height.
"Ride the Kamehameha Wave! That's the perfect slogan! Write it down and PRINT IT ON A T-SHIRT!"

Gohan blinked, slightly bewildered by the sheer audacity of the endeavor.
"Merch mania, huh?" he muttered, watching as a team of Business Course students took the slogan and immediately began to pump out T-shirts with Gohan's face and the slogan underneath.

"Absolutely! Look around, everyone's loving it!" Fumiko gestured to the sea of fans, all engrossed in their merch shopping sprees. "Isn't being a famous, up and coming hero just the best?!"

"Not really," Gohan said honestly, rubbing the back of his head. "I don't want to be famous… not like this."

Fumiko raised an eyebrow, a little surprised. "Really? Most people would jump at the opportunity of becoming a quasi-celebrity. Not a fan of the spotlight, huh?"

Gohan sighed, running a hand through his hair. "It's not that. I mean, I want to help people, just like All Might does. But this... the fame, the attention, it's a lot. I want to focus my time and energy on making a difference. This… all of this, just feels like noise to me."

"Yeah, it is overwhelming," Ai paused to survey the gym full of excited families. She smiled. "But set aside the glamour, the spotlight, the money. Look at them," she motioned towards the excited crowd. "These people are willing to stand in line for hours just to catch a glimpse of the one who saved them, who gives them hope for a better tomorrow, who performed amazing, herculean feats, and taught them what it means to be a hero. You've become a shining light in people's lives, and those smiles out there? That's your reward."

As Gohan scanned the sea of eager faces, each person representing a life touched by his actions, Ai continued, "Fame is a tool, a means to reach more hearts. Embrace the positive impact you're making. In every smile, in every word of gratitude, you'll find the reason of why you chose this path. It's not about the fame; it's about the connection you forge with the people you inspire."

Gohan took a moment to absorb Ai's wisdom, his perspective shifting from the chaos of fame to the profound influence he held in the lives of those who looked up to him. The weight of the moment lightened, replaced by a sense of purpose and gratitude for the opportunity to make a difference.

"Alright," he breathed out a sigh and adopted a determined look. "I'll do my best."

After one more composed inhale and exhale, Gohan steeled himself and moved toward the center stage, ready to greet the waiting fans. The cheers of the crowd filled the gym as the families began to pour in around him.

"Yikes! This is intense!" Gohan whimpered as he was rushed by the crowd once again. But the weight of the moment lessened the more he interacted with his fellow students and their families, especially as little children, wide-eyed and excited, approached him with genuine admiration. Gohan took a deep breath and crouched down to their level, sharing smiles and laughter, making each fan interaction a memorable one.

The Pro Heroes managing the event had efficiently organized the eager crowd, creating a line for autographs and photos. Gohan could feel the positive energy emanating from the fans, and Ai's words resonated in his mind—this was a chance to connect with people, to bring a moment of joy into their lives.

He took a deep breath, adjusting to the rhythm of the moment. The first fan in line approached with a poster in hand depicting Gohan in flight, eyes sparkling with excitement. Gohan greeted them warmly, signing the poster with a smile.

The requests kept coming—custom voicemail greetings, personalized autographs on action figures, and even a fan who asked for a brief energy demonstration. Gohan obliged, channeling a controlled burst of ki that left the crowd in awe.

Throughout it all, the children held a special place in Gohan's heart. Their eyes lit up with wonder as they met the hero who had inspired them during the Sports Festival. Gohan made sure to crouch down, giving them a moment they would remember.

One little boy, in particular, approached with wide eyes, clutching a vibrant comic book featuring the adventures of the Great Saiyaman—the beloved hero of Japanese children. Gohan smiled warmly, recognizing the iconic costume on the cover.

"Hey there! Are you a fan of the Great Saiyaman?" Gohan asked, crouching down to the child's eye level.

The boy nodded enthusiastically, his admiration shining in his eyes. "Yeah! He's the best hero ever! My mom buys me every comic, and I never miss the TV show."

Gohan chuckled, "That's awesome! I'm a fan too, you know." He took the comic book from the boy, flipping it open to a clean page. "What's your name?"

"I'm Hiro!" the boy replied with a beaming smile.

"Well, Hiro, it's an honor to meet you," Gohan said sincerely, signing the comic with a personalized message. "There you go, a little something from one hero to another."

