The Man Out of Time

by Ultimate10

After a 150 years in ice, Izuku Midoriya finds himself in a new world where meta-abilities or "Quirks" are the norm. His journey to becoming a modern Pro Hero will have its challenges keeping his old identity a secret, facing old and new foes, and learning to let go of the past. Does the world even need Captain America anymore? Or is he just too old-fashioned? Marvel/MHA AU World.

27. Chapter 25: Unveiling Shadows

…

The Man Out of Time

Chapter 25

---

"A good name is rather to be chosen than riches."

- Solomon

---

Musutafu, Japan - April 2197

On a serene Sunday evening at 8:30 PM, Yaoyorozu Momo was nestled in the comfort of her bedroom, immersed in a creative endeavor. She sat at her elegantly designed work desk, bathed in the warm glow of both a desk lamp and a nightstand lamp, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere for her literary pursuits.

Dressed in a knee-length, frilly red nightgown that added a touch of elegance to her relaxed demeanor, her black hair cascaded freely down her shoulders, framing her focused expression.

In front of her was her personal laptop, the screen illuminating her determined features. Eagerly, she dived into crafting the latest chapter of her story, her imagination buzzing with excitement for what came next.

"Save the Date" by The Incredible Yaomomo

Chapter 70: The Last Night

In the dimly lit room, Kumiko stood facing Captain America, her eyes filled with a mix of determination and fear. "You can't go to Norway," she pleaded, her voice barely above a whisper. "I have a feeling... a bad feeling. Please, don't go."

Captain America looked at her with a resolve that was both gentle and unyielding. "Kumiko, I have to. My country, the world, needs me. This is bigger than us."

Tears welled up in Kumiko's eyes as she reached out to him, her voice tinged with desperation. "But Cap, you might not come back. I can't lose you, not now when—"

Before she could finish, Captain America stepped forward, closing the distance between them. Gently, yet firmly, he pulled her into an embrace, cradling her face in his hands. Then, in a moment that stole her breath away, he kissed her—a kiss filled with all the unspoken words and emotions that lingered between them.

Stunned, Kumiko's eyes widened in shock, but she soon melted into the kiss, her arms wrapping around his neck. When they finally broke apart, the Captain smiled warmly at her. "Duty calls and I can't ignore it...but now I have a very good reason to come back alive, Mukashi."

"Captain..." she whispered, her voice a mixture of awe and affection; especially from the First Hero using her given name.

He brushed a strand of hair from her face while a few strands of his blonde hair fell between his softening emerald eyes. "Please... Call me, Steve."

And with those words, they continued their passionate embrace, lost in the moment, the confines of Captain America's room the only witness to their profound connection.

Yaoyorozu leaned back in her chair, a flush of warmth coloring her cheeks as she finished typing the last words of her intimate scene. Her fingers tingle with a mix of exertion and exhilaration. She took a deep breath, releasing it slowly.

"Done," she whispered, her voice tinged with a blend of relief and pride.

She took a moment to proofread her chapter, her eyes meticulously scanning each line for any possible errors. The story, a product of her imagination, now felt more real than ever, and she was eager to share it. But first, she wanted her beta-reader's opinion, a necessary step to polish her work to perfection.

Her eyelids grew heavy, the hours of focused writing taking their toll. With a quick flurry of keystrokes, she attached the latest chapter to an email and sent it off, hoping her beta-reader would find it as enthralling as she did.

Shutting her laptop, Yaoyorozu stood up, stretching her arms above her head to relieve the stiffness that had settled in. 'Time for bed,' she thought. 'School awaits tomorrow.'

Turning off the lights, she slipped into her bed, the luxurious covers enveloping her in a cocoon of comfort. As sleep began to claim her, a serene smile played on her lips, content with her night's work.

But in her tired state, a critical error went unnoticed. The email, meant for her beta-reader, had been sent to an entirely different recipient…or rather recipients.

---

On a rainy Monday morning, the streets of Musutafu glistened under a persistent drizzle. Amidst the bustling crowd, each person a part of the umbrella-carrying throng, Midoriya and Uraraka made their way to the train station. Midoriya, in a simple green raincoat, held his umbrella aloft, conscientiously ensuring Uraraka remained dry as she had lost her own umbrella. Despite the grey skies and misplaced umbrella, Uraraka's spirits were high, her voice animated as she recounted her weekend.

"My parents and I had so much fun!" she exclaimed. "Dad managed to get us a reservation at this fancy restaurant downtown. The food was incredible! Though, dad's jokes... well, they were as terrible as ever." Her laughter was a bright note in the drizzly morning.

Midoriya listened intently, a hint of curiosity in his voice. "A high-end restaurant, huh? Sounds like your family's business is doing well."

Uraraka's face lit up, a glow that made Izuku's heart flutter momentarily. "It is! I haven't gotten a chance to tell you yet, but some wealthy clients approached my folks a few weeks ago with a long-term project. It's been a real game-changer for us!"

Having an idea who the clients were, Midoriya replied with a genuine smile, "That's great to hear. I'm really happy for them."

"So, what about you? Since I wasn't around, did you do anything fun over the weekend?" The brunette inquired.

The super-soldier glanced away, his thoughts immediately shifting to his meetings with Coulson over his upcoming mission and with All Might regarding One For All. "Well… Not much. Just rested and did some light training, and..." He paused, noticing Uraraka's disapproving look.

"Izuku-kun, you weren't supposed to be training at all! You were still recovering on Thursday!" she chided.

"It's alright, Occhan," he reassured her. "I didn't overdo it. Mostly, I just picked up stray litter at Takoba Beach. It was quiet, gave me time to think."

"Really? Just that?" Uraraka's expression softened.

"Yeah, pretty much," he shrugged. "Everyone else seemed busy, and I needed some time to clear my head, you know?"

Uraraka frowned slightly, sensing the loneliness that must have lingered in her friend's weekend. A twinge of guilt washed over her. "You could've stopped by again, you know. My parents would've loved to see you again."

Midoriya chuckled, "Even after my great first impression?"

"Of course!" She insisted earnestly. "My parents aren't upset about that. Next time they visit, you should definitely join us."

"Maybe next time, then," the verdette replied, his smile soft and thoughtful as they continued their walk.

After reaching the train station and boarding their train, Midoriya's phone buzzed with an unread email from Yaoyorozu last night, tagging the entire class. He opened the message, titled "Save The Date. Chapter 70: The Last Night" and raised an eyebrow. 'Why would Momo send her latest chapter to the class?'

Before he could ponder further, several passengers recognized them. "Hey, it's the guy who won the All-Star Games!" someone exclaimed.

"Yo Joe!" another voice joined in.

"Midoriya, his name is Midoriya!" corrected another.

Before the verdette knew it, more passengers crowded around him. He peeked over the top of everyone's heads and saw that Uraraka was being swamped with attention too.

"You're that cute gravity girl!"

"Eh!?" Uraraka squeaked. "Say what?"

"Yeah, you put up a good fight against Yaoyorozu," someone praised.

"I can't believe there's two students from Class 101-A here!" Another exclaimed.

For the next few minutes, both Midoriya and Uraraka kindly posed for quick pictures and signed autographs.

Meanwhile, a couple of college-aged girls pushed their way through the crowd and set their sights on a certain super-soldier.

"Yo Joe! A few pictures, please!"

"Sure thing," Midoriya was slightly flushed as two young women pressed against him on either side.

"Oh wow… You're so much hotter in person!" As one of the girls eagerly complimented.

Midoriya responded with a shy chuckle. "Thanks… I appreciate that." His cheeks tinged with a blush, he maintained his friendly smile, even mirroring their peace signs for the camera.

The other girl, equally excited, said, "I really loved your fight against Todoroki! Especially when your shirt got torn up. You looked so amazing!"

"Your body is like a god's!" the first girl added, her eyes shining with admiration. "Can we take another selfie with your shirt unbuttoned?"

Midoriya, slightly taken aback by the forward request, replied with a polite but firm smile. "Thank you for the kind words, but I'd prefer to keep my shirt buttoned. I believe in setting a positive example, in line with my military training and responsibilities at UA. However, I'm more than happy to pose for another picture with you."

From a distance, Uraraka caught the exchange and felt a mix of emotions. Relief washed over her as Midoriya declined the request, but a hint of irritation lingered at the boldness of the request. Her right eye twitched slightly in annoyance.

The girls seemed to understand, their expressions shifting from hopeful to respectful. "Oh wow! You're so cool!"

"If only more guys were like you, Midoriya-sama!"

Uraraka's eye twitched again at their comment, her thoughts a whirlwind of frustration. 'Really? After that bold request you say that?' she thought to herself.

A concerned voice nearby interrupted her internal rant. "Hey, Miss Uraraka, what's with that intense face?"

Startled, Uraraka quickly composed herself, forcing a cheerful smile. "Oh, uh, s-sorry! Just lost in thought for a moment." She quickly returned her focus to the fan in front of her, maintaining her professional facade.

For several more minutes, Midoriya and Uraraka took selfies and signed autographs for passengers while thanking them for watching the games. However, as the announcement signaled their stop, Midoriya realized that Uraraka didn't seem to notice amidst the crowd.

'Don't want us to be late.' The train's announcement for their stop caught Midoriya's attention. Realizing Uraraka hadn't noticed, he quickly grabbed her hand and navigated through the crowd, pulling her with him to the platform. He opened his umbrella, covering both of them as they stepped off the train.

"Thank you, everyone! Sorry, we have to go!" Midoriya called back, bowing quickly to the passengers before hurrying away with Uraraka. Once clear of the platform, he released her hand, blushing slightly.

"Well, that was a thing," he chuckled.

Uraraka nodded, catching her breath. "Yeah, I can't believe they recognized us. Hopefully, we won't have to deal with that much longer."

"It comes with being a Hero, I'm afraid." Midoriya said. "Taking pictures can be nice. Though I was surprised so many girls wanted to take a selfie with me...but it wasn't that bad."

There was a brief pause before Uraraka asked, a hint of frost in her voice, "Oh? So you liked that?"

Midoriya shrugged, oblivious to her tone. "It wasn't so bad."

"Well," Uraraka rolled her eyes, "I'm glad you had fun. Maybe you'll have more fangirls to do it again with."

Catching her jealousy, Midoriya smiled softly. "Why would I do that when I'd rather spend time with people I care about? Like you and Yaomomo. Maybe we could go to the mall and find one of those photo booths. Those are still a thing, right?"

Uraraka's mood lifted, her cheeks tinted red. "Yeah, they are. I'd love that! I'm sure Momo would too."

