Oof.
These three chapters are when I learned that I would need to do the remastering for this story. So I have a unique love-hate relationship with these chapters. If there ever was a time I was going to quit this project it would have been here.
(And a brief time during my hiatus for the remastering, but that's a whole another story.)
Yet, these are the chapters that pushed my skills as a writer and where I learned the most regarding issues like pacing and action scenes. So there is an underlying amount of love and effort that went into these three chapters to try and make them as good as they were going to be.
However, it wouldn't be until now...after over a year of fixing up most of my mistakes. When I could really appreciate what these chapters did for me.
My dear readers.
This for all for you.
Enjoy.
My Hero Academia Untold: The Fafnir Knight (Remastered Edition)
Saga I: Dusk
Arc III: The Sports Festival
Chapter XXXI: Golden Week Part 1
"Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around."
-Leo Buscaglia
Monday
Kai walked down that familiar path alone early that spring morning with a small bouquet of Gladiolus flowers in his arm. He had left his personal guard by the entrance as a crowd would disturb the peace that was to be expected here. He had debated bringing Saya along with him but ultimately didn't have the courage to do so.
Instead, he simply went alone.
This might be his last chance to visit before the operation would come into full swing, and depending on how the mission went, this could be his last chance, so he needed to make the most of it. It was strange walking down these steps again like he had done on that cold autumn night all those years ago.
When he looked for that familiar dark hair and golden yellow eyes.
Kai hadn't been here since then and until about two weeks ago, he had never considered ever visiting again. His own family grave was in a different cemetery. Yet now, of all times, he felt almost compelled to come to these hallowed grounds to visit his old, long-lost friend.
"It's been a long time, Hisashi," Kai finally spoke to the silent stone of Hisashi Midoriya's grave, gently placing the flowers on it. The stone remained quiet, tall, and proud as it shone from its recent upkeep.
"How long has it been since we truly last spoke with each other?" He continued as though the silent stone answered back.
"Twelve years? No," Kai shook his head.
"Thirteen years now." He corrected himself as he knelt down to brush aside some leaves that coated the foundation with his dark eyes, never leaving the grave. He continued to bask in the peace of the area surrounding him. Of course, he had to keep going.
"I…never told Saya what you did even after all these years," He began again with a sigh. "Of what caused the rift between us, what you did to us, even though it hurt her more than me."
The stone's shine seemed to get stronger as Kai spoke.
"I think...even in the end. I wanted the memory she's had of you to remain untarnished...since she doesn't acknowledge the lie I had helped the committee form six years ago."
He continued as he stood back up while pulling out a pack of cigarettes and a lighter from his pockets. Kai took a moment to light one and place it in his mouth, breathing deeply for the burning tobacco to reach his lungs. It had been many years since he had last smoked, but given the stress that life has plagued him as of late. He gave back to the old habit. At least until the mission was done.
For now, he'd let the smoke take the edge off.
"Saya used to call me a stubborn old fool after we stopped speaking to each other." Kai suddenly continued after another puff or two. Replacing the packet and lighter back into his pocket. He then took out a small metal box to contain the crumbling ashes of the cigarette, making sure that none of it would land on the grave or grounds.
"It broke her heart when I had us cut ties with you...She was right, of course," Kai admitted after another deep puff. "I was very stubborn as there were days that I almost caved in. Days that I simply wanted to come into your office unannounced with a bottle of wine and simply forgive and forget. Yet every time I almost did...my mind would just go back to that night when you finally told me the truth."
Kai's empty hand clenched into a trembling fist.
"You...knew...better than anyone...you knew that I had been jerked around nearly all my life, being everyone's fall man when it was convenient..." He grimaced as he took another drag and let loose another plume of smoke. "I just never expected that you, of all people, could have done that to me, but worse than that was what you did to my wife."
Kai could feel bitter tears welling up in his eyes.
"Damn it, boy...I always said to myself that if you could ever come to face me and truly apologize to Saya and me for what you did...I would have accepted it...Without hesitation, and something tells me in my heart, Saya would have as well. She has always been that kind of person. And as much as I wanted to reach out...I just couldn't."
The grave's luster seemed to darken as the shadows of the Sakura trees swayed in the wind overhead.
"So, I waited for that day...for when you would finally return and say those words. Words I needed to hear to put the past behind us. Yet as I waited, days became weeks, weeks became months, and months became years. And when all was said and done," His cigarette nearly drooped out of his mouth.
"You died without ever so much as leaving a final word."
Kai pushed the cigarette back.
"Now, it seems that life has given me a second chance, another boy," He couldn't stop the small smile from growing.
"Another boy named Kasei no less...well. Saito was his original name, but damn it, if I hadn't had my men run through his background with a fine-tooth comb, he could have fooled me into believing that he was another son of yours..."
Kai looked up to the Sakura trees that had begun to bloom in the sunlight.
"He's a lot like you were...more than I care to admit...yet he's also very different...much like your actual son."
He took out and flicked his cigarette when he felt the fire reach his lips.
"Izuku is doing well; I'm sure you know this already." Kai continued as he placed the smoldering remains of his cigarette into the small metal box so he could dispose of it later.
"I still have that badge of his...Grand cross, I believe it was called? I bought it for five times the asking price when the lad put it up for auction. Better in my hands than in the hands of one of those crazed fanatics who sought to profit off him by trying to force him to lower the price," He flicked the metal box closed with disgust.
"Regardless, that piece will return to its rightful owner in due time...possibly sooner than originally expected."
The marker returned to the more naturally neutral tone of the stone.
"I fear that Anno's been more of a bastard than normal. He tried hard to have Izuku take the fall for villains attacking the school only to be hoisted by his own petard with how those laws were written." Kai shook his head. "Villains infiltrating UA? I thought the worst was behind us when All For One finally fell to All Might's fists six years ago."
"I was fine dirtying my own hands...but using children to further his ends? No," He shook his head disgustedly.
"I can not and will not force Ryu to continue his task, especially after risking his life like that. But I can't stop him from doing Anno's bidding. I don't have the power to move against him...but I know how to ruin him if he ever goes too far. It was my insurance policy. If he ever tried to have me removed from my spot on the commission."
Kai scoffed at the idea of Hideyoshi trying to threaten him.
"Of course, it would take me down with him." Kai chuckled to himself. "Mutually assured self-destruction...I was a fool to have gotten into bed with those blood-sucking parasites thinking it was my chance. My chance to finally make some kind of difference for people like me...for the quirkless...but I wasn't foolish enough not to cover my ass."
Kai stopped himself to shift the flowers on top of the grave back to their original spot as they had begun to slide off from the breeze.
"It works just as well since my own Adjutant is working to take me down with a group of Pros and Kiriyūin. I should have known that Tanaka would ultimately side against me after I had forced his hand. He's just the type to seek justice after all."
And yet, Kai grinned with pride, "that was why I had come to rely on him for all these years and made sure he was promoted fairly for it."
Kai breathed in the clean spring air, trying to rid himself of the horrible aftertaste in his mouth from his cigarette. He had known for over a year now that his most trusted subordinate had turned on him. Helping with the investigation started by All Might and his former friend turned rival on the force, Kaoru Kiriyūin, to take him down and expose the truth to the world.
He always knew that All Might could have never lived down the lie he had been forced to accept.
All Might wouldn't be All Might if he didn't do so. Yet despite this knowledge, Kai never intervened. Because in the end. Kai knew that he had been in the wrong from the beginning and had known that one day, sooner or later, the truth would come out whether he confessed or he was dragged into the light.
"At the rate, things had been changing. It seems only like a matter of time before the truth finally comes out. All I can do now is simply delay it for as long as possible to get some reforms in before it is done."
"Sir?"
Kai straightened up while he turned to the voice behind him. 'Speak of the devil.'
Hajime Tanaka was making his way to his superior officer, stopping next to him with a quick smart salute.
"Sir, we just received a call from the Commissioner-General's office. They want to begin the meeting early to prepare for the Pro-Heroes we are expected to receive tomorrow."
Kai hummed in response while slowly nodding his head.
"Until next time, boy," he whispered to Hisashi's Grave, tipping his combination cap before turning to speak with his Adjutant.
"No rest for old men, eh?" He spoke as he began his march back to the entrance.
"I am afraid not, sir," Hajime answered curtly, eyeing the gravestone for a moment before turning heel to walk next to his boss.
The two began making their way back to their personal guards. Kai began to think hard about what would be next once the operation was finished. Their short walk back was uneventful, save for making room for a few new arrivals who had come to pay their own respects. A familiar-looking short boy with purple orb-like hair was accompanied by a short older gentleman that looked a lot like him.
"Tanaka."
"Yes, Sir?"
"Remind me again…what was the reason you needed to re-access the archive?"
"Ah...I recently came upon evidence from a recent case with possible cross-linking evidence with a cold case from over a decade ago." Hajime tried to answer vaguely.
"Hmm...is it relevant to any major cases we are dealing with right now?"
"At the moment, there is only a possibility of a connection with the USJ, sir. I would have no way of knowing or confirming the relevance unless I got access to the necessary files."
The two men continued walking until they reached the entranceway; Kai placed a hand on his subordinate's shoulder, stopping him from going further.
"You've always been one hell of a detective, Tanaka. I know you wouldn't ask for something like this unless you felt it was important," Kai took his hand off and walked into the car.
"When we get back to the office, I'll handle the meeting with someone else and you," He stopped briefly. "You get to looking at what you need to find."
"Ah…I understand, thank you, sir."
"While I'm pleased to see that her condition has greatly improved, Ms. Midoriya."
The doctor set down the report.
"However, I am hesitant about her relationship with your son and his umm," he paused as he looked out the window again.
"Girlfriend?" The doctor questioned with a slight scratch of his chin as two adults looked through a one-way window to the room next door to his office. Eri could be seen playing with the two young teens with the white bunny plush she had gotten from her television debut.
"They're friends...but I'm sure that Izuku is smitten with her," Inko corrected with a slightly nervous smile. It was the final screening with Eri's psychiatrist* to complete the paperwork to allow Eri to begin schooling and possibly the adoption process. The doctor leaned in with hands and a solemn look, thinking hard about his following few words.
