A/N: This is going to be a Melissa Shield - centered chapter. Enjoy!
Review Responses at the end, as usual.
Opening Song:
"Vandalize" by One Ok Rock
Four-Year-Old Melissa Shield sat huddled in her small makeshift workshop, surrounded by a jumble of tools and half-completed inventions. Her tiny radio was blasting at max volume, but even that couldn't drown out the sound of her parents' voices that drifted through the thin walls, growing louder with each passing moment.
What had started as a civil conversation had quickly escalated into a full-blown shouting match. Her mother, Tights Briefs, was a brilliant scientist and inventor, but her dedication to her work had begun to border on obsession. Melissa admired her mother's intelligence and ambition, but lately, it seemed as if nothing else mattered to her.
When Melissa was still very young, Tights had left their floating city home of I-Island to travel to West City, where she would be working on an important project with her family of talented inventors. From time to time, she would call back, but Melissa grew up mostly without her. Melissa hadn't even met her in person! The weight of her absence and the strain it put on their family bore heavily on Melissa's young shoulders.
As she focused on the delicate wiring, Melissa couldn't help but overhear snippets of their heated conversation seeping into her sanctuary. Her heart clenched at the sound of her father's anguished voice, pleading for her mother's attention, for a connection that seemed to slip further away with each passing moment.
"I can't believe you're prioritizing work over our family, Tights! Don't you see how incredibly selfish you're being?" Melissa heard her father's hurt and frustrated voice. "How can you prioritize some invention over being a mother and a wife? Our daughter needs you. I need you!"
"Dave, I understand your concerns, but what we're working on is something big; something that could change the world! I have a chance to make a difference, to create something extraordinary, something much bigger than you and I, and I can't just let it slip away so I can come home and play Mommy. I've been running on three hours of sleep as it is. I need to focus my energy on this and I can't let anything get in the way… I won't!Melissa… Melissa will understand one day."
"Melissa needs her mother…"
"What Melissa needs," Tights cut him off, "is to see that she can strive towards her dreams too, if she's willing to sacrifice for it."
"Sacrifice?!" David spat in disgust. "Stop and take a good hard look at what you're sacrificing, Tights! Everything we worked so hard to build – years of our lives, washed down the drain. You're sacrificing our dreams here!"
"IT'S YOUR DREAM!" Tights shouted at the top of her lungs, her sobbing voice fueling with raw emotion. "Not mine. You've never cared about what I wanted. Oh, but you were so happy when you got the chance to prance around with All Might and Kakarot, chasing your dream of being a Hero. And what about me? Didn't you ever once stop to ask yourself what kinds of dreams I was setting aside to support you? I put my life on pause for years to support you Dave! And then, after you got your fun, you decided that we should settle down. And now that I have a chance to leave my mark in the world, I'm being selfish. What about my dreams, huh?!"
Tights' words hung in the air, filled anger and frustration.
"Tights, I never realized…" David's voice quivered with a mixture of regret and pain. "I never understood the sacrifices you were making for me. I'm truly sorry about that. I thought we were building a life together, supporting each other's dreams. I never meant for you to give up on your own."
Tight's voice sobbed from the other end of the call with a shaky breath. "It's too late for 'what ifs' and regrets now, Dave. This is the reality we face, and I can't turn back time. All I can do is move forward and seize this opportunity that's come my way. It's not about choosing a career over our family; it's about finding my own purpose and making a difference in the world."
David's eyes welled up with unshed tears as he gripped the phone, his hand trembling. "Tights, I may not fully understand or agree with your decision, but I can't bear the thought of losing you. We're a family, and families support each other through thick and thin. Please, let's find a way to make it work. I don't want Melissa to grow up without her mother."
Tights paused for a moment, and all David could hear was the sound of her heavy breathing. "Dave, I never wanted to leave you or Melissa. But this fire inside me, this drive to create something meaningful, is burning too fiercely to ignore. One day, the machine we're working on now may be our only hope… It's too important to stop now, and I don't know if there's a compromise that can bridge the gap between our dreams. Not right now. I'm sorry, I know this isn't what you wanted to hear, and I hope you can forgive me one day. But I… won't be coming home in the summer, like I promised… I… I won't be coming home anymore."
"…I love you, Tights."
"I… I know. Goodbye, David."
With that, the call ended.
With trembling hands, Melissa rummaged through her collection of tools and materials, her heart yearning for a tangible expression of her emotions as she delved deeper into her creative sanctuary, seeking comfort in the power of her imagination.
Amidst the scattered tools and half-finished projects, Melissa's eyes fell upon a forgotten concept, buried beneath the remnants of past creations. It was the idea of a weapon, no, a symbol of strength and protection, that resonated deeply within her. Drawing inspiration from her own feelings of being unwanted and powerless, she set forth on the task of bringing her vision to life.
Fueled by the intensity of her emotions and the desire to transcend her current circumstances, Melissa poured her heart and soul into the creation, meticulously assembling the pieces, each component an extension of her spirit as much as her body. With every twist and turn of the screwdriver, she poured her frustrations and fears into her creation, channeling her emotions into the weapon's essence.
With the final piece in place, Melissa held the weapon in her hands, its weight providing a sense of comfort and empowerment.
The Power Pole, as she named it, took shape in her hands. A vibrant red hue reflected off of the polished surface of the weapon. As she rotated the pole in her hands, she found that the pole was light and balanced, and could retract with a command, becoming compact and easily portable.
Embedded within the Power Pole were an array of cutting-edge features, each carefully crafted to empower Melissa and provide her with the tools she needed. A built-in GPS system would guide her through unknown territories, ensuring she never lost her way along her journey. An audio recording device to capture her thoughts and observations, which would allow her to document her experiences and reflect on them later.
The Power Pole's screen served as a multi-functional display, capable of projecting essential information, tactical plans, or even cherished memories. It was a cybernetic portal to knowledge and insight, a window into the world beyond her reach.
A transmitter was concealed within the Power Pole, which enabled Melissa to send and receive messages, connecting her to a network of allies and fellow dreamers who shared her unwavering passion for justice and change.
With every gadget and innovation she incorporated, Melissa felt a surge of empowerment. The Power Pole became more than just a physical object—it was a manifestation of her own resilience and determination; a symbol of hope, and a reminder that even in the face of adversity, she possessed the strength and ingenuity to overcome any obstacle.
But perhaps the most iconic and impressive ability of all was the staff's ability to expand at the sound of a voice command. Not only would it allow her to reach the unreachable, but this ability also offered tactical advantages in battle. The extended reach of the Power Pole would allow Melissa to strike her adversaries from a safe distance, keeping them at bay while she devised her next move. Its sturdiness provided a reliable defense, shielding her from incoming attacks.
But beyond its practical applications, the expanded Power Pole served as a visual testament to Melissa's growth and resilience. It symbolized her ability to rise above adversity and stretch beyond her perceived limitations. It was a constant reminder that she was capable of expanding her horizons, both metaphorically and physically, as she would continue to grow into an adult, and into a hero.
As Melissa held the completed Power Pole in her hands, she felt a renewed sense of purpose. This simple, beautiful device was her answer to the pain in her heart, her refusal to be defined by her circumstances. It was a declaration to the world that she, Melissa Shield, would rise above her pain and carve her own path, transforming her feelings of being unwanted and Quirkless into fuel for her dreams.
Little did she know that this creation, born out of her pain, would one day become a symbol of inspiration for others. With it, she would ignite hope in the hearts of those who like her, felt powerless or unwanted because of their differences, reminding them that within each of them lies the potential for greatness, waiting to be unleashed.
As she marveled at her creation, a mischievous thought entered her mind. With a grin, she sat the pole down on the floor on its end, grabbing the middle of the staff, and commanded the weapon to expand, ready to witness its impressive power.
"Extend, Power Pole!" She cried.
The Power Pole recognized her voice and answered, glowing vibrantly before it shot off, elongating with such vigor that it burst through the confines of her room like a rocket, breaking through the ceiling and extending into the sky, taking little Melissa with it. Melissa's eyes widened in a mixture of awe and panic as she shot up into the heavens, holding onto the Power Pole for dear life.