The pair continued their walk to the university under their shared umbrella, raindrops gently patterning around them.

---

In the bustling main lobby of UA University, amongst the laughter and chatter of students filling the space were Yaoyorozu, Tokage, Tsunotori, Kaminari, Asui, and surprisingly Hatsume sitting at a set of chairs and sofas off to the side. With plenty of time before classes started, the group decided to wait for their other classmates to arrive.

"So, Yaomomo," Tokage, with a mischievous grin, turned towards Yaoyorozu, "about that email you sent us last night…" she began, her tone playfully teasing.

Yaoyorozu's face flushed a deep shade of red. "I can't believe I sent that out to everyone," she lamented, covering her face with her hands. "It was so late, and I wasn't paying attention…"

Tsunotori chimed in, trying to offer some comfort. "Hey, don't worry about it, Yaomomo! I thought the chapter was really good!"

Asui, nodding in agreement, added, "It did pique my interest a bit, kero. Though I didn't know you were into that kind of stuff, Yaomomo." Her straightforward comment only added to Yaoyorozu's embarrassment.

Hatsume, who had been tinkering with a small gadget, looked up, puzzled. "Wait, what are you all talking about?"

Kaminari, who had been scrolling through his phone while sitting next to Tsunotori, looked up with a smirk. "Yaomomo here accidentally sent out a smut chapter from her novel to the entire class."

"It's not smut!" Yaoyorozu protested, her voice rising in defense. "It's part of a historical-fiction romance story!"

"Okay, okay. I'm just teasing." Kaminari raised his hands in surrender, though he couldn't resist adding, "Though some naughty films start like that too, to be fair…"

"Wait a second," Tsunotori turned to the electric-blonde with a mild glare, "how would you know that, Denki-kun?"

Kaminari cleared his throat, flustered. "Uh…Well…"

Hatsume shrugged, seemingly uninterested in the topic. "Eh, as long as it's not about tech, it's all the same to me."

Before the conversation could spiral further, the front doors of the school opened, and Midoriya and Uraraka stepped in, shaking off their umbrellas.

"Hey, everyone!" Midoriya greeted cheerfully, seemingly oblivious to the tension in the air.

Uraraka followed suit, smiling. "Looks like we're just in time. Did we miss anything?"

There was a brief exchange of knowing glances among the group. Kaminari, with a smirk still playing on his lips, was about to comment when Yaoyorozu quickly interjected, "Nothing much, just discussing some…class assignments." Her eyes darted to Kaminari, warning him to stay silent on the previous topic.

Midoriya, feeling the shift in atmosphere, looked around the group. "I see… Well, has anyone heard from Iida-kun recently?"

The mood sombered further as heads shook in response. "No, nothing," Yaoyorozu replied, her voice tinged with concern. "There's been a lot in the news about Stain lately, though."

Kaminari rubbed the back of his neck, visibly uncomfortable. "Yeah, and it's not good. There have been more attacks since Ingenium was targeted."

Tsunotori added softly, "And some weren't as fortunate as Ingenium."

Uraraka's frown deepened at the grim update. "Do you think he'll come to classes today?"

Midoriya could only shrug. "It's hard to tell, but I wouldn't be surprised if he doesn't show up."

A silence enveloped the group, their thoughts heavy with concern for their friend.

Breaking the lull, Hatsume piped up, her voice tinged with uncertainty. "So, if Iida does come, what should we do? Or say? I'm not really good with this kind of stuff."

"Is there really anything we can do?" Asui questioned, her usual upbeat demeanor subdued.

"I don't want to pretend everything's fine, especially when he's hurting," Tokage mused, "but I also don't want to bring it up if he doesn't wanna talk."

Yaoyorozu, ever the voice of reason, spoke up. "We should let Iida-kun decide. If he wants to talk, we'll listen. If not, we'll respect his space."

Midoriya was in agreement. "We can't take away his pain, but we can let him know we're here for him. That's the most important thing."

As they nodded in consensus, none of them noticed a figure dash into the lobby. Covered in a large raincoat, the student stopped abruptly, catching his breath. "Ah, there you are! Classes are starting soon. You'll be late if you linger here much longer!"

Startled, they turned to see Iida, who, without waiting for a response, hurried off towards the lockers.

Kaminari was the first to break the silence. "Uh… What just happened?"

Recovering from their confused states, the group followed Iida and met up with him as he was placing his raincoat into his locker. As he turned around and saw his friends' worried faces, he sighed. His expression, usually so resolute, now carried the weight of recent events.

"I understand I've caused concern over the past few days," Iida began, his voice measured.

Asui, her usual cheerful demeanor replaced with concern, responded, "That's an understatement, Iida. We've been worried sick about you."

Yaoyorozu, echoing the sentiment, added, "You've been silent since Thursday night, Iida. We were all anxious."

Iida, looking down, nodded solemnly. "I apologize for the silence. Thankfully, the doctors were able to save my brother. He's recovering now, so there's no need for further worry."

Midoriya, observing Iida closely, noticed the strain behind his forced smile. He recalled Coulson's report on Ingenium's condition, which painted a far grimmer picture than what Iida was sharing. Concern flickered in Midoriya's eyes, but he chose to keep his thoughts private.

Hatsume, taking Iida's words at face value, brightened up. "That's great news about your brother! I'm sure he'll be up and about in no time!"

Iida paused before replying, "Yes, he's safe for now, but he has a long recovery ahead. We should get to class. Hatsume, you better head to yours too."

"Yeah, I should," Hatsume agreed, then quickly added, "Hey, Legs, don't forget to bring your costume to the Support Department. I've got some upgrades in mind for you."

Iida managed a small smile. "I'll consider it, Hatsume-san."

As Hatsume turned to leave, she called out to Midoriya, "Oh! Izuku-kun, bring your shield to the Support Department soon! See ya!"

Once Hatsume had left, Yaoyorozu turned to Midoriya with curiosity. "Are you planning to let her examine your shield?"

Midoriya nodded. "I promised her she could if we won Risk Trifecta. But I'll let you have a look at it too, Yaomomo."

Tokage looked unsure. "Um, are you really sure about letting that girl examine your shield, Greenie? What if she accidentally damages it?"

Midoriya replied with a confident smile. "I'm not worried about that. That ole girl has endured far tougher challenges than anything Mei might throw at it. She's pretty resilient."

Uraraka, listening to the conversation, found herself pondering Midoriya's choice of words. His description of the shield as an 'ole girl' and the various notes she had glimpsed on his desk stirred her curiosity.

---

In Class 101-A, Aizawa, now free from his bandages, began the day's lesson. "Okay, everyone take your seats," he instructed with his usual stoic demeanor.

Iida, eager to acknowledge their professor's return, raised his hand. "Aizawa-sensei, it's great to see you back in good health!"

Aizawa nodded in acknowledgment. "Yes, after some rest and multiple treatments from Recovery Girl, I'm cleared to resume teaching. Now, let's discuss your upcoming internships. This year, due to some standout performances, a few of you have received an unusually high number of offers."

With a click, the ceiling projector sprang to life, revealing a list of students and their corresponding internship offers. The numbers were staggering, with a significant gap between the top four students and the rest.

Midoriya Izuku: 4719

Todoroki Shoto: 4,123

Bakugo Katsuki: 3,556

Tokage Setsuna: 607

Kaminari Denki: 353

Tsunotori Pony: 352

Iida Tenya: 301

Yaoyorozu Momo: 185

Uraraka Ochako: 90

Tokoyami Fumikage: 85

Ashido Mina: 69

Kirishima Eijiro: 59

Asui Tsuyu: 45

Sero Hanta: 39

Midoriya's eyes widened as he focused on his name at the top of the list. He then felt a mix of amazement and regret, knowing he wouldn't be able to accept any due to his upcoming mission with SHIELD.

Bakugo scowled at the screen, while Todoroki showed little reaction. Uraraka was visibly thrilled, and Yaoyorozu, despite having fewer offers than expected, seemed overwhelmed, her emotions teetering on the edge.

Tokage was in disbelief. "I can't believe I got over six hundred offers," she exclaimed, shocked.

Iida reflected on his performance. "Considering I didn't advance past the first round, this is surprising."

Asui, feeling relieved, commented, "I'm just glad to have received any offers at all."

Sero shared the sentiment. "Yeah, it's an achievement to get offers in our first year."

Ashido couldn't help but giggle impishly at her number of 69 offers, while Kirishima felt a sense of pride.

Kaminari and Tsunotori celebrated their offers, with Kaminari playfully gloating about having one more offer than Tsunotori.

Jiro, on the other hand, felt disappointed with zero offers, and several other students shared her sentiment, expressing their frustration at not making the board.

Aizawa, addressing the class, reassured those without specific offers. "Those not on the board will still have internships. Several agencies always take students. You have access to those, but remember, those on the list were specifically chosen. Make your decisions wisely."

Mineta, curious about the rankings, questioned, "Why did Tokage get more offers than Yaoyorozu? She ranked higher in the games."

Yaoyorozu sighed, "My second-round match might have influenced the scouts' decisions."

Uraraka, puzzled, asked, "You mean when Shinso forfeited?"

Yaoyorozu nodded. "Scouts may have viewed my advancement to the Semifinals as unearned."

Uraraka protested, "That's not fair. You can't control what your opponent does."

"Life can be unfair like that." Aizawa stated dryly. "But what's done is done. The interest those of you have garnered now can diminish if you don't continue to perform well."

Kaminari, slightly daunted, responded, "More work, then?"

Yaoyorozu added, "It's part of being a Pro Hero. You need to stay relevant in the public's eye."

Aizawa agreed, "Yaoyorozu's right. One good showing isn't enough. You need to consistently prove your worth. Now, before I hand out your offers, there's something else you need to do." He sighed in seeming exasperation. "You'll be going out into the field, which means that you'll need Hero names."

There was a brief pause as the classroom buzzed with excitement. A collective cheer erupted, quickly quelled by Aizawa's stern glare and his hair bristling menacingly.

"Choose wisely," he warned. "A hastily picked name can become a lifelong regret."

"That's right!" As if on cue, Midnight burst through the door with her characteristic flair. "Remember, darlings, a Hero name sticks. Choose something you won't hate later!"

Nodding in agreement, Aizawa distributed whiteboards and markers. "Midnight will guide you through this process. While her advice isn't mandatory, unless your choice is offensive, I recommend you listen to her. Take your time, think it over, and then present your names."

The students immediately started brainstorming, buzzing with ideas and suggestions for each other. Amidst the chatter, Midoriya gazed at his blank whiteboard, deep in thought.

