Arc 1: Fresh Faced Fools
Chapter 3: Promise
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There's still people in there!" The panicked cry reverberated in his ears.
"I'm not going to abandon you!" He cried, resolute and unwavering.
"Take him! Please!" She begged.
"I can't leave you behind!" he cried, his voice filled with anguish and determination.
"Please... take him..." She pleaded, her voice growing weaker amidst the chaos.
"The entire building's crumbling! We have to get out of here!" came another voice, one filled with urgency.
He turned to them with a shake of his head, "No, I can't leave her!" he choked out.
"Take care of him, Nezu! Please! Take care of him!" she cried.
He felt himself and the baby in his arms being pulled away as he saw her becoming smaller in the distance.
She smiled at the rat as she watched them leave, tears flowing down her face, "Thank you..." came her grateful whisper.
"INKO!" he cried.
Nezu's fur-covered ears twitched involuntarily as the nightmare began to fade, replaced by the stark reality of his office at U.A. High. He sat up straight in his chair, his small frame tense with residual adrenaline. A knock at the door startled him, pulling him out of his reverie.
"Come in," Nezu called out, his voice steady despite the lingering unease. The door creaked open, revealing Vlad.
Vlad's expression held a mixture of concern and sympathy as he approached Nezu's desk and gently placed a file in front of him.
It was Izuku's file, neatly labeled and meticulously organized.
Nezu's gaze fell upon the name, and he took a deep breath, composing himself before he spoke. "Did you find what you were looking for?" Nezu asked.
Vlad nodded, taking a seat across from him.
Nezu grabbed the file and returned it to its place in his desk drawer before meeting Vlad's eyes. "Any questions?" he asked, his voice steady yet carrying an undercurrent of solemnity.
Vlad let out a long, low sigh. "If you don't mind... I want to know everything, from the beginning," he replied earnestly. "How did you meet Midoriya's mother?"
Nezu nodded slowly, considering his words carefully. "Very well," he began, his mind retracing the events of years gone by. "It happened 17 years ago, when I was freed from the torture of my tormenters..."
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As Itsuka sprinted toward Shoda's location, she heard another set of footsteps rapidly approaching from behind. Turning her head, she saw Tetsutetsu hot on her heels. 'No way! Did he already beat Izuku?' she thought, her mind racing.
Tetsutetsu's laughter rang out as he closed the distance. "I'm right behind you, Kendo!" he shouted gleefully.
Itsuka grimaced. 'If I don't deal with him now, he'll chase me all the way to Shoda,' she calculated. 'I've got 18 minutes left... plenty of time to handle this!'
Determined, Kendo skidded to a halt and turned to face Tetsutetsu, ready for a head-on confrontation. Seeing her stop, Tetsutetsu's grin widened. He increased his speed, charging forward with all his might, his fist pulled back and ready to strike.
As he swung, Itsuka deftly sidestepped, avoiding the blow. In one fluid motion, she delivered a powerful chop to his gut. Without missing a beat, she retracted her hand, raised it high, and brought it down hard on his arm. Then, with lightning speed, she followed up with a sharp elbow to his face.
Tetsutetsu staggered back, momentarily dazed by the rapid succession of blows.
Itsuka maintained her fighting stance, her eyes locked on him. "You picked the wrong opponent, Tetsutetsu," she declared, her voice steady and determined.
Regaining his balance, Tetsutetsu chuckled. "Not bad, Kendo! But this fight is far from over!" he said, his eyes gleaming with excitement.
Tetsutetsu charged in again, swinging wildly. Itsuka dodged each blow with ease, backing up with every attack. However, she soon felt the cold, hard surface of a large pipe pressing against her back. Her eyes widened in realization. Seeing her reaction, Tetsutetsu believed he had her cornered.
He wound up for a powerful punch, but when he threw it, his fist punctured a hole in the pipe instead. Itsuka had ducked under the attack and used the opportunity to strike back. As she threw her punch, she enlarged her hand, delivering a powerful blow that sent Tetsutetsu flying backward. He crashed into a cluster of pipes, the impact reverberating through the training ground.
Tetsutetsu groaned as he got up, his body aching from the hit. He looked back at Itsuka, a mix of pain and excitement in his eyes. 'Damn! Kendo's tough!' he thought.
Itsuka, ready for more, grinned at him. "Ready to give up, Tetsutetsu?" she taunted.
Tetsutetsu shook his head fiercely. "You wish!" he yelled back.