"I understand that both your son and his friend are a bit more mature than the average teenager after I interviewed each of them; now, as Hero Course students, that should be expected." He cautiously began.
"However, in my professional opinion, I cannot directly encourage the relationship between the three. I fear that despite their maturity, Eri's imprinting could lead to complications if you end up officially adopting her, Ms. Midoriya."
Inko Midoriya felt some pensiveness grow in her chest.
"Even more so if the adoption isn't approved." He added when he took off his glasses. "Separating them while still imprinted could be very traumatic, especially with her prior history."
The doctor paused to take a sip of his coffee before continuing.
"Then, there is also the possible issue of their relationship," he added, motioning his free hand toward the teens. "If they got together or had a falling out, that could really affect Eri, who needs stability in her life."
Inko nodded, heeding his words carefully.
"I mean, at this rate, I'm more than willing to adopt Eri. She's been nothing but a complete sweetheart and a blessing in our home, and I'd like to make sure that she continues having a good home. And as for how Izuku and Ochako treat Eri...I mean...I'm not sure how we would even begin to stop Eri."
The doctor listened carefully before breathing out a light chuckle and gave Inko a warm smile. "Now, let's not get too ahead of ourselves."
Inko was surprised by the change in demeanor but decided to listen before commenting.
"The good news is that I'm on board to sign you off as a qualified legal guardian, which in this case is simply a formality to keep on for the record." The doctor started off as he grabbed a long manila envelope containing the documents Inko needed. However, the doctor held the envelope over Inko's hand. "Now, here is some food for thought. If you adopted Eri and made some arrangements with the children. It is possible that Eri will eventually grow out of referring to them as her parents and see them more like siblings and you as her mother."
Inko nodded.
"However, let's say for the sake of the argument that despite the arrangements. Eri continues to refer to those two as her parents." He motioned to the boy outside."You can, in the future, ultimately allow Izuku to be granted legal guardianship of Eri when he reaches the age of the majority and meets the general criteria for adoption."
"I thought you didn't recommend that outlook?" Inko now questioned, making sure she wasn't mishearing him.
"From a professional stance, yes, and I still standby that since your son and his friend are still minors," the doctor explained. "I cannot in good conscience ask them to undertake such an endeavor with them being so young."
Then the doctor let out a light chuckle. "Not to mention they legally wouldn't be able to do so in the first place."
"However, this case is...far from average, and the variables are equally numerous in possible outcomes. So even if we were to draft up a step-by-step plan for Eri to transition her imprinting. It can fail...so a backup plan should be considered, and this option can at least give Izuku when he is an adult. The ability to make an informed decision concerning his age and career path should he decide to agree with adopting her as his own."
Inko looked over to the two teens and the small child between them; Izuku sat with Eri huddled up on his lap while Ochako read something on her phone. Another story, perhaps? A small smile grew on her face; she knew they would make it work no matter the outcome. And knowing how big Izuku's heart was, Inko knew he wouldn't hesitate to accept Eri as his adopted daughter if it came down to it because, paperwork or not, Izuku was already Eri's father as far as any of them were concerned.
"Very well."
"Excellent," the doctor breathed out, looking almost relieved. "Now they're just a few quick things we need to go over, and we'll be all set." He added as he withdrew some of the paperwork from the envelope and a prescription pad and held them up.
"The first is a prescription for quirk suppressant medications. One in tablet form and a second in a set of EQ pens -mostly as a precaution," He placatingly held a hand up as he continued.
"After reading the reports from a Mister Shouta Aizawa and Eri's pediatrician, they both recommended these as a safety measure should Eri's quirk ever go haywire." He handed Inko the two sheets of paper with the prescription orders. "Secondly, I looked over the private school you consider having Eri attend. And after checking with the list of approved schools for someone of her current deposition. I'm happy to report that it meets the criteria, and I will be more than happy to sign off on it."
Inko sighed with great relief; the school was a lucky break, especially since Eri had already made two friends from it. The doctor, however, wasn't finished and now looked a little tense.
"Now the third is...a little more sensitive."
Inko felt her breath hitch at the man's change in tone. It wasn't harsh, but he wasn't as warm as a mere moment ago.
If anything, he looked guilty.
"Now, I have known that you are the wife of the late Draco Knight, and while neither you nor your son is on the volatile list," The doctor paused to ruminate.
"With recent events making the news, however. I have decided to employ," the doctor held a hand up as Inko made to argue. "As a general precaution to safeguard us from any possible legal ramifications, a three-month probationary period." The doctor stated gently with a simple motion of his hands as he handed her the remaining paperwork.
"Thankfully, you do not need to do anything special or extra," he adjusted his glasses with a growing wry grin.
"Simply keep doing what you have been doing. As long as you and Izuku prove that neither of your quirks poses a threat to Eri or the general public during this time, the probation will end exactly ninety days from today. However," He replaced his glasses. "I did find a clause that a ranking member of the municipal government. The Mayor or even a Policeman with the rank of Chief or higher can override the probation with their personal seal, testifying your character."
"Oh! I see," Inko said with relief while giving him a slightly wobbly smile. She understood why the doctor needed to do this; covering their bases in the eyes of the law was simply the smart thing for anyone to do. However, it still stung that they still had been treated as such despite not being on the volatile list.
'The Mayor is a Neocon member, so there is no luck with getting an override there...and then there is Kai...I still have that letter from Hisashi...maybe he can help me?'
"Please forgive me, Ms. Midoriya. This is the shortest probation I can administer under the law, which would protect us if things ever went," The Doctor coughed awkwardly. "Beyond expectations. However, I have no doubt that you will pass the ninety-day probationary period, and Eri will be all set to begin the adoption process. If all goes well, she should be completely and legally in your care by summer."
Inko accepted the last of the paperwork, happy to know that progress was being made at the very least. She knew that Izuku was in control of his quirk. Still, she didn't want anyone in the government to keep putting them down after that whole fiasco at the USJ, so they would play ball for the time being. Thankfully, All Might had been a massive pillar of support for this entire endeavor. He had reassured her that he would provide any legal help needed if the government tried anything funny.
Tuesday
Ryūko sat happily at her desk with her boyfriend Shinya sitting across, setting up their take-out lunch. It had been a slow day for them, whether due to the holiday or a desire to lay low after the USJ incident; villain activity had sharply decreased. This allowed the two veteran pros to take an extended lunch period. While sending their respective sidekicks out to patrol in their stead like Hisashi would have done years ago under similar circumstances.
Their relationship was still relatively low-key, with only their immediate family and close friends knowing. This also included their respective employees, who knew to keep it from the press. Unfortunately, rumors were running among some of the seedier gossip columns, much to their annoyance. This only led the duo to remain professional during work and keep public displays of affection to a minimum.
Still, it was nice for the two just to spend some quiet time alone, eating some hot take-out and being able to speak a little more openly. Ryūko fiddled with her phone, opening a radio app and plugging it into a portable speaker so the two could listen to the news, one of the many methods pro-heroes use to keep an ear out for possible emergencies that could use their assistance.
"And now for today's daily report."
The two worked in silence as it always took the ninja-themed hero a while to get into a talkative mood. When the two got their individual meals, they proceeded to do the traditional prayer before eating.
"Thanks for the food."
The two said in unison before digging into their delicious meal while paying careful attention to both the radio and their phones in case something urgent came up. Experience had taught the veteran pros that emergency calls could happen at any moment. It was best to save the chatter for after they were done eating, lest they only eat part of their meal before answering a call. The two pros enjoyed the comfortable peace, with a few meaningful glances thrown at one another, afforded to them until a new update on the radio.
"This marks at least the fifth time the winged individual has been seen flying across Shizuoka, Yamanashi, and Saitama Prefectures in the dead of night," the anchor's voice announced.
Ryūko's eyes narrowed as she ate.
Another sighting of the mysterious "batman" was seen in the night skies flying for almost a fortnight. There have been several attempts to capture him or her. The reports confirmed that this was not a pro-hero or a civilian contractor with authorization to use their quirk. The fact that the individual in question has only been flying around and wasn't hurt anyone led some anti-establishment types to talk about civil rights regarding quirk usage. The "batman" was only trouble for those who wished to stop his illegal flights, like the police. Some believed in the anti-establishment notion about this individual being a dissident.
In contrast, others believed the "batman" was merely a prankster or daredevil who just happened to like antagonizing the government. Yet something in Ryūko's gut told her otherwise. Given how she flew in her dragon form. The flight patterns from the "batman" reports she'd read prior had told her that this was a practicing their means of flight rather than actively flying for its sake. Although a practice for what is what remained a mystery.
"That was delicious," Shinya said, bringing Ryūko out of her thoughts as he wiped his mouth with a napkin and replaced his face mask.
Ryūko smiled as she finished her own meal.
The two settled in for a more casual conversation once the desk was cleared, mainly about the upcoming Sports Festival.
"I'm glad to see Izuku's development returning in stride. Especially after being unable to use his powers for the last few years," Shinya commented, remembering his best friend's son and shaking his guilt-riddled head in shame. "I still regret not being able to do much for them in all these years."
"Shinya...Inko forgave you, and it's not like you've done nothing..." Ryūko reassured the ninja-themed hero placing her hand on his.
"At the very least, we have made progress in Hisashi's case, with the festival looming." He closed his eyes with a tired sigh though a slight smile formed.
"I'm very interested to see Izuku in action, given how extensive my training with Hisashi was." He opened an eye to glance back at Ryūko, "I'm curious to see his skill level with Dragon Shift."
"Oho...thinking about stealing Izu away from lil' old me?" Ryūko joked with a glare betrayed by her smile, hoping to shift the low mood. "By taking him as an intern?"
"I doubt Izuku would seek an internship with you given how much you seem to enjoy teasing him," Shinya deadpanned. "Especially about in regards to that Uraraka girl."
"You mean my new favorite ship?"
Shinya groaned as Ryūko laughed."You can't deny the chemistry between the two, especially when it came to Eri when we visited Hisashi."
"They are certainly comfortable with each other...and if they work well together in the field. Then they could make quite the formidable duo," Shinya commented. There was a bit of an interest in seeing Ochako in action since Ryūko had informed him of her third-place spot in the entrance exam.
