Hey, guys! Sorry for the longer-than-expected delay. I meant to upload this much earlier but after careful re-reading and consideration. I felt like it wasn't enough. I'd be lying if I said these two chapters haven't been a royal pain to write as I kept second-guessing myself on what to include and what not to include etc.
After the delay announcement, I again read the chapter over again and found the quality wanting. So I decided to say fuck it and made this new version which I feel much happier. (Even if it is a hell of a lot longer than I originally planned.)
The original cut was about 11K words without notes. This one is 16K without notes. Yeah...When I say I'm going to make some changes, I make some fucking changes. The best part is that, well...after two years and four months since the pandemic really hit my country. I finally caught covid earlier this week. Which sucked hard! Thankfully, I'm past the worst of it, and while I still have some minor symptoms (mostly coughing and sneezing.)
The heavy fever and painful joint aches are long gone.
Now with that out of the way! Please enjoy the new chapter!
Any Original Characters (OCs), unless specified, are owned by me. However, I could care less about them and allow anyone to use them in their fanfics if they wish. (OCs be damned.)
My Hero Academia is owned by Kohei Horikoshi and Shueisha. Published; and licensed by Shonen Jump, Viz Media, and Funimation. Please support the official release of this incredible series.
Kuroko Smith from Monster Musume is owned by Okayado, Tokuma Shoten, Sentai Filmworks and Seva Studio.
My Hero Academia Untold: The Fafnir Knight (Remastered Edition)
Saga I: Dusk
Arc III: The Sports Festival
Chapter XXXVI: Alexander's Final Lesson Part 2
"Thanks for squeezing an appointment in for me next week," said Midnight with her cellphone in hand. At the same time, she stood atop one of the many rooftops of Site Gamma, enjoying a bit of the sun and fresh spring wind. The Rated-R Heroine welcomed the opportunity to get some alone time away from her students and co-workers. Allowing her the privacy to schedule an appointment with her therapist without prying eyes or eavesdropping ears. It had been roughly a year since she last needed his services. Still, lately, her bouts of usually restful sleep had been plagued by the recurring nightmares of that horrible night thirteen years ago. Made even worse by the so-called "New Phoenix King" that broke out Overhaul last Saturday.
"1 PM? That'll work...yes...yes...I see. Thank you again...Good-bye." With that, Midnight hung up and let out a deep sigh. "Just when I thought I finally had these nightmares under control..."
"This is Vlad; I've received the submissions for the Joint Practical," Midnight overheard from her earpiece. She blinked for a moment as she double-checked the time on her phone. It had been roughly forty minutes since All Might left the classes to choose who would be part of their joint team.
"Are you sure, Vlad?" Midnight asked, trying to make sure he had heard him correctly. It was a little hard to believe that 1-A and 1-B would be able to work together that quickly. They all expected that the decision would have taken until the last minute for the classes after considering the rift between the two classes.
"I wouldn't have believed it if I hadn't seen the negotiations first-hand; the class leadership came to a compromise. However, I have a feeling it's going to haunt them. However, at least the Midoriya boy is being actively included in the discussion about strategy. So it seems like his comments during the lecture allowed those in 1-B with concerns to hear him out at least."
"Just like I thought it would!"All Might interjected, clearly pleased that his plan seemed to be working. "I knew young Midoriya would have a chance to shine and allow for 1-B to get to know him better!"
"Let's just hope the trend continues," Midnight sighed with relief. She had been one of the objectors to the joint training because of the possible resentment that could develop by being forced to work together. After all, some people were just not compatible to work together, like Katsuki and Ryu. Given how quick those two were ready to go at each other's throats at the drop of a hat.
"Vlad, relay the names of the Six to Snipe; this should give extra time for Springfield to plan his own strategy," Eraserhead spoke up. "The randoms will be selected when the hour is up."
"So, do you think the plan will work?" Kashiko questioned as almost everyone in Class 1-A waited patiently for the randoms to be selected. Now that the selections were made, the two classes split up into separate conference rooms nearby. Most of Class 1-A, save for a few who were either in the bathroom, discussing battle plans, or getting snacks. They all sat together at the long rectangular table, eating snacks Jou had provided. Infused with her quirk to give them all a bit of a brain boost.
"Let us hope so," Tenya replied before sipping a bottle of orange juice while seemingly in deep contemplation. "It was difficult to even shape an initial plan with both Bakugou and Mizuoji refusing to budge on their respective selections."
"Bakugou and Kirishima do have direct combat experience with Springfield," Momo interjected after taking a sip from her water bottle. "So does Tetsutetsu. My real concern was that even Kendou wouldn't budge to having Yoarashi instead of Todoroki."
"To be fair, Yoarashi placed higher than me on the recommendation exam," Shouto added in his two cents to the conversation while mulling over a piece of curry bread. "He was also on Springfield's list on who could give him a challenge."
"But you guys ended up only putting one person up on that list on the team roster," Minoru muttered, annoyed that he had largely been ignored in favor of Izuku's advice. It wasn't that Izuku's notes weren't helpful, mind. However, Izuku himself was still trying to find the essential element between those Alex had named as those who would pose a challenge to him. While Minoru's theory hinged on the idea that the ones Alex had named could effectively stop him in his tracks. Unfortunately, Minoru couldn't confirm his idea without knowing more about the Quirks from the members of Class 1-B that Alex had named.
"I didn't know you wanted to go up, Mineta," Kashiko said with an accusatory glare. "Please don't start getting a big head since Springfield named you as a potential threat."
"And get punted like a ball?" Minoru answered, slamming his tiny hands on the table in annoyance. "No, thank you! But I would have liked for even some of my suggestions were being taken seriously!"
"Whoa, take it easy, dude!" said Denki, surprised that his short friend was fighting about this. Then again, Shino had made a rather cruel backhanded comment during the selection process that may or may not have been aimed at Minoru. So, he may have simply wanted a chance to show the Class 1-B vice-president up.
"You, none of you fought Springfield except me, Ashido, Kirishima, and Bakugou," Minoru retorted with a shudder. "And I'm telling you that you're all underestimating him. If what I fought back at the bomb trial was him holding back. Then, I don't want to even think what him giving it his all, especially if he's had the time to study all of us."
"We had to work with what little time we had under the rules," Momo replied as she rubbed her forehead. She had wanted to select others, but Katsuki's bruised ego and Izuku's confidence in him forced her to relent. The blond bomber had been the linchpin to their victory during the bomb trial, and there was hope he would be able to pull it off again. "And while your capture theory does have some merit, we don't have enough evidence to conclude it as fact."
"I'm telling you, this is why Springfield listed me and the others as possible threats! Even Midoriya said my specialty in our team is being the capture ace! My sticky balls is why Springfield got held up long enough for Kirishima to become a human nutcracker! Todoroki could freeze him; Uraraka could gravity trap him; Shiozaki's vines are really strong and could likely grab Springfield if she played her cards right!"
"I mean...I guess it makes sense," Denki replied with a painful look as if trying to comprehend Minoru's logic overwhelmed him. "But if he's afraid of those who could catch or overpower him, why didn't he include people like Sero or Bakugou? Sero's tape could be used to catch him, and Bakugou is really strong."
"Hey yeah...I fought him during the bom-" Hanta tried to interject, but Minoru quickly cut him off.
"You got knocked out by Springfield before you even had a chance to use your quirk," said Minoru as he folded his and sat back up straight on his seat. "So don't even try to even take partial credit."
Hanta couldn't help but groan in agreement.
"There is no need to be so cruel, Mineta," said Tenya with an arm chop. "Sero's sacrifice was needed to coax Springfield out of hiding and into the field."
"You're not helping my case, dude," Hanta followed up with a sideways glance.
"Springfield said he's been studying our quirks!" Minoru answered back, slamming the table with his tiny fists on the table again. "It wouldn't surprise me if he found weaknesses he could exploit in the time since! I think the people he named are those he either couldn't find a way to counter easily, even with support gear. Or! If he did, it would still put him at risk. Which is why he separated those who could outright beat him versus those who he said have to be clever with their quirks."
"But couldn't that just be an attempt at reverse psychology?" Mashirao interjected with a skeptical expression. "I am not the biggest fan of Bakugou. But placing him under you as a threat seems more like a way just to rile him up."
"Again...I was there against Springfield during the bomb trial!" Minoru shot back. "He did underestimate Bakugou during it because he didn't know anything about us except that he learned at the moment by testing us during the fight!"
"But when you look at his history, you can start to see a pattern! Failed the entrance exam because he was too fat? He slimmed down and ended up becoming a liaison! Failed hard in his first Sports Fest? He made it to the tournament rounds and became a Hero Course Student in his second year! Hell, the mere fact that he made it to the Big Five despite only having one year of being in the Hero Course should be setting off a ton of alarm bells! That means he had to beat 35 other students for the rank, most of who were in the Hero Course longer than he was! Every time Springfield failed, he learned, adapted, and became stronger. I repeat we're underestimating him now!"
Quite a few people couldn't help but nod in agreement with Minoru.
Out of all the members of the Big Five, Alex was the wild card. The details Itsuka had shared about Class 1-B's bomb trial differed enough from 1-A's to prove that while the American was the weakest and most inexperienced member of the Big Five. He was, without question, the most versatile member of their team, especially with their newfound knowledge about his use of the Tactical Costume System and expertise with Support Gear.
"Like, okay, I get it," Minoru followed up. "But I still say that Midoriya and Uraraka would have been the best choices to send up with Jirou scouting abilities. Midoriya's super strong and could probably figure out Springfield's new tactics, while Uraraka knows Springfield's hand-to-hand combat style! Both are on Springfield's list, and we saw how well they worked together against the First Seat!"
"Mineta, you know that one of the conditions for 1-B's cooperation was that Midoriya would sit out the primary selection," Kashiko answered back. "That way, if he got selected by random chance, those in 1-B who agreed to go wouldn't feel forced. "
"Which was a dumb thing to agree with," Minoru sighed exhaustively. "If Midoriya ends up on the team via the random selection, it still means they have to work together. So it defeats the purpose of having Midoriya sit out in the first place! And since he was forced to sit out, Uraraka refused Mizuoji's cross nomination to spite him. Now we ended up with a sub-optimal team just to save the 1-B's pride! "
"Overall, I agree with you, Mineta," Ryu spoke up while playing around with a couple of tiny pork buns with his fingers. Hearing the arguments back and forth despite the decision was just exhausting. "I think our Reps knew that going into the meeting. But the thing that you're not seeing is that also means that if the whole team fails, it's on 1-B's collective head. Or on Mizuoji's head more specifically. Since 1-A gave the most concessions, we can't be blamed even if Bakugou ends up screwing up like I think he will."