Hiro's eyes widened with pure joy as he clutched the signed comic. "Thank you, Gohan! You're a great hero too! And when I grow up, I wanna be just like you!"

Gohan chuckled and posed for a picture with Hiro.

"It was so nice to meet you, Hiro. Keep being a hero in your own way, okay? The world needs more heroes like you."

As Hiro left with his family, proudly holding his treasured comic, Gohan couldn't help but feel a warmth in his heart. The genuine connection with a young fan reminded him of the impact heroes could have, both in fiction and reality. It was a sweet moment of bonding, a reminder that inspiration flowed in both directions.

After an hour, the crowds began to wane, and Gohan finally had a moment to catch his breath.

But that's all it was – a moment.

"Who here hasn't gotten our next hot item?!" Fumiko shrieked into the microphone. Gohan blinked in astonishment as Fumiko proudly showcased her latest creation, beaming with entrepreneurial pride.

"Wait, are those… replicas of my cape?" Gohan repeated, a mix of confusion and amusement playing on his features.

"That's right!" Fumiko exclaimed, flourishing one of the capes. "It's stylish, it's a symbol, and most importantly, it's selling like hotcakes! We had this idea just ten minutes ago, and already, we've produced a hundred. Sold sixty, and counting!"

Gohan couldn't help but be impressed by the efficiency of the Business Class.
"...You guys work fast," was all he could say, stunned.

Fumiko nodded, her eyes gleaming with the fervor of someone who had just struck gold.
"You know what they say, Gohan. Speed and Risk are the essence of business. And before you ask, don't worry; you'll get a cut of the cheese, too."

"Right… cheese…" Gohan chuckled, realizing that the fame he had stumbled into was being turned into a thriving business right before his eyes. The surreal nature of the situation, coupled with Fumiko's unbridled enthusiasm, made him appreciate the creativity and resourcefulness of UA's Business Class.

"Uh… I think I'm gonna… go take a break now," Gohan said, feeling exhausted from it all.

Gohan scanned the room for a quiet moment. His eyes landed on Ochaco, who sat at the edge of the dance floor in her wheelchair, watching the festivities with a gentle smile, clapping happily along to the music. Seeing his chance to take a break, Gohan excused himself and made his way over to her.

"Hey, Ochaco," Gohan said with a wave, walking up to the girl in the wheelchair.

Ochaco looked up, her eyes lighting up as she saw him approach.
"Gohan! Finally made it this way, huh? How's the whirlwind of fame treating you?"

"It's a lot to take in," Gohan chuckled, pinching the bridge of his nose. "I never imagined being a hero would come with so much... stuff. Especially stuff with my face on it."

Ochaco laughed. "Well, you handled it like a pro out there. The fans love you, Gohan."

"That's a good thing, I guess. It's really tiring, though. How are you holding up?" Gohan asked, glancing at her wheelchair.

Ochaco shrugged, but a sad sparkle in her eyes betrayed her smile.
"I'm doing okay. It's just a bit strange and a little sad, you know, not being able to join in all the dancing and fun. But watching everyone enjoy themselves makes up for it." she said.

Gohan nodded understandingly.
"You're handling it well. I admire your positive attitude, Ochaco."

"Thanks, Gohan," Ochaco said with a smile. "I know this is just temporary, after all. I'll be back on my feet in no time."

The energetic song ended and the dance floor cleared for a moment. Kyoka wiped the sweat from her forehead and stepped forward to the center of the stage and sat on a stool, putting her bass guitar down and picking up an acoustic guitar. She began to strum a gentle, soothing melody, casting a calm spell over the room. Her voice, angelic and pure, began to resonate through the air, catching everyone's attention. Couples walked into the dance floor and began to sway slowly to the beautiful melody of Kyoka's song.

Kirishima pulled Videl into the slow dance, and even Dende and Tsu found themselves among the dancing couples along with Shoto and Momo, and even Mina and a handsome third year Hero student she had been flirting with.

Gohan caught Ochaco's longing stare and smiled.

"Hey, wanna dance with me, Ochaco?" he asked, his eyes reflecting a genuine sincerity.

Ochaco looked up at him, surprise flickering in her eyes. A hint of apprehension crossed her features, and she glanced down at her shoes.

"But how?" she whispered. "I can't stand on my own. What if I fall? I don't want to make a scene, Gohan,"

Gohan, undeterred, crouched down to her level, his tail unraveling gracefully from around his hips. "You won't fall, Ochaco. I can hold you up. Just follow my lead. Trust me."