"I'm just happy that Izu's grown to be so much more confident this past year," Ryūko added as she paused the radio app to look at her new favorite picture. The one she had taken on the day they visited Hisashi's grave. It was of her favorite trio of cinnamon rolls sleeping together. Izuku was sleeping on his left side against the wall with Ochako sleeping on her right, and sandwiched between them was Eri with the biggest smile on her face.
"Then again, I'm pretty sure they want to feel like they've earned their spots rather than being offered spots due to a false sense of nepotism," Ryūko said with a sigh, knowing that even if Shinya hadn't mentioned the offer. Izuku would most likely never accept an offer from her, not unless he needed to. "I remember some of the looks I got from my classmates when I took both the internship and the work-study under Hisashi."
"He did make you work for it," Shinya interjected, returning the favor.
"I am interested in taking Izuku under my agency, though, mind you. I'm already dealing with Gang Orca, who said he's already called dibs," he shook his head, amused. "So I may have to take up Hisashi's old score and fight him for giving Izuku an offer."
"I mean, Izuku could still choose..."
"This is Gang Orca we are talking about...you know that he won't hesitate to march into that school and drag Izuku out to take him."
"…Fair enough," Ryūko answered with a laugh. She replaced the portable speaker with her phone and again brought up the radio app. Only their conversation was cut short as a new development seemed to arise when Ryūko had taken her phone out.
"-update regarding the newest victim of the Hero-Killer Stain: Hideki Matsumoto, better known as the Pro-hero Atlas, has been found dead while en route to assist with a traffic accident. Police have confirmed that Stain left another of his new calling cards but have not revealed what was written on the card."
The eyes of both veteran pro-heroes grew wide as they heard the latest victim's name.
"Shinya...wasn't Atlas..."
Shinya, however, raised his hand to silence her as the report continued.
"Atlas had been active pro-hero with over thirty-eight years of active service which include notable work in several incidents, which included the Draco Knight incident six years ag-"
"It happened again...we've lost another key witness to Stain...once with Leaper was bad luck, twice when Marx was killed was a coincidence, but thrice with Altas? No, we need to alert the others and see about getting the remaining pro-hero witnesses security that wouldn't raise suspicions," He pulled up his phone. "Ryūko call Ingenium; I'll be calling Nighteye."
Ryūko nodded as she began dialing Tensei Iida, while Shinya dialed down Sir Nighteye's number.
Atlas had been one of seven witnesses whose testimony was planned to be used for when they were ready to expose the truth to the world. Shinya prayed as the phone rang; one could never be sure if this was just a coincidence. He would be damned if he allowed a mere oversight to stop them from clearing Hisashi's good name.
Sekijirou and Nemuri walked alongside Shouta and Alex, the last person planning on making his way back to the training fields to meet up with Hitoshi and Reiko. They had all just gotten out of an impromptu staff meeting to go over Alex's discovery about the planned protests of the Sports Festival by some of the General Studies students.
"I'm glad that Principal Nezu already has a plan to counter this little insurrection," Nemuri confessed while shaking her head. "Never in a million years did I think something like this would happen."
"If I could be honest, Ms. Kayama," Alex interjected with a slightly concerned look.
"I kind of get it...not the using Midoriya as an excuse, mind!" He quickly clarified upon seeing the sour expression that suddenly grew on Nemuri's face before continuing.
"What I mean is that I always found it to be a little cruel to force the Gen Ed students to participate if it is really only meant to highlight the Hero Course. You know that only the occasional non-hero student makes it to the second round...let alone the third."
Alex knew from firsthand experience how often his old classmates from General Studies would resent being forced to participate in the festival every year. The exceptions, of course, were those who were liaisons or wanted to become liaisons, those who dreamed of using the festival to get promoted up the ladder as he had done himself.
"That's how it's always been, Springfield," Sekijirou retorted with a slight growl. "It's practically tradition!"
"But UA isn't tied to tradition, and this little rebellion should serve as a wake-up call for us," Shouta responded coolly. "We've all known since our time in school that there's always been some animosity between the Courses. In particular with the Hero Course."
"It's deplorable for any quirkless students who once had dreams of being a hero to be forced to participate in the Sports Festival," Alex added with a grimace. He personally knew a few quirkless students in his year group and their personal feelings about the festival.
"They often feel like outcasts already, and forcing them to compete in the festival is like taunting them about something they could never have..."
The group stopped when they reached the teacher's lounge, they would split off from here once their conversation was finished. Nemuri seemed conflicted as she could see where Alex was coming from, especially since they were all previous UA Alumni; however, she knew that things changed with the times, and tensions were still high from last month.
"Can we all agree that it is better to nip this in the bud before it goes public, yes?" Sekijirou spoke up as he opened the door. "I'll keep an eye on Mizuoji in the meantime to make sure that we can settle this before the next joint training session after the holidays."
"Oh! Thank you for reminding me, Kan," Nemuri said, almost slapping the top of her head. "Springfield, I know that you've been busy with your trainees, but could we ask for your help regarding the next joint practice? We're going over costumes and support gear, and given how your old costume was designed, I think it would be great to have you as a demonstrator."
Alex smiled but seemed a little hesitant. "Normally, I'd be completely on board, but between training, planning, preparing for my move, and having to study...I might be stretched a little thin..."
Nemuri's expression changed into one of confusion.
"On the day of the joint training. I could take over the day's training with Shinsou and Yanagi to give you some more study time, Springfield," Shouta interjected with a sideways glance.
"Oh! If you're sure about that, Mr. Aizawa...then yeah! I could do that!" Alex answered cheerfully, "but if I could also have a copy of the footage for that day's training? It would be great study material for my trainees and get them to think about the kind of support gear they might need for the festival."
"Sounds good to me," Sekijirou retorted with folded arms being extra careful with his new prosthetic arm. "It would be good to have another set of hands to help supervise the two classes in the middle of training."
"Sweet," Alex said gratefully before giving his former teachers a bow. "Now, if you can please excuse me, I'm heading back down to check up on my trainees."
"I'll be down in a minute, Springfield; I just need to go over some paperwork regarding our probationary students. Just have them do some warm-ups before heading back to Site Omega," Shouta added as the American turned around.
Alex immediately turned right back around and made sure to answer respectfully. "Understood, Mr. Aizawa."
"How is he doing, Shouta?" Nemuri whispered to the Mummyman as Alex returned to the field. Shouta nodded as they entered the lounge and sat at their individual desks.
"He still has a lot to learn as a mentor," Shouta spoke up as he gathered the probation release forms for Katsuki Bakugou, Fumikage Tokoyami, and Jurota Shishida. The three had earned the right to be released as probationary students.
"But he's managed to get both of the trainees to open up to him, making their transitions to your classes easier, should there ever be openings."
Togaru Kamakiri's probation was extended due to his belligerent actions after the USJ.
"Aside from some possible issues with the Midoriya boy and students in my class. I don't see anyone leaving either of our homerooms anytime soon," Sekijirou added from his desk, looking over a copy of Alex's report left on his desk. "That reminds me, Eraser, is there a reason why Mikami, the Class B Business Liaison, is training with the General Studies Liaisons?"
Shouta, however, remained silent as he checked his emails. Nezu had confided in him about the three students who, without going into detail, needed to have an additional watch placed on them for the time being. Shino Mizuoji was among them, and this was before they learned about his involvement with the General Studies shakeup.
"Springfield found Mikami breaking some rules and administered a corrective punishment that I backed him up on," Shouta said almost offhandedly, making both homeroom teachers have a quiet chuckle to themselves.
"Hey, Shouta?" Nemuri called out from her desk and looked over her own report copy.
"Hmm?"
"I thought Springfield already got one of the recommended spots for The Rhode Island Institute of Heroics? Why does he need to study?"
"Oh, that," Shouta answered with a rare chuckle to himself.
"Springfield got a new offer last Saturday that I've already informed him on, but unlike the RIIH. According to the email, this one requires him to take a rather grueling entrance exam, written and practical."
"That's surprising next to UA; RIIH is supposed to be the next big-league school globally. Why would he want to go somewhere else?" Nemuri questioned, now really confused about how an offer could top that.
"I'll send you a copy of the email that contained the new offer...Once you see where it came from, you might see why Springfield is considering joining it. If he passes the exam, he'll just have more options to choose from." Shouta answered as a few clicks could be heard from his little cubicle in the corner.
Nemuri received a new email in her computer inbox a few moments later.
"Let's see..." Nemuri said to herself as she opened the email, eye-widening as she read along. "Oh wow...that is one hell of an opportunity."
To: Shouta Aizawa UA High School, Hero Course Department Head
From: Mithril, Special Rescue Division Recruitment Center Command, USA
Subject: Student Recruitment Offer
Recruiter: Special Agent Kuroko Smith (USA/JPN)
Recruit Candidate: Alexander Johnathan Springfield, UA Hero Course 3-B.
Mithril
Rescue Operator Candidate
Operator Grade 2 (E-2)
US-Pacific Branch
Headquarters and Training Center: I-Island
Offer: Early Release Transfer via GED and MVAB Qualification Exam for Enlistment.
One tour contract: 6 years active, 3 years reserve.
Enlistment Bonus:
Pro-Hero School 2 years: $30,000
Pro-Hero School 2 years, advancement to the rank of Operator Grade 2 (E-2)
If the Candidate's MVAB score exceeds 91 Percentile with a Physical Readiness Examination score of 280/300: The candidate will be further advanced to the rank of Operator Grade 1 (E-3)
Additional Benefits:
Full Medical and Dental coverage
Retirement at 70% pay after 24 years of active service.
Upon successful completion of the active duty contract: the candidate will meet the full qualifications to be a federally licensed Pro-Hero within the sovereignty of the United State of America. The candidate must still complete the National Hero Examination for a Federal license.
Once again, Tensei Iida sat in his office waiting for another call from Hajime.
He sat comfortably at his desk with a Dungeons and Dragons player's handbook to see what kind of character he would consider making for his next session. His High-Elf Paladin had suffered a rather unfortunate –if not hilarious fate at the hands of his wife's mage. And given that his party didn't have the means to revive him yet.