Ryu paused to look at everyone else and finished by staring at Momo, Tenya, and Minoru.
"Regardless, the selections are done, and there is no point in arguing. I think we can collectively agree that next time Reps, take our input a little more seriously, and Mineta. While your idea isn't wrong, being a dick generally doesn't help. Now stop arguing before Eri's group returns because if you scare her, you'll have to face her parents' wrath."
The Fire-eater's words were enough to quell down Minoru and surprise almost everyone else in the room. It was rare for Ryu to speak up in the class that wasn't a poorly delivered joke or just another jab at Katsuki. Yet, here he was arguably being the most mature of the lot...while still managing to take his daily pot shot at Katsuki. It wasn't even a minute later that the rest of Class 1-A, except those selected, had returned to the conference room with some snacks. While most calmly took their seats. Izuku had entered with his nose deep in his notebook, being push-guided by Ochako, still carrying Eri in her arms.
"I think my new theory behind the teams might be right," Izuku muttered to himself as he automatically took a seat next to Ochako. "I suspected that our teams were split up into some kind of set specialties. Kacchan's team is Assault; Ochako's is Rescue; Yaoyorozu's is Support; my team is made up to be Balanced. I still don't know which team is which when it comes to Class 1-B, but I have no doubt it would be divided similarly. From a defensive standpoint, the selections we went with should have a better..."
"Papa's doing it again, mama," Eri said quietly while snacking on an apple, making everyone else in Class 1-A share a quiet laugh together.
"Yep...but he wouldn't be papa without it, Eri," Ochako whispered back but still giggled at Eri's comment. While Ochako was always amazed when Izuku could put himself in these trances. The gravity girl knew she would have to interrupt to finish her side project. After her latest therapy session, Eri's doctor concluded what she and Izuku had guessed when they told her about Overhaul's escape.
UA had become a bastion of safety and security for the young unicorn child, as that is where all her heroes gathered. It was where her greatest fears had not only been defeated but overcame the fact that she was far from a cursed child. But a good girl who just needed as much love, patience, and support as possible. Thankfully, just like before, Class 1-A was more than up to the task of always prioritizing Eri's comfort. Especially since it had paid off with the little unicorn being much more open and expressive. Eri was an easy source of joy to everyone in the class; they would do what they could to protect her.
Yet, there was still one last hurdle to overcome, and Ochako was determined today to be the day Eri would jump it.
Thankfully, since Katsuki was one of the six selected and seemed to be planning to tackle Alex on his own terms. The blond bomber had taken Eijirou and Kyouka to speak with their Class 1-B counterparts for a battle plan. Which worked well for her own plans, as it seemed like the perfect chance to have Eri meet with Ryu adequately without a chance of another spat breaking out. Everything was calm; everyone was having a quiet snack time with some minor chatter here and there.
This would be her best shot.
"Umm...Izuku?" Ochako whispered, giving a gentle elbow nudge to Izuku's right arm. "Hey...Earth to Izuku!"
"Huh?" Izuku was snapped out of his usual funk as he turned to look at a giggling Ochako on his left.
"I think it's time for Eri to speak to Kasei," Ochako suggested with a whisper, making Eri look up at her surrogate parents upon hearing her name. "We might not get a chance like this again, especially since Bakugou isn't here to cause any problems."
Instantly, Ochako could see the hesitation form in Izuku's face. Thankfully, Ochako didn't have to say anything as Izuku nodded after another second or two of thinking it over. No doubt he remembered their conversation on Monday night. It was time to clear the air between him and this mysterious boy who looked like Draco Knight.
"Are you ready to speak to Kasei, Eri?" Ochako asked Eri, who suddenly got an excited look on her face.
"Really, Mama?"
"Yep," Ochako chirped with a large smile.
However, Eri looked a little concerned as she turned to face Izuku. "Can I, Papa?"
Ochako saw the subtle guilt grow on Izuku's face. Despite her lack of regular education, Eri had proven to be an observant child. She had undoubtedly picked up on some of Izuku's hesitation in speaking with the Fire-eater. Now they could see that it had gotten to the point that even after being given permission, she still had to get reassurance from him.
"Of course, Eri," Izuku reassured her with a hug while looking sad that he had placed this burden on her shoulders. 'Ochako stood by my side and refused Mizuoji's proposal to be cross selected for the 1-A team. All in the name of solidarity with me. I owe her and Eri to keep my word.'
"I'm sorry for making you worry. I was more worried about him and Kacchan fighting again." Izuku explained carefully.
It wasn't a lie; while not the primary reason, Izuku had been worried about Eri possibly getting mixed up in one of Katsuki's many spats with Ryu. Given how protective Katsuki was of Eri, added with the Blond Bomber's unfounded suspicions of the Fire-Eater. Izuku wanted to avoid sparking any more unneeded drama between the two. Thankfully, the unicorn child nodded, seemingly accepting Izuku's reasoning for not having the two speak until now. And, as if to show Eri his sincerity, Izuku turned to address Ryu directly from his corner of the table.
"Sorry, everyone, but can I please get a moment?" Izuku called out to everyone at the table, making everyone go silent.
"Is something the matter, Midoriya?" Tenya asked, concerned, as he went into Vice-President mode.
"It's nothing too serious," Izuku answered with a nervous laugh before turning to look at Ryu's golden-yellow eyes. "Kasei?"
Ryu was sitting on the opposite end of the table, next to Minoru. Had been in the middle of finishing another of his spicy pork buns. Upon being addressed by Izuku, his right eyebrow went up in surprise. At that second, golden-yellow eyes stared right into emerald ones, and the world seemed to freeze. Izuku didn't feel like he was being threatened or challenged, but there was something behind those eyes that made a chill run down his spine. Finally, much to Izuku's relief, Ryu blinked first and took a drink to swallow his food, answering when he was done.
"Yes, Midoriya?" Ryu spoke up as he lowered his cup, his voice low and peaked with interest.
"Eri would like to come and speak with you," Izuku answered as Eri looked towards the Fire-eater. "If that's okay with you?"
Almost everyone at the table looked between Izuku and Ryu, with a few like Tsuyu and Fumikage picking up what would happen given their own experiences with Eri. The Fire-eater's expression went from curious to puzzled, at least until Minoru leaned up to whisper something in his ear.
Then his expression turned to one of mild surprise.
"Ah...I see...yeah, it's fine," Ryu finally answered after processing whatever Minoru had said to him. Izuku and Ochako turned to face Eri, encouraging her to speak up. Instead, without warning, Eri hopped off Ochako's lap and scurried around the table, disappearing from their sight. Still, they could see the heads of their classmates who could continue to follow her. Finally, they saw Ryu turn around as the top of Eri's head barely became visible from the table's edge. Then, they saw her arms go up towards him.
However, unlike the two animal teens, Ryu quickly picked her up without even turning to ask Izuku or Ochako for their permission.
"Th-thank you," Eri said between soft sobs as she gave him the biggest hug she could muster. Izuku instantly felt a sharp prang of guilt and regret in his heart. Eri had clearly taken the Fire-eater's sacrifice harder than he had initially thought. Yet it was quickly as it arrived, the guilt was replaced with surprise, and he wasn't the only one.
Almost everyone at the table was left with their jaws on the floor.
"Huh?"
"Mon Dieu..."
"Whoa..."
Ryu looked so...natural as he held Eri, it was as if a completely different person was sitting in his place.
"There, there, it's okay," Ryu said with a serene look that was usually so haughty and sharp. His hold on Eri was practiced, firm, yet gentle and reassuring. His voice, which often carried either an arrogant or cool edge, was now, in no uncertain terms...brotherly. A tone filled with love and understanding as he whispered gentle reassurances to the unicorn child. The golden eye lad was even gently rocking his body back and forth ever so subtly while gently brushing the tears from her cheeks. "No more tears. Let's see that smile instead...there we go, much better, huh?"
"I have to admit, I didn't think you'd be good with kids, Kasei," Ochako said rather bluntly, making a few people sitting at the table laugh.
"Is that so?" Ryu answered with a haughty chuckle. "Well, I have to keep the illusion of being a man of mystery, eh?"
"Uraraka!" The speedster was quick to interject. "I thought you would know better than to judge our fellow classmate like that!"
"Be honest, Iida," Ochako retorted with an amused look on her face. "I saw your eyebrows go up as well. You are just as surprised as we are."
"If I did, it was completely involuntary!" Tenya replied with a swift arm chop before looking at Ryu directly. "I do my best not to judge a book by its cover."
"But sometimes the book cover is completely spot-on," said Ryu nodding towards the ever shiny Yūga, who used his two seconds of exposure to wink.
"Ribbit, honestly, I was a little surprised too," Tsuyu interjected, while Fumikage nodded in agreement. "At least until I saw the way he held Eri, ribbit. From one elder sibling to another, I can see he has a lot of practice."
"Asui's got you there, Kasei," Minoru added with a laugh.
"Yeah, guess so," Ryu said with an acknowledging nod while still brushing Eri's hair. "She's about Maki's age and height...maybe a tiny bit shorter."
"You have siblings, Kasei?" Izuku suddenly spoke up.
"Yup," Ryu answered with that warm brotherly smile again. "Three of them."
Izuku felt relief as he processed the Fire-eater's words. Ryu really wasn't anything like he had expected. Then again, he should have known better after training with Gran Torino. Ochako had been right; Izuku might have been too quick to judge Ryu. However, Izuku still had a couple more questions to ask in private. This moment could help open up a dialogue that might have been too awkward to have been done otherwise. The way to learn more about each other had been opened, all thanks to Ochako's intervention.
The group continued enjoying their time together when they were interrupted by an interesting interloper. The collective heads of Class 1-A turned their heads to see a head poking out of the door after a couple gentle knocks. It was Sen Kaibara from Class 1-B.
"Sorry to interrupt, mind if I join you all for a second? I had something interesting to relay to you guys," the young man said with a slightly nervous and awkward laugh.
"Of course!" Tenya answered promptly with a friendly smile, rising from his seat and motioning him to join them. Sen had been one of the few in Class 1-B who actively argued for Izuku's inclusion in the selection process, defying Shino's will. As such, Tenya already respected him far above his 1-B counterpart. "Please, join us, my friend."
"Thanks," Sen answered. However, he didn't take a seat; instead, he went directly to Kashiko, speaking as he did. "I was talking with Mr. Vlad, and I found out that even if we're not going to participate, we can still help out by lending support our gear to the ones selected."
"Wait, are you serious, Kaibara?" Momo asked, shocked by the revelation.
"You can double-check with Mr. Vlad if you don't believe me," Sen answered in an understanding tone. Class 1-B hasn't won many favors with Class 1-A after all."But I am here to ask Sekigai if we can borrow her screen things."