'A Hero name...' he pondered. His mind wandered back to a conversation with Director Fury before he left for Japan. "Try to keep a low profile while you're there, Cap," Fury had advised. "The world isn't ready to know the First Hero is back."

Twirling his marker, Midoriya contemplated. 'I've always been known by one Hero name. It's become part of my identity. Even temporarily, how can I adopt another?'

Then, an idea struck him. A name that wouldn't reveal his true identity yet stayed true to who he was. With a sense of resolve, he pressed the marker to the board.

---

In the classroom, the air buzzed with excitement and a hint of nervous anticipation as students presented their Hero names. It was a rite of passage, a step towards their dreams. Most had names in mind for years, evident in how quickly they came up with them. The results were a varied collection, reflecting each student's personality and Quirk.

Sato, confidently presenting 'Sugarman', received nods of approval, his name perfectly encapsulating his Quirk's essence. In contrast, Aoyama's initial choice, 'I Just Can't Stop Twinkling', prompted polite yet firm suggestions for a revision. He returned with 'Magnifique', a name that resonated with his flamboyant style.

Midoriya's attention was particularly drawn to Kirishima, who, inspired by the legendary Crimson Riot, chose 'Red Riot'. It was a name that resonated with strength and resilience, qualities Midoriya greatly admired. He made a mental note to discuss the Hero who inspired Kirishima later.

Bakugo, ever confident, presented his name with a bold declaration: "Lord Explosion Murder!"

The room fell into a stunned silence, only to be broken by Midnight's firm rejection. "No."

"What? Why not? It's awesome!"

"It has 'murder' in it. Either take that out or come up with something completely different."

Bakugo's frustration was palpable as he returned to his seat to reluctantly reconsider his choice.

Todoroki was next, and his choice was a bit perplexing.

"Okay, why 'Thermodyn'?" Midnight asked.

Todoroki shrugged. "It's shorthand for 'thermodynamics'. I thought it was fitting and sounded heroic."

"It does. Though I presumed you would select something similar to your father's Hero name."

Todoroki suppressed a scowl, calmly replying, "I'd rather be my own Hero."

Midnight nodded in understanding. "Well, it certainly does have a good ring to it. Approved!"

As Todoroki returned to his seat, Midoriya wondered about Todoroki's name. 'Looks like he's starting to move on without his father's influence. Good on you, Shoto. The first steps are always the most challenging.'

Asui was next, and she looked confident. "I've had this name in mind since middle school," she said, and held up her sign. "The Rainy Season Heroine: Froppy!"

Midnight clapped her hands together. "Oh, that's adorable!"

Most of the class was in full agreement and some even started chanting her name, much to Asui's embarrassment.

Sero was next as his choice of 'Tape Hero: Cellophane' was also approved.

Uraraka stepped up to the front confidently, her smile bright. "I went through some back-and-forth in my head, but," she held up her board, "I chose 'The Gravity Heroine: Zero-G'," she announced, her voice ringing with pride. "It represents my Quirk and my aim to lift people's spirits!"

Midnight smiled brightly. "The name is quite fitting. Approved! "

Tokage approached the front of the class, her confident smile revealing sharp teeth. "Like Todoroki and Uraraka, I've taken inspiration from my Quirk for my Hero name." With a flourish, she revealed her board: "The Chop-Chop Heroine: Lizardy!"

Midnight, intrigued, leaned forward. "The 'Lizardy' part is clear, but what about 'Chop-Chop'?"

Tokage replied with enthusiasm, "It's a nod to how my Quirk works, appearing as if I'm sliced into pieces. Plus, it's a homage to a character from a well-known manga series that's been running for ages."

Kaminari's eyes lit up in recognition. "Ah, you're talking about the clown from that series, right?"

Sero joined in, "It's amazing how that manga has continued for so long."

Midoriya, lost in thought, mused to himself about the longevity of the series, half-jokingly wondering if the original author had a Quirk for immortality.

Midnight, considering Tokage's explanation, nodded approvingly. "I like it. It's catchy and fitting." Most of the class buzzed with murmurs of approval.

Kaminari confidently made his way to the front, his typical swagger on full display. "I'll be known as 'The Lightning Hero: Power Surge'," he announced with a broad grin, fingers crackling with tiny jolts of electricity. "I think it's pretty self-explanatory."

Midnight nodded in agreement, "No explanation needed, it's spot on."

Tsunotori followed, her tail swishing with excitement as she proudly showed off her board. "The Blitz Heroine: Rocketti!"

Midnight, curious, inquired, "An interesting choice. What does 'blitz' stand for?"

With a beaming smile, Tsunotori explained, "It reflects my speed when I'm using my horns to surf, and it also matches my energetic personality!"

Midnight's eyes gleamed with approval. "A name with a double meaning, how clever! Approved!"

Jiro stepped forward; her demeanor calm yet confident. "The Ear Jack Heroine: Amped," she stated simply. "It's short, to the point, and speaks to my sound-based abilities and my love for music."

Midnight nodded approvingly. "Straightforward and effective names often make the strongest impact," she commented.

Following Jiro, Ashido leaped up, her energy infectious. "I'm going with 'The Pink Heroine: Meltdown'!" Her voice was full of enthusiasm. "It's bold, like my acid Quirk, and captures my vibrant personality!"

Midnight hesitated, her brow furrowing slightly. "'Meltdown' might be misconstrued as intimidating by some."

Ashido's grin didn't falter. "That's why I included 'pink'. It softens the impact, making it more approachable."

"An interesting rationale," Midnight acknowledged. "Well thought out."

"Yaomomo helped me." Ashido waved to the Class Vice-President, who smiled and waved back. "So, can I keep the name?"

"Fine, go ahead." Midnight pointed at Yaoyorozu. "Since you got called out, do you mind coming up next?"

Stepping up with a composed air, Yaoyorozu presented her board. "My Hero name will be 'Lady Thesis'," she announced. "It represents my dedication to learning and applying knowledge to help others."

"Ooh, so elegant!"

Yaoyorozu blushed at the compliment, and then went back to her seat.

Midoriya leaned towards his friends. "Everyone's picked such great names."

Yaoyorozu, slightly flushed with pride, replied, "Thank you, Izuku-kun."

Uraraka turned to Midoriya, curious. "And you, Izuku? What's your Hero name?"

Midoriya's lips curled into a knowing smirk. "You'll find out soon enough," he teased.

Midnight then focused on Bakugo, her tone expectant. "Bakugo, have you come up with another name?"

Bakugo started to say, "King Explosion Murd–" but was promptly cut off.

"No," Midnight interjected firmly.

Bakugo scowled, erasing the slightly altered version of his original choice from his board. "Fine, I've got nothing then."

"Take some time to think it through," Midnight advised, adding, "Until you decide, we'll use your surname as a placeholder." She then redirected her attention to the class. "Next, we have Iida and Midoriya left. Iida, you're up."

The room's focus shifted to Iida, who, unbeknownst to his classmates, struggled internally. Holding the marker, he repeatedly attempted to write a name, only to find himself frozen each time. His breath hitched, and he became acutely aware of the increasing attention on him.

"Iida, are you ready?" Midnight's voice broke through his thoughts.

Iida, feeling the weight of his classmates' gazes, knew they weren't pressuring him intentionally, but it still felt overwhelming. He was particularly conscious of the concerned looks from his friends. He had strived to maintain composure, to not burden them, but his hesitation now was enough to draw their attention.

Midnight and Aizawa, observing from his sleeping bag, watched Iida with a knowing gaze. Iida sensed they were aware of his brother's true condition, a fact hidden from the media but not from the connected network of Heroes.

In a quick decision, Iida scribbled down his first name, but hesitated to present it, feeling it was inappropriate. He flipped his board over, hiding his choice. Looking up at Midnight, he requested, "Midnight-sensei, Aizawa-sensei, may I have a bit more time to decide on my name?"

After a brief glance between Midnight and Aizawa, Midnight agreed. "Alright. You have until the end of the day. Any longer won't be practical. For now, your surname will be your placeholder for internships. Is that clear?"

Iida nodded, grateful for the extension, "Yes, Sensei." The extra time, albeit short, offered him a moment of respite, possibly leading to a decision he could accept.

Midnight shifted her focus from Iida, allowing him a moment of reprieve, and turned towards Midoriya. "Midoriya, you're the last one. Are you ready to present?"

Midoriya stood up, feeling the weight of anticipation as all eyes in the classroom focused on him. He strode to the front, his board clutched firmly in his hands. The room buzzed with curiosity, everyone eager to discover the name choice of the student who had impressed them all in the All-Star Games.

Holding the board so that everyone could see, he revealed his Hero name. A murmur rippled through the class, mixed with expressions of surprise and confusion. Even Uraraka and Yaoyorozu's eyes both widened slightly at his choice.

Midnight, looking intrigued, commented, "I do like the first part…but I honestly thought you might go with 'Yo Joe' as your name."

Kirishima leaned forward. "Wasn't that what the crowd was chanting?"

Mineta piped up, "What does that even mean?"

Midnight explained, "It's an old rallying cry for American soldiers. Am I correct, Midoriya?"

"Yes Sensei." Midoriya nodded, mentally noting its origins as a catchphrase from the G.I Joe franchise, but kept that part to himself. "I considered that name, but I wanted something that truly represented me and my aspirations."

Midnight's expression shifted, showing a hint of concern. "With this name, combined with your costume and shield, you understand people will draw comparisons to the First Hero. Are you prepared for the responsibility and high expectations that will come with it?"

With a confident smile, Midoriya responded, "Yes, and I'm ready to embrace those responsibilities."

"I see." Midnight beamed, "Well, it's certainly a strong, commanding name. Just do your best to live up to it."

Midoriya nodded and smiled. "I will."

Uraraka and Yaoyorozu both looked on in admiration at their best friend, proud of the name he had selected—envisioning a future where he stood tall as a symbol of strength and integrity.

A Hero For All: Captain Midoriya

---

The afternoon signaled the beginning of the much-awaited lunch period. Midoriya, along with his friends, found a table in the bustling cafeteria. Each of them carried their own thoughts about the upcoming internships and their newly chosen Hero names.

Midoriya, ever observant, noticed Iida pouring over a list, his focus laser-sharp on the various pages; it seemed like he was looking for something specific. However, he decided not to disturb Iida, understanding his friend's need for concentration.

"So, 'Lady Thesis'," Tokage playfully elbowed Yaoyorozu, a mischievous glint in her eyes, "just between us, is Kumiko basically you in disguise?" she asked with a sly smile.