"...Okay," Ochaco finally agreed.

Gohan gently took her hand, using his tail to offer her the support she needed to stand. Ochaco allowed herself to be lifted. Gohan's tail wrapped around her, providing a secure embrace.

Ochaco looked down at the tail that was supporting her waist and smiled.

"Here, maybe this will help, too," she said, reaching up and tapping her shoulder. A pink aura washed over her and her hair began to float as her body became suspended from gravity.

"Perfect. Come on," Gohan whispered. They found a quiet spot on the dance floor, away from the bustling crowd.

As they began to sway to the slow rhythm, Gohan held Ochaco close. His movements were careful, his tail adjusting at every step. Ochaco, despite her initial reservations, felt a comforting strength in Gohan's arms.

The dance became a sort of silent conversation between them; Gohan's calm assurance and Ochaco's willingness to follow. The soft lights illuminated their dance, casting a warm glow on the couple lost in the magic of the moment.

But as they danced, Ochaco couldn't shake the awkward sensation of her shoes scraping the floor, reminded her once again, of the limitation her current condition imposed on simple pleasures like dancing. Her face carried a hint of sadness, but she didn't want it to spoil the moment. She leaned her head against Gohan's chest, finding comfort in his steady heartbeat.

From the corner of her eye, Ochaco caught a glimpse of Itsuka Kendo, who was approaching Gohan from behind, but stopped halfway when she saw them together. She bit her lower lip and turned around to walk away.

Some of the students around them began to murmur and Ochaco couldn't shake the feeling of being watched.

"People are starting to stare, Gohan," she said, slightly embarrassed. "It's okay if you want to stop…"

Gohan, with a gentle smile, continued to sway with Ochaco, undeterred by the growing audience. "Don't worry about them," he reassured her. "You're doing amazing, Ochaco. We're here, dancing together, and that's all that matters."

"It's not just that... Dancing is one of my favorite things," she sighed. "Now, I can't even feel the floor under my feet..."

Gohan tightened his hold, offering reassurance.

"I can't imagine how hard that must feel right now. But we'll find a way to bring back those moments, Ochaco. For now, let's just take it one step at time, and enjoy this, okay?"

"Okay," Ochaco breathed, closing her eyes, letting the soothing sounds of the music and Gohan's reassuring heartbeat drown out the self-conscious thoughts. She focused on the warmth of Gohan's embrace, the steady rise and fall of his chest, grounding her in the present.

Gohan continued to guide her through the dance, his movements careful and considerate. Ochaco began to relax into the moment, allowing herself to be carried away by the gentle sway of the dance.

The song played on, its melody weaving around them, and for a brief moment, the world outside their small bubble ceased to exist. The soft glow of the lights, the gentle hum of the music, and the comforting presence of Gohan merged into an intimate experience.

"Wow, Gohan, I'm impressed!" Ochaco breathed, feeling a sense of weightlessness.

"Why?"

"You really know how to dance!"

"Hahaha! Oh no, not at all," Gohan chuckled, the sound a low rumble against the music. "Hmm, it's kinda like Martial Arts. The movements just flow together, I guess…"

The two continued to sway in comforting silence for another moment, just enjoying the feeling of having one another in their arms.

"So," Gohan said finally, and Ochaco looked up at him. "The Internships are coming up. That's kind of exciting, right?"

"Yeah, I know! I'm a bit nervous," she admitted, "especially since I'll be missing the first couple of weeks or so."

"Have you decided where you want to intern?" he asked.

Ochaco shook her head. "Not yet. There really aren't a whole lot of choices, but I still want to make the right decision. I've got six agencies that gave me an application. What about you?"

"Umm… well," Gohan chuckled shyly. "I think I got an application from… pretty much all of them."

"I wouldn't doubt it. Everyone can see your potential. They know you'll make a great hero someday, Gohan," Ochaco said. "I really hope we can intern together, but at the same time, I don't want to hold you back, either. Maybe it's a bit selfish, but I hope you don't intern too far away. Six months is a long time..."

"Yeah, but no matter where I go, I'll make time for you, Ochaco," Gohan said, a determination in his eyes. "I'll make sure to check in regularly, and we'll work on regaining your mobility together."

"Yeah?" Ochaco looked up at him, a hopeful gleam in her eye. "Do you promise?"

Gohan smiled, a warm assurance in his gaze. "I promise."