Kashiko looked at her wrist-mounted screens. "But why?"
"I remember that you had made a digital map during your battle trial with the Big Five," Sen explained as he had seen the archived footage. "And also remember how useful it was during the USJ. Hell, I still think you're the main reason why we all made it out of there alive. Your map saved us from getting ambushed."
"Oh...umm...thanks..." Kashiko answered, unable to stop a blush from forming and a few eyes narrowed as they added a new potential ship in the making. Sen, however, didn't seem to notice and continued his reasoning.
"If you still have that map from the battle trial. I thought we could use it to keep an eye on Springfield's movements and avoid any possible traps he has planned."
"That's...actually a really good idea," Izuku blurted out as he hadn't considered this a factor when it came to the selections. "But wouldn't Sekigai need to have her quirk active there?"
"Actually, my wrist-screens can keep the map data and, combined with my echolocators, could be used as a substitute for my quirk," Kashiko explained as she removed one of the black and gray rounded objects from her belt. "Like most ocular quirks, my eyes can get strained if I overuse them. The only thing they can't do is keep an eye on the status of the subjects, and their maximum range is greatly reduced. So you won't be able to tell if Springfield is injured or not, and he might be able to get far closer than we would be comfortable with considering his quirk."
"Still useful, especially if we hand it to the girl with the long earlobes," Sen added, motioning to his own ears. "I know from the negotiations she was chosen to be the team's scout, right? If she and Shishida had those wrist screens, they could increase their scouting capabilities."
"Hey!" Ochako suddenly called out, looking at Momo and making Sen jump. "Yaoyorozu!"
"Umm...yes?" Momo questioned, suddenly taken aback by Ochako's excited face.
"Can you make a bunch of flash bombs?!"
"I can make as many as I want so long as I have enough body fat...but why would...Oh! Of course! Springfield's quirk!" Momo exclaimed, rising up from her seat and opening her costume to begin producing as many flash bombs as she could. Unfortunately, she didn't give much warning to her classmates.
"NOT AGAIN!"
"MADNESS!"
"WHOA!"
"AVERT YOUR GAZE, GENTLEMAN!"
"OH, COME ON, GUYS!"
"Eri, sweetie, be a dear and help cover my eyes."
Almost every guy had either closed or covered their eyes while looking away. Ryu and Denki, however, had to team up to cover Minoru's eyes. The former having the Unicorn child assisting him with his personal endeavor, giggling at what she thought was just a silly game.
"Yaoyorozu!" Ochako exclaimed while double-checking what Izuku was doing. The greenette had used his notebook for cover, but she could still see that his forehead was a bright red. "You need to be more careful!"
"Does this happen often?!" Sen questioned aloud as he turned away and raised his coat to help cover the sides of his eyes and bright red face.
"It's happened a couple times, ribbit," Tsuyu answered with a croaking giggle as she watched Fumikage having difficulty covering his eyes and controlling Dark Shadow. Who had chosen the time to try and satisfy its curiosity. "Ribbit, I think that's enough bombs, Yaoyorozu."
"Ah...I'm sorry," Momo said with a red face as she looked at the small pile she had created and fixed up her costume. "We only have a limited time; I forgot to..."
"It is time for the randoms to be selected; please report to the Operator's station at once." The intercom suddenly announced, making everyone freeze.
"Again...My apologies, everyone," said Momo as she finished covering herself up. "Please assist me in carrying these so we may hand them to our teammates and let us depart for the Operator's room immediately."
Once again, Class 1-A and 1-B gathered in front of Vlad King and stood next to the control panel, slowly moving everyone to come closer.
"Is everyone here?" Vlad questioned, craning his neck to double-check there were no stragglers. However, he did notice the armful of strange devices that several members of Class 1-A were carrying. "Alright then, let's start the random selection."
The screen currently displayed the names of those who had already been selected by the Class Representatives.
The three from Class 1-A: Katsuki, Eijirou, and Kyouka
The three from Class 1-B: Inasa, Tetsutetsu and Jūrouta
The teacher pressed a few buttons on the console to subtract the six names from the random selection process. The screen came to life as it began to cycle through several random names at a blistering speed. Finally, after a few nail-biting seconds, two new names appeared. Instantly the mood in both Classes grew tense upon seeing that not only were the two names from Class 1-A, but one had their shares of trouble with one of their selections.
Class 1-A random: Ryu Kasei
Class 1-A random: Denki Kaminari
Two heads turned slowly to give the other their classic death glares. Katsuki's crimson eyes bore down on Ryu's unflinching yellow eyes, the irony that almost everyone feared having Izuku drawn. No one considered that this was also a possible combination. Unfortunately, they didn't have much chance to contest the results.
"Alright, you eight, head down to city hall," said Vlad King as he folded his arms. "You'll only have a short time to get ready. Best of luck to you all.
"I like the change you suggested," said Reiko as the two liaisons walked down to the hall, back in their regular uniforms. "It was simple, but it will send a powerful message to those who doubt us."
"As I said, it meant to remind us of where we started," Hitoshi followed up as they arrived in front of the door to the Operator's room; he stopped and turned to Reiko. "So...what tactic do you think Springfield will pull?"
"A delayed blitzkrieg*," Reiko answered instinctively. "If the opposing team is playing with a solid defense. What do you think?"
"I agree with your assessment, but I can't help but think that Springfield would find that too boring for his final fight at UA."
"Fair. However, while I believe Springfield is still quite the showman and will still provide an entertaining bout. He will focus on making sure the lecture sticks."
"Yeah...yeah, the more I think about it. That makes the most sense and is still right up his alley considering our training," said Hitoshi as he slowly opened the door. Allowing the two to silently slip in without being noticed by anyone else in the room. They found the tension in the room was thick as they could that everyone's eyes were focused on the screens that showed multiple camera angles. Judging by the lack of any action. It would seem like Reiko's prediction was right on the money.
However, unlike the Hero Course Students who were focused on their friends, Hitoshi could already see signs of Alexander's work.
'Ah...that's his plan. Well, it's going to be nice to see someone else experience some of Springfield's ideas about irregular combat. And maybe he just might show them a little mercy.'
'Damn it...just how long are we going to wait?!' Katsuki wondered as he kept patrolling the city hall's perimeter. It had been roughly fifty minutes since the exercise started, and there was still no sign of Alex. To him, it was pretty obvious to see what his former upperclassman was doing. As every minute passed, his patience grew thinner while his team grew tenser.
"Earlobes, any match on the map?" Katsuki barked out to his earpiece. `
"Nothing yet," Kyouka answered as she had been left in charge of Kashiko's wrist screen.
"Windbreaker?" Katsuki followed up with Inasa, who was still flying above them.
"Nothing up here."
"What about your map, Furry? Smell anything yet?"
"My name is Shishida, and like Ms. Jirou. My map is drawing up a blank, and I have yet to detect Springfield's scent. I have, however, continued to pick up your scent," Jūrouta answered as he continued to patrol his side of the perimeter opposite Katsuki. "May I recommend an antiperspirant deodorant to reduce your scent's profile?'
"Shut up, furry! I don't smell! Plus, that shit would mess with my quirk!" Katsuki roared as he double-checked his surroundings. 'Goddamn foreigner...'
Everyone else was inside the fake city hall building. Eijirou and Tetsutetsu would guard the flag room with Kyouka in the mayor's office. While Ryu and Denki remained hidden from view to try and keep Alex guessing on who the randoms were, that and to keep the fire-eater and him as far away from each other as they could. Even now, Katsuki would occasionally spot Denki's blonde hair poking out the side of the windows or the tiniest glimpse of Ryu leaning to take a peek.
"Man, this sucks," He heard Denki complain over his earpiece. "I hate waiting like this...can't Springfield just get it over with?"
"You're going to regret saying that, Kaminari," Ryu followed up."He's here; everyone, keep your heads down!"
"What?" Katsuki spoke up, looking around everywhere he could, and found nothing. "ASS BREATH, I SWEAR YOU BETTER NOT BE FUCKING AROUND!"
"I just saw the glint of a rifle scope on a rooftop of one of the buildings northwest of city hall, about 200~250 meters away," Ryu answered with annoyance. "Keep your head down before you get sniped, idiot!"
As much as Katsuki hated him, he still listened and took cover behind the building's wall on the south side.
"Earlobes?! Can you confirm what Ass Breath is saying?"
"Damn it, Sekigai's map only goes about 150 meters...I'll try, and ARGHHH!"
"OY, WHAT THE HELL IS GOING?!" Katsuki yelled out as he moved and ran to the opposite building, hoping to use each building as cover until he got to the sniper's nest Ryu spotted. The weird part was that there was no gunshot or anything to indicate what could have possibly hurt Kyouka. 'DOES THE GUY HAVE A SILENCER OR SOME SHIT?!'
However, he was picking some strange buzzing sound somewhere nearby; he just couldn't pinpoint where it was coming from.
"Don't know, man! She just started losing it!" Eijioru replied as Kyouka's screams could be heard even through her earpiece.
"WAS SHE SHOT?"
"No!" Denki answered nervously as Katsuki could hear Kyouka's screams and violent thrashing around again. "One moment Jirou's fine, and the next thing you know, this is happening!"
"SHE'S NOT THE ONLY ONE! SHISHIDA'S DOWN TOO! I'M GOING TO HELP HIM!"
"Wait..." Katsuki ordered as he realized Alex was clearly placing the pieces as he wanted them. "WINDBREAKER, STOP!"
THOMP!
POOF!
BANG, BANG, BANG, BANG, BANG, BANG!
"WINDBREAKER, ANSWER ME!" Katsuki yelled as he tried to peek and get a better view of the situation. However, he was only met with radio silence and a large cloud of pinkish smoke rising a distance away. After a heart-pounding minute or two, Katsuki finally called out.
"OY! ASS BREATH! WHAT CAN YOU SEE?!"
"Springfield's taken out Shishida and Yoarashi! And he...OH SHIT! HEY, HIT THE DECK!"
BANG, BANG!
THOMP!
Katsuki looked to see one of the top windows of the city hall shatter, followed shortly by a sizeable white-colored bullet arc into the newly made opening of the window.
POOF
The window began to emit a large amount of white misty smoke. As Katsuki began moving from spot to spot, trying to get a better angle to attack, he saw three of Momo's flash bombs arcing into the opening. A couple moments later, the bombs went off with a deafening blast.
BOOM BOOM BOOM!
"GODDAMN IT!" Katsuki roared as he gave up his original plan and moved to defend his team's flag. Blasting from his position, he had planned to use one of the unbroken windows to see the situation as Katsuki suspected the white mist wasn't as bad as the pink mist from earlier.