A new character was needed to fill the gap until either his original was revived or this new character completely replaced him. Still, he had plenty of time to decide as he had decided earlier to take the Golden Week holiday off from Hero work. Using the excuse of wanting to spend more time with his family, which was true, but the primary reason for this extended time off was to continue being the middle man in the investigation.
However, since he served as the go-between for most of the key players in their team. Tensei had been quite busy since their last breakthrough. The idea that Stain was hunting down their witnesses was not only disturbing. But a possible sign that someone out there was actively seeking to destroy all they have been working towards. So now, he had to coordinate with every agency that was part of the investigation to do more joint patrols with the remaining witnesses under the guise of building on team-ups to the press.
When his phone began to ring with a familiar name on the screen, Tensei put down his book and turned on the recording equipment for the call.
"Go ahead, Tanaka," Tensei answered as he pulled up his files.
"Afternoon, sir," Hajime answered with a deep yawn, making Tensei flinch, knowing that same exhaustion of overworking. It didn't help that Hajime was much older than him. Still, Tensei didn't want to seem rude to arguably his most important contact next to his spy in the Underworld.
"And to you as well, Tanaka, I hope everything is fine," Tensei retorted as he flipped through his last call with the detective.
"As long as I have my best friend Caffeine on hand, I'll be fine," Hajime responded with a rare chuckle. "But let's not get lost in the pleasantries...I have an update...from my latest dig into the archives."
"So you got permission?" Tensei asked, surprised. "I thought Doumeki would have been more strict about letting you in."
"I won't lie, I thought the same thing, yet the Chief didn't need that much convincing. All he asked was if it was important for the case, and…he let me go...he even gave me more free time to investigate."
Tensei rubbed the top of his brow. 'Kai Doumeki is one hell of an enigma.'
"If I'm being honest...my investigation left me with more questions than answers."
"What do you mean? I thought you were just confirming details about the Nursery Incident from thirteen years ago?"
"That was the plan. I even called in a favor from a lab technician friend I know for an early result from that second DNA test from that Noumu creature in our captivity...and that's where things get...odd."
Tensei leaned forward on his desk, ready to jot down notes, "What do you mean?"
"The DNA results does match some of the kidnapped children on file from the case, but not all of them. Now the report also mentioned children who were successfully rescued and others who were never recovered. Regardless we had samples of their DNA after the eye-color connection was made."
Tensei could sense the disgust in Hajime's voice.
"However, this is where things get...tricky. There were other sets of DNA found that didn't match the victims of the Nurse Incident or small-time villains. But we still had the DNA on file."
"You found a link to another case..." said Tensei making an educated guess.
"Correct! The odd strains of DNA came from an incident that went back even further...and do you want to take a wild guess who also was involved in this incident?"
Tensei froze upon realizing the implication. "Draco Knight...and Kai Doumeki."
"Correct again, sir. There was a bombing in a Hosu city fertility clinic in June of 212 QE," Hajime explained, clearly frustrated.
"I couldn't find much since the case went cold. All I found on file was Draco Knight's third-year provisional license with the name Hisashi Kasei listed. With the then Sergeant Kai Doumeki as the duty officer who signed off on his quirk usage...sound familiar?"
Tensei simply blinked in confusion. 'How much further down the rabbit hole are we expected to go?'
"Wait...Draco Knight's last name was Midoriya, right?"
"Not until he was married in 218 QE. Before that, he was known as Hisashi Kasei."
Tensei began flipping through his logs until he found the name he was looking for. Ryu Kasei and a picture Tensei had included in the report Hajime had already provided about the boy's background.
Ryu Saito
-Born in May of 219 QE.
-Too young to be involved in the Nursery Incident as he would have only been two years old at the time.
-Despite the similar looks to Hisashi Midoriya -formerly Kasei. There are apparent differences and evidence from the private investigation. Confirming that he was the bastard son of dead Representative Takumi Saito and an unknown woman suspected of being a prostitute, the representative had paid off to keep silent.
-Further investigation into his past is strongly recommended.
'Little good that did him when he was indicted for corruption, bribery, and abuse of office.' Thought Tensei derisively as he looked over the file. Then he stopped to ponder the mystery of the name. 'I think I can have Nighteye take a crack with Kasei if he's tied up with the government.'
'It might open up new clues. If anything, the selection of the Kasei name seems almost deliberate. As if to throw us off,' his pen hovered over the notepad. 'Or was it to throw Doumeki off?'
Tensei wondered as Hajime continued to speak.
"When I discovered this and remembered the Kasei boy from the USJ. I immediately went to look up the Kasei surname and found nothing. Absolutely nothing."
"Another cover-up..."
"Indeed...I should have found something...anything! But it's all under a tight lock and key with clearance needed from above."
"I thought the clearance you were granted would have covered that?"
"Had permission to go through our archives here in Musutafu, but looking up family registries is a whole another matter thanks to certain privacy laws that were passed a few years back."
Tensei grimaced. 'It seems like our opponents had a head start from the beginning.'
"Unfortunately, I'd either need to get additional clearance from above or start a long stack of paperwork that might not even work or could take months."
"Is there any other way to get access without permission?"
"I believe Ryūkyū might be of some assistance here. Last I checked, she was related to Draco Knight, correct? She might be able to shed some light on Draco Knight's past. Otherwise, no, the moment I start probing, everyone will know that I'm looking into Draco Knight and not just the USJ."
"Meaning your cover could be blown...damn it," Tensei said under his breath.
"I'm not completely out of the running just yet, sir." Hajime continued with incredible energy. "I can still go to Hosu myself and do a little bit of manual digging into their archives for more details about the bomb incident. This includes speaking to some old-timers from that time who I know are still on the force."
"Please be careful, Tanaka; you sound pretty overworked," Tensei responded with evident concern. "Maybe it might be better to place a brief hold on that trip until your mission is complete."
"I'm fine, but thank you for your concern. I will be heading to Hosu tomorrow as it is my day off. I don't mind spending most of it investigating this new issue and just getting some decent sleep for the remainder. I believe you're also expecting a report from your Underworld contact, yes?"
"Yes, I'm expecting a call tomorrow with the dead drop phone we provided," Tensei answered with a nod. "Likewise, we got his report that my father-in-law is currently looking over, but I'll let you know more once I've got that."
"Right..." Hajime answered, "If I find anything new in Hosu, it should be reported to you after the transportation job Saturday. I won't lie to you, sir...I'll be glad when that headache is over with."
"Understood, thank you, and good luck Tanaka."
"Same to you, sir."
With that, Tensei hung up the phone, sighing deeply as he turned to look at his new incomplete character sheet, mixed with the many files that covered his desk, each one from a different team.
The Red file covered Sir Nighteye's team, currently looking over The Neocons, HPSC, and HUC.
The Blue file was everything compiled by him and Hajime investigating Kai Doumeki, the League of Villains, and the Nursery Incident.
The Green file was strictly for the information that the Pro-heroes involved in the investigation had gathered about the Yakuza, like the
Cardinal Kings and the Eight Precepts of Death.
The Black file was a compilation of files between himself, his father-in-law, Hawks, and their man on the inside. Awaiting its next update from the newest intelligence they had received from said Spy.
The Yellow file was the most recent edition to the group, investigating the three students who were the suspected targets of the golden-eyed bounty of the USJ. Given the implications, the last file was arguably the most disturbing to him.
It was terrible to consider investigating children as possible spies but given everything that happened. Nothing could be left to chance.
Picking up the file, he opened it and spread it out to the three key suspects.
"We're up to date with Kasei," Tensei noted, looking at Ryu's file; a spine-chilling sensation ran down his back as he looked at the boy's features. "At least until I have Nighteye look more into him."
His eyes followed up with the following file.
"The Kaminari boy just a got more interesting," he commented to himself. A recent update confirmed that Denki's family had confirmed ties with the Cardinal Kings, specifically the Southern Gang. His father, Yuji Kaminari still at large, while his mother is currently in prison. "Still, that doesn't mean he's the one."
Tensei understood the bias. But he really did want to give all three kids the benefit of the doubt.
"Even my prime suspect in all this deserves that much," Tensei added, looking at the final file.
Shino Mizuoji's family had ties to several Neocon members.
His father was a top-level executive for the Detnerat Company, headquartered in Deika City. Has been an active supporter of the Neocon movement following the death of his eldest son Jonouchi Mizuoji during the Draco Knight incident. However, Detnerat had its own interesting set of political and economic issues.
Such as being a suspected dealer in quirk support gear in the black market.
"All of them could still be fair game for villains," Tensei observed, trying to think of any other reason why any of the three could have been targeted. Ryu is the adopted son of one of Japan's top cops and the bastard son of one of the most unpopular politicians of recent memory. Denki was the son of a well-known villain who snitched out his friends.
'And you know what they say about snitches.'
Finally, Shino was the son of a well-known executive of a possible black market dealer. If the villains wanted revenge for shoddy products, using All Might as a smokescreen was an excellent distraction method. Villains have killed for less, and an organized villain group would need as much gear as possible.
As Tensei leaned forward to tidy up his desk. He looked out the window behind him, spotting Tenya and Hikari doing their daily runs. Tenya did it for practice and exercise, while Hikari just liked to run and encourage her Uncle.
Tensei smiled, feeling the urge to join them.
'Hopefully, this will all pay off soon.'
Wednesday
Inko and Ochako settled on the couch, wiping their brows with a set of cool rags. They had just finished cleaning up the small mess they made in the kitchen while Eri took a nap in Izuku's bedroom.
"Thank you for the help, Ochako," Inko sighed gratefully as she leaned back.
The cake they were making was currently in the oven, baking to perfection. The next step was making the icing, but given that the birthday boy wouldn't be back with Izuku for at least a couple of hours. The two ladies had enough time to rest up before starting their prep.
Besides, it helped that Katsuki preferred simpler, lighter cakes rather than anything too sweet and heavy.
"No problem, Inko," Ochako answered. "I'm happy to help out, plus I didn't really know what to give Bakugou for a birthday present, so it was the least I could do."
"Well, I'm glad you two are getting along; I was a little worried given Katsuki's tendencies, but I know he means well. I was just worried he would take Hisashi's word too far." Inko replied with a smile.