With determination in their eyes, both fighters charged at each other. Tetsutetsu braced himself, ready to deflect or dodge whatever Itsuka threw his way. As she approached, she swung at him. Tetsutetsu managed to dodge, pulling his fist back for a counterpunch aimed at her face. But Itsuka caught his fist with her right hand, then delivered a backhand strike to his face, sending him stumbling backward.
Not letting up, Itsuka pressed her advantage. She darted forward, jabbing the right side of Tetsutetsu's chest. Before he could react, she followed up with a blow to his left side, then spun around and delivered a high kick to his neck, sending him sprawling to the side.
Tetsutetsu struggled to get up, his breaths coming in heavy gasps. Itsuka stood her ground, her eyes focused and determined. "Stay down, Tetsutetsu," she warned. "You're not going to win this."
Tetsutetsu wiped a trickle of blood from his mouth and grinned, his resolve unshaken. "We'll see about that," he replied, pushing himself to his feet. The battle was far from over, and both fighters knew it.
Back on the other side of the training ground, Monoma and Izuku charged at one another, their eyes locked in determination. Monoma threw the first punch, aiming for Izuku's head. Izuku blocked it with his right arm and retaliated with a left hook, landing it squarely on Monoma's face and causing him to stumble backward.
Seeing his chance, Izuku pressed forward. He landed a powerful blow to Monoma's right side, then another to his left, before raising his leg and delivering a sharp kick to Monoma's stomach. The impact sent Monoma tumbling to the ground, gasping for air.
Monoma gasped for breath, the wind knocked out of him. He slowly got up, taking deep breaths, and glared at Izuku. 'Damn it! How!? How can someone like him be this strong!?' he thought, frustration boiling within him.
Undeterred, Izuku rushed forward again, preparing to attack. Monoma braced himself, waiting for the right moment. As Izuku closed in, Monoma threw a high punch. Izuku narrowly avoided it, but Monoma saw an opening and swung his leg for a kick. Izuku caught Monoma's leg, stopping the attack in its tracks.
With a firm grip on Monoma's leg, Izuku spun him around and slammed him into a large pipe. The impact caused Monoma to wince in pain as the metal echoed with the force of the collision. Izuku released his hold, letting Monoma drop to the floor.
Monoma struggled to stand, his body aching from the repeated hits. He looked up at Izuku, determination still burning in his eyes despite the pain. "You won't beat me that easily," Monoma spat, pushing himself to his feet.
Izuku's eyes remained focused, his stance unwavering.
Monoma glared at Izuku, a mix of frustration and curiosity in his eyes. "I want to know... why is someone like you choosing to be a hero?" he demanded.
Izuku raised an eyebrow, clearly confused. "Huh?" he responded.
"Why did you choose to be a hero? You don't have a Quirk. It's impossible to stand a chance against anyone here, yet, here you are... why?" Monoma pressed.
"Can you... promise me... Izuku?"
Izuku's expression softened slightly as he lowered his stance, a flicker of a distant memory passing through his eyes. "I'm here... because I made a promise," he said quietly.
Monoma's confusion deepened. "A promise?" he repeated.
Izuku nodded. "No one believed in me, not even my idol, they all said it was just a dream," he began, his voice steady and resolute. "But I couldn't give up, I made a promise to someone that I'd be a hero, that I'd be strong enough to save others. That I'd be someone who would be surrounded by others when they die, not alone..."
Monoma's expression grew more serious as he listened. "But didn't all those people who said you couldn't do it, didn't their words stay in the back of your mind? Find a special little spot that just kept hitting you at your lowest point... didn't you just want to give up?" he asked.
Izuku met Monoma's gaze with unwavering determination. "No," he replied firmly.
"Why?" Monoma asked, his voice softer, almost pleading.
"Because I knew I'd prove them all wrong," Izuku said. "I knew that if I worked hard enough, if I pushed past every obstacle, I'd become the hero I always dreamed of being. I promised to never give up, no matter what anyone said."
Monoma stared at him for a moment, the weight of Izuku's words sinking in. There was a mixture of envy and respect in his eyes. "I see..." he muttered.
Monoma then charged in swiftly, catching Izuku off guard. He slugged him hard in the face, then pulled his other hand back and delivered another punch, breaking Izuku's nose. Izuku stumbled backward but quickly regained his footing, adopting a fighting stance just as Monoma attempted another punch. This time, Izuku blocked it and retaliated with a powerful kick, sending Monoma skidding backward.