Well...that was the plan, at least, until Alex zoomed right next to him and kneed the blond bomber on the left side of his body. Knocking him out of the air and to the ground with a heavy crash. Katsuki did his best to ignore the pain and quickly rose up to blast his foe, only to see that he was gone.
"STOP HIDING AND FIGHT ME, YOU COWARD!"
"I'm right here!" Said Alex's distorted voice to his right.
BOOM, Katsuki turned and instinctively blasted where he heard Alex's voice.
"Ooohh...SO CLOSE!"
BOOM, again, Katsuki blasted towards Alex's voice and where he suspected Alex would be moving next.
"ARGH!"
"GOT YA!" Katsuki roared as he blasted where he had heard his opponent scream. Only to be rewarded by being hit with a soft pouch that burst into a heavy mist of thick white powder that coated and clung to his sweaty body.
"Ugh! DAMN IT, WHAT IS SHIT IS THIS?!" Katsuki spluttered out as he started to rapidly blast away randomly, trying to keep the American on guard. Not noticing that his blasts were getting progressively weaker and smaller.
BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOM BOOMboom boom boom...
BANG, BANG, BANG, BANG!
Katsuki's back was suddenly peppered by four shock-shot bullets that forced the blonde bomber on his knees as his back muscles were spasming painfully. However, despite the pain and trying to regain control of his muscles, Katsuki could hear Alex reload his gun and motion to blast where he heard the sound. Only this time, nothing happened except a faint hiss.
"What?! Why won't...?"
"Looks like my ideas were right on the money," Alex said with a haughty laugh as he finally revealed himself from the cloud of smoke with a jet-black six-shot revolver.
Alex's Assault Suit reminded briefly reminded Katsuki of Snipe. However, it was more accurate to say that it made him look like a cross between a SWAT officer. Since he had an armored tactical vest in a navy blue jumpsuit and a cowboy complete with the fucking hat and boots that included black iron spurs. Yet, he maintained elements from his other costumes, such as the cloth rings and armored gauntlets. Finally, it was topped off by his trademarked long coat with his blue eye emblem and a jester's black mask fitted with compact gas filler and black frames over its eyes to shield them from flashes.
"I knew the dog whistle would work on Shishida, but Jirou was just a bonus! As for you...well, I didn't expect the talcum powder to kick in that quickly! But I do love the extra-strength version for my feet! Keeps them nice and dry!"
Katsuki went to grab one of his grenades.
BANG, BANG!
"Nice try, but I'm not giving you a chance to fight back this time. This time, I'm going to make sure that when I knock you down, you stay down."
Only to have one bullet knock it out of his hand. While the second struck him dead in the stomach, which was again followed by an angry shock that made the muscles in his belly contract and constrict painfully. It took everything in Katsuki's willpower to steady his breathing and avoid throwing up his breakfast.
"If these were real bullets, you'd be dead right now," Alex said coldly, even from the black frames he wore to cover his bright blue eyes. Their glow was still noticeable as he lifted his arm, showing that he had one of Kashiko's wrist screens. Likely taken from Jūrouta after defeating him. "This might be the stopper version, but the real version of this gun chambered in .357 magnum. Many of you lack any type of body armor, while understandable here. It means when the once in awhile villain is packing heat, all it would take is one lucky shot. Just something to consider if you're going to raid a villain's hideout. Speed can only help you so many times."
"THEN TAKE US ON FOR SIZE!" Eijirou and Tetsutetsu roared as the former leaped out one of the windows of the fake city hall while the latter followed shortly behind him. The two were ready for a rematch in their hardened forms. "WE'RE BULLET PRO-"
BANG, BANG, BANG, BANG!
"Don't announce your presence to your enemy like that," Alex answered calmly as he emptied his gun into the hardened defenders. While the bullets had forced Eijirou to stop temporarily, Tetsutetsu was able to utterly resist the shock shots and continue his charge without losing speed.
"LIKE I SAID! BULLETPROOF!"
In a fluid and practiced motion, Alex casually holstered his handgun, drew a round temped glass vial of a dark green liquid from a back pouch, and slung it towards the metal lad's face. At this range and speed, Tetsutetsu could only brace for impact and hold his breath. Hoping that it wasn't anything too bad.
SPLAT!
"GAH, DAMN, WHAT IS THIS STUFF?!" Tetsutetsu growled as he tried to get rid of the green sticky substance.
"A slightly thicker than average paint," Alex answered, knowing that the glass and liquid itself wouldn't hurt him. Still, the now revealed green paint coated enough the iron's lad face to block several senses like his eyes, nose, and mouth. The metal lad's attempts to manually remove the paint only made things worse. It didn't help that Alex took a moment to rocket kick Tetsutetsu into the ground with both feet connecting with the boy's metallic chest, using his quirk to propel him.
"So you might be bulletproof, but you're clearly not paint-proof," Alex commented as he got back to his feet. Only to see Eijirou follow up for his own counterattack. Eijirou attempted several strikes, but Alex nimbly dodged his blows, avoiding striking the rock-hard lad. Eijirou did his best to try and be faster, but Alex was now at the top of his game and entirely on the defensive.
'At least I can buy time doing this!' He thought as he saw Katsuki getting up. However, it seemed like Alex had noticed as well as he saw the American draw his gun again with his right hand and begin to aim it towards the bomber. "NOT THIS TIME!"
Eijirou couldn't see the smile on Alex's face behind his mask as the American dropped the gun and used his now free hand to block and grab Eijirou's left arm, pulling forward. While Alex's left hand had drawn another weapon that looked like an enlarged flaregun. The poor lad had just walked into Alex's trap.
THOMP!
A 25mm rubber slug slammed into Eijirou's rock-hard face at nearly point-blank range. While it didn't hurt him, it was strong enough to knock him off balance. That was all the American needed. Eijirou suddenly felt himself being moved faster than he could process as Alex moved towards Katsuki with his quirk and took him along for the ride. Only for Alex to then use Eijirou as a literal human club to slam Katsuki back onto the ground.
"While smart that you were paying attention to my hand, Kirishima," said Alex as he let go of the dazed lad. "That gun was empty, but I still used it to make an opening. You and Tetsutetsu might be strong enough for most of my gear to be useless against you. But that doesn't mean I can't make you two into my makeshift weapons instead."
Eijirou managed to get up in time to see a few of Momo's flash bombs roll right next to him and Katsuki. The lad didn't hesitate to protect his more vulnerable teammate by pushing him away and jumping on top of them. Taking the full impact of the explosions left the now exhausted Eijirou out cold as he returned to his normal form.
Katsuki coughed as he again tried to get back to his feet, only to find Alex was standing right in front of him. Despite being surprised, the bomber wasted no time and attempted to strike the foreigner with a vicious right hook. However, Katsuki couldn't take advantage of his quirk to speed it up as the extra weight that his gauntlet placed on his arm was now slowing him down. At the same time, the occasional uncontrollable muscle spasm in the connecting nerves throbbed painfully.
Alex quickly blocked and countered with a few rapidly vicious punches to Katsuki's midsection.
"I found those makeshift flash bombs on Shishida and Yoarashi," Alex explained as he continued striking Katsuki's stomach and diaphragm until, at last, the bomber finally threw up. Calmly, Alex allowed Katsuki to drop to his knees while double-checking on the hard twins. Eijirou was still out. While Tetsutetsu was having some luck getting rid of the paint by grinding his metal face against the road. Which gave Alex a fun idea. "Yaoyorozu needs to make sure not to repeat the same design every time! I recognized them from footage when she made one for Uraraka to use against Mirio! Smart to go for my eyes, but seeing you here, Bakugou, I knew exactly what you wanted to do! Now I get to have a bit more revenge in more than one way!"
'What the hell does he...?' Katsuki mentally questioned between heavy, painful breaths. Only to have Alex kneel to his level, putting the lad into a tight headlock, and begin dragging the bomber a few feet away. He tried fighting back, but Alex quickly subdued him without much effort by striking his head repeatedly. Once in a position Alex was happy with, he forced Katsuki's left arm up and pointed it towards Tetsutetsu.
Then it clicked.
"I recalled you used this against me using the bomb trial. It may have missed, but damn, if it didn't scare the shit out of me. It's not a bad idea for a combat hero, but these gauntlets should only be used when you can afford the room...With a fluid flick of his fingers, Alex pulled the pin of Katsuki's grenade gauntlet and released it. "AND AVOID FRIENDLY FIRE! NOW LET'S SEE WHAT IT CAN DO, WOOOOOO!"
BOOOOOM!
Tetsutetsu didn't stand a chance. He only had enough time to briefly look at the light shining toward him. Only then be engulfed by the powerful blast Katsuki's grenade gauntlet produced. As the blast died down and the smoke cleared, Alex and Katsuki could see Tetsutetsu was embedded into the wall, still in his hardened formed though that didn't last long.
"Damn..." was all Tetsutetsu could cough out as his body returned to normal and slumped against the wall, barely conscious, even from this distance. Alex could tell that the boy was just doing his best not to lose consciousness despite how exhausted he already was. Neither way, Alex wasn't going to take any chances.
"Nap time," said Alex as he began squeezing on the bomber's neck; Katsuki struggled to do everything he could until he finally blacked out. Alex double-checked that Katsuki was still breathing correctly before tying him up with straps made from the same carbon alloy cloth used in Eraserhead's scarf. He had plenty of time to secure them before heading out to catch their flag.
"Now! Time to hog-tie ya!"
"Holy whoa..." said Izuku as he added several new notes to his notebook. "Springfield is amazing...He's even incorporated elements from our teachers into his tactics..."
"What do you mean?" Tenya questioned as his bright red eyes were left wide, seeing that Alex was happily stealing the remaining grenades off Katsuki's belt.
"His initial gambit was a misdirection. He planted that rifle so it would be spotted and force everyone to hide, so that has elements of Mr. Aizawa."
"A logical ruse..." Momo quoted while biting the tip of her thumb as she remembered hearing Midnight complain about the man's old teaching methods. Of course, she was also feeling terrible about how her bombs had been more of a detriment than a benefit to her team. Alex's outspoken comments point out her folly. 'I should have known better! Why did I reuse the same design...or is the only design I actually remember?'
"The guns are clearly an element from Mr. Snipe, but his use of those sleeping gas things are from Ms. Kayama," Izuku continued as he flipped through more of his notes.
"You're right, Midori..." Mina followed up as she remembered their homeroom teacher's quirk. "She can put people to sleep. But I didn't know they could make bullets like that..."