"Stop, Power Pole!" She shouted in a panic. "Stop!"
The Power Pole slowed to a standstill, high above even the tallest buildings in I-Island. From her elevated vantage point, she could see her neighborhood in all its glory. Neighbors stared up at her, perplexed by the sudden appearance of a young girl on a towering staff. Passersby on the street stopped to gawk in awe, some even pulling out their phones to capture the spectacle. Melissa couldn't help but laugh at the absurdity of the situation.
And from her position, as the wind brushed at her golden locks of hair, Melissa could see the entire ocean in its vastness. It was a breathtaking view, allowing her an opportunity to escape. Nothing was impossible, now that she had the Power Pole.
No, nothing was unreachable now.
Slowly, the Power Pole began to shrink in size, bringing Melissa slowly back down to her room. She touched down safely, her heart swelling with excitement and a newfound sense of strength as she held the Power Pole in her hands.
Just as the Pole retracted back to its normal size, David burst into Melissa's room, his eyes wide with panic. He stumbled over the threshold, almost tripping over a stray piece of broken debris. "Melissa! Are you okay? What happened?"
Melissa couldn't help but giggle, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Dad, you won't believe it! The Power Pole I made got a bit carried away, and now my room has a skylight! Look!" She pointed upwards, directing his attention to the gaping hole in the ceiling, revealing a patch of blue sky.
Dave's worry melted into bewilderment and relief. He looked up, taking in the unexpected sight. His eyebrows knitted together, unsure of how to react. "Well, I have to admit, this is definitely... unique," he said, staring at the hole in the roof. "But, sweetheart, we can't leave your room open to the elements like this. We need to figure out a way to fix it."
Melissa nodded eagerly, her face brightening with enthusiasm. "I already have a plan, Dad! We can turn it into a stargazing room! We'll install a telescope, get some comfy pillows and blankets, and have our very own observatory. It'll be like camping indoors!"
Dave couldn't help but chuckle at his daughter's imaginative solution. He realized that in the midst of his initial worry, Melissa had managed to turn what could have been a disaster into a creative opportunity. He admired her resilience and ability to see the silver lining in any situation.
"You always think of a way to turn things around, don't you, kiddo?" Dave said with a proud smile, his worry dissipating. "Alright, let's get to work then. Stargazing room it is!"
And so, father and daughter embarked on their own little adventure, transforming the once-ordinary room into a whimsical haven for stargazing. They patched up the ceiling, installed a telescope, and adorned the walls with glow-in-the-dark stars, creating a celestial wonderland.
From that day forward, the "skylight incident" became a cherished family story. The stargazing room became a place where father and daughter would spend countless nights, bonding under the stars, sharing stories, and creating memories that would last a lifetime.
One night, under the vast night sky, speckled with countless stars, Melissa sat beside her father, David. They leaned back against the soft pillows, their eyes fixed on the twinkling celestial display above. The serene ambiance was momentarily interrupted by Melissa's soft, hesitant voice.
"Papa," she began, her voice tinged with vulnerability, "why does it feel like nobody wants me?"
Her gaze remained fixed on the stars, her tiny fingers tracing patterns in the carpet.
David's heart sank at his daughter's question, understanding the weight of her words. He shifted closer to her, wrapping an arm around her shoulders, providing a comforting presence.
"Oh, sweetheart," he said with a tender tone, "don't ever think that. You are wanted more than you could possibly imagine."
Melissa's eyes welled up with tears, reflecting the moonlight as she turned to face her father. "But Mom left us, and I don't have any friends. Everyone at school thinks I'm weird because I don't have a Quirk. I feel so… alone."
David sighed.
"Melissa, your mother's choices were hers alone, and they don't reflect on you. You are an extraordinary girl, filled with kindness, intelligence, and the potential to become the most incredible person you can be. As for friends, true friendship takes time. You'll see. The right people will come into your life, ones who will appreciate you for who you are."
Melissa's voice trembled as she mustered the courage to voice her deepest fears. "But, Dad, what if nobody ever wants to be my friend? What if I'm just... alone forever?"
David's hand gently brushed away a tear that had escaped down her cheek. He locked eyes with her, his voice filled with love and support.
"Melissa, listen to me closely," he said. "You are never alone, my dear. I will always be here for you, no matter what. And so will uncle Sam and uncle Might. And as you grow older, you'll find that there are people out there who will see your incredible worth, who will appreciate your unique qualities and want to be a part of your life. You are destined for greatness, my little Starlight, and I believe in you with all my heart."
Melissa's tears slowly subsided, replaced by a glimmer of hope in her eyes. She leaned into her father's embrace, finding comfort in his words and the unconditional love that enveloped her.
As they continued stargazing together, a sense of warmth and understanding filled the air. Melissa's heart began to heal, knowing that her father was her rock, her constant source of love and support. And with each passing night, she would gaze up at the stars, knowing that even in the vastness of the universe, she was never truly alone.
In one such night, as her father slept in a sleeping bag beside hers, Melissa quietly crept out of her bed and took the Power Pole to a quiet corner of her room. She thumbed the audio recording function, and the Pole resonated to life with a crimson glow.
…
"Hey, Future Me! It's little Melissa here," the recording played from the Pole's speakers as Melissa, now sixteen, listened in with a faint smile, as she waited to be called onto the fighting stage to face Fu in the Round of 16 of the Finals Tournament.
"I know you're out there, fighting battles and facing challenges that seem impossible. But guess what? I believe in you. I believe in the hero you've become, even if you don't feel like one right now. Remember when Dad used to tell us stories about his hero days? Well, you know what? You're living that story now. You have the power to make a difference, to be the hero Dad always dreamed you'd become."
"I know there might be times when you doubt yourself, like the whole world rejects you because you're different. But I want you to remember something: We are Fighting Dreamers. We never give up! No matter what. I bet you have lots and lots of good friends now who are cheering for you, right? And I am cheering for you, too. I'm cheering for the hero you are and the hero you will become. So don't give up, and don't lose hope. Keep pushing forward, because I know you can do it."
As Melissa listened to the recording, she felt a gentle presence approaching her. She turned to find her father, David, standing there, with pride etched on his face. Melissa looked into her father's eyes, feeling a surge of gratitude and love towards the man who had always encouraged her and believed in her and supported her in every step of her journey towards becoming a hero. Dave's eyes widened in surprise as he recognized the innocent little voice coming from the speakers of the Power Pole. With tears in their eyes, father and daughter listened together intently as the recording concluded.
The voice softened, carrying a sense of warmth and love. "And remember, Future Me, even if things don't always go according to plan, even if you stumble and fall, keep picking yourself up, dust off the doubts, and keep chasing your dreams. And if you ever feel like your dreams are unreachable, why, just use the Power Pole I made for you, and you will reach even the stars. Love, your little Melissa. Aka Starlight…"
As the recording ended, a silence settled between them, filled with unspoken emotions. Dave broke the silence, his voice filled with a mix of awe and pride.
"Melissa…" he said. "I didn't realize... I didn't realize you had recorded such a powerful message to yourself."
Melissa smiled, touched by her father's presence and his discovery of the recording. "I guess I just wanted to remind myself that I can do it… I can be a hero like you and Uncle Might!"
Dave's gaze softened, a newfound understanding glimmering in his eyes. "Melissa, I may not have succeeded in my own dreams of heroism, but seeing you embrace that dream... it fills me with a sense of awe. You've taken my aspirations and made them your own, and I couldn't be prouder."
Tears welled up in Melissa's eyes and she surged forward into her father's arms, embracing him tightly. "Thank you, Papa. Thank you for always believing in me, for always being there and supporting me. It means everything to me."
Dave held his daughter close. In that moment, he knew that Melissa had surpassed any and all expectations he had ever held for her. She was a beacon of hope, embodying the very essence of heroism that he had longed for. It was a sign that she was going to be okay, that even though she grew up without a mother, she had found her way and turned into a remarkable young woman with a selfless, compassionate and heroic heart.
Relief washed over him, taking with it every doubt that he had been a good father. Everything was going to be okay.