Yaoyorozu's face flushed a deep shade of pink, and she quickly stammered a denial, "N-No, absolutely not! Kumiko is a completely original character."

Ashido chimed in with a teasing tone, "But then why is she crazy over Captain America? Seems like a bit of a random choice for a love interest."

Caught off guard, Yaoyorozu fumbled for words, "W-well, you see, by chapter seventy, their relationship had developed quite a bit, so it wasn't that random..."

"Was the Captain's name really Steve?" Tsunotori asked. "I didn't know that."

Yaoyorozu shook his head. "No, his real name is unknown. I just came up with a common American name for him."

Jiro then joined the playful interrogation, fixing Yaoyorozu with a knowing look. "You're a total Captain America fangirl, aren't you Yaomomo?"

Yaoyorozu let out a small, embarrassed squeak and covered her face with her hands in a mix of mortification and playfulness. "Please, can we drop this matter?" she pleaded, her voice muffled behind her palms. "I'm already embarrassed enough; especially when Mineta-san was teasing me earlier."

Just then, Bakugo stormed past their table on his way to his own, glaring at Yaoyorozu. "Hey, Pony Tail! Why the hell did you send smut to the whole class last night? Have you been hanging out with the purple midget or something?" he barked, causing a few students nearby to snicker.

"NO! I-It was an accident, Bakugo!" Yaoyorozu replied, flustered. "I swear!"

"Sure it was," Sero chuckled, elbowing Kaminari, who was trying to suppress his laughter.

Bakugo rolled his eyes, murmuring, "Just don't spam my inbox with trash like that ever again," before stomping off.

Midoriya, noticing the playful teasing directed at Yaoyorozu was making her uncomfortable, decided to steer the conversation towards a different topic. "So, what's everyone's plans for internships?" he asked, his cheeks slightly flushed.

"Well," Tsunotori's expression brightened, "I got an offer from Gang Orca!"

The table erupted with various reactions. Midoriya's eyes widened, impressed. "Gang Orca? That's impressive, Pony! He's ranked highly and known for his intense training methods."

Uraraka whistled, clearly impressed. "And he's one of the top Heroes for crisis management. That's going to be some tough training, but I bet you'll learn a ton."

Jiro chimed in, "Isn't he at the top of the list of 'Heroes Who Look Like Villains'?"

"Yeah," Kirishima added, nodding in agreement, "Gang Orca is seriously hardcore. He's got a reputation for being as tough as he looks."

Asui tilted her head, considering. "His Quirk is pretty versatile too, right? I remember him being able to use sonar and super strength."

"Man, I'm kinda jealous, but I'm happy for yah. I know you'll kick ass with him." Kaminari grinned, bringing a small blush to Tsunotori's face.

Yaoyorozu smiled warmly. "It's a fantastic opportunity. I'm sure you'll gain valuable experience under his guidance."

Tsunotori beamed, clearly excited about the opportunity. "I'm ready for the challenge. What about the rest of you?"

"I'm still looking, but I'm aiming for an internship with a rescue-focused Hero, preferably one who works in aquatic environments," Asui chimed in.

Kaminari leaned forward, enthusiasm lighting up his face. "As 'Power Surge', I'm looking for a mentor who's an expert in electric manipulation. I want to learn from the best."

Kirishima's eyes gleamed with determination. "I'm checking out agencies known for handling tough, high-stakes situations. 'Red Riot' needs to be battle-hardened."

Ashido twirled her fork in her food, her expression determined. "And 'Meltdown' here is searching for a Hero who'll appreciate my acid skills. Someone with a bit of flair, you know?"

Midoriya, ever the helper, offered, "I've been doing a lot of research on Pro Heroes, so if you guys want, I can give you some insights on your choices."

Uraraka playfully interrupted, "Really, Izuku? We had no idea you were into that kind of thing," she said with a smirk.

Midoriya rolled his eyes in a playful manner and then focused back on the conversation. "Well, just let me know who you're considering, and I'll do my best to help out," he continued earnestly.

The others around the table nodded, clearly appreciative of Midoriya's offer for assistance.

Turning her attention to Yaoyorozu, Jiro asked, "What about you, Yaomomo? Any internships in mind?"

Relieved to move on from the earlier topic, Yaoyorozu responded, "I have a few options, but Uwabami's offer is quite appealing."

Midoriya raised an eyebrow in mild surprise. "Uwabami, huh? She's a competent Rescue Hero, but her focus seems to lean more towards her modeling career. Just something to consider."

Tokage piped up, supporting Midoriya's observation, "Yeah, I've mostly seen her in commercials lately."

"I see…" Yaoyorozu contemplated for a moment, then said, "Well, another option I'm considering is interning with Fat Gum."

Midoriya's interest visibly peaked. "Fat Gum? That's a solid choice. He's well-ranked and experienced. Plus, given his Quirk, he might offer unique insights that could be beneficial for you." He then launched into a detailed analysis of Fat Gum's Hero work, prompting chuckles and smiles from his friends.

Listening attentively, Yaoyorozu nodded along with Midoriya's analysis. "I think you're right, Izuku. Fat Gum seems like a more fitting choice. I'll prioritize him on my list."

Jiro leaned forward, her interest piqued, as she addressed Tokage. "So, Setsuna-chan, who's caught your eye for the internship?" Her tone carried a hint of playful curiosity.

Tokage's lips curled into a sly grin. "Well, let's just say there's someone rather... Majestic on my list."

Her response triggered a wave of surprised reactions around the table. Tsunotori, sitting next to Kaminari, leaned in with excitement. "You're not talking about THE Majestic, are you? I've heard so much about him!"

Midoriya, always well-informed, chimed in. "He's highly ranked, within the top 100."

"Wasn't his Quirk called Magic or something?" Sero asked.

Affirming Sero's statement with a nod, Tokage elaborated on her choice. "Exactly. His Quirk lets him create objects from energy he emits from his wrists, allowing him to fly. It's fascinating, and I think there's a lot I can learn from him, considering the versatility of my own Quirk."

Yaoyorozu, who had been quietly mulling over her own choices, spoke up. "I noticed Majestic on my list too. But I believe I'm going with Fat Gum. I think his experience and approach could offer me valuable insights, just like Majestic would for you, Setsuna-chan."

"And you, Occhan?" Midoriya inquired, turning to her.

Uraraka sighed, "I've got quite a few offers to go through, but I think I'll focus on combat heroes for now. After my bout with Momo-chan, I feel like I need to strengthen that area."

"You seemed to hold your own well against Yaomomo though." Ashido said. "Besides, I thought you wanted to focus on rescuing."

"Yeah," Asui chimed in, "you and Yaomomo have already been training with Midoriya. Shouldn't you use this opportunity to get some rescue experience?"

"Well...While I hated losing in the first round, I have other reasons for wanting to get better at fighting before I put in some time at rescue stuff."

"Oh?" Midoriya turned to her, curious.

"The USJ. After everything...I just feel like right now it would be best for me to focus on getting stronger. Right now...the best way to rescue people might be in my ability to protect them."

Midoriya nodded thoughtfully. "That makes perfect sense."

Yaoyorozu turned to Midoriya with interest. "And what about you, Izuku-kun? With the highest number of offers, you must have some notable choices."

Uraraka leaned in, her curiosity evident. "Yeah, who's the top-ranked Hero on your list?"

Midoriya gave a nonchalant shrug. "Honestly, I haven't had the chance to look through them in detail yet. I'll need to spend some time on it tonight."

Ashido, always enthusiastic, jumped into the conversation. "But with over four thousand offers, there's got to be some big names in there! Just pick the highest-ranked one!"

Midoriya inwardly sighed, 'If only it were that straightforward, Ashido.' Outwardly, he maintained a calm demeanor. "Rank isn't the only thing that matters. It's not just about how high a Hero is ranked but also about how well their style and environment align with my own needs and goals."

Yaoyorozu nodded, showing her agreement. "Exactly. It's important to consider other factors like the compatibility of Quirks, the work environment, and how the Hero's approach aligns with your own aspirations."

"Yeah, yeah…I guess those are fair points." Ashido relented.

"Still though," Kaminari spoke up, "since you had such a great showing, I'm sure you have some great offers. Heck, I wouldn't be surprised if All Might gave you one."

Midoriya did his best to maintain a measured expression. "That would certainly be an honor. But I'll let you guys know what I decide on soon after I go through my offers."

He then glanced over at Iida, who seemed engrossed in his list of offers. "What about you, Iida-kun? You received a lot of offers too."

Iida seemed lost in thought and didn't immediately respond. He appeared to be scanning his list rapidly, as if searching for something specific. Midoriya couldn't quite put his finger on what Iida might be looking for.

With Iida not responding, this prompted Tokage to disconnect her hand and levitate it across the table and playfully give him a gentle poke.

Surprised by the sudden interruption, Iida blinked and looked up. "Oh, sorry, what was that, Midoriya-kun?"

Midoriya's expression turned to one of concern. "Are you okay, Iida? You seem a bit preoccupied."

Iida's eyes darted back to his list, then back to Midoriya, a mix of focus and concern evident on his face. "Uh, yes–"

"Hey everyone! How's it going?" Hatsume exclaimed, her entrance stirring a mix of curiosity and slight annoyance among the group.

Uraraka, visibly irked by Hatsume's choice to sit right between her and Midoriya, asked, "Hatsume-san?"

Unfazed by the reception, Hatsume's eyes sparkled with fervor. "Ready to upgrade your gear whenever you are!" she declared, barely taking a breath.

Jiro eyed her warily, "Really now?"

Kaminari, seizing the opportunity, began, "Actually, I was thinking of—"

But Hatsume cut him off, her attention zeroing in on Midoriya. "So, when are you bringing your shield to the Support Department?"

Midoriya sighed inwardly, 'So that's her main interest,' he thought, slightly exasperated.

Before he could respond, an idea dawned on him. "I can swing by during our free period at 14:15. But I'm curious about that Energy Shield prototype."

Yaoyorozu leaned in, intrigued. "Are you considering replacing your shield, Izuku-kun?"

Midoriya shook his head. "No, she's irreplaceable. But I think a backup could be useful."

"To avoid what happened at the USJ," Tokage mentioned.

Hatsume's excitement dimmed slightly. "The Energy Shield? Well, it's not combat-ready yet. The main issue is the power source."

Uraraka, confused, asked, "Didn't it work during the games?"

Hatsume sighed. "It did, but that was minimal usage. It drains fast, and now I'm out of palladium, so I can't use the Arc Reactor to power it."