"They not common as they tend to be very weak and ineffective," Izuku explained, while not his field of expertise. He had done some research into this during his quirkless rut. "But they can disturb an opponent's mental focus, especially if they're already sleepy. Perfect for helping make a follow-up attack much more effective like we saw against Shishida and Yoarashi."
"There is also Present Mic..." Shouto spoke up, surprising everyone. "Springfield's initial assault began with some kind of sound attack, judging from Shishida and Jirou's reactions. However...it didn't affect everyone else, so I could be wrong..."
"Maybe a dog whistle?" Hanta suggested as he had seen his uncle use one on his dogs. "No offense to Shishida, but that's my best guess since only he and Jirou heard the sound. Dog whistles to make a sound in a frequency average humans can't, but I bet those with advanced hearing could. "
"That makes sense," Izuku nodded in agreement. "Good catch, Sero."
"Thanks..."
"Yeah...I think Springfield's got this in the bag," Kyoko finally spoke up as the rest of Class 1-A, and Class 1-B were as white as ghosts. Alex had finished securing Katsuki and was now moving to secure the hardy boys but stopping to pick up his dropped handgun first. The remaining liaisons had joined shortly after Hitoshi and Reiko. Except for Jou Mori, who had taken Eri under the guise to taste-test more snacks and avoiding having the little girl watch the carnage unfold on the screen.
"Is this what the Big Five is really capable of?" Itsuka couldn't help but question as she watched Alex tie up Eijirou. "They had all said they had been holding back during the bomb trial...but this is..."
"Did you think Springfield was lying to you all about what he said to you earlier?" Vlad King asked aloud to everyone in the room. "About how Tōgata would able to fight all of you at once in the nude and win? If you want my honest opinion...I believe he's correct."
"Just how strong is the Big Five?!" Mashirao asked. He had already felt the massive gap between them and their elite counterparts. But after seeing Alex take five out of their eight teammates without taking a single hit. The gap now felt like an impassable chasm he could only dream of reaching. "I know the third years have a lot of experience, but how they're talked about makes them seem like top-level Pro-Heroes!"
"Normally, The yearly Big Five are only above-average when compared to most students," Vlad explained as Alex finished securing Eijirou and moved on to Tetsutetsu. The American still had twenty minutes left on the clock. "This year's group, however, raised the bar considerably. The irony is that Springfield wasn't originally a member. The first through fourth spots were safely secured during last year's Sports Festival. However, the Fifth Seat is always the most vulnerable as challenges come from the bottom up. The poor lad who held spot only had it for two weeks before Springfield got through with him."
"Are you telling us Springfield defeated the original Fifth Seat and took their spot?" Momo questioned as she watched Minoru looking rather pleased with himself.
"Defeated is an understatement," Kyoko interjected with a laugh. "Ever heard of the traditional Second Year, Hero Course, Civil War event?"
A few heads nodded, while most looked mystified by this new information.
"It's held near the end of every Second Year for the Hero Course as a final exam," Izuku answered as he looked over his notes again. According to his mother, his father, Hisashi, had been a member of the Villain Team during his second year and had lost. Hell, most UA Civil Wars ended with a Hero Team victory.
"Yup!" Kiyoko followed up. "Two people are selected as leaders of the Hero and Villain teams. Last year, Springfield was selected to be Villain Team Leader. With the former Fifth Seat as the Hero Team Leader. The results...were painful, to say the least."
"Define painful?" Sen asked with a gulp.
"The Hero Team had 32 members, while the Villain team only had 8...plus the 2 General Studies Liaisons who sided with Springfield's team. The results? A flawless victory. 5 days of Springfield's team, completing each event challenge without a single loss and it ended with him personally capturing the Hero Team Leader at the end," Kyoko answered as she produced an SD card. "My senior in the Journalism Division showed me the footage after he finished Springfield's exit interview. The dude did not show a single ounce of mercy to even his friends that sided against him."
"So were the rest of the Big Five with Springfield, then?"
"Only, Shouji was on the Villain Team," Kyoko followed up, ready to hand the SD card to Izuku, only to hold it back with a wink. "I humbly ask you'd be my first time."
Instantly both classes went into an uproar, forgetting what was on the screen and turning to see this apparent development.
"WHAT THE FUCK?!"
"YOOOO!"
"I DIDN'T KNOW MIDORIYA WAS A PLAYER!"
"IT'S THOSE DRAGON GENES, MAN!"
"STOP MIDORIYA FROM BUILDING A HAREM!"
"OH SHIT!"
"URARAKA, GO CLAIM YOUR MAN!"
"HUSSY ALERT!"
"MISS MIKAMI! THAT IS MOST INAPPROPRIATE!"
Izuku instantly felt Ochako grab hold of his left arm while staring daggers at the laughing liaison.
"I! Well...I mean! Wait, for what?! Ahhhh...I don't..."
"Oh good lord, all of you have such dirty minds! I meant an interview! Duh!" Kiyoko followed up now that she had her fun and gave Izuku the SD card. "I'd love to pick your brain, Midoriya. I've had my eye on you for a while now!"
"Oh! Yeah, that's...that's fine...I...I guess?" Izuku followed up with a nervous laugh as he accepted the memory card. While Ochako still held on to his arm with an iron grip. "This...should be great for learning new tactics."
"Oh shit! Kasei's on the field!" Minoru pointed at the screen, making everyone focus back on the practical. Alex had finished securing Tetsutetsu, only to grab the metal lad and dodge the blast of fire, except for Alex's cowboy hat as it was quickly turned into ashes. Judging from what Ryu had equipped, the costume wasn't the only new thing in the fire-eater's arsenal.
Alex had actually hoped to fight Ryu once he discovered he had a new costume.
The fact that Ryu had done a complete design overhaul without any prompt other than his experience at the USJ said a lot about the boy's thought process. Yet, Alex's instincts started to kick in, telling him the fire-eater was holding back. Despite being in a much larger and bulkier costume, Ryu could move quicker than he expected. Which raised several questions in the American's head.
"Interesting!" Alex said as he dodged Ryu's staff jabs while using his riot shield to block incoming fire from Alex's guns. Thanks to the lack of penetrating power typical in non-lethal ammunition, Alex's guns couldn't do much against Ryu's shield. While the fire-eater's new costume's armor stopped the rest when Alex had managed to outflank him. "A costume designed for fire rescue work modified to withstand heavy combat. Not a bad idea!"
"Yeah, I almost bit it during the USJ mostly due to the lack of body armor," Ryu answered as he blasted a jet of hellish flames from his helm. While Alex dodged it with ease, the flames remained in the form of a wall. "My quirk is good for fighting fires, but I still need to worry about debris landing on me."
"Yet, it doesn't affect your mobility?" Alex followed up as he continued moving to try to find weaknesses in Ryu's armor by taking potshots where he suspected said weaknesses to be located.
Ryu remained silent as he raised his shield to block some of the rubber bullets coming his way. He was simply doing his best to keep Alex at a reasonable distance, but without giving him an opening to get too close. His goal right now was to simply buy time for Kyouka and Denki to hide with their flag.
Alex realized he wouldn't get a direct answer regarding his opponent's surprising movement speed. So, he decided to go for a more lateral approach to hopefully get some answers. Thankfully, he had a solid idea of where to start. "You didn't strike me as a designer, judging by the notes you provided from your first costume. Unless you secretly have the gift of a promising artist."
"My little brother did a lot of research for the design, and I'm grateful for it."
"Ah! I can relate. My cousin Lucy helped design each of my costumes. So...you in came here alone, right? I will go on a limb and place a safe bet that your team's flag is gone. Likely taken by Jirou and the other random, right?" said Alex as he readied a second glass vial with bright white paint.
"Yep... the guys outside gave us enough time to do that," Ryu retorted as he carefully kept his eyes focused on the American's hands. However, just behind his shield was another of Momo's flash bombs prepped just in case. He just needed to get the mask off the American's face. "They should be well hidden by now."
"Not likely," Alex followed up as he slowly circled his opponent. "I'm willing to bet Jirou was still pretty shaken up from earlier. So she'll slow down her escort, assuming they don't leave her behind."
'Damn...Kaminari did have to help Jirou out when they leave the base,' Ryu thought as he followed the American. However, it ultimately didn't matter. Alex was still here and didn't know where Kyouka and Denki had taken their flag.
"Still, I have to double-check the base before I really go and search for them," Alex confessed. His eyes began to glow blue from behind his mask as he flung the glass vial towards Ryu's helm. "Neither way, it won't take long!"
"Not so fast!" Ryu roared as he quickly raised his shield up to block the vial, while he also dropped and kicked Momo's flash bomb. Only to see one of Katsuki's grenades roll right under his shield. "SHIT!"
BOOM!
BOOM!
Alex had disappeared, gaining enough distance to avoid any damage, while Ryu was blasted away from his shield. However, upon his return. The American was surprised to see Ryu had recovered quickly despite getting blasted by the grenade and had already started to get back up to his feet.
"Nope!"
THOMP!
"Urk!"
Alex drew his grenade launcher and shot Ryu, who had only been up for a split second, with a giant rubber slug dead center of his body. Right around the diaphragm. The effect was instantaneous; Ryu's costume may have been armored. But even armor can be dented with enough concussive force, as seen when Ryu was left on his knees, wheezing and coughing hard from the slug's impact.
"Here, have a few more gifts from Bakugou," said Alex as he threw the remainder of Katsuki's grenades at the fire-eater.
Ryu managed to react quick enough to brace for impact. However has proven earlier that while his new armor was strong, it wasn't strong enough to withstand several concussive blasts. When the dust settled, the fire-eater was left limp on the street. Alex reloaded his grenade launcher with his last rubber shell and removed Kashiko's now useless wrist screen.
"Better check if he's still alive," said Alex as he slowly walked forward, keeping his weapon trained on Ryu's body. As the American got close, he felt his heart sink as he couldn't hear any breathing. Alex quickly knelt down, only to have Ryu's fist connect with his face, shattering the mask and causing the first amount of damage the former senior actually received.
"Got you," Ryu managed to wheeze out with a grin as his arm dropped; the lad was completely spent after that last sucker punch. "I call that a personal win."
"Son of a gun," said Alex with his voice no longer altered as he was forced to remove the shattered pieces of his beloved mask and took a few steps back. "You held your breath! Hahahaha! Clever! Finally! Someone who thinks outside the box!"
"Eh...I saw the chance and took it," Ryu sighed as he slowly turned and rolled on his back. "Ow...I'm not moving anytime soon."
"I'll take your word for it," said Alex as he straightened himself up and pulled out a smartphone-looking device. "Sweet, my drone is still online! Thank you, Lucy, for the solar power idea. Now...time to find where your flag is. Turning on the echo locator mode...since they couldn't have gone too far...and...there we go!"