Their moment was cut short by the roars from the fire pedestals that blazed to life, igniting with it the passions of the Sports Fans.
"Alright, alright, everyone! It's time to crank up the volume and get back to the action!" Present Mic exclaimed, his voice reverberating through the walls. "Next up we've got a rising star in the making, folks! Give it up for the incredible Melissa Shield!"
Melissa's heart skipped a beat as she realized it was her time to shine. She cast a quick glance at her father, who gave her an encouraging nod. With newfound determination, she stepped forward, ready to face Fu on the fighting stage. The tunnel became a threshold, separating her from the rest of the world and leading her into the arena. It was a moment frozen in time, where the weight of her dreams and the legacy of her father's aspirations converged.
"Melissa, you've got this!" Dave called out to his daughter as she walked out to the ring, his voice filled with pride. "Go get 'em, my little Starlight."
"Thank you, Papa," Melissa called back. "Just watch, I'll make you proud!"
With that, Melissa stepped into the spotlight, her heart brimming with excitement and anticipation. She knew that her father's belief in her would fuel her every move, just as his love had guided her to this moment.
Present Mic, always the showman, continued to amplify the crowd's excitement. "Ladies and gentlemen, get ready to witness the awe-inspiring heroics of Melissa Shield! Will she conquer the stage and rise to the top? Or will the Vice Rep of the Support Class, Fu, win? Let's find out!"
From the opposite tunnel, Fu emerged, wearing a black bodysuit and a harness loaded with ingenious gadgets.
"Ladies and gentlemen, feast your eyes on Fu, the epitome of innovative skill and ingenuity!" Mic wailed. "With his array of support items and his powerful energizer Quirk, he's here to show us why he's been considered a force to be reckoned with throughout this entire competition!"
Melissa took a deep breath, absorbing the energy of the crowd and the strength from her father's love and support. She was ready to take her place among the heroes, to prove to everyone – her friends, her rivals, heroes everywhere, her family and yes, even to her younger self – that even without a Quirk, she had the strength, determination, and the drive to make a difference.
As Fu stepped onto the fighting stage and gave her a playful smirk, Melissa's mind echoed with her younger self's words of encouragement. She held onto that belief, allowing it to fill every fiber of her being. With a newfound sense of purpose, Melissa prepared to face the challenges ahead, ready to leave her mark on the world and fulfill her dream of becoming a hero.
Midnight lifted her whip and brought it down with a loud crack.
"Melissa vs Fu. Ready? CLASH!"
CHAPTER FORTY-FIVE: THE SPORTS FESTIVAL VII – MELISSA SHIELD – ORIGIN
"Hey," Fu called, giving Melissa a smirk. "Good luck, Mel. After this, maybe you'll let me take you out some time? I don't mean as a group, I mean for real, this time."
Melissa's eyes widened and her cheeks blushed at Fu's boldness.
"Uhm… Is this really the best way of asking me out?" she squeaked with an awkward smile. "In front of all these people?"
"Heh," Fu chuckled jokingly, drawing his sword. It activated with violet power flowing from his Quirk. "Rejected in front of 250,000 people. Ouch..."
"Hey, I didn't say no, did I Fu?" Melissa said, smiling teasingly. "Let's talk after the fight, hmm? For now, show me what you've got!"
"If you insist," Fu sighed.
From the top of the designated seats for Support Class 1-H, a mischievous glint sparkled in Mei Hatsume's eyes as she tapped away at her laptop. Unbeknownst to Present Mic and Aizawa, Mei had been quietly preparing her own surprise for the event. With a few quick taps on her device, she successfully hacked into the PA system, causing Present Mic's booming voice to momentarily fade away. Adjusting the microphone over her lips, Mei cleared her throat and stood from her seat.
Melissa shot forward, spinning her Power Pole in hand when, to everyone's astonishment, a high-pitched mischievous laughter echoed throughout the arena speakers, catching everyone's attention and stopping Melissa in her tracks.
"Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, gather around and feast your eyes on this spectacular display of power and technology!" Mei Hatsume's voice boomed through the speakers, capturing the attention of the entire crowd. "I, Mei Hatsume, Class Representative of the Support Class, shall guide you through the intricacies of Fu's marvelous harness and all the babies we created for this fight. Prepare to be amazed!"
"...babies?" Ochaco gasped, exchanging a confused look with Izuku and Gohan. Present Mic and Aizawa exchanged bewildered glances, caught off guard by Mei's audacious move. Aizawa sighed, realizing that attempting to regain control of the situation would be futile.
Meanwhile, Mei's mischievous laughter echoed through the arena as she wholeheartedly embraced her impromptu role.
"Oh, this is going to be fun! Now, let's dive right in. Take a good look at Vice Rep Fu," Mei's voice crackled with enthusiasm. "He's sporting the all new Titan BattleHarness 2. It's an impressive piece of engineering, equipped with an assortment of surprises. He's got smoke bombs, grappling hooks, and even a nifty holographic projector! We made these babies using all of the tech offered by Miss Briefs' class. It's like a support shop on his back!"
Miss Briefs… Melissa's teeth gritted and her grip on the Power Pole tightened. She wasn't even trying to hide the fact that she abandoned them anymore..
In her distraction, Fu hit a red trigger attached to his wrist and two canisters shot out, landing at Melissa's feet and spinning on the ground, emitting clouds of dense black smoke to engulf the fighting stage. The audience watched in awe as the haze obscured Melissa's vision, making it difficult for her to anticipate Fu's next move.
Mei's voice crackled through the hacked PA system, narrating the scene with infectious enthusiasm. "Oh, look at that! Fu has deployed his smoke bomb gadget, shrouding the arena in a veil of mystery. Melissa's senses are being put to the test. Will she find a way to navigate through this challenging situation? Fortunately for Fu, our Trident Battle Harness is equipped with a handy dandy set of retractable goggles that can detect infrared and night vision as well as block out any harmful gases, fumes, liquids or solids. See how Fu takes the advantage now, in the smoke."
Melissa squinted through the smoke, swinging wildly at the sound of incoming feet, charging at her.
"Extend, Power Pole!" She shouted, slamming the pole onto the ground. It erupted in size and Melissa grabbed onto it as it took her high above the floating cloud of smoke. As she burst out of the smoke, she caught sight of Fu just outside the smoke. She twisted her body into a somersault, landing with a sweep of her pole, intent on striking him by surprise.
With a burst of speed, Fu activated the harnesses's propulsion system, propelling himself away from Melissa's reach. The sudden surge of power sent him soaring through the air, evading her attack with ease. Mei's voice crackled through the speakers once more, her excitement palpable.
"Oh, the tables have turned! Fu's hydraulic propulsion system allows him to take to the skies, eluding Melissa's grasp at the last possible moment! It's a breathtaking display of aerial maneuverability, wouldn't you say, dear support company investors?"
Melissa's eyes widened in surprise as Fu's figure became a blur, defying gravity as he soared above her. But she didn't falter. Instead, a determined glint flickered in her eyes, fueling her resolve to keep pushing forward. Undeterred by Fu's evasive tactics, Melissa quickly recalibrated her strategy.
With a swift flick of her wrist, Melissa activated the extendable feature of her Power Pole. The pole elongated, reaching new lengths as it soared through the air towards Fu.
The crowd watched in awe as Melissa's extended Power Pole sliced through the air, closing in on Fu with incredible speed and precision. But Fu wasn't one to be caught easily. With a flick of his wrist, he activated the cling wire function in his harness. Two arrowhead anchors shot off from his sides, burying themselves deep into the concrete floor of the stadium, pulling Fu back down to the ground just as the Power Pole shot past him where he had been standing by mere inches.
"Fu's quick reflexes and clever use of the cling wire have saved him from Melissa's determined attack! These babies have a maximum reach of 60 feet, and are triple threaded titanium for a hold that's guaranteed to last with its maximum weight capacity of 80,000 pounds! Use them to propel yourself, your equipment, or capture a huuuuge huge villain!"
Melissa growled in frustration. It didn't seem like Fu was taking this battle seriously at all, and all Mei cared about was showing off their class's gadgets. She had to finish this quickly. Melissa dropped back down to the floor and took off running towards Fu, who drew his blade and shot off three ki blasts at her.