Yaoyorozu's eyes lit up with understanding. "So, palladium is the key issue?"

Hatsume nodded. "Exactly. It's not easy to come by."

Midoriya exchanged a knowing glance with Yaoyorozu, who smiled subtly in response.

"I might know someone who can help with that," Midoriya hinted.

Hatsume's curiosity piqued. "Really?"

Midoriya affirmed, "Yeah. Palladium shouldn't be a problem for them."

Hatsume's enthusiasm returned. "With enough palladium, I could get that shield ready for your internships in no time!"

Midoriya grinned, excited at the prospect. Yaoyorozu blushed lightly, pleased to be part of the plan.

Hatsume, carried away in her excitement and oblivious to the suggestive undertones, leaned closer to Midoriya. "And with any extra palladium, I could upgrade my super baby!" She beamed at him. "You know, Izuku-kun, making babies has always been a blast, but making them with someone as focused as you takes it to a whole new level!"

Yaoyorozu, caught off-guard by Hatsume's enthusiasm, blushed deeply. "H-Hatsume-san, perhaps we could... um, choose our words more carefully?"

Uraraka, her cheeks glowing a shade of crimson, chimed in with equal embarrassment, "Yeah, phrasing is important, Hatsume-san!"

"Huh? What're you talking about?" Hatsume asked, clueless.

Tokage, Ashido, and Tsunotori couldn't contain their amusement, their laughter bubbling up at the scene.

Kaminari, mouth agape, was about to add his own quip but was swiftly silenced by a pointed kick to the shin from Jiro, a clear warning to think twice before speaking.

With Hatsume now digging into her meal, and eyeing over Tsunotori's list while commenting that she had plenty of babies that could assist in her flight, Midoriya turned his attention back to Iida.

His eyes lingered on Iida's stack of papers and was surprised to see it was mostly done. Neat black lines marked out agencies he had decided not to go with, or at least what he assumed. He then noted the intense look in his eyes; it was as if he were looking for something specific. Something didn't feel right, but he hesitated to press further; especially in public.

The table then buzzed with light conversation as the others discussed their internships and Hero names, and Hatsume suggested ideas for improving other's Support Gear.

That's when Tokage's voice, tinged with uncertainty, cut through the chatter. "Err..."

Everyone at the table turned in the direction Tokage was looking. Midoriya, following their gaze, was surprised to see Todoroki standing there, holding a tray of food, looking directly at him.

"T-todoroki?" Midoriya stammered, caught off guard.

Midoriya's reaction echoed around the table, with expressions ranging from surprise to curiosity.

Todoroki spoke up, addressing Midoriya with a solemn tone. "Midoriya, I didn't get a chance to say this after our match, but I wanted to thank you. What you said to me, and did for me. You've helped me in more ways than I can say."

Midoriya, slightly embarrassed but touched by Todoroki's words, nodded. "I'm glad I could help, Todoroki."

As Todoroki turned to leave, offering a polite bow to the group, Midoriya watched him, a thoughtful expression crossing his face. He remembered the countless times he had seen Todoroki eating alone, his isolation not just physical but emotional.

Knowing the struggles Todoroki had faced, Midoriya felt a pang of empathy. The All-Star Games had been a turning point for him, but it wasn't enough. Midoriya knew that enduring troubles like Todoroki's required more than just occasional support; it needed the steady presence of friends.

Glancing around the table, Midoriya noted the empty seat beside them. Before Todoroki could take another step, Midoriya called out to him, his voice filled with sincerity. "Hey, Todoroki. Would you like to eat with us?"

---

Two hours later, after a bustling lunch break, a boring Modern Literature 102 class, and a free period, the students of Class 101-A made their way back to their Foundational Heroics classroom. Meanwhile, Midoriya and Yaoyorozu walked side by side, departing from the Support Department.

"I really appreciate what you did back there, Momo-chan," Midoriya expressed with genuine gratitude.

Yaoyorozu responded with a warm smile, "It was my pleasure to help, Izuku-kun."

Midoriya let out a light laugh, recalling their recent visit. "The look on Mei's face when you created palladium... I thought she was about to short-circuit!"

Yaoyorozu's laughter joined his. "It was quite a sight. So, this means the Energy Shield will be integrated into your costume?"

"Yes, that's the plan," Midoriya confirmed with a nod.

"I'm relieved to hear that," Yaoyorozu admitted with a sigh. "I know you're incredibly skilled, but I always worry about you being unprotected in a critical situation."

Midoriya winced slightly, memories of past injuries momentarily surfacing. "Yeah, I agree. Extra protection is always welcome."

As they conversed, Midoriya spotted Iida ahead in the hallway, deeply engrossed in his internship offers. He raised an eyebrow when Iida continued straight ahead instead of turning towards their classroom.

"Odd. Where is Iida-kun going?" Yaoyorozu remarked, noticing as well.

Midoriya's concern deepened. "I'll go check on him. You should head to class, Momo-chan."

Yaoyorozu hesitated, but eventually nodded. "Alright, just hurry back. I'd rather you both not be late."

With a determined stride, Midoriya hastened his pace down the hallway, skillfully navigating through the crowd of students, eager to catch up with his friend.

As Midoriya hastened his pace, he noticed they had wandered beyond the Department of Heroics and into the Business wing, a less crowded area. Catching up, he reached out and gently tapped Iida's shoulder. "Iida-kun!"

Iida, jarred from his deep contemplation, spun around with a slightly disoriented expression. "Midoriya-kun? Why are you here? Shouldn't we be heading to our Field class?"

Glancing around, Iida's confusion deepened as he realized he was off course. "I... How did I end up here?"

"We've passed the Heroics Department," Midoriya informed him, a hint of concern in his voice.

A look of mild distress crossed Iida's face. "I hope we haven't made ourselves late. As future Pro Heroes, punctuality is key..."

Midoriya quickly reassured him, "Don't worry, we've still got some time. About ten minutes left before class."

Nodding, Iida began to turn back towards their classroom. "Let's hurry then. We can make it if we're quick."

Midoriya hesitated, then spoke up earnestly, "Iida, you know you're a good friend of mine, right?"

"Of course," Iida responded, slightly puzzled.

"And that you can always talk to me if something's bothering you?"

Iida's expression turned somber, and he averted his gaze. "I appreciate it, Midoriya-kun, but I'm fine. Really."

Midoriya bit his lip, torn between respecting his friend's privacy and the concern gnawing at him. He knew more about Ingenium's situation than he could let on, and it pained him to see Iida like this. Taking a deep breath, he decided to push a little further. "I'm sorry, Iida, but I'm not convinced."

Even when Iida looked at him sternly, Midoriya continued, "I learned in the military when someone's wearing a mask to hide their real feelings, Iida-kun. I can tell you're not handling things well…"

Iida's voice was firm, yet there was an underlying tremor. "Midoriya, I'm just being thorough with my choices for the internship. And while I appreciate your concern, it doesn't give you the right to assume I'm being dishonest."

"It's not just about the internships. Your Hero name... you seemed in pain choosing it. I've never seen you like this."

At that, Iida visibly flinched, turning away as his eyes glistened with unshed tears. The quiet of the hallway seemed to amplify their conversation, the weight of the moment pressing down on them.

"Iida, please," Midoriya implored, his voice soft but earnest. "Trust me, bottling this up won't help."

After a heavy silence, Iida's voice broke through, barely above a whisper. "My brother... he asked me to take up the mantle of Ingenium."

Midoriya frowned, recalling Coulson's report on Ingenium's paralysis. "If he's passing the mantle onto you, then does that mean his injuries are…severe?" He feigned surprise.

Iida nodded. "Yes… Stain's attack left him paralyzed. He can't feel his legs. The doctors confirmed it. My brother's Pro Hero career is over." His voice started trembling.

Midoriya reached out to place a comforting hand on Iida's shoulder. "Iida, I'm so sorry..."

Iida's gaze was downcast. "He wants me to continue Ingenium's legacy."

Midoriya nodded understandingly, drawing parallels between continuing his own legacy and the Ingenium legacy. If he were being honest, even with One For All being factored in, Ingenium's legacy sounded a bit more daunting since it was a family one.

Hesitating, Midoriya said, "You're afraid that you won't be able to live up to your brother's name, aren't you?"

Iida's gaze met Midoriya's, a mix of admiration and despair. "How could I? Tensei... he wasn't just a Hero; he was MY hero. I've always looked up to him. He's everything I think a Pro Hero should be. He wants me to carry on the Ingenium legacy, but how? How can I do that when I feel like I'll only ever be an imitation?"

"Iida, your brother knows the kind of person you are, the kind of hero you'll be. It might seem daunting, but he wouldn't ask this of you if he didn't believe in you. You don't have to be him. Just be you."

Iida looked at Midoriya, taken aback. It was as if Midoriya had read his deepest fears. Perhaps serving amongst his fellow soldiers in America's military had indeed taught Midoriya to get a good read on people.

The super-soldier pulled his hand off Iida's shoulder and stepped back. "Come on, we should be heading to our class before we're late."

Iida nodded and followed silently, using the time to process the verdette's words.

As they approached their classroom, Iida placed a hand on Midoriya's shoulder, stopping him briefly. "Thank you, Midoriya. I need to think about what you said. Please, keep this conversation between us for now."

Midoriya nodded, understanding the importance of privacy in this situation. "Of course, Iida. Take all the time you need."

They entered the classroom, both pondering their own thoughts. Midoriya hoped his words had provided some comfort. For now, all he could do was offer support and hope that Iida would find his way.

---

As the day's Field course concluded, Class 101-A, now back in their standard uniforms, gathered in the classroom to finalize their Hero names and miscellaneous draft information. The classroom buzzed with a mixture of excitement and nervous energy as paperwork was distributed.

Ignoring his Hero name paperwork, Iida sat alone at his desk, methodically scanning through his stack of internship offers. His eyes moved swiftly until one particular offer caught his attention and made him pause.

The hero's name read 'Normal Hero: Manual', but it was the location that held Iida's gaze: Hosu City, Tokyo.

A rush of emotions welled up inside him. He had been hoping, almost against hope, to find an internship in Hosu, but as the day had worn on and one Hero after another was crossed off his list, doubt had begun to set in. Now, in the dwindling hours of the school day, his persistence had paid off.

Aizawa's voice cut through the classroom chatter, "Iida, have you chosen your name?"

Iida's eyes shifted from the paper to his teacher, a resolve building within him. He nodded confidently. "Yes, Sensei."