"I think we're good now," said Denki as he gently propped their flag against the corner of the walls. At the same time, Kyouka simply laid down on the floor, her shaky limbs grateful for a chance to rest while using Denki's jacket as a pillow. After Ryu agreed to play decoy, they managed to take shelter in one of the fake shops near city hall. "We got six minutes left on the clock. So as long as Springfield doesn't find us, we should still be able to win."
"Uhuh," was all Kyouka could say as she still hadn't completely recovered from the dog whistle or Momo's bombs that had almost discombobulated her. All she wanted was for the vertigo and painful ringing in her ears to stop. The only reason she wasn't entirely out of it was because Denki, bless the lad. Had managed to shield Kyouka with his body just before Momo's bombs went off, protecting her from the worst of the blast.
"Sorry...I can't do much..." said Kyouka as tears welled up in her eyes, whether from the pain or just feeling useless. She had gone from feeling great for being chosen to represent not just her team but to make up for her failure during the bomb trial. Denki slid down against the wall, sitting right next to her head. "Mizuoji was right...Uraraka should have taken my place..."
"Hey, hey! None of that," Denki countered, feeling guilty and useless. "You got picked cause you have a great skill. Sure...that skill got used against you..."
Kyouka, in all of her delirium and pain, couldn't help but snort with a chuckle. Yeah, Denki sucked at convincing her that she was worth a damn. But damn if he didn't try and also make her laugh doing it.
"But at least you were chosen because everyone had the confidence in you," Denki continued, his voice becoming somber. "No one even looked my way. I had to be the random moron who's completely useless except for carrying the damn flag."
"You're not useless...you made a half-decent shield," Kyouka tried to jape but noticed Denki's heart rate slump as if she could hear it sink. 'Shit...that comment must've hit him harder than I thought...'
"Yeah...I guess you're right about that," Denki retorted with an awkward laugh; yet, Kyouka could still hear the slump of his hurt heart. That wasn't only the thing she could hear...there was also some kind of strange buzzing sound nearby. "I just wish I could have been more useful...I mean, you should have seen Mineta earlier. He was just going on and on about how the team was formed and how we should have told Mizuoji to go shove it. Damn, you'd think he was Midoriya with the way he was talking. Then there's Kasei. Sure, I shielded you, but he kicked bombs under the furniture and had the idea to take the flag. I jus-"
"Shh!" Kyouka quietly hissed as she placed a finger to her lips as her earjacks picked up a distinctly metallic sound getting closer, while that buzzing sound grew louder.
Denki slowly rose up and let electricity build up on his hands; keeping crouched, the shocking blond took a few steps towards the fake storefront window. That's when he saw a small gray helicopter drone flying a few feet away from the window with a blinking red light. "What the hell? Is that a drone?"
The drone's blinking red light suddenly turned green, and Denki jumped as Kyouka began screaming again.
"AGH!"
Denki didn't even hesitate. He blasted the drone through the window with a furious expression. The glass shattered while the drone exploded with a burst of electricity and flames as it lost power and shattered on the street. Denki didn't waste any time and quickly rushed back to Kyouka's side, her screams had stopped, but fresh tears were running down her face.
"Jirou! You alright?! I blew up the thing that I think was hurting you!" Denki asked, relieved that she was no longer in pain, and to his surprise, she threw herself at him with a tight hug.
"Th-thanks...for making it stop..."
"Uh...yeah! Anytime!"
"Ah! Found you!"
The teens turned to see that Alex had blinked into the room with a wide grin. He took a few steps forward to get a better angle with his handgun at the ready, only for his face to go from excited to surprise to looking a little embarrassed.
"Whoaaa...am I interrupting something here?"
Denki and Kyouka look at him, then at each other, and back at him as they realize what he was implying. Kyouka instantly let go, denying anything and everything that could have been going through the American's mind. Denki, however, was somewhere between blissful at the idea and disappointed that the moment had indeed been interrupted, even if it wasn't romantic.
Denki just liked the hug.
"I mean...it's not the time or place," Alex continued with a goofy grin, speaking over Kyouka's denials while casually holstering his weapon and walking past them. "But I'm not one to interrupt young love when I see it! It's super cute! 10 out 10 would ship again!"
"IT'S NOT LIKE THAT!"
"Regardless if it is or isn't," Alex replied as he gently walked towards their flag at the corner and grabbed it. "Victory's mine!"
Kyouka went silent while Denki froze.
Alex had managed to distract both of them without so much as firing a shot.
"THE FLAG HAS BEEN CAPTURED!" The intercom announced for everyone to hear. "Winner: Infiltrator!"
A few hours later and the day was nearly over.
The mood had been relatively mixed, while almost everyone felt down by their collective loss by Alex's hand. There were some general positives, such as Izuku being able to compensate for the lack of Alex's notes with his own. As a matter of fact, despite their loss, almost everyone in both classes had at least gained a solid grasp of Quirk-Costume synergy. Which allowed for new ideas for upgrading their setups.
It also helped that upon returning from lunch with Jou, Eri had noticed the downturn mood and resolved to give everyone (in Class 1-A) hugs which quickly rose everyone's spirits up. While Midnight assured them that they would all get another chance to earn those notes in the future. Just not before their first round of internships.
As Izuku finished changing out of his costume, he noticed that only Ryu, Denki, and Minoru had remained.
He figured that not only would Ryu's new costume would take a little longer to remove, considering how long it took him to put on. Despite being finished and wanting to return to homeroom, Izuku wanted to see if he could speak to Ryu privately, so he waited for the trio's conversation to finish. And much to Izuku's surprise, they were having quite the interesting conversation he didn't expect from them.
"Damn...I still feel terrible for fucking up it up in the end," Denki said with a long sigh. "I just need to keep Springfield at bay for a few more minutes. But I got distracted by being worried about Jirou."
"Don't worry about man. We all fucked up one way or another," Ryu reassured his friend as he struggled to remove the black overalls that were usually hidden under the armored overcoat. The fire-eater was still wheezing and featured a dark bruise in the center of his torso. "I don't blame you for looking out for your girl. Those screams were pretty damn haunting when I heard it the first time."
"You were a random!" Minoru piped up as he helped spray some medicated gel on Ryu's bruises. "That was always going to be a crap shoot for you!"
"Yeah, but at least Mr. MVP somehow managed to hit the guy! Despite also being a random!"
"My finest hour," Ryu replied with a sarcastically charged wheeze. "Ow! Easy on the spray, Mineta!"
"Shaddup," Minoru followed up as he continued spraying. "You're lucky; I owe you a favor. I'd normally reserve my special treatment for all the school's fair maidens."
"What maidens?" Denki and Ryu said in unison, only to look at each other, point, and then high-five each other. "HA!"
Even Izuku had to bite his lip not to laugh at the trio's antics.
"Well, shitting on Mineta aside. Of course, I got some idea for my upgrade, next to body armor. I want to see if I can upgrade my stun rod," Denki said with a grin. "Imagine if they can make it on a lightning sword! How cool would that shit be?!"
"Good for robots," Minoru answered, shaking his head. "But would probably kill someone, Kaminari. Assuming you don't end up short-circuiting yourself trying to use it."
"Oh yeah? And what do you have planned for your costume, smart guy?"
"Honestly, I want that Hookshot thing you used back during the bomb trial. The only problem is I can't power it on my own."
"Maybe a hyper-pressure O2 or CO2 capsule?" Ryu suggested as he carefully replaced his shirt. "You're pretty lightweight, right, Mineta? You should consider having a Hookshot made that uses those instead of battery packs. Those are lighter, smaller, much easier to carry when it needs to be reloaded."
"Damn, that's actually a good idea..." Minoru said to himself, and Izuku had to agree.
"What do you think about replacing the metal plates of my armor with Quirk-Warped Steel**?" Ryu followed up with his hand to his chin. "I heard it's super tough but also very lightweight."
"That would obliterate your stipend budget in a heartbeat," Minoru commented with a low whistle. "There aren't many people with the right quirks that help produce Quirk-Warped metals. Plus, the manufacturing processes are often considered state secrets by the countries that produce them. The private market for them is minimal. Only very rich Pro-Heroes could afford enough raw material to make what you're asking, and that's not even involving the amount of paperwork to order a small amount of metal. Let alone enough for what you want."
"What about the training robots? Like the Zero Pointer? No way something that big could work without some kind of Quirk-warped metal."
'He's partly right,' Izuku thought as he researched Quirk-Altered materials. 'The Zero Pointers are partly constructed of Quirk-Warped metals to help support its weight. But all of the alloy used in their construction was recycled from government public works projects that ended up with a surplus. UA itself has never ordered Quirk-Warped Steel or other Quirk-altered alloys.'
"Damn...well, I'll see what the Support course can do for me then," Ryu sighed in disappointment.
"It's not a bad idea," Denki interjected with a chuckle. "Just an expensive one!"
The conversation continued for a bit longer until Ryu started to pack up his briefcase, which had to be bigger to account for all of the new things it had to carry. Thankfully for Izuku, the trio disbanded shortly afterward, with Minoru and Denki heading back to homeroom with their briefcases. This was his chance.
Once he was sure that the two were alone, Izuku called him out.
"Hey...Kasei?"
"Fucking hell!" Ryu jumped when Izuku called him out, thinking he had been alone. "I thought you were long gone, Midoriya!"
"Sorry, I actually wanted to speak with you again...alone this time."
Ryu looked at him with suspicious eyes. "What about?"
"Well," Izuku started up while he had thought about this moment since lunch. It was still tricky how to begin, so he started with what he thought was the most paramount. "I wanted to say thank you and that I'm sorry."
Ryu looked confused as he crossed his arms. "For what?"
"Thank you for helping save everyone back in the USJ, and...I'm sorry for delaying Eri from thanking you."
"Ah...yeah, Mineta told me about that during lunch," Ryu commented with a hum. "As cold as it sounds, and while I appreciate the thought. I didn't save them just to be thanked."
"It was important for Eri," Izuku followed up with a guilty look on his face. "She needed to do it for her own sake."
"I see..."Ryu looked into Izuku's eyes again, his piercing golden-yellow carefully reading his face. "Yet, you said you had delayed her from speaking to me? Why is that?"
"Well...part of the reason was because of Kacchan," Izuku answered, unable to look Ryu in the eyes.
"Tch, figures," Ryu said with an annoyed tongue click. "That yapping Pomeranian is really starting to grind my gears."
"But he's not the only reason," Izuku quickly followed up, not wanting to drag Katsuki down. "Nor even the primary reason."
"Oh?"
Izuku was careful with his next few words. After all, it was time to really get to know Ryu and see if there was any connection between him and his father. Finally, he looked at his father's doppelganger and spoke about what had been eating at his mind.