Melissa dove to her side to dodge the first blast and spun her pole, activating the energized function. The Power Pole glowed crimson red and Melissa used it to bat away the incoming blasts. The orbs collided with her Pole and ricocheted, lancing back towards Fu, who was caught off guard. He sliced one of the blasts in half, but was struck by the second one. It knocked him back and the harness sputtered to keep him from falling. This was her chance; he was wide open!
Suddenly, a flash of light shot out from Fu's belt and completely enveloped her, seemingly from every corner of Melissa's sight. Melissa screamed, blinded by the sudden eruption of dancing light. Mei's voice filled the arena once again, tinged with excitement.
"Fu's activated a stunning distraction with a dazzling holographic projector belt, our main upgrade from the previous version of the suit. Oh, isn't it so pretty? It's like a mesmerizing light show of illusions that will help a hero immobilize a target with very little force. Heroes who purchase this optional upgrade will now have a distraction to escape or can use the holoprojector as a stun device."
Melissa shielded her eyes from the shimmering illusions that flashed and danced all around her. She found herself momentarily disoriented, her surroundings transformed into a fantastical illusion. She blinked rapidly, trying to regain her bearings. With smoke in every breath she took and the dazzling, disorienting and blinding light from the holoprojector, she was completely immobilized.
As the haze choked her and Melissa struggled to navigate the battlefield, a sudden surge of energy filled the air. Before she could fully regain her bearings, a blinding flash of light engulfed her surroundings. Instinctively, she raised her Power Pole in defense, but Fu was already one step ahead.
A powerful ki blast erupted from the Fu's blade, hurtling towards Melissa with astonishing speed and force. Caught off guard and disoriented, she was unable to react in time. The blast struck her with a jarring impact, sending her flying backward through the air.
Time seemed to slow down as Melissa crashed onto the ground, rolling over to the edge of the stage, her body stunned by the powerful blow. Her mind raced, desperately searching for a way to turn the tide of the battle. But the disorientation and the overwhelming pain made it difficult for her to gather her thoughts, clouding her vision and muddling her focus.
She struggled to rise, her body trembling with fatigue and frustration. Blood poured out of her lip and the scrapes on her knees and elbows. Her mind was a whirlwind of thoughts, analyzing every angle, every possibility. But the harder she tried to find a solution, the more entangled she became in her own overthinking.
Fu approached her with calculated steps, a smile etched across his face.
"Hey, don't beat yourself up, gorgeous," Fu said with an understanding tone. "You've put up one hell of a fight! Don't worry, this won't hurt… too much…"
He raised his blade and violet power gathered in it, shooting to the tip of the black blade, ready to deliver the final blow. Blinded and overwhelmed by the rush of lights and sounds, Melissa' struggled to get back up, knowing that defeat was imminent if she couldn't regain her composure.
In that moment of uncertainty, Melissa's mind was a cacophony of doubt and fear. She questioned her abilities, her worthiness, and whether she would ever live up to her father's or her younger self's expectations. But amidst the chaos of her thoughts, a small voice within her spoke with clarity.
"We are Fighting Dreamers. We never give up! No matter what obstacles you face, remember that I'm cheering for you. I'm cheering for the hero you are and the hero you will become. So don't give up, don't lose hope. Keep pushing forward, because I know you can do it."
"MELISSA!" Izuku shouted at the top of his lungs in an attempt to get her attention. "Don't overthink it – just move! You can win this – I believe in you!"
Melissa steadied her breath and let go of her overthinking. She closed her eyes, shutting out the distractions around her. In that brief moment of stillness, she found her inner strength in the form of a flashback.
As the echoes of the crowd's applause reverberated through Melissa's ears, she was transported back to a cherished memory. It had happened during a combat training class a few days ago, when Izuku, Iida, Ojiro and herself were going toe to toe against Gohan, their kicks and strikes little more than a blur of motion.
Gohan was blindfolded and that big Son grin of his glowed, as he effortlessly dodged, blocked and parried the onslaught of strikes coming his way… it was almost like a dance, his movements fluid and sure.
Melissa couldn't even fathom how somebody could fight at such ferocious, blinding speeds. Afterwards, as they rested on the bleachers and Bakugo and his squad of buddies took over the floor, Izuku walked over to sit next to Melissa, sharing a sports drink with her. The two friends cooled down together and Melissa took the opportunity to ask Izuku how it was possible to fight at such speed.
Izuku, being Izuku, brought his thumb up to his lip in thought before his green eyes lit up.
"I remember something that All Might once told me. A true hero's body moves before they can even get a chance to think, almost on its own," Izuku had told her. "Sometimes, in the heat of battle, there's just no time to overthink. Your instincts and training have take over, pushing you forward before your conscious mind can catch up."
Melissa absorbed his words, the weight of their meaning sinking deep into her being. Yes, in order to unleash her full potential, she needed to trust in her body's natural responses, letting her training and intuition guide her every move, rather than her eyesight.
Thanks for the tip, Deku, Melissa thought to herself. You always know exactly what to say…
Embracing Izuku's advice, Melissa made a decision to let go of conscious thought and surrender herself to the flow of the battle. The lessons she had learned, the countless hours of training, and her instincts took over her movements completely.
With determination burning in her eyes, Melissa swiftly maneuvered her Power Pole, upwards in the direction of the rushing wind that was surging towards her, clashing against Fu's sharp blade. The metallic clang echoed through the arena, as sparks erupted from the clash of their weapons.
Fu's blade, infused with the power from his Quirk, shot off sparks in all directions. Fu pulled back and attempted slashing at Melissa again. His speed and precision were formidable, threatening to overwhelm Melissa's defense. But she refused to back down, channeling her newfound resolve and the lessons she had learned.
As they engaged in a fierce exchange of blows, Melissa relied on her staff's versatility to keep Fu at bay. The Power Pole, with its retractable and adjustable design, allowed her to extend her reach, creating distance between them. With each swing and thrust, she deflected Fu's strikes.
As Fu darted towards her with lightning speed, Melissa's body reacted almost on its own. She sidestepped his attacks with grace, her movements fluid and precise. The world seemed to slow down as her senses sharpened, allowing her to anticipate Fu's every move with uncanny accuracy.
She fought with a grace that belied her previous feelings of powerlessness. The staff became an extension of her own body, moving effortlessly and instinctively as she parried Fu's relentless assaults. Her movements became fluid, synchronized with the rhythm of the battle, as if she had tapped into a wellspring of inner strength.
As Melissa slowly began to push Fu back, Mei's mischievous demeanor shifted into panic. She quickly realized the implications of Fu's defeat and how it could reflect poorly on their partnership with the support company investors. Mei's voice rang out, filled with urgency and concern.
"F-Fu! Straighten up! We can't afford to look bad in front of the support company investors!" She shouted.
"Workin' on it!" Fu shouted, the intense look in his eyes betraying his high-energy, joyful pitch.
Fu, too, was taken aback by Melissa's second wind. He had expected an easy victory, underestimating the resolve of a Quirkless girl driven by a burning desire to prove herself. But now, faced with Melissa's fighting spirit, he realized he had encountered a formidable opponent.
The clash of their weapons intensified, each strike ringing with a resounding echo. Melissa's Power Pole danced, creating a brilliant spinning arc of crimson as she twisted and turned, surged forward and reversed, all while blocking and parrying Fu's swings.
As the fight raged on, Melissa's movements became more fluid and precise. She anticipated Fu's every strike, countering with calculated maneuvers of her own. The Power Pole became an extension of her will, allowing her to slowly turn defense into offense, launching counterattacks with blinding accuracy.
With each step she took forward, each strike she delivered, Melissa felt an incredible synergy between her mind, body, and her trusty Power Pole. Her movements became fluid and instinctive, as if guided by an invisible force. There was no hesitation, no second-guessing. She simply moved.