Whispers and curious glances were directed at him from his classmates. Iida could feel Midoriya's gaze on him, heavy with unspoken understanding. The words they had exchanged earlier lingered in his mind, offering both comfort and a reminder of the weight now on his shoulders.

Taking a deep breath, Iida stood up, clutching his whiteboard. 'Tensei, you trusted me with your legacy. I will not let you down. I have the opportunity to seek justice for the wrong done to you, and I will seize it. I will find him,' he thought resolutely.

With a steady hand, Iida flipped his board around, revealing his chosen name to his peers. 'The Turbo Hero: Ingenium. It's this name that will confront him.'

---

Four days later, on a lively Friday evening at the Concord Dawn diner, the air was filled with a vibrant mix of sounds: conversations blending with laughter, the clinking of glasses, and the enticing aroma of dishes being served. Illuminated by the warm, cozy lighting of the diner, Midoriya and his friends gathered around a spacious table, celebrating Tsunotori's belated nineteenth birthday.

The group, though noticeably missing Iida due to prior commitments, had a special addition this evening: Todoroki.

Recently, Midoriya had taken the initiative to include Todoroki in their lunchtime gatherings, a gesture that gradually thawed the initial frostiness of their interactions. While Todoroki's presence was often marked by his characteristic stoicism, the subtle changes in his demeanor hadn't escaped Midoriya's observant eyes. Fleeting smiles and brief exchanges revealed the gradual melting of barriers, a testament to the burgeoning camaraderie within the group.

While Todoroki initially felt awkward about joining Tsunotori's birthday party, especially since he didn't bring a gift, he was relieved to know that it wasn't anything formal and the others hadn't brought gifts either since Tsunotori hadn't asked for any.

"Seriously, Pony-chan!" Ashido exclaimed. "Why didn't you tell us your birthday was last weekend? We didn't get to give you anything!"

Tsunotori's smile was carefree as she shrugged off the concern. "Oh, don't worry about it, guys. Just hanging out with all of you is enough of a gift for me. Really."

Tokage couldn't resist a little teasing. "Plus, Kaminari-san already took you out last Saturday, didn't he?"

Jiro, trying to mask her curiosity, turned to Tsunotori and Kaminari. "W-what did you guys end up doing?"

Tsunotori's answer was filled with simple joy. "Oh, we just walked around the park, hit the mall, had some ice cream, and did karaoke."

This caught Jiro's attention. "Yeah? Um, maybe we should all do that sometime?"

Ashido's enthusiasm bubbled over. "Sounds like fun to me!" she exclaimed.

Tsunotori eagerly agreed. "Yeah, I'd love to!"

Yaoyorozu, always practical, added, "That does sound like a good time, but with our schedules, we might have to wait until after the semester."

With everyone in agreement on a potential karaoke outing, the conversation naturally shifted to the subject of their upcoming internships.

At the lively dinner table, amidst the cheerful chatter, Todoroki unexpectedly broke his usual silence. "So, where is everyone interning next week?" he inquired, his voice calm yet curious.

Uraraka's face brightened as she shared, "I'm going with the Battle Hero: Gunhead!"

Midoriya's interest piqued. "Gunhead, huh? That's a solid choice! He's renowned for his combat skills and has an impeccable record in combat-related missions." He recalled the detailed information he had noted about Gunhead in his Pro Hero notebooks. "He's also got a ton of commendations from the police."

Uraraka's eyes widened. "Wow, I knew he was good, but that's impressive!"

Midoriya nodded, "Yeah, his ranking might have been higher if he was more into the media side of heroics. But he focuses more on actual fieldwork with the police; something I can respect."

Sero leaned forward, curious. "What kind of Quirk does he have?"

Uraraka enthusiastically explained, "His Quirk is Gatling. He can fire keratin bullets from gun-like organs in his arms, effective mostly at close range. Since we both need to get up close to use our Quirks, I thought he'd be the perfect mentor for me."

Tokage chuckled. "Look at you, Ochako-chan, giving us the full rundown. You're starting to sound like Greenie."

As the conversation continued, Midoriya found himself momentarily caught off guard, his mind drifting back to a painful memory from his past. The mention of Gunhead's Quirk had unintentionally triggered flashbacks to a Hydra agent with a similar ability he had encountered on that fateful day he received his powers. His face momentarily clouded with the shadows of those memories.

Yaoyorozu, sitting next to him, noticed the subtle change in his demeanor. She leaned in, her voice laced with concern, "Izuku, is everything okay?"

Startled, Midoriya quickly regained his composure. "Oh! Uh, yeah, I'm fine," he chuckled awkwardly, attempting to mask his momentary lapse. "Just got lost in thought for a second there."

Though Yaoyorozu nodded, accepting his response, she couldn't shake off a lingering sense of worry for him.

Tsunotori's excitement was palpable as she announced her choice. "You guys already know, but I'm interning with Gang Orca!"

Kaminari couldn't resist a playful jab. "Our class's cutest student with the scariest-looking Hero? That's going to be an interesting combo, Pony."

Tsunotori nudged him playfully, her eyes sparkling. "Watch out, Denki-kun. I might just come back stronger than you."

Kaminari responded with a confident grin. "Challenge accepted. I'll be stepping up my game too."

Tokage, ever the instigator, added, "Speaking of stepping up, where are you interning, Kaminari-san?"

"I've chosen Voltstream," Kaminari said proudly.

Midoriya nodded with approval. "Voltstream, huh? That's an excellent match for your Quirk. He's known for his precision with electricity."

"Exactly," Kaminari agreed, his eyes shining with determination. "Midoriya's right about control being essential for me. Learning from Voltstream will definitely help me harness my Quirk better." He then turned to Jiro, a hint of curiosity in his voice. "What about you, Jiro-chan? Who did you choose?"

Jiro's response was more reserved. "I'm interning with Death Arms. I'm not entirely sure what to expect, but I think there'll be a good bit of patrolling involved."

"That's a solid foundation of Hero work," Midoriya reassured her. "Patrolling is a fundamental part of a Pro Hero's day-to-day duties. It's definitely valuable experience."

Kirishima, brimming with his usual energy, was next to share. "I'm interning with Fourth Kind. I've heard he's tough, but I'm up for the challenge."

Midoriya cautioned, "He's known for his strictness, so be prepared for some hard training."

Kirishima's enthusiasm didn't falter. "No problem! A bit of tough training is exactly what I need. It's going to be awesome."

Then it was Ashido's turn, her face lighting up with excitement. "I'm interning with Cloud Dancer! She's in the top fifty, and her Quirk is so cool – she can fly by dancing!"

Tokage, intrigued, leaned in. "I've heard about her. I think she even has a few dance studios scattered across Tokyo, right?"

"Yep!" Ashido responded, her eyes sparkling. "Her Quirk and style are just what I need to learn to enhance my own abilities."

"What about you, Hanta?" Asui grabbed Sero's papers, and then fended off his hands with her tongue when he tried to take them back. "Did you decide on anyone yet, kero?"

"Well, I want to focus on Heroes that specialize in mobility," he said, even as he tried to get around Asui's tongue. "Air Jet is on that list."

"I remember him." Midoriya spoke up. "His agency was located close to the apartment complex Occhan and I live in, before he moved. You should've told me sooner; I've got plenty of notes on him."

Sero grinned. "Sorry, dude; I didn't even consider him at all until last night. Do you think you could email me those notes?"

"It'll have to be kind of late, but I can do it."

"Huh." Todoroki tapped his chin. "I think Endeavor worked with Air Jet a few days ago. Something about a drug bust. If it helps, I could probably get any recent news about him."

Sero held out one hand for a high-five, which was tentatively returned. "That is so cool! Okay, I'm definitely signing on with him."

"All of your choices are pretty inland, kero." Asui was as close to pouting as anyone had ever seen. "I chose Selkie for my internship, and he works off the coast. I mean, I figured we wouldn't see each other during the internships, but I guess I'm so used to spending time with you all, kero."

"Don't worry," Ashido said, and hugged Asui. "See, they have these awesome inventions called 'cell phones'. We can even video-call!"

Asui ducked her head. "Right. Sorry." She noticed that Sero was staring at her, and she smirked. "Kero."

Sero, slowly and deliberately, put his head in his hands.

Todoroki shifted closer to Tokage. "Is this kind of interaction... normal? I don't want to make any assumptions."

Tokage chuckled softly. "Absolutely. It's actually quite tame tonight since Mina isn't stirring up any romantic drama."

Todoroki's gaze subtly shifted across the table, observing the dynamics within the group. He noted Ashido and Kirishima, a couple whose relationship was common knowledge. His attention then drifted to Sero and Asui, where there seemed to be a budding chemistry, evolving naturally and at its own pace.

Finally, his eyes landed on the trio of Tsunotori, Kaminari, and Jiro. Todoroki, not one to delve into matters of the heart, could still sense a certain tension among them. A romantic complication, perhaps? The term 'love triangle' came to mind, a concept he found both intriguing and potentially complicated.

"I see…" Todoroki turned back to Tokage. "So, where are you interning? You got the fourth most offers if I remember correctly."

Tokage casually responded, "I'm going with Majestic. He's popular, and I think his style could work well with my Quirk."

Todoroki nodded. "I think Endeavor worked with him once. I remember him mentioning that Majestic was eccentric but really good at his job."

"A little eccentricity is fine in my book. So who'd you decide on interning with, Todoroki-san?"

Everyone's attention shifted to him. "I'll be interning with my father, Endeavor," Todoroki stated calmly yet firmly.

Midoriya, surprised, inquired, "With Endeavor? But I thought…"

Todoroki met his gaze and explained, "Despite our personal issues, he's the top fire-user in the country. To master my left side, learning from him is logical."

Understanding Todoroki's pragmatic approach, Midoriya nodded.

Ashido, eager to know Midoriya's choice, turned the spotlight on him. "Now, last but certainly not least, the day has finally come, Midori. You have over four thousand eligible bachelorettes. The question everyone is wondering is, who do you choose?"

Midoriya inwardly deadpanned. 'Is this The Bachelor or something?'

He watched his friends lean in, curious to hear where he would be spending his internship with, given the plethora of offers he had received.

Midoriya, feeling like the center of attention, calmly revealed, "I'll be interning with Urban Guard."

The announcement was met with a moment of stunned silence, followed by a wave of confused and somewhat underwhelmed expressions from his friends.

Tokage, breaking the quiet, voiced her confusion. "Uh, who is that?"

"They're an agency based in Kanazawa City," Midoriya replied. "They've got a solid record in Villain apprehensions, relative to the population size. Plus, they're really involved in community service."