"I'm not sure if you know this. But you actually look a lot like my dad...And there are rumors that my father had been...unfaithful to my mom."
Ryu's face went from curious to puzzled, then simply went blank. The two simply stared at each other, with Izuku doing everything he could to keep a straight face and not let his growing anxiety overwhelm him. Yet, Ryu just stood there, silent as the grave and staring at him with that blank stare. Until, at last, Izuku heard it. Ryu's face began to contort as the boy burst into a fit of wheezing laughter.
"HAHAHAHA...wai-wait," Ryu managed to say, struggling to speak between wheezes, and the tears started running down his face. "You...you...you think! Hahahaha!"
Izuku didn't know what to say; hell, he didn't expect this reaction from the fire-eater. Izuku expected the boy to withdraw, deflect, or deny it outright. He didn't foresee the boy struggling to answer due to a heavy fit of laughter.
"Oh shit," Ryu said as he managed to regain control of himself. "I needed that laugh!"
Once Ryu recovered and cleared his throat, he looked at Izuku with a smirk on his face. "So...you think I could be Draco Knight's bastard, eh? A story of long-lost half-siblings, Midoriya?"
"I...I don't know..." Izuku answered honestly, facing away from the fire-eater. As childish as it sounded, Izuku hadn't thought about that aspect of the question. He had been more focused on Eri and learning more about his father. He didn't consider if the rumor was true, and Ryu answered in the positive. It would mean that he had a brother. "I learned a lot of new things about my dad recently...things I had no idea that was even possible. Despite being raised by him until he died."
"I see..."Ryu responded in a more somber tone as he sported a long frown. "Well, I'm not sure what you're expecting. But I can confirm one thing for sure. Draco Knight isn't my biological father."
Izuku looked up and saw no trace of a lie on the boy's face but still couldn't help but question him further. "Are you sure?"
"Honestly? 100% sure; hell, compared to my actual father, I wish Draco Knight could have been my real dad," Ryu answered without so much as a stutter or flinch. "Trust me...I would have welcomed that reality even considering your current situation."
"But...your surname..." Izuku continued, "you have the same surname as my father did before he got married."
"Midoriya...I'm adopted," Ryu responded, shaking his head as he pulled out a locket from under his shirt. "Before my adoption, my last name was Saito. I choose the Kasei name because I've felt as if I've lived my whole life as a fake. A false life that I'm now trying to make my own."
Ryu seemed to hesitate before handing the locket over to the greenette.
"So these are your siblings?" Izuku asked as he saw the loving photograph of Ryu with three other young kids.
"Yeah. They're my whole world," Ryu answered softly, but Izuku could hear the love in his voice without question. "I was nothing before I met them. And now, I want nothing more than for them to live safe, happy lives."
Izuku was surprised by the fire-eater's honesty. He hadn't really expected to learn this much, but then again. He wasn't sure what he was going to learn going into this conversation. However, there was something he was now hoping to get some help in.
"I have another question," Izuku began as he handed the locket back to Ryu. "Unless it's too personal...But what was the adoption process like for you?"
Ryu raised his eyebrow and, after a moment, spoke up. "It's for Eri, isn't it?"
Izuku nodded.
"I mean...my new...parents are decent people," Ryu answered as if he was unsure how exactly to respond. "I never knew my mother, and my father has been dead since I was four, and he was a total sack of shit. So the concept of a real family is still weird to me. The only family I ever knew was between siblings. Even if I don't share a drop of blood between them. I'd die in a heartbeat for them, no questions asked."
"I'm just worried about Eri," Izuku followed up honestly. "I'm worried I might drag another mess in her like the USJ. Once she has my last name, she also gets all of the baggage it comes with. I'm just scared it will hurt her in the long run."
"I'm glad you're thinking it over," said Ryu looking Izuku in the eyes. "It shows that you really care for her well-being. But if you want the honest truth? As someone who has seen the type of people that often look at children for adoption. You're already leagues above them."
"W-what do you mean?"
"Let's just say this. Powerful families love having powerful heirs," Ryu answered darkly. "So what happens when all of the children are powerless?"
'They're quirkless...' Izuku instantly realized what Ryu was implying. "But it's illegal to..."
"They find ways to get the information they want," Ryu interrupted through gritted teeth. "They came only to see me and ignored the rest. And every time after those bastards left. I would spend a few hours consoling my heartbroken siblings as they were reminded how unwanted they were to everyone else...except to me. I didn't care about their lack of powers. I never did. Taki's a shy but creative kid, while Maki just wants to make everyone smile, and Sachi is sharp as a whip; she's so young but can already read extremely well for her age."
"So you'd think I'd be a good fit for Eri?" Izuku followed up, feeling horrible about Ryu's downturned mood.
"I remember when Eri first arrived," Ryu answered as he quickly wiped a tear that had been on the verge of falling. "Often scared, jumpy, always looking like she had no hope. Yet, when I see her now. While I still see the scars, I can also see the new hope and joy in her eyes. A love that had been sparked by those who found her and showed her the way home. I can only hope to dream that one day my siblings will find the same beyond me."
"Thank you, Kasei," said Izuku, grateful for the confidence boost that he was doing the right thing for Eri.
"So you're only thinking about it? Or are you actually in the process of adopting?" Ryu questioned with a raised eyebrow. "Actually, aren't you still too young to adopt?"
"Actually, my mom is the one formally adopting, Eri. But when it comes to the actual parenting Ochako and I are still taking the lead. Right now, my family is on a probationary period because of my family status for the next few months."
"Fucking government bullshit," Ryu sighed exhaustively. "I thought you weren't on the volatile list? Why the hell are you on probation?"
"The doctor said it was just in case," Izuku answered with a sad smile. "But as long as nothing extreme happens and I play by the rules, then it's no problem."
"Fair," Ryu finished up as he picked up his briefcase. "Hate to cut it short, Midoriya. But we better get running before Iida comes looking for us. Best of luck with Eri."
"Yeah...you're right," said Izuku with a chuckle. "Thanks again...and umm...sorry about earlier."
"Don't worry about it," said Ryu with a small smile. "It would have been nice to actually have a blood sibling, but I'm happy enough as is."
Alexander's bright blue eyes stared at his nation's flag that flew in the backdrop of the setting sun.
The young man tried his best to appear calm, but he couldn't help but feel anxious about taking his Oath of Enlistment. While he had no intentions of backing out, the wait did nothing to help his nerves. The only saving grace was that his cousin Lucy had not only taken time off from work to be here and serve as his primary witness. She didn't have to do this, as anyone, including the embassy staff, could have served as his witness, but she was determined to be here for moral support.
"You're really that nervous, huh?" Lucy whispered in English as she noticed Alex start shaking his right leg out of nervousness. The last time she had ever seen him that anxious was the night before his second Sports Festival. At least he wasn't dry-heaving this time. "This is your last chance to back out, Alex."
Lucy slowly reached out and held Alex's left hand.
"They're asking for nine whole years of your life. I mean, despite the attitude back home, surely you could at least try and see if a Pro back home will apprentice you instead..."
"Are you worried that I'll end up like Uncle Barry?" Alex questioned softly as his leg stopped shaking, but his eyes were still focused on the stars and stripes. He knew sooner or later, the Marines stationed here would begin to lower it as the day ended.
"The military changed dad, Alex," Lucy answered with a sigh. "Despite Mithril's mission statement, we both know it's just another way for the ones in power to try and restore the old order."
"Uncle Barry was a Green Beret***, Lucy," Alex replied, his face remaining expressionless. "As small as most militaries worldwide have become since World War III. No matter the times, there will always be a need for a Special Forces unit."
"Even if we're currently living in arguably the most peaceful era in human history?"
"Last I checked, the Central Latin Empire and the South American Confederacy have been under armistice for the last five years. That war could restart anytime if those border clashes keep happening."
"And we're not involved," Lucy answered with a frown. "The US doesn't police the world anymore, Alex. And considering that it often did more damage in the long run, we should continue to remain out of it."
"I completely agree," said Alex as he finally blinked and turned to look Lucy squarely in the eyes. "But the reality is that it's not going to last. Peace like this will always be so fragile; all it would take is one wrong move. Regardless, Mithril isn't technically a combative force. It's a group that uses military training and tactics strictly for rescue operations. Any weapons deployed are theoretically for defensive measures only."
"Yeah...theoretically," Lucy sighed.
Alex couldn't blame her for feeling more than a little frustrated.
Hell, he was actually grateful that she was playing the role of the devil's advocate. As much as both loved their country and were more than ready to spout patriotic memes to their foreign critics. They were more than aware of their nation's extremely sorted history of warfare during the Pre-Quirk era. Interventions with publicly good intentions often escalated conflicts to degrees of bloodshed that resulted in the deaths of millions, from assassination to the CIA overthrowing democratically elected governments. Shady people or companies often growing rich off these conflicts while treating their servicemembers like pawns.
The Second Civil War, followed by the Third World War, was when everything finally changed. The old system finally broke, and the Second Republic of the United States of America was formed from the ashes. It was here when the first generation of modern Pro-Heroes was established as both Police and Military were significantly reduced in power and influence. At least in the countries that accepted the Pro-Hero system.
"Si vis Pacem, para Bellum," Alex spoke up. An ancient paraphrased quote that roughly translated into, if you want peace, prepare for war.
"Ah, you'd make good ol' Teddy Roosevelt proud, talking like that."
"Look me in the eye and tell me that's not how the world works right now," Alex said confidently. "The Japanese often speak soft, and All Might is that big stick."
"Oh...Shit," Lucy couldn't help but agree after mulling it over.
"Yeah...we just don't think about it in that way until someone points out, right?"
"True, but we also know All Might isn't like that. He would never allow himself to be used in such a manner."
"He won't, but what happens when he's no longer around? And someone with fewer scruples takes over?"
A few hours ago, Alex would have never uttered those words.
However, all of the doubts he had been having had been cleared up by All Might. The road ahead was crystal clear from his role in practical to his last conversation with Snipe and the painful reminder that was the mortality of All Might. Alex had started to rethink what the future could hold, especially since he knew a secret only a few people knew: that the Symbol of Peace was dying.
The very idea of All Might dying scared the absolute shit out of Alex. It seemed foolish in hindsight.
Of course, All Might would die one day; he's mortal, after all! It was naive to believe that the man could serve as the Symbol of Peace for eternity, but that left Alex with a burning question. What happens when he retires...or heaven forbid...dies in action? Would someone else take up the mantle? Or would the idea of making one person serve as the pillar of world stability lead to a new era of chaos?
And that is what finally convinced Alex to make his choice.