The arena became a blur of motion, with Melissa and Fu locked in a dance of speed, skill, and determination. She anticipated his actions effortlessly, evading his attacks with grace. Fu was intelligent and he possessed a powerful Quirk, but even with all of his equipment, he did not have the combat training that she had received as a hero student. The audience watched in awe as Melissa's newfound sense of instinct and conviction drove her to new heights. She had tapped into the essence of being a hero, embracing the flow of battle and allowing her instincts to guide her towards victory.
Now, it was time to finish it. With a surge of energy, Melissa sprang forward. She anticipated Fu's next move, his blade poised for the final strike. She sidestepped his attack, evading the imminent blow. As Fu stumbled, off balance, Melissa seized the opportunity.
In one swift motion, she swung her Power Pole, aiming for Fu's exposed flank. The weapon connected with a resounding thud, knocking the wind out of Fu's stomach and sending him reeling back, but not before Melissa took a swift swipe at his harness. A hissing sound caught Fu's attention and when he glanced down, he saw that Melissa had pulled all of the pins on his smoke grenades. They fired off simultaneously before he could react, covering him instantly in a curtain of smoke.
Melissa had also surreptitiously disassembled one of the gadgets, cleverly removing a miniaturized grappling hook from Fu's belt.
Melissa seized the moment. She swung the grappling hook over her head like a lasso and sent it hurling around Fu's feet, trapping him with his own device's clingwire. With Fu now trapped, Melissa rushed forward to finish off the fight.
As Melissa continued to press Fu, Mei's panicked voice echoed through the arena, crackling over the speakers once again. "Fu, come on! Get it together! We can't afford to lose! The support company investors and leaders are watching!"
Fu, though momentarily taken aback by Melissa's impressive display, quickly regained his composure. He glanced at Mei with a determined look, a glimmer of confidence in his eyes.
"Don't worry, Mei. We still have one trick up our sleeves. It's time to unleash our Ultimate Baby!"
"All this Baby talk is weird," Kaminari muttered with an eye-twitch. Videl nodded, crossing her arms.
With an amused smile, Fu raised a gloved finger and pointed it at Melissa, unleashing his final trump card—a hidden freeze beam attached to a nano device on his glove's fingertip. The white beam shot out and enveloped Melissa, freezing her in her tracks and causing her to lose her grip on the Power Pole which went flying and clattered away on the floor.
As Fu's Cryo Photonizer encapsulated Melissa in ice, Mei couldn't help but let out a sigh of relief. "Phew! That was close. Great job, Fu! We almost lost there."
Fu, still focused on the battle, responded with a hint of playfulness in his voice. "Ah, come on, Mei! You know I had it all under control. No need to worry!"
Mei chuckled, her eyes twinkling mischievously. "Oh, I know, Fu. You always like to keep the suspense up. Can't let things get too predictable, right?"
"That's the spirit!" Fu grinned back at her, his confidence radiating. "We're here to put on a show, after all. Let's keep it exciting!"
"Ladies and gentlemen, feast your eyes on the remarkable babywe bring before you today!" Mei Hatsume exclaimed, her voice amplified through the PA system. "Behold, the extraordinary Baby of Support Class 1H known as the Cryo Photonizer!"
The audience murmured with anticipation as Mei continued, her excitement contagious. "The Cryo Photonizer harnesses the power of advanced photon technology to create a concentrated beam of freezing light. Once aimed at a target, it emits a unique spectrum of frozen photons, rapidly reducing the temperature in its path. The result? Instantaneous and chilling immobilization! Talk about a cool support item!"
She gestured dramatically, a mischievous grin on her face.
"Imagine the possibilities, the sheer potential of this baby! It can be used to subdue criminals, freeze obstacles, or even create captivating ice sculptures on a whim! The Cryo Photonizer is a testament to the limitless boundaries of support technology! But that's not all – we have the Cryo's hot cousin, the Pyro Photonizer, which emits flames and my personal favorite, as well as the Electro Photonizer, which emits pulsating rays of laser-focused electricity. WHAT A SHOCK! The Support Class is chock-full of ideas, isn't it?"
The crowd erupted into applause, marveling at the ingenuity of Mei and Fu's creations. With her Zoom Quirk, Mei could see the investors and Support Company heads leap to their feet in utter awe at the ingenuity of such a devices. Mei, basking in the attention, winked at the audience before turning her attention back to the ongoing battle between Melissa and Fu.
Melissa cried against intense frozen prison that now trapped her. She tried her best to pry herself from the ice, but she just couldn't move. She was completely immobilized. She couldn't help but recall the freezing sensation she experienced during the Combat Trials when Shoto Todoroki had trapped her and Momo Yaoyorozu in a pillar of ice. The memory fueled her determination not to repeat that defeat.
But she couldn't move at all, and her Power Pole was several meters away on the ground.
Gohan, Izuku, and Ochaco could only watch helplessly as Melissa struggled against Fu's grip. Their faces filled with worry and frustration, knowing they couldn't directly intervene.
"Come on, Melissa," Gohan shouted clenched his fists around the railing, his eyes fixed on Melissa. "You can do it. Find a way to break free!"
Izuku leaned on the rail, joining in.
"Be strong, Melissa! Use your head and think your way out of this! I know you can do it!"
"Don't give up!" Ochaco shouted next to the boys. "You're doing great! We believe in you!"
As Melissa's body remained encased in an icy prison, her movements restricted by the freezing light of the Cryo Photonizer, Midnight's voice rang through the arena, her words carrying a weight of finality. "Melissa, if you cannot break free within the next ten seconds, you will be disqualified."
Damn it! Melissa growled. Gotta think of something, quick!
As the countdown began, Fu untangled himself from the clingwire around his ankles, his eyes gleaming with victory. He approached Melissa, his hand reaching for the fallen Power Pole.
"You put up a good fight, Mel. You really are the most amazing woman I've ever met!" he said, a hint of admiration in his voice, "but this time, it's over, honey."
"One… Two… Three…"
As Fu walked up to Melissa, a mischievous grin spread across his face. He crouched down and picked up Melissa's fallen weapon, intrigued by the weapon that had caused him so much trouble throughout the fight—the Power Pole. He admired its design and craftsmanship, appreciating its versatility and the ingenuity behind its creation.
"Ah, the Power Pole," Fu mused, his voice filled with both admiration and amusement. "Impressive little gadget you've got here, Melissa. It's quite the remarkable piece of engineering."
His words carried a hint of genuine respect for Melissa's resourcefulness in crafting such a formidable weapon. Despite the current situation, Fu couldn't help but appreciate the Power Pole's ingenuity. He twirled it in his hand, marveling at its extendable nature and the gadgets incorporated within.
"GPS, audio recording, a screen, and even a transmitter," Fu listed off the features, his eyes glinting with curiosity. "It's a shame you couldn't put them to good use against me. But hey, I can't help but appreciate a well-designed tool when I see one."
"Four… Five… Six…"
Melissa, still caught within his clutches, watched as Fu examined her creation with fascination and delight. In that momentary distraction, Melissa plotted her next move, her mind racing with possibilities.
The lesson that the class had gleaned from her match in the Combat Trials against Shoto and Shoji played in her mind: Don't interrupt your opponent if he's making a mistake.
A mischievous smile crept across Melissa's face as she looked up at Fu.
"What? Oh, don't tell me you've thought of a way to escape, Mel," Fu teased, tossing the Power Pole up and catching it in midair playfully. "I've got your only weapon. You're defenseless now."
"Not quite," Melissa retorted with a grin. "NOW! EXTEND, POWER POLE!"
With a surge of energy, the device responded, springing to life.
In a swift motion, the Power Pole shot forward, propelled by its extendable mechanism. It struck Fu squarely in the stomach, propelling him backward and carrying him across the fighting stage. The crowd gasped in surprise as Fu's confident expression transformed into one of shock and pain. He cried out as the elongated pole dropped him over the edge of the fighting stage and clearly out of bounds.
The other end of the Power Pole slammed into the icy block, shattering it and Melissa was able to break free from her icy prison, trembling, but still standing tall and triumphant. She reached out and grabbed the Power Pole, spinning it victoriously as it shrunk down to normal size and sheathing it in the malachite sheath strapped to her back. She did it!