As the song reached its conclusion, Gohan and Ochaco slowly came to a stop, and he leaned down towards her, pressing his forehead against hers, their breaths syncing with the fading notes. The surrounding applause brought them back to the present, and Gohan, with a warm smile, gently lowered Ochaco back into her wheelchair.

"That was amazing," she admitted, her eyes sparkling with gratitude. "Thank you so much, Gohan."

Gohan was going to respond when his cell phone began to vibrate in his pocket.

Gohan's expression shifted abruptly as he answered the call, and Ochaco couldn't help but notice the concern growing on his face.

"Okay, thanks for letting me know," Gohan said. "I'll be there as soon as I can."

"Is everything alright?" she asked.

"That was Ojiro," Gohan let out a heavy sigh, putting his cellphone away, his tone serious. "It's Iida's family… Something's come up, and I need to go see him right now."

"Oh no! Are his brother and mom okay?" Ochaco gasped, bringing her hands up to her mouth.

"I'm not sure, but they need me at the hospital right away," Gohan sighed again and shook his head. "I'm really sorry about this, Ochaco, I really wanted to walk you to your apartment tonight, but…"

"It's okay, Gohan. I understand," Ochaco nodded."Of course, go. I'll be okay. Melissa and Tsu offered to give me a lift, anyway. We can see each other tomorrow, if you're available."

"I'd love that," Gohan said.

"Me too," Ochaco winked sweetly. "And listen, if you need us to be there, please call us."

"Yeah, I will."

'Kay, be careful in Hosu! Good night!"

Gohan gave her a final, reassuring smile and a quick nod before swiftly heading towards the exit, his focus now on the impending situation with Iida. Ochaco watched him go, a mix of worry for Iida and a lingering warmth from the dance blending in her thoughts.

…

In the dimly lit hospital room, the rhythmic hum of machines echoed the palpable silence that enveloped Tenya Iida. The sterile white walls seemed to close in on him, mirroring the constriction in his chest. His brother, Tensei, lay motionless on the sterile sheets, like a broken mirror, a shattered reflection of the hero he once was.

Tenya's trembling hand reached out to clasp his brother's weakened, bandaged one, the only connection that bridged the vast gap between life and the precipice of death. Tears streamed down Tenya's face as he gazed at the hero he had always looked up to—the hero who was now a broken shell of himself.

"…Ten...ya…" Tensei whispered hoarsely, his once vibrant blue eyes, now dulled by pain, met Tenya's. The once indomitable Ingenium had been reduced to a broken figure, horribly burned with multiple cuts all over his body. His left arm and leg had been severed by a blade.

Tenya's classmates, Ojiro and Hagakure, stood quietly in the background, the helplessness in their eyes reflecting the cruel hand fate had dealt.

"Stay with me, Tensei. Please!" Tenya whispered, his voice barely audible above the ominous beeping of monitors. His fingers tightened around Tensei's hand as if he could will life back into his brother's battered body. Tenya willed himself not to look at the burned stumps that used to be his brother's left arm and leg.

Tensei's weak smile attempted to reassure, but it faltered under the weight of pain. The Turbo Hero, whose strength had once been a beacon of hope, now teetered on the brink of oblivion. Tenya's eyes, bloodshot from tears, furrowed as he stared into his brother's graying eyes.

In the next room, their mother lay motionless, in a coma, barely alive. Her own body had been nearly consumed by fires from the villains that had ambushed them in Hosu. Tenya's heart ached for the strength that once defined them—a strength now shattered, scattered like shards of a broken glass.

"Tenya," Tensei rasped, each word a struggle against the pain that gripped him, "I need you to listen."

Tenya nodded, though the knot in his throat threatened to choke off any response. Tensei's remaining hand tightened around Tenya's, a feeble attempt to convey strength.

"From the moment you were born," Tensei began, his voice barely audible, "I knew I had a responsibility. I wanted to be the hero you could look up to, someone you could be proud of. Everything I did, every battle I fought, was for you, Tenya."

A bittersweet smile flickered across Tensei's face, but the pain etched in the lines betrayed it. "I became Ingenium not just for the people out there, or even for our family's legacy, but for you, little brother. I wanted you to see that heroes can make a difference, that we can protect those we care about."

Tenya's gaze wavered, torn between the reality of Tensei's broken form and the echoes of the hero he once was. Tensei continued, his words a gentle plea in the hushed hospital room.