"Don't get me wrong, Bakugou and I didn't get along right away," Ochako answered with a grin. "But Izuku stepped in here and there when he felt it get a bit too heated, but ever since I visited him in your house with my medal."
"I think he's finally warmed up to me."
"Oh, that boy," Inko chuckled.
"Headstrong and smart, but with a tendency to jump the gun. I'm glad you're getting along better," she turned to the teen. "I was honestly worried it would have been history repeating itself like Mitsuki and Hisashi."
Ochako leaned in curious; having her own experiences with the Bakugou Matriarch, she was surprised to hear of a similar tale of her favorite childhood hero.
"Really? Mrs. Bakugou and Hisashi didn't get along?"
Inko laughed as she began recollecting, shaking her head before she began.
"At first, no..." Inko paused to think, "Mitsuki is about a year and a half older than me, so she was always like an older sister to me. "
"Did she go to UA like you?"
"No, she went to another school. She was originally trying to be a nurse before deciding to go into fashion. Hence, she went to a more STEM-based high school that would have been a better fit for her at the time."
Ochako resisted the urge burst into a fit of laughter as she pictured the occasionally ill-tempered woman dressed in scrubs berating a patient.
'Guess the medical field got a lucky break.'
"Anyway...I remember telling Mitsuki about my time at school...and brought up Hisashi on occasion." Inko actually turned a little red as the nostalgia of her high school returned to her. "It took a few years, but in the end, they got along, though I might have intervened here and there to make that finally happen."
Ochako giggled; it sounded familiar, but there was a small niggling question, so she sat up, "Hey, Inko?"
"Hmm?"
"Did you fall in love with Hisashi at first sight?"
Inko burst into a sudden fit of laughter, "Haha, No! Oh, sweetie...if you only knew! Hahaha!"
Ochako was left almost dumbfounded by Inko's laughter.
After a moment or two, Inko wiped away a few stray tears from her eyes.
"Hisashi...well, I'm not going to lie to you. Hisashi honestly scared me at first, and Mitsuki was always wary of him because of it."
Of all responses she expected to hear, this was far beyond what she had anticipated.
"Hisashi was...scary?"
Inko nodded.
"I mean, when you're a liaison at UA, be it from General Studies, Support Course, or the Business Course like I was," she pointed a hand to herself.
"You tend to share a unique bond with the assigned classroom. Especially since the Liaisons tended to have their own special meetings where we discuss things like rankings, items, and how to, in theory, we would market them."
She had a nostalgic grin.
"It was all a bit intimidating. Especially in hindsight since Hisashi's class would include people currently part of the top ten, like Gang Orca, Edgeshot, and Best Jeanist."
"Whoa!"
"Yep, now Hisashi..." Her grin lowered a bit. "Well, Hisashi already had a reputation thanks to some General Education students from the same middle school as him. They called him: The Black Devil," her grin was gone now. "And given that Hisashi almost always carried the meanest expression around, it wasn't hard to believe them. Also didn't help that he and Gang Orca really didn't get along too, well -Sakamata used to be a real stickler for the rules, and Hisashi hated it."
Ochako couldn't believe what she was hearing with all the interviews she had seen of him. He never seemed like the type of person Inko was talking about now.
"What changed?"
Inko paused for a moment before getting up.
"Hold on just a second." She walked away, first going to the kitchen to check on the cake, then made her way to her bedroom. A couple minutes of rummaging later, Inko returned with another photo album in her hands.
"I found this when I was doing some spring cleaning with Eri," said Inko as she sat back down and opened up the new album for Ochako to see.
Ochako's eyes grew wide. 'Their UA pictures!'
"This was Hisashi's first-year student portrait photo; now compare it to his second and third-year ones."
Ochako didn't really know how to respond to the first photo after seeing so many photos of Hisashi happy, smiling, and laughing throughout the house.
Seeing the first-year UA student Hisashi Kasei glaring like he would punch the cameraman if he stood there any longer was clear. Ochako again was reminded of Ryu Kasei. Only Hisashi had the trademark freckles and slightly more rounded eyes.
The second photo was better, Hisashi wasn't smiling, but he didn't look angry. His expression was more neutral and calm.
The third photo was more in line with what Ochako was used to with warm eyes and a wide bright smile.
It was almost mind-blowing what a little under three years could do to someone.
"I've mentioned him before, but Hisashi had one friend during the first couple of months at school who also came from the same middle school: Daigo Urashima." She continued flipping through the pages and showed Ochako a photo of Hisashi in his PE Uniform with folded arms. He stood next to a much young Daigo Urashima -who was already showing signs of premature balding.
"The guy you said works on I-Island?" Ochako questioned as she remembered him from the first photo album.
Inko nodded.
"He was our Support Course Liaison; that's actually how we met. During one of our Liaison meetings. And what surprised me, though, was that despite hearing all of the rumors surrounding Hisashi, it was Urashima who always stood up for him and hanged out with him, so it seemed almost completely at odds with what I expected."
'It sounds a bit like what people think of Izuku now...' Ochako thought sadly as she remembered the people back on the tram when she visited Izuku after the USJ.
"To answer your original question, 'did I fall in love with Hisashi at first sight?' No, and I've never really believed in that," Inko answered as honestly as possible.
"I think genuine relationships take time and trust to build up love, but I learned not to judge a book by its cover and that there was more to Hisashi that meets the eye," Inko added with a longing sigh. "The reality, though? It wasn't that Hisashi changed; it was that Hisashi learned to finally be himself."
Ochako tilted her head with a raised eyebrow; Inko smiled at her expression.
"What I learned was that Hisashi was never a bully; in fact, it was the other way around. Many people bullied him but never expected him to fight back. I imagine anyone would stop once they had a scaled fist rammed into their stomachs," Inko explained. "Hisashi's face, by extension, was a defensive mechanism...basically a sign that said 'Don't mess with me.'"
"So unless you went out of your way to anger him...-like Sakamata," Inko added under her breath again. "Hisashi was actually very polite and easy to talk with. He just didn't know how to lower his defenses until he learned to open up."
Ochako leaned in intently.
"Hisashi used to see a bit of himself in Katsuki as he grew up. While I think Hisashi may have over-exaggerated that claim. He still intervened and helped Katsuki quell some of the behaviors that he knew would have been problematic in the long run. This included a nasty arrogant streak Katsuki used to have, but personally training him helped. "
There was a lot for Ochako to process; it was strange to learn so much about her long-time hero from perhaps the best source available. Hell, she just found herself jealous of the Ash-Blond birthday boy, getting to be trained by Draco Knight himself when he was younger. But one thing seemed to stand out from all of it.
"So Hisashi was trying to learn to be happy, huh?" Ochako asked with the reality hitting her.
Inko nodded again.
"If there was one word I would have used to describe Hisashi, it would have been loneliness," Inko's smile faded. "Hisashi was almost always incredibly lonely. His parents weren't around...and I know for a fact that Ryūko's mother hated him and would often make his time at their house miserable."
Inko remembered just how touch-starved Hisashi was in life; the man loved nothing better than physical affection.
Ochako could feel her heart sink as she looked back at the picture of an angry Hisashi.
"It was something Ryūko regretted, letting the abuse happen to him, but she was pretty young when Hiashi first moved in with them, so there wasn't much she could do."
'That also sounds like Izuku...even with Bakugou, Izuku always seemed a bit distant until recently.' Ochako thought as she could feel Inko's mood turn. She didn't mean to pry so much of what must have been a challenging topic to talk about. It was hard to control yourself when want to learn more about someone you looked up to most of your life.
Ochako decided to shift the subject to something that Inko may find more inviting.
"Inko...when did you know that you...liked Hisashi?"
For a moment, Ochako thought she had messed up as Inko still seemed sad, but after a moment, a warm smile began growing on her face that was followed by a schoolgirl blush.
"It's hard to say what was the exact moment when I started liking him. But I do remember the moment I knew I had feelings for him."
"What was it?"
"So...oh my god...I'm sorry," Inko struggled between embarrassment and laughter.
"So...during our first year, I remembered a rescue training accident where Hisashi got hurt; it wasn't too bad. But the training called that they do basic first-aid themselves before seeking a nurse."
"I was pretending to be a hurt civilian during the training and gave Hisashi a green scarf that I wore around my neck for a while -It was the fashion trend during that time." Inko added before flipping to a photo of Hisashi in his PE Uniform, wearing a silver medal around his neck and something green on his right wrist."It wasn't anything special. I just tied it to his arm and told him he could keep it."
Ochako looked confused, as it didn't answer her question, but Inko wasn't finished.
"Sooo...It didn't really cross my mind again until our second year Sports Festival, and by that point, Hisashi and I had grown rather close and had been sporting the Hero name I helped him with...Draco Knight." Inko shook her still red face with embarrassment. "So just before the opening ceremonies, I was standing to wish everyone luck when Hisashi came to me, wearing my old scarf on his wrist. That same scarf that I had completely forgotten about, and he decided to keep it...and called it...My lady's favor."
Ochako unexpectedly squealed with a mixture of awe and second-hand embarrassment. 'Oh my god, that is sooo cute and yet so nerdy!'
"I had already liked him by that time, but after that. I knew he was something special. It never once sounded like a cheesy pick-up line or simple flirt. With Hisashi, it was completely genuine, and right after the festival, he asked me out, and the rest was history."
"Everything go through, alright?" He whispered to his phone as he sat on a bench within the grounds of his apartment complex.
"The drop-off went smoothly. Father and I are still looking through what you discovered so far."
"Good...what about the samples?"
"Father is using some of his connections with Kiriyūin's department to run an independent series of DNA tests, but it might take a while since he is backed up at the moment. However, the testimony you got from her speaks volumes of her past. If this is accurate, this may link us to another case we've uncovered recently."
"Good, it was a pain in the ass to get both from her, the samples especially being a real doozy." He added with a soft chuckle as he ran his hand down his arm that featured a couple of new scars upon his burned flesh.
"Any luck meeting with the leader of the league again?"
"No, I've mostly been meeting up with the one known as Kurogiri since he tends to transport the girl to and from my hideaway. There have been times when she has been gone for several days."