She had defied the odds and emerged victorious.
Midnight raised her whip with excitement. "Fu is out of bounds! Melissa Shield wins the round!" Her voice echoed through the arena, met with thunderous applause and cheers from the audience.
Melissa, filled with utter joy, cast a smile at Fu, climbing down from the stage to help him up. The Power Pole, her faithful ally, had once again proven its worth, and Melissa was ready to face whatever came her way.
"Not bad, Shield," Fu chuckled in pain as Melissa helped him up. "Got me right in the gut again. Congratulations on your win… hero…"
The whine and hum of a jetpack roared to life beside her, and Melissa turned to see Mei Hatsume hovering down towards them. The pink haired girl lifted her goggles away from her eyes as she touched down, revealing a pair of golden, linear irises that glowed with youth, mischief and wonder.
Melissa prepared herself to be berated by a furious Mei and Fu for having bested their best inventions, but to her surprise, Mei gave her an ecstatic, almost manic smile.
"I'm sorry, Mei," Melissa began, holding her wrists. "I know how much it meant for you both to show off your inventions…"
"Melissa, that was amazing!" Mei exclaimed, clapping her hands in sheer excitement to Melissa's surprise. "Are you kidding? Don't apologize! Failure is the Mother of invention, after all! You've given me so many new ideas for new babies! I knew you were the perfect person to test them out with. What do you think, Vice Rep?"
"Oooh! I GOT IT! Write this down, Mei. Write this down!" Fu screamed with almost childlike joy. Melissa's confusion transformed into a radiant smile. "What if we design a shield to complement your Power Pole, Melissa? It could provide you with added protection during battles!"
Mei's expression lit up with intrigue. "A shield? That's a brilliant idea, Fu! It would give Melissa an extra layer of defense while she's wielding the Power Pole."
"Materials, Materials, Materials!" Fu repeated, tapping his forehead with his thumb. "I know! We can incorporate a high-density energy field into the shield, making it strong enough to withstand even the most powerful attacks while remaining light as a feather."
"Ohhh, it's gonna be unbreakable!" Mei roared with manic enthusiasm.
"Ahem, mind if I make a suggestion?" Melissa asked, sheepishly. "Maybe you can add a retractable feature to the shield, so I can deploy it when needed and keep it compact inside one of my Full Gauntlets when not in use?"
"Ah! Great idea, Melissa! Retractable Pole and Retractable Shield. It's genius!" Fu said.
"And what if we embed a scanning mechanism in the shield? It can detect incoming threats and adjust its defensive capabilities accordingly!" Mei chimed in with enthusiasm.
The trio's excitement grew with each passing moment, their collaborative energy fueling their imaginations. Together, they envisioned a shield that would not only provide Melissa with enhanced protection but also offer a range of versatile functions.
Fu grinned mischievously. "And of course, we can't forget about style! Let's give the shield a sleek design that will match Melissa's personality… and beauty."
Melissa chuckled, impressed by Fu's enthusiasm.
"You're right, Fu! It should be both functional and visually appealing. Our shield will be as much a statement of heroism as it is a defensive tool."
"Hey, Melissa, and what if we combine the power amplification module from my Turbo Glove with your Power Pole? It could create an incredible energy beam, like a laser sword!" Fu exclaimed, his eyes glinting with excitement.
Melissa's face lit up with a wide grin. "That's a fantastic idea, Fu! It would pack quite the punch. We could call it the Power Blade!"
Mei chimed in, her eyes sparkling. "And what if we integrate my Multi-Functional Utility Belt with the Power Blade? It could enhance its targeting and tracking capabilities!"
Melissa nodded eagerly. "Yes, Mei! We can make it the ultimate weapon for precision strikes. The Precision Power Blaster Blade Belt!"
"And how about combining my Jet Propulsion System with the Power Pole's extendable feature?" Fu added, his screeching voice brimming with enthusiasm. "It would give you incredible speed and reach!"
Melissa's eyes widened, impressed by the idea. "That would be amazing, Fu! We can call it the Power Precise Blade Polesurfer Power Blast Belt… or something!"
Laughter filled the air as the brainy students continued to bounce ideas off one another, their imaginations igniting a boundless array of possibilities. What had started as a fierce battle had now transformed into a creative synergy that knew no limits.
Fu turned to Melissa with a warm smile.
"You know, Melissa, you're not just an incredible fighter – and unbelievable gorgeous – you're an amazing inventor too. Together, we can revolutionize the world of support gear!"
"YEAH! Hey, I got an idea! Why don't you stop by our class every once in a while?" Mei asked with excitement. "We would love to make a bunch of Babies with you-"
"W-W-What Class Rep Hatsume means," Fu cut in, embarrassed, "is that we would love to have an invention hero test out our newest inventions. And maybe we can… grab a bite to eat once in a while?"
"Haaa! Smooth, Fu… but yeah, I'd love that," Melissa's heart swelled with pride and gratitude. "Thank you, Fu. And thank you, Mei. I never thought I'd be making such incredible friends in this tournament. Together, we'll create something truly extraordinary!"
"To the future!" Fu shouted, lifting his arms to the sky.
"LET'S MAKE BABIES!" Mei added, to the embarrassment of everyone else.
Ending Song:
"Child -error -" by My First Story
The roar of the crowd was still rumbling, shaking the walls of the stadium as Melissa made her way back into the tunnel.
Melissa slowed to a stop, just ahead of the stairs, staring at the ground. She leaned against the cool wall of the tunnel, her mind and heart still buzzing from the victory. Slowly, the high of glory melted into cathartic emotion as realization set in.
Melissa Shield, the Quirkless little girl that her mother had abandoned, the one nobody except her father, Sam and Uncle Might believed could be a hero, the one who many scoffed at for dreaming of being anything more than a follower of the status quo, just another inventor in the Shield/Briefs family…
This win was for them.
For all the Quirkless.
For all who felt like outcasts.
For all who said she could never be a hero…
This win was for them.
For her father, for uncle Sam.
For Uncle Might, and Mister Aizawa.
For Gohan, Deku, Tsu, Ochaco and all of her dear friends who believed in her.
This win was for them.
This win was for her...
Melissa reached behind her and pulled out her Power Pole, thumbing the recording button. As it hummed to life with a warm red hue, Melissa began to speak softly into it.
"Hey there, little me," she said. "We did it. Can you believe it? We won! I wish you could have been here to see it, to feel the rush and the energy of the crowd. It was incredible. You know, there were moments when doubt crept in, when I questioned if I was strong enough or if I belonged here. But I pushed through, just like you always said I would."
A gentle smile played on Melissa's lips as she continued, her voice quivering with emotion and pride. "I hope I made you proud, little me. I hope you can see that even without a Quirk, I am a hero too."
She took a deep breath, her voice carrying a sense of determination. "I won't let anyone or anything hold me back. I'll keep pushing forward. So, thank you, little me. Thank you for believing in me, even when I doubted myself. I won't let you down."
With a final click of the recording button, Melissa tucked the Power Pole back in its sheath and stood there in silence.
As Melissa stood there, lost in her thoughts, she was startled by a familiar voice calling out her name. She turned to see Izuku walking towards her, a concerned look on his face. The sight of him brought a warm smile to her lips.
"Deku!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with genuine joy. "You didn't have to come down here, I was just about to make my way up."
"I know, but I couldn't wait to come down and congratulate you," he said, his voice filled with admiration. "You were amazing out there, Melissa! The way you fought off Fu, those moves with your staff… that was incredible to watch!"
"Haaa! Thanks," Melissa said coyly, shy from Izuku's excited praise. "I remembered what you said about heroes moving without their bodies thinking and put it to good use."
"I'm glad to hear it," Izuku said. He returned her smile, but his eyes quickly shifted to her side. "Whoa, Melissa, are you okay? I noticed you have a bleeding cut on your arm" His voice was laced with worry as he gestured towards a small wound on her forearm.
Melissa glanced down at her arm, only now realizing the trickle of blood seeping from the scrape.
"Oh, it's nothing serious," she reassured him, trying to downplay the injury. "Just a little scratch from the fight. Nothing to worry about."