"Now, I need you to be that hero for me, Tenya. I need you to be the next Ingenium. You have the strength and the heart to carry on the legacy. Our family... our purpose has always been to stand for justice. Please, promise me you'll continue the fight."

Tenya's eyes welled with fresh tears as the weight of Tensei's words sank in. A conflicted storm raged within him, torn between the love for his brother and the daunting responsibility thrust upon him. The title of Ingenium now felt like a heavy chain shackling him to a destiny he was not yet ready to accept.

"I can't, Tensei," Tenya choked out, the words caught between sorrow and defiance. "I can't just step into your shoes and pretend everything will be the same. Accepting this... it's like accepting that you won't make it. I can't bear that weight."

"Yes, you can," Tensei's eyes, still holding a glimmer of hope, pleaded with Tenya. "You're strong, Tenya. Stronger than you realize. Strong enough to carry on, continuing the fight for justice… for the people who can't protect themselves."

A tear rolled down Tenya's cheek as he tightened his grip on Tensei's hand. Tensei's breaths were becoming more and more labored.

"Promise me, Tenya," Tensei implored, his voice weakening. "Promise me… that you'll carry on. Be the hero… I know… you can be. You are… our family's legacy... it's in your hands now… Ingenium."

The room seemed to close in on Tenya, the weight of his brother's plea pressing down on him like an insurmountable weight.

"Mister Aizawa... he's a great man," Tensei continued, his voice a fragile whisper, each word hanging in the air like a fleeting breath. "Listen to him, Tenya. He always told me... that I was always running too fast... that I needed to slow down... but I never listened."

The irony of those words lingered, a bitter reminder of the relentless pursuit of justice that had led to Tensei's current state. Tenya's gaze shifted to the door, where the faint outline of their homeroom teacher stood in the shadows, a silent guardian in this somber moment. Tears streamed down Aizawa's face and he lowered his head in silence.

Tensei managed a rueful smile, lines of pain creasing on his pale face.
"Promise me that you'll become a great hero, little brother. Learn from my mistakes. Don't let your quest for justice blind you to the moments that truly matter."

Tenya's chest tightened, the conflicting emotions within him threatening to overwhelm. The sound of a distant siren echoed through the hospital corridors. The world outside continued to spin, unaware of the wonderful person it was losing tonight.

The world that still needed heroes.

"Yes, Tensei. I promise," Tenya whispered, his voice barely audible. He felt the fleeting warmth of Tensei's hand in his. "I'll be the hero you wanted me to be. I'll carry on the legacy, not just for justice but for you, for mom, for everyone who believes in the strength of heroes."

Tensei's eyes softened, a mix of pride and gratitude shining through the pain. "Thank you, Tenya. You've always been the best little brother anyone could ask for. I love you… and I believe in you."

A soft, trembling breath escaped Tensei's lips as he summoned the last remnants of strength within him. His trembling hand reached up to lightly caress Tenya's cheek. The touch, gentle and fleeting, carried the weight of a brother's love and a hero's farewell.

"I love you, Tenya," Tensei whispered, the words a delicate echo in the hushed room. His hand slowly fell to his side, the strength seeping away like sand slipping through the fingers. Tensei's once vibrant eyes dimmed, losing the battle against the encroaching darkness.

Tenya clung to his brother's cooling hand, his breath caught in a silent scream. The heart monitor's steady beep faltered.

Tensei was gone.

Tears streamed down Tenya's face as he pressed his forehead against Tensei's still form, a desperate attempt to hold on to the fading warmth. Ojiro placed a firm hand on Iida's trembling shoulders and Toru wrapped her arms around Iida from behind, crying into his shoulder.

"Oh, Iida, I'm so sorry," Toru whimpered in between sobs.

In the quiet aftermath of Tensei's passing, the world outside dared continue its relentless march, unaware of little brother's heartbroken cries.

"TENSEI!"

Ending Song:

"Set it on Fire" by Divide

A/N: Poor Iida :'( How will losing his big brother affect his character arc and his hero journey? And how do you think his friends can help him? We'll find out in this Internship Arc. I had planned to introduce some familiar faces from Shiketsu, but it was just too bloated, so I saved it for another chapter.

With the Internships right around the corner, it's time for the Hero Course students to choose their official Hero Names. What will they be?

Next time: Chapter 53 – The Name of a Hero

Don't miss it!