He paused to yawn, "but I get sent to help out with some trouble every now and then. I've mostly ended up fighting some punk-ass yakuza who was stirring trouble for the league."
"That mirrors the reports from fellow heroes and the police about the power vacuum, but it is interesting that even the Underworld seems to be struggling with the same issue."
"From what I gather, the league doesn't want these Underworld fights to leak into the public. Otherwise, it would force the government to crack down harder while recovering from their loss at UA, hence why the media hasn't picked up on it."
"Fair enough...What about Stain? You make any contact with him?"
"Nothing on that front." He answered while shaking his head.
"It seems the boss likes keeping us apart," reflexively, he tapped his phone. "But Toga did confirm that she had met him before while working for the league."
"That also lines up with another suspicion we had. I've got another question for you."
"Shoot."
"Since you've been dealing with Yakuza, can you tell me anything regarding them? Particularly if you have any information on the Phoenix or Dragon boys."
"I think my dad would know more about them than me; why don't you ask him?"
"I did, but all he managed to fill me in on what he knew from their heyday. We more information about them in the now."
He hummed as he took a moment to gather his thoughts about his recent encounters with the Yakuza he's dealt with as of late.
"From what I gathered, there are a bunch of small-time clans that owe up to bigger clans that collectively control a particular amount of territory throughout the country. The biggest of these clans are each led by a big boss known as a Cardinal King. And lately, they've been like sharks in a feeding frenzy, picking fights with the remaining small pockets of Overhaul's gang and each other for said territory."
"The Cardinal Kings are named after the four Divine Beasts that align to their specific cardinal direction on a compass, right?"
"Yep, apparently yakuza are all about that crazy kind of symbolism**, like The Eight Precepts of Death," he scoffed. "But there is an interesting deviation with the south that makes it stand out from the rest."
"I will take a couple of guesses and say the following. The first would be that The Southern beast is a Phoenix and not The Vermilion Bird Suzaku, the traditional Southern Beast. Second, The South was once named and led by the Vermilion Bird King until about thirty-odd years ago when the gang and boss suddenly changed their name to Phoenix. And third, there currently isn't an active Phoenix King."
"Damn, are you sure you even need me to check these guys out?" He dryly drawled with a wry grin.
"It was the only thing that kept coming up that stood out to me. Every time I've asked older pro-heroes who were involved with Yakuza in the past."
"Nothing ever really gets by you, huh?"
"It pays to re-read everything from time to time. It helps you catch the smaller details you might have missed reading the first time around."
He leaned back in his seat.
"Well, I have a little more info to add for you," He said confidently.
"The southern gang doesn't have any actual fighters in their crew. Most of their Made Guys*** are either really old or the younger sons of those old guys who are barely around high school. Only a few of them actually have combative quirks. However, they do have a lot of women under their employ compared to the rest...if you catch my drift." He paused before remembering something else he had seen two days ago. "Actually, there was something strange that happened on Monday."
"Oh?"
"Some of the younger Phoenix and Dragon boys looked really excited when I was doing guard duty for some kind of meeting."
"Any details?"
"It had to be something big. Apparently, the Dragon King of the East and the acting boss of the South were there. But nothing else from that."
"I-" At that moment, a noise in the background that sounded like an elephant blowing from its trunk interrupted the call, followed by a familiar high-pitched voice squeaking excitedly.
"Daddy, look!"
"The Elephants are about to start their routine, Tensei! Come on!"
"Ah-I'm coming just one second!"
Despite his heart feeling heavy with longing for what he missed the most, a smile grew on his face.
"You ass," He responded with annoyance.
"You called me instead of spending time with them at the Zoo?" He added knowing about one of the most popular attractions of the Tokyo Zoo.
"It's hard to balance family life with all this work on my plate."
He shook his head, partly to force a few tears that threatened to fall down his eyes back down. "Well, make more time for them. Please don't end up like me and regret the little time I had really spent with my family by the time my life was flipped upside-down."
"Touy-"
"That's not my name right now," he interrupted.
"I'll fill you in on the bigger details later." He tried to finish up before adding. "And tell them all that I…miss them."
There was a brief pause until Tensei finally answered.
"I will."
The call ended, and he raised his hand, destroying the phone with a small burst of blue flame. Dabi rose from the bench while taking deep breaths of the spring air as he straightened up his trademark black coat.
"I should check up on her." He said to himself as he made his way back to the inside of his apartment. He found Himiko curled up on her favorite spot on the couch with a tablet watching a live stream when he entered.
"I'm back," He announced as he closed the door and moved closer to see what she watched. She turned to acknowledge him with a slight wave and a smile before turning back to watch the stream.
"What ya watchin'?" Dabi asked as he looked over Himiko's shoulder while she moved the tablet aside to allow him a better view.
A tall, beautiful blonde girl was on the screen with amber honey eyes and noticeably full lips. Himiko quickly typed up an answer on the digital notepad app she had up.
-She's the Vlogger named Camie, she's really funny to watch.-
"So I was like, on my way to meet up with my gals from school, when I totes spied that blond bomb hottie from school! Ya know the one fam, the one I mentioned before, and like, I totally wanted to like, wanna, catch up with him!" Camie explained with the camera facing her while brushing aside loose hairs from her face.
Behind her was a series of tables with several people eating curry rapidly. Others on the sidelines were either observing or cheering their favorite to win.
Camie quickly moved the camera to begin focusing on one particular participant.
"YOU CALL THIS SPICY!? MAGMA CURRY MY ASS! I CALL IT WEAK SAUCE! NOW HAND ME ANOTHER!" The tall, ash-blond boy with sharp features roared out as he finished his plate and held it up to be traded for a fresh one. One of the organizers simply stared at him in disbelief. All while making Camie, who was now behind the camera, began to laugh.
"But ya can see he's like totally a bit busy, but I did say he's totes the kind of snacc who not only talks the talk but walks the walk too, ya know?"
"AND MR. BAKUGOU IS LEADING BY THREE PLATES AS THE REST OF THE COMPETITION STARTS TO DROP LIKE FLIES!"
"Someone just take me out back and shoot me!" One of the eaters cried as he thudded his head down on the table in defeat.
"Too…damn…hot..." Wheezed the spiky redheaded boy sitting next to the ash-blond boy, struggling to finish his second plate with a face as red as his fair and clearly full of regret. Dabi could see that despite Himiko being physically unable to voice out much, she was still clearly able to laugh hard, even if it was silent.
Her whole body seemed to shake, and tears of mirth ran down her joyful face.
The camera panned a bit, looking over some of the observers in the audience, which included, to his surprise, three very familiar faces. A tall boy with dark blue hair and glasses, another boy with dual-colored hair and mismatched eyes, and a girl with bright pink hair and cross-hair eyes.
Another smile crept up his face as the bluenette and pinkette seemed to be having a conversation that wasn't being picked up by the camera. Still, Dabi had a pretty good idea of the conversation, given their expressions.
So he counted down mentally.
'Three...Two...'
His suspicions were confirmed as he saw the pinkette pull out a bottle and try to jump the fence to join the competition. However, the bluenette grabbed hold of her by the waist and pulled her right back.
"BUT TENI I'M POSITIVE THAT IT WILL MAKE ME IMMUNE TO THE HEAT!"
"THAT WOULD BE CHEATING, HATSUME!"
"NOT IF I DON'T GET CAUGHT!"
"NOT IF I HAVE ANYTHING TO SAY ABOUT IT!"
It was his turn to begin laughing, albeit it was composed into a robust chuckle. It had been a very long time since he had a good laugh. He decided to settle in and continued watching alongside Himiko, hoping to see more of the familiar trio. Unfortunately, the stream didn't last that much longer. The blond known as Bakugou won a few minutes later as the final competitor surrendered by completely collapsing face-first onto the table with a heavy thud.
The crowd all reacted differently; some cheered, others booed; either way, cash changed hands as bets were paid out. Dabi looked surprised when the familiar trio went up to the victor and the redhead from earlier, along with a few others he hadn't noticed before.
'So they know Draco Knight's kid, huh?' He thought as he saw the face of the forest-haired boy standing alongside a girl with pink skin and horns. 'Interesting.'
"Two cups of Gold Tips Imperial black tea with a side of sugar cookies for the lady and a warm coffee cake for the gentleman," Jou said as she placed out the snacks for the couple seated. While in the background, the door chime rang, indicating that another possible customer had entered.
"Be right with you!" Jou called out behind her.
"I've got it, Pani!" Rikidou called from the back, voice drawing closer.
"Thanks!" She answered back before turning back to face her current patrons. "My apologies; how is everything?"
"It's no problem!" The short lady with magenta hair bound into twin pigtails and pink eyes lined with purple chirped as she took a sip of her drink, "Mmmmm! The tea is fantastic! Isn't Tobi?"
The tall older gentleman with slicked-back white hair, piercing blue eyes, an equally white handlebar mustache, and a medium beard nodded. "Indeed, an exquisite brew after a long day of filming Ai."
"Excellent!" Jou answered with a closed-eyed smile while she gave them a short bow.
"Let me know if you need anything else," Jou turned around to spot a familiar duo plus one. "Oh, hey!"
"Oh hey, Mori!" Izuku greeted with a broad smile while holding Eri in his arms; next to him was Ochako, who waved along with her own greetings. They had started chatting with Rikidou when they noticed her coming.
"I didn't know you and Satou worked here!" Ochako looked slightly embarrassed since they had been here before and apparently overlooked the two.
"Well, we're not here all of the time," Jou explained while Rikidou sorted some of the newer baked items into the front display. "It's quite possible that you came here during one of our off days or when we're at my parents' restaurant across the street."
Rikidou then popped his head up from behind the display with a specific treat on hand.
"And here's one of our newest items. An apple tart!" He said as he handed what appeared to be a small slice of pie with an elegant row of thinly sliced apples on top to Eri.
"On the house for you." He added with a big grin.
"Oooh, that looks really yummy," Ochako commented upon seeing a larger version of the tart displayed behind the glass case in front of them. A series of baked goods that she had only seen on TV or online piqued her interest. "Are these all foreign?"