Ashido, unable to contain her shock, exclaimed loudly, attracting glances from nearby diners. "You're kidding, right?! That's your choice?!"

Uraraka, trying to understand his rationale, joined in. "Izuku, I mean, they might be a good agency, but aren't you kind of... settling?"

Yaoyorozu, usually composed, couldn't hide her concern. "I have to agree. It seems like you might be missing out on learning from more established Heroes."

Todoroki, ever so straightforward, added, "You must have received offers from top-ranked Heroes. Even Bakugo-san got one from Best Jeanist." He looked at Midoriya, his face a mix of curiosity and skepticism.

The table's attention was fixed on Midoriya, each face mirroring a blend of curiosity and demand for a satisfying explanation.

Midoriya, unfazed by their reactions, calmly explained his decision. "I get where you're coming from, but for me, the prestige or the rank of the Hero isn't the main draw. I'm more interested in the day-to-day heroics, the stuff that doesn't always grab headlines. I want to be a Hero for the regular person, not just for the big, high-profile moments."

Internally, he added a crucial detail he couldn't share, 'Plus, Fury insisted I join this mission with them. It's necessary.'

The group fell into a thoughtful silence, digesting Midoriya's words.

Kirishima was the first to break the silence, his voice filled with respect. "That's really manly of you, Midori-bro! Focusing on the real essence of Hero work rather than the glitz and glamor." He nodded approvingly, clearly impressed.

Ashido let out a deep sigh and relaxed her posture. "Man, Midori, you really make it sound like we're all just chasing fame," she said with a hint of jest.

Midoriya appeared slightly embarrassed. "I didn't mean it like that. Each of the Heroes you've chosen to intern with suits your individual needs. I just feel that Urban Guard is the right choice for me."

Asui chimed in with her thoughtful perspective. "Understanding the day-to-day life of most Heroes is crucial. Not everyone is in the limelight all the time, kero."

Jiro smiled slightly, her tone approving. "It's pretty cool that you're taking a path less traveled."

Yaoyorozu nodded, her expression softening. "It's an admirable approach, Midoriya. To seek the fundamental experiences of everyday heroism."

Todoroki maintained his stoic demeanor. "I may still believe it's a mistake, but I respect your decision, Midoriya."

Uraraka sighed, her voice tinged with affectionate understanding. "Izuku-kun always sticks to what he thinks is right, even if it seems out there." Her smile grew tender as she looked at him. "Guess this is your way of living up to your Hero name, huh? A Hero For All!"

Midoriya blushed slightly, avoiding eye contact. "Y-yeah… I guess you could say that."

---

Over an hour later, the group left Concord Dawn and bid their farewells to one another. While most headed for the nearest train station, Yaoyorozu had her chauffeur take Midoriya and Uraraka to Endor Apartment Complex.

After wishing the Yaoyorozu heiress goodnight, Midoriya and Uraraka strolled towards the apartment building, their footsteps echoing gently on the quiet sidewalk. The night was peaceful, with a gentle breeze that brought a sense of calm after the excitement of the evening.

"It was really nice tonight, wasn't it?" Uraraka remarked, a content smile gracing her features as she recalled the laughter and camaraderie shared among friends.

Midoriya nodded in agreement, his hands tucked into his pockets. "Yeah, it was great seeing everyone so happy. Pony seemed to really enjoy it. Although I wished she had told us about her birthday sooner so we could've gotten her something."

Uraraka hummed in response. "Maybe I can draw her something? Like her favorite Pro Hero?" Her eyes twinkled with a reflective light. "Speaking of drawing, I hope I'll have some time tonight to start on the rough draft for my next piece. Momo's latest chapter really inspired me."

"You don't say…" The mention of Yaoyorozu's recent smut chapter inadvertently brought a faint blush to Midoriya's cheeks, memories of the intimate scenes written about him and Yaoyorozu's self-insert character flashing through his mind. He quickly tried to push those inappropriate thoughts aside.

Curiosity sparked in Uraraka's eyes as she glanced at Midoriya. "By the way, Izuku-kun, have you ever thought about writing your own novel? With all the notebooks you have, I bet you'd be good at it."

Midoriya, slightly taken aback by the question, shook his head. "No, I can't say I have."

'Though considering everything I've gone through, I have enough material to write one.' He thought in amusement.

He went on. "But along with my Quirk notebooks, I do keep journals. Just personal thoughts and observations, nothing like a story though."

"Oh, I see. That's still pretty cool," Uraraka replied, her interest piqued by his admission.

Ascending the stairs of their apartment complex, Midoriya and Uraraka reached their floor, each moving towards their respective doors. The quiet of the hallway enveloped them, a stark contrast to the lively atmosphere of the diner they had just left.

"Goodnight, Occhan," Midoriya said with a friendly nod, his hand on the doorknob of his apartment.

"Goodnight, Izuku-kun," Uraraka replied, her gaze lingering on him for a moment longer than usual as he disappeared into his room. A flicker of contemplation crossed her features, her mind drifting back to the surprising contents of the notebook she had looked upon weeks earlier. 'If that notebook wasn't intended to be a novel, then what exactly is it for?'

With a soft sigh, Uraraka unlocked her door and stepped into the quiet of her own apartment. She set down her belongings with a gentle clatter, her thoughts still preoccupied with the enigma that was Midoriya. As she made her way to the bathroom to prepare for bed, the words from Midoriya's notebook danced through her mind, each one a piece of a puzzle she couldn't quite solve.

'Izuku, what are you not telling us?' she wondered, the question echoing in the silence of her room.

---

Meanwhile, in the quiet solitude of his office, Aizawa Shota, the stoic and perceptive Underground Hero, was immersed in deep thought. The muted glow of his computer screen and the soft light from his desk lamp were the only sources of illumination in the otherwise dim room. It was late, yet the idea of sleep was far from Aizawa's mind. His focus was entirely on the task at hand.

He had reviewed and processed the internship applications of his students, filing them away with precision. However, one application lingered in his hands, capturing his full attention.

The name "Midoriya Izuku" was printed boldly at the top.

"Urban Guard. Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture?" Aizawa murmured to himself, his eyes narrowing slightly in confusion. The choice was uncharacteristic for a student of Midoriya's potential, prompting Aizawa to probe deeper into this anomaly.

He pivoted back to his computer, pulling up the comprehensive list of internship offers that Midoriya had received. As he scrolled through the document, his surprise grew. High-profile names like Kamui Woods, Crust, Mirko, and Edgeshot decorated the top of the list. 'Why would he turn down offers from such renowned Heroes?' Aizawa wondered, a thread of suspicion weaving through his thoughts.

Determined to shed light on this puzzling decision, Aizawa accessed a specialized portal, exclusive to registered Japanese Pro Heroes. His experienced fingers danced across the keyboard, initiating a search for "Urban Guard." His gaze, sharp and inquisitive, scrutinized the search results as they populated the screen.

The information presented Urban Guard as a legitimate agency with a solid reputation in Kanazawa City, specializing in urban security and low-level Villain encounters. Yet, nothing about it seemed to justify Midoriya's selection, especially given the more illustrious offers at his disposal.

Aizawa's fingers drummed a thoughtful rhythm on the desktop. 'Is there an ulterior motive for choosing Kanazawa, or something specific about Urban Guard itself?' His mind raced with possibilities, yet he resisted the urge to contact the agency directly, opting instead for a more discreet approach.

His investigation then veered towards another aspect of Midoriya's application - the costume and shield. "Eagle Industries in New York City," Aizawa echoed, his voice barely above a whisper as he conducted a search for the company. The results portrayed Eagle Industries as a reputable manufacturer of tactical gear for Heroes, yet something about their squeaky-clean profile felt superficial, almost too perfect.

Aizawa jotted down a note, his handwriting sharp and precise: "Verify authenticity of Eagle Industries' connection to Midoriya's costume."

Next on his investigative agenda was the shield - a piece of equipment shrouded in mystery. Its remarkable capabilities had left even the most seasoned experts at UA baffled. Determined to unravel its secrets, Aizawa decided to consult with metallurgists.

He spent considerable time sifting through profiles and credentials, eventually selecting a few leading experts in the field. Composing an email, he attached images and footage of Midoriya's shield in action, hoping for insights into its unique properties.

As Aizawa delved deeper into the mystery, the implications of a forged background for Midoriya loomed large. 'Who could orchestrate such a deception, and to what end?' The questions echoed ominously in his mind.

The possibility of harboring an adversary disguised as a student within UA's walls was a chilling thought.

Additionally, the call he had last week with James Roosevelt, Midoriya's supposed high school math teacher, had been unsettling. Roosevelt had no recollection of Midoriya, which was highly unusual given the small size of the school. This discrepancy, coupled with the lack of a student profile picture and a seemingly fabricated academic record, painted a worrying picture. It was becoming increasingly clear that Midoriya's past might be a carefully constructed facade.

With the email finished and sent, Aizawa reclined in his chair, the day's fatigue and the weight of his suspicions converging upon him. He glanced at the clock - it was well past midnight now. Despite his body crying out for rest, his mind was too restless to comply. The pieces of the puzzle were slowly coming together, but the image they were forming was unclear and potentially troubling.

Aizawa steeled himself for the revelations his investigation might bring. As a veteran of the darker facets of Hero work, he was no stranger to adversity, but this situation was different - it was close, personal, and involved the safety of his students.

Switching off his computer and rising from his chair, Aizawa made a silent pledge to safeguard his students from whatever may come, especially if it was possibly Midoriya's mysterious past.

---

Musutafu, Japan - May 2197

Aizawa, looking every bit as fatigued as usual yet still commanding attention, addressed his students with a serious tone. "Pay attention, everyone. You've all received your train tickets for your respective internships. I expect a text from each of you confirming your safe arrival. Remember, I know your train schedules. If I don't hear from you within an hour of your supposed arrival, I'll be involving the police. Is that clear?"

The response from Class 101-A was immediate and unanimous. "Yes, Aizawa-sensei!" Their voices rang in unison, a clear indication of the gravity they placed on their instructor's instructions.

It was Monday, the beginning of their much-anticipated Internship Week. The reality of stepping closer to their dreams of becoming Pro Heroes was finally dawning on them. The excitement and anticipation were palpable among the students.

Aizawa continued, his gaze sweeping over the class. "You've been issued your Hero Costumes and Support Items. Remember, you are to wear them only with your mentors' explicit permission. This trust is not to be taken lightly. Do not disappoint them, or me."