Onto the Review Responses:

ZeroTheOne chapter 51 . Nov 12

Good job

Thanks, Zero! I'm so glad you're enjoying the story. Epic username, by the way!

ArguableReader chapter 51 . Nov 12

OKAY~ SO, what now?

As always, good chapter!

Next up, Bakugou just CANNOT except anything less, than the best,
either to be equal to all-might, or outright surpass him,
but at least he mellows out in the end...

~Huh~

In all fairness, a number of the hero academia stories I've read, had used the excuse of the,
metal presentation, to also hand out, 'exclusive' Ticket's to the I-island expo,
in which the first known hero academia movie takes place...guess that's not happening here...
(Lenny face generated, shrug emote) \_(ツ)_/ \_(ツ)_/ \_(ツ)_/

(Puts-on-sunglasses-lenny-face-emote) (_) (_) (_)

Anything else...

That max powers reporter guy...a cameo for another showing eventually perhaps?

Final word: See you again, hopefully before the holiday season!

Thank you for your review as always, ArguableReader. Ohhh yes, the Season Two finale will take place during the events of the I-Expo. It will be the peeerfect form of… ah, you get it. Cell Games on I-Island. That cat's pretty much out the bag now haha

Oh imagine that. Everyone trapped on a lockdown, trapped on an island with Imperfect Cell running around eating people. Deliciously terrifying.

The Max Power is a cameo from another crack fic that I started on the main MHA fic page. He's basically Alex Jones. Such a fun, manic character to write and yeah we'll see a lot more of him as he J Jonah Jameson's himself into Gohan's Hero Career.

Hopefully I can crank out at least one or two more chapters before the holidays! Thanks again and see you next time!

KaijuEmperor chapter 51 . Nov 12

Ha now you just got me thinking that song for this entire chapter and such an adorable family moment(though Gohan doesn't realize that Goku is much closer than he thinks, wonder when All Might will have to break the news to him?)
Figured those media vultures like that Max Power douche would try to put a high schooler up front for the sake of politics.
And who are these mysterious assholes sneaking around the aftermath party and what are they up to?

Yeah, I've got the revelation all planned out and it happens during this arc. It's going to be gut wrenching for sure, especially since so many people that Gohan looks up to is keeping this a secret from him.

Yeah, MSM reporters are the worst. Freakin' vultures. You know how it is, mainstream media grifters profiting on fake outrage for views and fame and politics.

Ah and the mysterious assholes are pretty much the Business Course's version of Mei Hatsume hahaha

Thank you so much for your reviews as always, King! I'm glad you're enjoying the story so far. Until next time, take care!

Brandon Dupere chapter 51 . Nov 13

Je suis vraiment content que ce chapitre sois enfin sortis, et surtout, j'ai hâte de voir où Gohan ira faire son stage. Aussi, je pourrais bien souligner le caméo de Max Power, mon dieu qu'il est énervant, ou bien le fait que ce chapitre était plus court que d'habitude, mais ce ne sont que des détails mineur. J'ai hâte d'être au prochain chapitre.

Bonjour Brandon, merci beaucoup pour votre avis et vos aimables paroles, comme toujours. Malheureusement, je n'ai pas pu inclure le caméo de Brianne, comme je l'avais promis, car il y avait trop de contenu pour un seul chapitre. Mais nous la reverrons bientôt. Peut-être en finale. Elle et d'autres camées aussi. J'espère que vous avez apprécié cet aperçu de nos jeunes héros qui connaissent la gloire pour la première fois. Et nous découvrirons bientôt le nom du héros choisi par Gohan ainsi que l'agence dans laquelle il fera son stage, même si je suppose que vous avez peut-être déjà une idée de qui il s'agira.

JustinCase chapter 51 . Nov 13

OMG, He liiiiiiiives! XD

You have no idea how hyped i was to finally see an update for this. It was a little shorter than the usual chapters you give us. though I usually prefer the longer chapters, I'm just glad we finally got SOMETHING!

Ngl that family with Gohan and his family really hit me right in the feels. I just moved into my dorm about three months ago and with this being the first time I'm away from my little family, I've been feeling really homesick. So I can definitely relate to that loneliness that Gohan is going through. And the lesson about the press is so timely now, given the cancel culture that's everywhere these days. Stay true to yourself and your ideals, no matter what others think. what a great lesson from Aizawa.

And lastly, are you implying a possible Kacchako in the future? O.o please dont. That would destroy Gohan. My stomach hurts just thinking about it.