But Izuku's concern remained evident.
"Let me take a look," he insisted gently, stepping closer to her. With a gentle touch, he carefully examined the cut, his eyes focused and attentive.
Melissa couldn't help but feel a rush of warmth at his caring gesture. She appreciated how he always looked out for others, even in the midst of his own battles. And she was reminded of the similar gesture he made during the USJ Incident. Back then they had stuck together and protected one another in the middle of all of those villains…
His touch also reminded her of that moment, after her Combat Trials, when Melissa had finally been reunited with her mother, only for Tights to shut her out of her life coldly. Melissa had walked along the halls in a crying mess, where she bumped into Izuku, who was coming back from the nurse's office. Without much words, he held her hand, that single human touch bringing her so much comfort and providing a shelter for her to escape.
The thoughts made Melissa smile and a warm twinkle shined in her eyes.
"Izuku, you really don't have to worry," she said, her voice softening, barely above a whisper. "I'm fine, honestly."
He looked up from her arm, his gaze meeting hers.
"Sorry," he said quickly, releasing her arm. "It's an impulse of mine, I guess. I don't like seeing my friends get hurt..."
His words resonated deeply within her, and she felt a sense of comfort and reassurance wash over her.
"Thank you, Izuku," she whispered, her voice filled with gratitude. "I'm glad to have you as a friend. Your kindness means a lot to me."
He smiled warmly, his eyes sparkling with sincerity.
"Are you kidding? I'm the one who's lucky to have you as a friend, Melissa. We'll always be here for each other, no matter what, right?"
"YEAH!" Melissa cheered.
In that moment, as they stood there, their bond strengthened. They may have started as classmates, tied together with nothing more than their love and admiration for All Might, but through all the crazy things they went through together, their connection had evolved into something more profound. They were allies, confidants, and partners in their journey towards becoming heroes.
"Melissa, there's… there's something I've been meaning to tell you," Izuku said, breaking the silence and bringing a hand up to his core and glancing down to the floor. "Just not sure how to break it to you without making things… awkward, between us."
"Yeah?" Melissa asked, noticing the change in his demeanor.
"Melissa, you're one of my best friends and I just… I want to be honest... you know, about how I feel and stuff…" Izuku began, his voice laced with a hint of seriousness.
Wait… wait, what?! WHAT DID DEKU JUST SAY?! Alarms rang off in Melissa's mind and her eyes widened. She felt a surge of heat rush up to her neck from the unexpected confession. Her mind raced with possibilities, her heart pounding with anticipation.
"O-Oh yeah? You know you can tell me anything, r-right? No pressure!" Melissa squeaked. In that split second, a whirlwind of unexpected emotions washed over her. Her cheeks flushed with a rosy hue, and her palms became clammy. She found herself feeling both nervous and inexplicably excited, the prospect of Izuku's confession stirring a flutter of butterflies in her stomach.
She was used to being flirted on by other guys, but she always took it in stride. Even with Fu obviously trying to get her on a date, she saw that as little more than two close friends hanging out. So then why? Why was she feeling this flustered? The wires in her mind didn't connect. It just didn't make sense.
"It's… well, kinda embarrassing…" Izuku said shyly, rubbing the back of his neck.
"Deku, what is it?" Melissa asked, her voice a little shaky, yet filled with anticipation. Her fingers were bouncing against her thighs in expectation. "Tell me. I wanna know."
Holy crap… Me and Deku? Seriously? He's cute, and super kind but..
Izuku hesitated for a moment, his own cheeks slightly tinted with a hint of pink. He opened his mouth to speak, his words seemingly hanging in the air. The suspense was almost unbearable, and Melissa's heart raced even faster.
"I…" Izuku breathed out a calming sigh. "I know we're really good friends, and we're always hanging out. And of course I cherish that. But lately, I've been feeling something new, something different, like a sinking feeling in my stomach."
Melissa's cheeks flushed with a mix of excitement and nervousness. She couldn't help but imagine the confession of love that was coming her way at a million miles an hour.
"You... you do?"
Izuku nodded, his expression earnest.
"Yes, I feel… hungry. Like, ravenous, all the time."
Melissa's eyes widened in disbelief, her flustered anticipation replaced with a mixture of surprise and amusement. Izuku scratched the back of his head sheepishly, a bashful smile tugging at his lips.
He lowered his head in shame.
"I don't know how to explain it. I'm sorry, I know you bought me lunch twice already but… do you wanna grab a bite to eat with me real quick?"
A giggle escaped Melissa's lips as she shook her head, her embarrassment fading away.
"Oh Deku, you really know how to keep me on my toes. Let's find something to eat then. I could use a meal too."
Melissa's cheeks were still tinged with a hint of embarrassment. She took a deep breath, allowing her flustered state to subside, and a sense of gratitude filled her heart. While the confession she had momentarily expected didn't happen, she realized that their friendship was something precious and valuable. Melissa couldn't help but feel a new sense of closeness and comfort with Izuku. Even if it wasn't a confession of love, she cherished their friendship and the special moments they shared.
Finally, she could say that her father was right, all those years ago. Now she didn't feel so alone anymore.
For now, she was content with the warmth and joy that their friendship brought her. And who knows? Maybe, in the future, with better timing…
"Melissa?" Izuku asked her, pulling her from her thoughts.
"Right!" Melissa said cheerfully. "Let's go grab some snacks so we can watch the next match!"
A/N: Melissa Shield's story was one I came up with shortly after deciding that the main love interest would be Ochaco, not Itsuka. Of course, at first, the only reason I had even included her in my plans was to give Izuku someone to draw close to. But with time, I kept analyzing her character and the way she naturally developed within my story, and I discovered her story, which is very much like Izuku's.
Someone who grew up feeling outcast, lonely, unwanted and powerless.
A lot of you might have asked yourself, what the heck? Why is Melissa a Hero here and not an inventor for the Support Class. Here's the answer. She is the proof that anyone can become a Hero, even someone who is powerless.
Her story and the story of her family is stretched across the entire arc, beginning with the Sports Fest and culminating in the Cell Saga. The pieces have been placed, and I'm excited to get to it, to give you all a complete picture.
Well, onto the Review Responses, then!
ArguableReader chapter 43 . Jun 23
I can't BELIEVE I MISSED OUT on this...
So for THIS chapter at least,
Awe cheese, the heartache is definitely there between Bulma & Toshi...
The feels are acting up here for me, if only a little.
Shu & Mai,...I hate pilaf...I honestly wonder about that future timeline, ya'know?
Future Mai meeting her younger self was strange, then again, Mai was DE-AGED,
so there is "war" going on about that, out there...
Shu is good dog, but as long as Pilaf gets in the way...it's a little sad for him.
Fu is...Fu... I'm gonnabe wondering about him on and off, make note of that.
Another heartfelt reunion, except it's in front of a LIVE, STADIUM SIZED, audience now…
ArguableReader chapter 44 . Jun 23
Firstly, a generic re-iteration, because FFN apparently doesn't like most, of my commentary.
Bulma & All-might scene:
THE FEELS, so to speak.
Shu & Mai scene:
Shu IS good dog, if Pilaf didn't get in the way, andt at least he has Mai to help on and off,
but of course trunks meets them, he's got to meet his 'future' 'love-interest' sort of.
Goten & Trunks scene:
Or this title, in the reverse, because one is older?
Brothers forever, and yet Trunks still manages to one-up their rivalry, more often than not.
Gohan & Goten scene:
Another reunion is great, then again, this one was LIVE, and MILLION'S were watching it,
so now EVERYBODY KNOWS, the two son's of THE, Kakarot/Goku...How will that turn out now?
~ahem~
For this chapter,
MOBILE, SUIT, AGENCY, SERIOUSLY?! Then again, Tenya Ilda, is almost, a mister roboto, himself.
Holy CHEESES, Stain got his own sidekicks and, now I wonder who will replace Himiko Toga, sort of?
Well that's interesting, the power of one-for-all is awakening faster now,
which also means that 'Deku' will once again, be the last holder of the legendary power.