"Mhmm! Riki's dad wanted to expand into making some more western-style goods! So we've been trying something different every day of the week. Along with the normal things we carry," Jou explained with a motion of her hand, showing some of the newer confections alongside the more traditional Japanese ones.
Fresh pies, crispy tarts, and sweet puddings stood proudly alongside the colorful Mochis, smiling Taiyakis, and plump Manjus.
"I know that Eri loves apples, and I sure could use a taste tester," Rikidou interjected hopefully. Eri looked at Izuku for permission. Izuku, in turn, simply nodded as he didn't want to downplay their giant classmate's generosity.
"Thank you!" Eri chirped as she gently grabbed the slice before taking a nibble from the golden-baked morsel. Her eyes widened instantly as the flavor was almost overwhelming.
"HMMM! Mama! Papa! It's really yummy!" Eri exclaimed with bright wide eyes before she took another bite and another and another. Jou struggled to keep from squealing at the adorable reaction coming from the Unicorn child before managing to recover and get back to her job.
"So aside from the free sample, would you guys like a table? Or are you taking to go?"
"Actually, we were here to get some snacks and hoping that you would let Eri could use the restroom. But it looks like you guys don't have one for public use," Ochako answered, motioning her head at Eri, who was busy popping a small piece of the tart into Izuku's mouth with a giggle.
"Hmhm, weh jush finhed trainin," said Izuku, trying to eat the tart as quickly as possible.
Jou and Rikidou looked at each other for only a moment. Yet, at that moment, unknown to the trio of cinnamon rolls, a silent nod passed between the two that seemed to say far more than at first glance.
"I can let you take Eri to our private restroom while Uraraka can stay here." Rikidou offered to move to the side of the display and opened up the side door for them to enter.
"Oh, you sure that's alright?" Ochako asked, not wanting Rikidou to get in trouble.
"It's fine; Pani can hold down the fort, right?" Rikidou answered, turning to Jou.
"Aye, Cap'n!" Jou responded with a playful salute while sticking out her tongue.
"Thanks, Satou," Izuku said, mouth now clear of the tart as he made his way past the side door and let himself be guided by Rikidou to the back. "We'll be right back, Ochako."
"No problem, thanks, Satou!" Ochako called back while Jou guided her to a seat. "Take a load off; let me check up on my earlier guests, and I'll take your order."
"Okay, thanks, Mori."
Ochako watched as Jou made her way toward the only two customers who remained in the shop. She took the time to pull out her phone and was about to send a quick text message to Inko that they would be back soon when she realized that she had received a text from someone else earlier and hadn't noticed.
Bomberman (Katsuki): I don't say this often, and I'll deny it if you ever mention it, but thanks for helping today.
Ochako chuckled to herself.
She didn't feel like she needed thanks, given that she really didn't do anything. Inko had done most of the work making the cake; she just helped with the prep work. But she also wasn't going to deny the thanks. It was an olive branch to let the two best friends hang out without her third-wheeling and let them just have fun.
She still had an overall great time with Inko.
"Thank you; please come again!" She heard Jou say to the other clients who were making their exit. She quickly sent the text to Inko, as Jou returned with a glass of water.
"Here, Midoriya mentioned that you guys just finished some training, so I imagine you might be parched." She said while taking out a small pad for noting down orders. "Do you know what you want, or would you like a little more time?"
Ochako took a quick drink of the ice-cold water and sighed with satisfaction.
"Thanks again, and yes, I'm ready. Can I please get some strawberry and green tea mochi, please? Oh, and can you throw in a few more slices of that apple tart from earlier in a separate bag, please?" Ochako asked politely as Jou wrote down her order with a nod.
"Sure thing, Mama," Jou retorted with a playful wink.
"I'll be right back with your order." She added as she retreated to the display to make Ochako's order.
Meanwhile, Ochako went back to answering Katsuki's text.
Gravity Queen (Ochako): You don't have to thank me. I'm just glad you and Izuku had fun!
Bomberman (Katsuki): I'm trying to be nice damn it!
Gravity Queen (Ochako): LOL okay okay! I get it! You're welcome.
Bomberman (Katsuki): Damn straight!
'Well, at least we're starting to get along...I think?' Ochako thought to herself with a giggle.
"Read something funny?" Jou asked as she returned with two small paper bags containing Ochako's order in one hand and placed them on the table before taking a seat opposite Ochako. "Phew, time for a quick break since no one else is here."
"Yep, just a funny text from a friend," Ochako answered as she checked over her order. "They look so yummy!"
"You should see how they're made," Jou said with a giggle. "Riki's dad hulks up and pounds the mix by hand rather than using a machine or hammer."
"So they're completely handmade then!" Ochako said, surprised knowing that mochi could be quite laboring without machines. But she imagined having a strength quirk powered by sugar could help get the job done for a bakery.
"Yep, he firmly believes in the homemade touch," Jou answered casually, though her expression turned concerning. "So, how is the holiday going for you, Uraraka?"
"It's been alright, I'd be lying if I wasn't a little bummed about not spending the holiday with my folks back in Mie, but I've talked with them before bed almost every night."
"Wow, country girl, huh?" Jou remarked, surprised by this tidbit; Ochako nodded.
"It could have been worse; I had expected to spend my holiday completely alone until I met Izuku and Eri. Since then, I've basically been living with them. How about you, Mori? How is your holiday going?"
"That's good to hear...as for me? Nothing too special, except either going out with Riki to a festival on Tuesday, which was fun, that and helping him train for the Sports Festival."
Ochako nodded, the conversation trailing off right there. After a pause, Jou sighed before starting a new, slightly more uncomfortable topic.
"Hey, Uraraka, I have a question for you."
"Oh?" Ochako looked up at the amber eyes looking at her with some curiosity.
"How is Midoriya doing?" She asked somewhat cryptically with a more flat tone of voice.
"He's fine...why?" Ochako questioned. She didn't know Jou all too well, but she seemed like a nice person from her previous encounters during school. This was rather odd to her.
"When we return to UA, be wary about who you trust there," Jou warned cautiously.
"What do you mean?" Ochako asked, now a bit concerned.
"I've been hearing some...rather unnerving rumors that have been spreading around recently about Midoriya back at school," Jou explained with a whisper. Pulling out her phone to read some of the texts from her group chat where she had gotten some of this information.
"I personally have nothing against him –nor does Riki! So that's why we wanted to give you a heads up about who you trust at school. Because it seems like others aren't comfortable with...Draco Knight's kid being among them," Jou added that last line with a nervous whisper. "Riki and I think it's wrong to go behind Midoriya's back like this."
Ochako frowned. 'It's not fair; Izuku hasn't done anything wrong...and with Eri's adoption hanging in the balance...'
"Thank you for telling me, Mori." Ochako breathed out gratefully, bowing slightly.
"Hey, I still owe you for saving my butt from the giant robot at the entrance exam!" Jou answered, patting one of Ochako's hands, her expression turning softer. "And besides, dating Riki taught me not to judge a book by its cover. Given everything I've seen of Midoriya, I can safely say we're on your side."
"We're back!" Izuku exclaimed, returning with Eri in his arms, and Rikidou came up behind him. The two girls quickly got up from their seats and met back up at the counter near the register when Ochako noticed Eri's face was stained red with some kind of red jelly.
"What happened?" Ochako asked with a giggle as Eri enjoyed her time licking the jelly around her mouth.
"I got to see all of the yummy treats, Mama!" Eri exclaimed happily as Rikidou laughed and ruffled her hair a bit.
"Really?"
"Well, after Eri was done using the restroom, Satou decided to show us where all the pastries get made," Izuku explained, motioning his head toward the back.
"They met my parents. Who were busy making some new tarts, including a raspberry jam tart that Eri seemed to like," Rikidou interjected while handing Ochako some towelettes to help clean Eri's face. "They were happy for the feedback they got from her."
"The order is written up there, Riki!" Jou exclaimed in the background as she began wiping down the table that Ochako and herself had used.
"Thanks!" Rikidou called back as he took the paper behind the display and rang up their total. "That will be ¥2200."
Izuku and Ochako both chipped in to pay for their snacks, neither of them knowing that Rikidou had thrown in a discount.
"Thank you for your kindness, Satou, Mori," Izuku and Ochako said, grateful for their treatment while Eri mimicked them.
"Thank you!"
"You're welcome!" The two answered as Jou moved to the back of the display with Rikidou, leaning in on him as the trio made their exit.
"Did you warn, Uraraka?" Rikidou whispered once they were out the door.
"Yep, I'll keep an ear out in the business course students to see what general studies are cooking up...did you tell Midoriya?"
Rikidou sighed with a shameful look on his face, "I didn't have the heart to tell him when we were waiting for Eri to finish up in the restroom, he told me that he and his mom are on a probationary period for Eri's adoption."
Jou gasped.
"How I tell him that some of the students at UA want to get him kicked out with that looming over his head?"
"Then more of a reason for us to help them out...since I told Uraraka. I'm sure she'll keep an eye out," Jou finished up as she began to empty out her apron and gave Rikidou a peck on the cheek. "I'm going to start cleaning up for the closing, okay?"
Rikidou sighed, leaning on the display with his hands under his chin, looking at the trio, who was still visible from the window. The trio was making their way back to Izuku's apartment outside the bakery, enjoying the peaceful walk back as Eri began to munch on another apple tart. At the same time, Ochako leaned on Izuku, wrapping her arm around his own and holding on to his hand while extending her pinky to avoid using her quirk.
Rikidou chuckled as even from here, he could see Izuku go stiff for a brief moment as Ochako got close. Only for him to slowly relax into her side before going over the horizon and out of sight.
'Yeah...he's in good hands.'
Thursday Part 1
Tomura sat alone in the bar, his dangerous mood indicated by a slight twitch of his neck and fingers.
'He's late...'
He thought with a groan, resisting the urge to scratch his neck as he looked at the clock mounted on top of the bar room. Showing it was well past Midnight. Kurogiri should have returned by now with his other brother: Mimicry. He was tired from all of the extra work piled onto him to make up for his failure at the USJ. Still, he had started to get the ball rolling for his redemption in his Master's eyes.