Interested in who the mystery students are and why they would be foolish enough to target Gohan. Like, did they not just watch Gohan pummel Bakugo to a pulp just now?

godly chapter my good sir! Can't wait for the next one

Yeah, Yeah, I am Here! Haha sorry for the long wait between updates. Trying to get back in the rhythm of things. You know how it is. I can totally relate, man. Moving out for the first time is definitely one of the hardest things to do, and homesickness is a real challenge. I hope you get a chance to return to your family and have a great time for the holidays.

Kacchako? XD Hellll no!

Yeah he was targeted, but as a product lmao. Thank yu so much for your review! I'll do my best to update again soon!

Luna Bellanova chapter 16 . Nov 14

Hi Eclipse:) I ate this chapter up! I appreciate the added lore of the Namekians and loved the big sis relationship between Ochaco and the little Namek boys. It was so cute and wholesome, and I'm wondering just how powerful Ochaco's Quirk is gonna be now that Moori unlocked her hidden potential. Oh and it was really neat to see the origins of the Hyperbolic Time Chamber. If anyone can help finish making it, it's genius Melissa Shield! Ahh, Chi-Chi was so close to finding Gohan and having a reunion with him! This is the second timeeeee! But the moment with Gohan meeting Inko Midoriya was also heartwarming. I hope next time, there can be a true reunion between Gohan and his family. And on a final thought, looks like Gohan and Ochaco are gonna start seeing each other a lot more in time to make a move, Gohan!

Luna Bellanova chapter 17 . Nov 14

Mhm yes I'm really loving Kaminari and Jiro's chemistry here. Denki's airheaded idiocy clashing with Jiro's dry wit always makes me chuckle inside. Interesting that Videl kept her Saiyagirl costume here. Is there a reason for that? Also seeing Gohan's reaction to Ochaco's skintight costume hehehehe 3;)

Hm, I think Ojiro being a Crane student makes lots of sense. His battle against Gohan is gonna be legendary I bet.

Hi Luna, glad you liked the chapters. It's always nice to be able to go back and see the origins of the story. Takes me back and rekindles my love for this story. Thanks again for your reviews! You're almost caught up ahahaha no not really xD

SparkfireX chapter 51 . Nov 14

So, possible storylines to come after this(you may or may not want to these arcs. Up to you, really): Multiversal travel arc(maybe have it be short, like 5 to ten chapters at most), "Cell arc" or the 'I island' movie arc(which ever you want to call it), an maybe a Fusion arc variant (Love to see how you Implement the Fusion dance and Potara earrings into your verse). The arcs that'll be the outliers will be the arcs you introduce SSJ2 and/or SSJ3 into the story- if you introduce them at all.

If you introduce fusion, the Metamorean Fusion/Fusion Dance name of Gohan and Shoto should be Ghoto, withe the Potara fusion name should be Shohan.

Yesss great minds think alike, Sparkfire! I like those names for the fusions and I'll definitely keep them in mind for later. Shohan sounds so badass! Thanks for your review and continued support!

Guest chapter 12 . Nov 18

So if Vegeta is Endeavor in this fic, does that mean Shoto and Trunks are half-brothers? And that makes Dabi, Natsuo and Fuyumi at least half Saiyan, yes? And unless Bulma replaces Rei Todoroki in this fic, then this means that Vegeta NTR'd Shoto's mom with Bulma huh, maybe while she was being held in the psych ward damn :(

Yeah Vegeta has a looott to atone for. As you'll soon find out, something much worse than a psych ward happened to Rei. Thanks for your review!

ezcrema99 chapter 1 . Nov 25

Hmm, Good Job.

Hmmmm, Thannnnnks!

Guest chapter 38 . Dec 3

What is Vegeta's physical appearance? Does he look like Endeavor in canon or Vegeta in canon?

Guest chapter 51 . Dec 3

Does your depiction of vegeta look like vegeta in canon or endeavor in canon?

Yeah, he looks exactly like he does in the Namek Saga of DBZ. Exactly the same, down to the red hightlights in his hair. He is only Endeavor in name here. That's his hero name. Other than that, he has groan a goatee and I played around with the thought of giving him a flame mooostache like endeavor's. You can see a concept of what he looks like on my Twitter. ZzEclipse.

Thanks so much for your reviews!

That's it for review responses! Until next time, friends! Take care!