But of course, who can ever forget Gine, the GRANDMOTHER, of the Son brother's no less,
but then that means, where is Shimura Nana supposed to be in this continuity, ya'know?
Hey! Thanks for your review, no worries. When my uploading schedule is so sporadic it's understandable. I appreciate it, anyway.
With Bulma and Toshi, I'm teasing a lot of stuff that I'll cover in the prequel (the story with All Might and Goku) and that's definitely one of them. Poor Toshi, he never got a love interest that we know of in canon. Some people suggested Midnight, which makes it even more heartbreaking!
Hehe I don't blame you, Pilaf is a little turd, but I love him. He's just a kindergartner who scammed Mai and Shu into serving him, basically. In the future we might see them, especially Mai.. in the distant future… ;)
And yes, you are correct! The reunion is live in front of cameras that broadcast all over the world, where even villains tune in… oh boy hehe
As for the Mobile suit, I wanted to name it after a gas station, because of their vehicle like theme. But 7Eleven and Circle K were a little on the nose hehehehe
Oh yeah, they are known as The Red Creed, the lunatic disciples of Stain. Yeah, it's… it's gonna get wild mid-season, to say the least!
Oh and just to clarify, (I should have made it more clear, since it has been explained in a chapter from like two years ago! XD ) Nana Shimura is Son Gine in this universe. Similarly to how Master Roshi and Gran Torino are the same, and Vegeta and Endeavor are one and the same character, Gine and Nana are the same person.
I'm actually in the process of writing her story in "Legend of the Dragon" if you're interested you can check it out there. It's only got two or three chapters right now, but I'm going to update that one next.
Thank you for your review! I appreciate it, as always and hope you enjoyed this chapter!
KaijuEmperor chapter 43 . Jun 23
"Crying in Manly Tears" SO FUCKING PRECIOUS! At long last the Brothers have reunited and All Might finally gets to meet his younger nephew in person and it's just heart warming.
I definitely like Goten and Kid Trunks more here than in canon (especially the latter the ball to do too Vegedeavor what Shoto couldn't to Canon Endeavor, roasting the shit out of him in public) good work on their characters.
KaijuEmperor chapter 44 . Jun 23
Damn now Stain has his own group of followers who were the top members of the League of Villains in canon the Hero Killer arc has just gotten worse.
Damn I didn't expect more Dragon Ball characters besides Master Roshi and Gine to be past users of One For All but how the hell is Fucking Guldo a past user? He was a villain in canon!
And the Fight with Shinso is more positive and encouraging than in MHA canon, good work(though Shinso better pray that Melissa have mercy on his soul when she finds out what he said about her).
Oh Tensei if only you know what's in store for you, also who is Chromea? I don't recall Iida's mom's name ever mentioned or being a pro hero.
Hi Kaiju! Thank you so much for your reviews!
Not gonna lie, I had a lot of fun with that chapter. The antics of the two best friends. We will see their shenanigans later, including a hilarious chapter where Shoto has to babysit them while they make his life hell XD It's gonna be great!
And yesss! The Red Creed – the psychotic followers of Stain that later on join Shigaraki's Vanguard Action Squad. Ohh yess, there will be blood. Like you said, Poor Tensei and Chromea, running into a death trap for sure!
For Iida's mom, I never found a name for her, but I noticed on the episode where Iida reveals his lineage, there are two women standing next to Ingenium and who I assume to be Iida's dad. So I just came up with a jet-inspired Hero name for her: Chromea.
Ohhh wait until we get to the part where Guldo's story is told.
Okay, so what happened in real life was, I was playing DBXV2, and one of the PQ, you have to help Guldo join the Ginyu Force, and everyone keeps mocking him. I just felt so bad for him. So I crafted a little story where he starts out as a criminal and finds a little bit of redemption. Well, hopefully it works.
We'll see. And yeah as for Endeavor, he's gonna get a lot more than that to atone for his sins. A LOT MORE.
Thanks for your reviews! I appreciate it!
Brandon Dupere chapter 43 . Jun 23
Super chapitre, Eclipse. Le combat entre Goten et Trunks était génial et j'ai aimé voir les retrouvailles entre les deux frères. Et pauvre All Migth, le fait de savoir que Bulma à finit avec Végéta juste pour avoir un vieux truc de technologie saiyan à l'air de toujours lui faire mal, j'espère qu'il surmontera ça. Aussi, maintenant que la ligue junior est fini, j'ai hate de passer au chapitre du tournoi principal du festival des sports de ua. D'ailleurs, j'ai été surpris par la rapidité avec laquelle tu as sortie ce nouveau chapitre.
Brandon Dupere chapter 44 . Jun 25
Salut Eclipse, super commencement pour le tournoi. Ça m'a vraiment surpris que Hit, Guldo et Korin était dans la vision d'Izuku et en même temps, ça me fait me poser des questions. Premièrement, pourquoi Hit et Guldo, si je ne me trompe pas, ces deux là ont le pouvoir d'arrêter le temp, alors quelle est la différence et surtout, je suis curieux de découvrir quel était l'alter de Korin. Aussi, ça faisait un sacré moment qu'on n'a plus vue Yurin, mais maintenant qu'elle a rejoint le groupe de Stain, ce sera intéressant de voir le rôle qu'elle y jouera.
Salut Brandon ! Merci pour vos deux commentaires. J'apprécie toujours vos pensées!
Ouais, pauvre Toshinori, il a tellement donné de lui-même au monde et n'a jamais eu d'intérêt amoureux. C'est la tragédie du héros souriant, je suppose. Mais peut-être qu'il n'est pas trop tard pour qu'il trouve l'amour... on verra bien.
Oh pour la vitesse, ouais j'avais mon portable cassé mais c'est réparé maintenant et je déborde d'idées ! Donc j'écris juste sans arrêt pendant mes jours de congé hahahaa
Et oui je m'attendais à beaucoup de gens surpris de voir Guldo. J'ai travaillé sur son histoire et bien qu'il commence comme un criminel étroitement associé à Hit, il finit par trouver un chemin pour devenir un héros avant sa mort prématurée. Mais son histoire sera explorée lors des Internship Arcs, juste après la fin du festival sportif.
Oh et attendez de voir quel genre de pouvoirs Korin donne à Izuku ! Et oui, imaginez Yurin et Toga, les deux fous à la recherche de sang maintenant. Ohh ça va être sauvage !
Merci beaucoup pour tes commentaires mon ami ! Je les apprécie vraiment et j'attends avec impatience le prochain chapitre de votre histoire pour voir une action plus glorieuse de Majin Usagi !
JustinCase chapter 43 . Jun 23
Doth my eyes deceive me? You absolute MADMAN! Two full length chapters in one day? I don't know what bug bit you, but I hope it sticks around, man.
This was a good chapter too. I like how you're slowly giving us pieces of an old puzzle. More specifically, the old flame between Toshi and Bulma. Poor guy, he's so sweet and loyal, but he got totally Yamcha'd. Bulma's hot AF but she ain't the one, homie.
Over a scouter tho? Yeah, bullet dodged, All Might XD
That said, I do feel bad for Bulma, sort of, because it makes sense. If you never make your move, somebody else will.
I loved Shu here. Hopefully we can see him and Mai and even Pilaf in the future. I don't know how necesarry thy are to the plot, but it was cute seeing Trunks mesmorized by Mai, and also, good job in correcting the age gap problem.
and what can i say, the fight between Trunks and Goten was amazing. so many references to Future Trunks. especially when he caught Goten's Kamehameha. definitely gave me early Z vibes when he caught Frieza's supernova.
I had a feeling Fu was the traitor. God only knows what trouble he's about to start causing now that he has everyone's trust. Jeez.
Hi Justin, so glad you liked the chapter, bro! As promised, here is the third update. I'm trying to wrap up the Season by October, so we'll see… And yeah, you're right, she totally yamcha'd our boy. But there's still time for him to find love.. maybe..
Same for Bulma. There's a lot going on there that's going to get explored in the Endeavor arc after the sports fest. So stick around!
And glad you liked Goten and Trunks! Because they're gonna keep coming back to wreak havoc lmaoooo
that's it for review responses, everyone! Until next time!