Midoriya's eyes briefly dropped to the silver case by his feet, containing his new, unseen Costume. Slung over his shoulder was a yellow duffle bag, complemented by the familiar black circular bag housing his shield. He felt a surge of anticipation for his upcoming mission.

Aizawa checked his phone for the time. "The trains will be arriving shortly. I expect you all to board promptly. Make the most of this opportunity and heed your mentors' advice and guidance."

As most of his classmates hurried off to catch their trains. The air was thick with a mixture of excitement and the slightest hint of nervous anticipation.

Uraraka, her eyes sparkling with a blend of excitement and nervousness, stepped forward and gave Midoriya a tight hug. "Good luck, Izuku-kun," she said, her voice warm and supportive. "Just remember to text us once you get there, okay?"

Midoriya returned the hug, feeling a surge of gratitude for her friendship. "Thanks, Occhan. Make sure you learn a lot from Gunhead," he replied, a reassuring smile on his face.

Next, Yaoyorozu approached, her expression one of earnest sincerity. She wrapped her arms around Midoriya in a gentle, yet firm embrace. "Stay safe, Izuku," she said softly. "I know you'll make a great impression at the Urban Guard agency."

Midoriya smiled, touched by her kind words. "Thanks, Momo-chan. And good luck with Fat Gum. You're going to learn so much."

As his two best friends departed for their respective trains, Midoriya's gaze shifted and landed on Iida, who stood a short distance away, his expression unreadable and distant. Concerned, Midoriya approached him, his steps measured.

"Iida," Midoriya began, his voice infused with warmth and understanding. "Remember, if you ever need to talk, or if anything's on your mind, I'm here. We all are."

Iida's eyes briefly flashed with a deep, intense emotion that was fleeting, but spoke volumes.

"Yes," Iida responded curtly, his voice lacking its characteristic enthusiasm.

The shortness of Iida's reply, coupled with the undercurrent of strain in his tone, left the super-soldier feeling uneasy. He watched as Iida turned and walked towards his train, a sense of apprehension gnawing at him.

Midoriya couldn't shake the feeling that Iida's choice of internship with the Normal Hero: Manual in Hosu City – where the notorious villain Stain had been recently active – was more than just a coincidence.

Soon, the realization dawned on him with a sinking heart that Iida might be embarking on a dangerous path of vengeance.

Midoriya pondered Iida's situation, his thoughts tinged with concern. 'Iida has always been a stickler for the rules, but anger can push even the most disciplined person to act recklessly. Dammit! I should've noticed it sooner!'

As Midoriya internally berated himself, a wave of determination began to wash over him. The gravity of the situation was not lost on him; he knew that if Iida was indeed seeking revenge against the Hero Killer, it could lead to irrevocable consequences.

With that, Midoriya pulled out his cellphone and speed dialed a familiar contact.

He didn't have to wait a couple rings before the other end picked up.

"What's up, Cap?"

"Coulson, I need to ask a favor. It may sound unusual, but trust me, it's important."

---

Nagoya Port, Japan - May 2197

At the bustling Port of Nagoya, amidst the constant flow of cargo and noise, a man with a notable, rugged appearance made his way off a cargo ship. His thick, dark hair streaked with gray, heavy beard, and piercing eyes gave him a notably rough exterior. Slung over his shoulder was a simple duffle bag, the only indication of his journey.

As he approached the customs office, the man's steps were measured and his demeanor calm yet alert, reflecting a familiarity with navigating new and possibly challenging environments.

Meanwhile, inside the customs office, the usual hum of activity filled the air. Dressed in matching black business jacket with knee-length skirts, two receptionists chatted idly near the entrance.

"So, how's it going with Kenji?" one asked, her voice tinged with curiosity.

"Ah, it's amazing! He surprised me with tickets to that new movie I wanted to see," the other replied, her face lighting up.

Their colleague, meanwhile, sat at her custom-built desk, attempting to concentrate on her tasks. However, she found herself inadvertently eavesdropping on her colleagues' conversation. A sigh slipped from her lips as she felt a twinge of envy, a stark reminder of her own lacking personal life.

She was an imposing figure, standing at a notable height of 200 centimeters (six-foot-seven) and possessing a striking fox-like appearance. Despite her attractive features and unique qualities, her distinctive height and appearance often intimidated potential suitors. She felt a sense of isolation, partly due to her unique physical traits due to her Quirk, which made her stand out more than she sometimes wished.

Just then, the door opened, and the rugged man walked in. The receptionists braced themselves for the usual language barrier they encountered with foreign visitors. As the man approached the desk, the tall receptionist brushed away any wrinkles in her black jacket and skirt. She prepared herself to assist him in English, noticing his attractive, if somewhat scruffy, appearance.

"Welcome to Japan, sir. How can I assist you today?" She greeted with a professional smile, her voice steady yet slightly intrigued by the newcomer's presence.

"Yeah, good afternoon, ma'am." To her surprise, the man responded in fluent Japanese, his tone casual yet respectful. "Ugh… I hate riding on ships."

As the man delved into his jacket, extracting an orderly stack of documents, the receptionists watched in surprise, clearly caught off guard by his adeptness in Japanese.

"Here's all my papers," he paused to read the tall receptionist's name tag, "Saya-san."

The fox-woman, Saya, wouldn't admit it, but hearing her name spoken by the man's rugged, raspy voice sent a jolt down her long spine. Shaking those inappropriate thoughts away, she swiftly began the verification process.

Carefully looking over the documents, ensuring everything was in order, Saya couldn't help but steal glances at the man, finding his gruff exterior oddly appealing. "Everything seems to be in order, Mr. Howlett," she said, her tone professional yet noticeably softer than before. "I must say, it's not often we get visitors who speak Japanese so fluently."

"Please, Logan's fine." He leaned against the counter, gave a half-smirk. "And let's just say I've had my fair share of travels." His eyes flicked across Saya's unique features and tall stature. "You're not what I expected from a customs officer. Japan's full of surprises."

Saya's cheeks warmed slightly at the compliment, her fox ears twitching almost imperceptibly. "Japan is indeed full of surprises, Mr. Howl–uh, Logan. Is this your first time here?"

"Nah, been here a few times before," Logan casually replied, his eyes briefly flickering with a hint of nostalgia. "But it's been a while. Things change, people change."

"The only constant is change itself," Saya mused, stamping his passport. "Do you need any assistance with directions or local information?"

"I am looking to rent a motorbike. Know where I can find a place nearby?" Logan asked, his gaze still on Saya.

"A couple of blocks down the street, there's a shop called Hoth Motors," she explained, pointing in the direction. "They should have what you need."

"Appreciate it," Logan nodded, then, with a hint of playfulness in his gruff voice, added, "You wouldn't happen to know any good bars around here, would you? Preferably the kind that's not too crowded."

Saya smiled, her fox-like features giving her a charmingly sly look. "There's one I know of. It's quiet, mostly locals. I can draw you a map if you'd like."

"That'd be great," Logan said, his tone lightening. "Maybe I'll see you there sometime."

With a final nod and a small wink, Logan collected his stamped passport and papers. Saya watched him leave, a mix of professional composure and mild amusement on her face. "Well, that doesn't happen every day," she remarked to her colleague, still slightly surprised by the encounter.

Leaning against the counter, her co-worker couldn't help but tease. "He was totally flirting with you, Saya!"

Saya's cheeks flushed a light shade of pink, though she tried to maintain her composure. "Oh, stop it," she murmured, flattered but embarrassed.

"Guess your size isn't an issue for him," her colleague added with a chuckle. "So, are you going to take him up on that bar offer?"

Saya pondered for a moment, her gaze drifting towards the door through which Logan had exited. "Maybe," she mused, a hint of curiosity in her tone.

Another colleague, who had been quietly observing the exchange, chimed in with genuine interest. "Did he say what his Quirk was?"

"No." Saya hesitated, her professionalism kicking in. "But I shouldn't be looking up his records for something like that," she said, but the expectant stares from her colleagues, coupled with her own curiosity, urged her to act. Reluctantly, she reopened Logan's profile on her computer.

The room fell into a stunned silence as they read the information. "Quirkless?" one of them uttered in disbelief. "I didn't even think that was a thing anymore."

The other colleague patted Saya's shoulder consolingly. "That's a shame. Better luck next time, girl."

Saya bit her tongue, feeling a twinge of annoyance at how quickly her colleagues dismissed Logan for being Quirkless. She glanced toward the door Logan had exited, her expression softening. As a Mutant, she understood all too well the challenges of being different. In a world where Quirks were the norm, being Quirkless or a Mutant often meant facing undue judgment and prejudice.

As her colleagues resumed their work, Saya found herself lost in thought, pondering the mysterious man who had briefly entered her life. His confident demeanor, rugged appearance, fluency in Japanese, and Quirkless status fueled her intrigue.

'Perhaps there's more to him than meets the eye,' she thought, her gaze lingering on the door a moment longer before returning to her work.

Meanwhile, as Logan stepped outside and away from the customs office, he paused for a moment, taking in the sights and smells of Nagoya. His expression was resolute, his thoughts firmly on his next destination.

"UA," he muttered to himself. With that, he headed towards the motorbike rental shop, ready to embark on the next step of his mission.

---

A/N: Happy belated News Years! Apologies for the seemingly late update. Was taking time to relax and catch up on other activities.

Credit to ss3dj's "Green Tea Rescue" for his story's inspiration in this chapter.

Though there was no action in this chapter, it does provide a good setup for what's to come.

Hope you all like some of the new Hero names I gave to members of Class 101-A. Unless shown otherwise, their names are the same as in canon.

For Yaoyorozu's name, I felt "Lady Thesis" was appropriate given her refined nature. For Ashido, I considered using "Alien Queen" but that name is used in plenty of other stories, so I decided to go with "Meltdown". For Kaminari, though "Charge Bolt" isn't necessarily a bad name, I thought "Power Surge" was a more fitting one. As for Uraraka, though I really love her Hero name as "Uravity", in the context of this story, I felt giving her an alternate one was due for reasons that'll be shown in the future.

As for Midoriya's Hero name… Though "Captain Midoriya" isn't original, it is fitting in this situation.

In the last scene, the fox-woman, Saya, is the "Ordinary Woman" from MHA's Dark Hero Arc. She wasn't given a name, so I just gave her one to make it easier to write. I figured it was a fitting name.

The next chapter will feature a glance into everyone's internships, the reveal of Midoriya's mission with SHIELD, and a Hero Killer walks into a bar.
Please leave any comments and critique in the review box below. Thank you for the support as always!