Mithril was a new organization that blurred a gray area between the military and Pro-Heroes. It's a job that allows people to work in places where the actual military would be considered too heavy-handed. And The Pros weren't allowed to step in, and in a possible future without All Might. It might just be the right kind of shield that would be needed to protect against the maelstrom that was approaching.
At least until someone new could fill the man's large shoes. Because it wasn't a matter of if the storm would come, but when.
"Springfield?" A voice called out to the duo.
"Yes?"Alex answered as he looked up and saw his recruiter, Special Agent Kuroko Smith, poking her head from the doorway.
"We're ready for you."
Alex quickly let off the air he was subconsciously holding in and looked at Lucy.
"Last chance," she said simply with a sad smile. "Are you ready?"
"As I will ever be," Alex answered as the two rose up from their seats.
Agent Smith gave the two a solemn smile and motioned them to follow her. Alex stopped for a moment, just in time to look out the window again and see the US flag being lowered as the Sun was about to finish setting. Once it was no longer visible, Alex continued to follow his recruiter to take his final steps as a civilian.
"Sorry it took a while," said Kuroko as they walked down the warmly lit hallway. "There were a couple of last-minute plan changes; thankfully, it's all been fixed up."
"What kind of plan change?" Lucy questioned with a raised eyebrow after they walked passed the conference room.
"Oh, you'll see," the secret agent said slyly.
Alex didn't know much about Agent Smith. Still, he suspected her of being Half-Japanese and Half-American, given her name and some of her facial features after seeing her without her trademarked sunglasses. However, she was at least very friendly and straightforward with her intentions with Alex regarding his recruitment. After one last turn, the trio found themselves in front of a set of large wooden double doors with two marines guarding it. Upon seeing Agent Smith, both marines silently and methodically opened the doors wide, permitting them access to the Ambassador's room.
Alex and Lucy stopped to look at each other wide-eyed, while Agent Smith simply walked on as if nothing was out of the ordinary.
"Alex...what the fuck is going on?" Lucy whispered with a nervous expression.
"I don't know! I thought it was going to be a quick thing!" Alex answered back, looking confused.
"Come on, you two!" Agent Smith called out, "let's get this show on the road!"
Both cousins instinctively exhaled and slowly walked in, trying not to be awkward.
"Ah, finally! I have a chance to meet you, Mr. Springfield!" Alex saw Agent Smith and his Mitiril Proctor, the stern-looking US Navy Commander named Richard Mardukas, standing between the American Ambassador to Japan herself, Sarah Diaz. A former Pro-Hero turned politician after being forced to retire due to injuries, greeted Alex warmly, raising her metallic arm for a shake.
"Umm...yes, the pleasure is all mine, ma'am," Alex managed to say as he accepted the kind woman's firm grip. Sarah maintained a crafty grin upon her scarred face, her one visible hazel eye focused on his glowing blue ones.
"I was surprised when you declined to go to RIIH and took up Mithril's offer," said Sarah as she let go of his hand and folded her arms. "I'd be lying if I wasn't a little irked after writing that recommendation for you."
"Sorry, ma'am," Alex answered nervously. "I didn't know about the recommendation until after I had taken Mitiril's offer. Either way, as much I as appreciate it. I wouldn't have been able to accept it. I didn't want to take the easy way out."
"I can respect that," Sarah replied with a nod. "I've had my eye on you since your amazing comeback during your second year. I'm sorry I couldn't do more for you recently. Hence why I wanted to speak with you and serve as the officiator for your oath."
"Oh wow...umm! Thank you."
"I know life hasn't been too kind to you. I just wanted you to know that you have people on your corner," Sarah explained gently. "I look forward to seeing Mithril go public and see what sort of change you can do in the world."
"I swear to do my best."
"Good man," Sarah finished up. "Well then, let's get started. Commander, if you please."
"Yes, Madam Ambassador," spoke the old veteran as he pointed to a stand with the oath written for Alex to read aloud. "What would you like to swear your oath upon?"
"A copy of the Constitution, please," Alex answered with the usual reply.
"Very well," The man replied as he produced a leatherbound copy from the nearby bookcase and his official contract. "The Oath will be administered by the Ambassador and officially witnessed by you, Miss?"
"Lucinda Mary-Anne Barton," Lucy answered with her legal name and stepped forward to sign on the dotted line, only to stop and look at her cousin. "Last chance."
"I'm good," Alex answered promptly. Lucy smiled; with one final nod and a smile, she signed.
"You have a good cousin, Springfield," Agent Smith interjected as she patted Lucy's shoulder.
"I know."
"Alright, please raise your right hand up and read out the display to confirm your oath," Sarah said calmly, doing all she could as not to pressure him once this was done. There was no turning back for the young man. With all eyes on him, Alexander took a deep breath, carefully reading the terms of the oath and all it would entail until his enlistment was completed.
He raised his right hand and spoke aloud his oath.
"I, Alexander Johnathan Springfield, today do solemnly swear that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic. That I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; I will obey the lawful orders of the President of the United States and the lawful orders of the officers appointed over me. According to the laws and regulations established for Mithril Operatives."
Author's Commentary
Wow, these last two chapters were something else for me.
If I was to describe the amount of effort and hours I had to spend making these last two chapters. I would argue it was around the same difficulty as the Golden week chapters. Despite it all taking place in just one day! There was so much I needed to do here to not just finish up Alex's story arc. But to involve Class 1-B more and more as the Sports Festival looms.
We have one chapter, and one-half chapters left.
Then it's off to the main event of this Arc!
Just in case you didn't notice some of the earlier conversations with the teachers.
This time students will be in their costumes for the festival. (I always thought the no costume rule was moronic in the canon.) This is why the updates needed to be done soon. There is also some added...spice that I cannot wait to show you in the next chapter that should really raise the stakes in the story.
*Delayed Blitzkrieg: A lot of Alex's special moves and tactics are military-inspired once I settled for an overall theme for Alex in the remastered version of the story. Ironically, while I initially designed Alex to be an American version of Izuku. Alex ended up being more of an American version of Katsuki Bakugou.
Even the slightly more militaristic theme is a nod to this.
From the ego and pride; to the ability to think as a battle master, Alex became a foil for Mirio and a parallel to Katsuki. In the Big Five, Alex is the team's decoy. Pissing villains off, distractions, etc. While generally seen as a weak position, Alex knows how to make it a strength, especially when dealing with inexperienced players.
Up to this point. Alex had lost every fight he's been featured in. (Seriously, look it up. Alex's hadn't an on-screen victory until now.) This chapter was meant to high how and why Alex earned his Big Five status. (And yes, I boosted the remaining members of the Big Five in this story.)
And why Mithril will ultimately be a good fit in the long run. (On that note! Shield of Spring's first chapter will be next to be uploaded.)
**Quirk-Warped Alloys: So all of you should know how I do my world-building because I can and will go that goddamn far, even for a fanfic. (Because if I don't, my brain will keep poking me that it's wrong, story logic hand waving be damned!) Because of things I wanted to do in Shield of Spring.
(Which will affect the mainline story)
I had to consider the square cubed law (if you're unfamiliar with the square cubed law. It's basically the idea of how big something could reasonably be after considering things like weight, surface area, and energy before collapsing on itself. -This is a super paraphrased version; the real law goes into much more detail.-)
Now, the world of MHA has already confirmed that some quirks can basically break physics with its own internal logic and rules. (See Mount Lady and Ochako Uraraka as examples)
But otherwise, all of the non-quirk things should still follow the laws of nature.
Then we see the Zero Pointer, which, as far as we know, has nothing quirk related to it, but it fucking breaks the square cubed law so fucking hard I almost shit a brick when I looked into it. So for my peace of mind and so I can make some really cool toys for the Mithril operatives. I decided to introduce Quirk-altered metals. So these are metals that have been altered by people with unique quirks to create things that might have once when considered impossible due to things such as weight vs. strength etc.
Yes. I did this just so I could justify things in a spin-off.
Yes, I clearly hate myself.
Yes, I spent hours thinking about this, even in the middle of my actual job, because that's what I do.
***Green Berets: Or proof that Alex's uncle is insane. (I can't wait to touch on Uncle Barry in the future. That character is going to be a real treat to write.) There is a lot to be said about the Green Berets, also known as The Special Forces unit of the United States Army. I will instead use this quote from the YouTuber/Tik-tocker: the Fat Electrician (a former member of the US Army.)
"To get the Special Forces tab, you need to be selected through a selection process. What's the selection process? I have no fucking idea. It's a secret. Apparently, they're not looking for "the best candidate." They are looking for "the right candidate." I don't know what that means. The only people who have this (Special Forces Tab) and people who are fucking lying. Ladies and Gentlemen having this (Special Forces Tab) is basically having a doctorate degree at being a fucking grunt. (Infantry) These men are so badass, Uncle Sam doesn't even care about their dress code. They're allowed to do shit like grow beards and wear leather belts... These grunts aren't meant for stacking bodies. They're for stacking countries. You see, these PhD-bearing grunts -Doctor Grunts- are meant to be dropped into a twelve-man group into a country. At that point, they will do what their charter says they're going to do, and I quote... "To destabilize current governments and or regimes in such a manner that they could be deemed neutralized."
Yeah, Uncle Sam doesn't fuck around. And everyone should be more than aware of the dangers and destruction that US foreign policy has done, which lead to many of the modern problems facing the US today. While I try to avoid politics in general. Again this is only brought up to bring context into Alex's decision-making for his enlistment into this new organization. The US in this universe has changed, and this will be a topic that will come up in Shield of Spring. So if you're interested in that, keep an eye out for it.
Phew, that was heavy. Hope you look forward to the next chapter, which should be...much lighter in the commentary.
Now, I wanted to bring up a little side project that came up as a challenge from my best friend.
It's a WHAT IF story, that I recently released.
In another world with my smartphone: The Lost Hero
is the first of many possible future what if stories, I plan on doing later.
This one was done as a run test and because my friend challenged me to do.
It stars the version of Alexander Springfield that died during the USJ. For those who don't remember, I had originally planned to kill off Alex, but changed my mind when I found it was going to affect the tone of the story in a direction I was unhappy with.
Now, this is me doing something a little different, but because I like doing things my way. Alex will get to see snippets of the original version of this story.
(Basically seeing what would have happened following his death and seeing things that could have helped his friends but is now unable to. In short it will contain some hint of foreshadowing for the mainline series.)
So if that sounds interesting, check it out!
Currently I have the following ready for release in this order.
Prologue of Shield of Spring.
Chapter 1 of The Lost Hero
and it will be topped off by the next Chapter.
XXXVII: One Day in the Life
Get excited because I am.
Until next time,
with love.
-ZX