Now it was simply a matter of time and making sure that his remaining game pieces on the board would cooperate one way or another. Finally, Tomura heard the familiar sounds of Kurogiri's warp gate opening up at the edge of the bar. Out the portal came a young man with neat violet hair, grateful that he was out of a stuffy uniform and into a comfortable orange T-shirt and dark blue jeans. Next to him was Kurogiri, who wordlessly made his way to the back of the bar to start mixing their favorite drinks.
"You're late, Mimicry," Tomura answered with annoyance clear in his voice.
"Can't a guy enjoy a few extra rounds of Karaoke on his days off?" Mimicry answered with an exaggerated shrug of his shoulders as he took a seat two spots away from Tomura's corner seat.
"Especially with a voice like mine, hahaha! The girls just love it!" He added, mimicking the voice of a popular J-pop artist while placing his hand on his chest. However, he quickly changed his tune upon seeing Tomura's unamused face.
'This guy needs to get laid; it's not like any of us can have kids,' Mimicry thought to himself.
"I've got everything from my end in place, Tomura," he continued with a sigh, returning to his normal speaking voice as Kurogiri handed him a drink.
"Thank you, Uncle Kuro!" Mimicry exclaimed happily before lifting the drink to Tomura. "To your good health, my dear brother!"
Tomura rolled his eyes and watched Mimicry take a sip of his drink while Kurogiri handed him his own. Next to the RPG, he had recently gotten to play, a good drink was an excellent way to improve his mood.
"Good, once you get rid of the rat that works in Doumeki's office. I can have Stain move forward with the next step," Tomura answered with a sigh, glancing at his list of targets that Stain had already dealt with.
"Well, speaking of Stain, getting him to change his MO was a stroke of genius," Mimicry interjected as he took another sip of his drink.
"The cops can't agree if this is a copycat or the original who has updated his methods. Needless to say, I've been making sure to keep them on their toes," he grinned after another sip. "Plus, having Himiko publicly body-double him only helped add to the confusion."
Tomura nodded, but his face kept on a frown. Despite getting him to work, Stain was still very annoying to deal with from time to time as he often just wanted to keep hunting any old pro when he could. Still, Tomura needed him to continue hunting their list of witnesses.
"Oh, a little heads up on the Saturday op you might wanna know about," Mimicry suddenly spoke up as he pulled a folded sheet of paper from his pocket.
"Oh?"
"Doumeki's ordered that everyone's gear be maxed out. I'm talking real heavy shit, as in fuck the normal 9mm guns. He's having everyone pack heat that could seriously fuck you up if you get hit by it," Mimicry warned cautiously. He handed Tomura the equipment list that the Overhaul Transport team was expected to carry.
He had seen firsthand what these heavier guns could do to someone.
"Good to know...Will you be at the Saturday operation to break out Overhaul?" Tomura answered with a grin as he skimmed through the paper.
"Indeed I will, the plan to be Doumeki's support. So I'll likely be in his car, so do make sure that you don't kill me by accident." Mimicry answered with a fake whine while lightly swirling his drink in his right hand.
"I'm not going on the operation, my dear little brother...after all, Overhaul is Yakuza. And any yakuza business is to be handled by our youngest brother per his request to the Master."
Mimicry froze, his ruby-red eyes growing wide before letting out a loud, shrill laugh.
"So he's going solo?!" Mimicry banged his hand hard against the bar during his continuous laughter, much to Kurogiri's annoyance.
"Just shut up and enjoy your drink, Mimicry..." Tomura gritted out, now equally annoyed. "It's hard enough to juggle all of these damn pieces who think they have minds of their own. And he's not going alone. He'll have some weaker Noumu attuned to listening to his commands, but that's not for you to worry about."
"Ooooh! Do tell! It's been sooo long since we've had a chance to really talk, my dear brother of mine." Mimicry teased with a boyish grin on his face. "Besides, venting is good for you!"
Tomura wasn't typically one for sharing, but he knew that Mimicry wouldn't betray him. After all, Mimicry had fallen from grace by their brother's hand, spared by Tomura's request thanks to his hacking and infiltration skills. Mimicry would rather die than see The Broken Prince as their Master's successor. So keeping Mimicry happy and on his side was simply the more intelligent thing to do.
"Kurogiri's been working overtime, moving my pieces on the gameboard for me," Tomura started off after deep gulping his drink. He motioned his head to their silent bartender, who took the chance to wipe down some dusty glasses. "Giran just filled a rather unique request for the Neocon boss."
"Remind me again, is that old fart actually on our side?" Mimicry questioned, unsure of the answer if he ever needed to use his cover to get some wet work done.
"No, just another pawn in my plans, but one that is becoming increasingly annoying. It's taking everything in Giran's power to keep him in line with generous funds and support for their movement." He added, using his fingers to quote the word. "But now the old codger went ahead and ordered a batch of Trigger out of the blue!"
"Maybe the old man just wants to get high?" Mimicry suggested with a laugh until he realized something strange. "Wait, I thought that Giran doesn't deal drugs. I always thought that the guy deals in support gear only."
Tomura's mouth finally turned to a grin.
"Normally, he doesn't deal drugs, but if it keeps the old man in line, so be it. It simply gives us more blackmail material to work with if we need to bring him to heel," Tomura grinned. "And, with all the other Yakuza trying to snatch up Overhaul's old territory, drugs like trigger have been flowing like water in the underworld."
"The Four Cardinal Kings." Mimicry said, his tone becoming flat as his previous enjoyment was gone in an instant. "A right pain in my ass with all the work they keep piling on my plate, especially with the government trying to suppress the media about their underworld fights."
"Couldn't have said it better myself," Tomura said with a forward glance, careful with how he played around with his fingers on the bar. "They and the remainder of the Eight Precepts of Death that are still loose are causing most of my damn headaches. So far, the feds have been keeping the underworld fights quiet. Still, we know those prideful idiots will eventually do something big and stupid unless we can have someone bring them back in order."
Mimicry's eyes grew wide. "Don't tell me..."
"He and Himiko met up with Southern and Eastern Cardinal Kings on Monday night to stake his claim. And since our dear little brother is about to make his public debut this Saturday, I went ahead and had Giran use some of his connections to whip up something that...I personally found it very fitting!" Tomura finished with a dark chuckle, pulling out a picture and sliding it to Mimicry, who took another sip of his drink.
Mimicry took the square piece and only glanced at it, only to end up spitting out his drink over the bar.
"How fitting indeed! Daddy's little boy...He is going to be veeeery angry wearing that." Mimicry cackled with a sickening smile.
"Was," Tomura corrected, "he had to wear it with that outfit for the meeting. That and his face should've had enough proof that he is the son of the old Phoenix King."
"So it's time for them to have a new boss, huh?"
"Not yet. They want to see a demonstration of his power; Saturday's mission will be his proving grounds for them," he tapped his glass. "That he is strong enough to be their new leader by breaking out another Yakuza boss from their ancient enemy: The Police."
"So Overhaul will end up being a puppet for us, eh?" Mimicry questioned, unsure what else would be in store for someone who could cause many problems if left unchecked.
"Overhaul doesn't matter in the long term. We have his research for those quirk-destroying bullets and could always use that as a backup plan unless he cooperates. If he doesn't, we'll just kill him. Himiko can just serve as his double until the remaining Overhaul's old gang members are absorbed into the Southern gang." Tomura answered with a nod.
"Its been thirteen years since the last Phoenix King died, now everyone in both the light and the dark will see the new one be born...and just in time since I encountered the debut of the new Draco Knight back at the USJ. Only this time, the new Phoenix King has a few aces up his sleeve."
Mimicry then lifted his drink as he mockingly proclaimed.
"All hail His Grace, the new Phoenix King!"
Both men suddenly went silent until both began to chuckle lightly, a chuckle that only grew into a roaring fit of laughter. Finding the irony of the situation completely delicious. With Izuku Midoriya in play, the two were bound to clash at some point to settle an old score.
The long-awaited rematch between The Phoenix and The Dragon would be a fight no one would want to miss.
Author's Commentary
*Eri's Psychiatrist: I actually consulted with a pediatric psychiatrist for this scene. I happened to be lucky enough to know more than a handful of doctors of various specialties in my line of work; the doctor in question is one of them. What I wanted to basically emphasize is that dealing with mental health is very specialized and best handled on a case-by-case basis when possible.
Since I know the importance of this and I don't want to seem like I am trivializing mental health concerns and I managed to hand wave a few key things for the sake of streamlining the story. I felt an obligation to address Eri's trauma and recovery as respectfully as possible; knowing that imprinting could be very concerning in shaky situations like this.
** Symbolism in the Yakuza Sub-culture. Yakuza throughout history have had an extremely interesting view of themselves; compared to various other criminal organizations like it. Sharing general ideas of a "family" unit alongside community and having some rather elaborate rituals with those of say the Sicilian Mafia or "Cosa Nostra".
Yakuza are well known for their use of classical Japanese/Asian symbols in the form of mascots, tattoos, titles, etc. The modern-day Yakuza is of course very different from what we see in the MHA universe as shells from their heights of power and was something I wanted to explore outside The Eight Precepts of Death: based on the Eight Precepts that could be found in some sects of Buddhism.
The Four Cardinal Kings were inspired and based on the Four Symbols found in mythology throughout Asia. This includes certain elements that you may find interesting if you take the time to look them up.
***Made Guys: I'm using terms that are more in line with the Sicilian Mafia to make a simplify the complexities of the Yakuza hierarchy (because JESUS it can get really complicated) But to also show that in the years after quirks came into the mix have had to change things about themselves in order to adapt and survive in the world of MHA.
So when it came to where Alex would go.
The organization Alex would join has changed dramatically ever since I started my idea to import characters from other series instead of making more OCs. (Because making good OCs is a really exhausting process and I found I could have more fun writing characters from other anime/video games/other media.)
The first name was USRC or United Service Rescue Corps.
It would later become MARC or the Mobile Armor Rescue Corps, during the initial sets of the rewrite.
However, once I decided to start importing, I figured I could also import other features from other anime I would be importing from.
Mithril is a para-military organization from the anime Full Metal Panic.
I'll go into further detail about Mithril and its role, in Alex's spin-off story, rather than here, but do expect that this will cause a ripple effect for future events.