Monoma came to a stop and looked at Izuku with a twisted smile and a fierce glare. "Now, I really hate you," he spat.
Izuku, puzzled by the sudden declaration of hatred, didn't have time to ponder Monoma's words as All Might's voice boomed over the hidden intercoms.
[Attention! Heroes, you have 10 minutes remaining!]
The announcement jolted all four students, making them acutely aware of the ticking clock.
Izuku turned abruptly, summoning all his strength, and sprinted toward Shoda's location, the sheer force of his first step causing the ground to crack beneath him. Monoma groaned in frustration as he watched Izuku bolt away with incredible speed, knowing he couldn't catch up.
As Izuku ran, he saw Itsuka and Tetsutetsu still engaged in their fierce battle, both also heading toward Shoda.
"KENDO!" Izuku shouted.
Both Itsuka and Shoda turned behind them, surprised to see Izuku closing in on them faster than they expected.
Izuku sprinted toward Tetsutetsu, launching himself into the air and delivering a powerful knee strike to Tetsutetsu's face. The sheer speed and force of the attack knocked out the steel-skinned teen instantly.
Both Izuku and Tetsutetsu hit the ground, but Izuku rolled expertly and quickly sprang back to his feet. He glanced at Itsuka with urgency. "Monoma is right behind us! We've got to move, now!" he said.
Itsuka nodded, and without missing a beat, they dashed toward Shoda's location. They found him just in time, securing him between them as they sprinted toward the exit.
Monoma appeared behind them, his face twisted in frustration. "You're not getting away that easily!" he shouted, but Izuku and Itsuka were already too far ahead.
"Keep going! We're almost there!" Itsuka urged, her voice filled with determination.
Izuku nodded, pushing himself to move even faster. "Hang on, Shoda! We've got you!"
With a final, resolute push, Izuku picked up Shoda and Itsuka suddenly, stunning both of them, and with a sudden burst of speed, Izuku launched forward with such speed, they both could've sworn they were riding a motorcycle. Together, they crossed the finish line, securing their victory.
From behind them, Monoma appeared but looked tired as he stopped and began panting heavily. He looked up toward the exit and glared at Izuku. "This isn't over, Midoriya," he hissed, his frustration evident.
All Might's voice echoed over the intercom again, announcing the heroes' victory. [Well done, everyone! Today's trial has shown the true spirit of heroism!]
Izuku, Itsuka, and Shoda stood together, catching their breath, their expressions a mix of relief and triumph.
After the final battle trial, returning from their Heroics class and changing into their casual clothes, lunch was just beginning. Izuku began to stretch, loosening his muscles after the intense session, while Setsuna and Juzo waited for him. Both were still reeling from the challenging trial they had faced.
Setsuna glanced at Izuku with a raised brow and a playful smile. "Any plans after school?" she asked, breaking the silence.
Izuku shook his head, a small smile forming. "None really," he replied. "What about you guys?"
Juzo shrugged, his expression mirroring Izuku's. "Same boat as you, Midoriya," he said with a sigh.
Setsuna chuckled, shaking her head in mock disapproval. "You boys are so boring," she teased, her eyes sparkling with amusement.
Juzo gave her a blank stare, unimpressed by her jab. "Oh yeah? And what exciting plans do you have?" he asked, raising an eyebrow.
Setsuna's smile grew wider, a hint of pride in her voice. "I'm going to watch Lizard Love in theaters!" she announced with a chuckle.
Juzo groaned, rolling his eyes dramatically. "Ugh, I don't know how you can stand that romance crap," he said, his tone dripping with disdain.
Setsuna's eyes widened in mock offense. "What!? It's a beautiful tale of a lizard woman who finds love despite her appearance!" she cried passionately. "That's a beautiful story!"
Izuku, who had been listening quietly, chimed in with a shy smile. "I kind of like it," he admitted.
Juzo groaned even louder, his head falling back in exaggerated despair. "Really, Midoriya?" he exclaimed.
Izuku nodded, his eyes lighting up. "Yeah, I love movies! Superhero and action are my favorites, but I enjoy a good romance every now and then too," he said proudly.
"See! Midoriya gets it!" Setsuna exclaimed, quickly moving to his side and wrapping her arm around him. She then looked up at him with a mischievous smile. "So, how about it, Midori? Wanna go see Lizard Love with me?" she asked, her tone playful.
Izuku smiled softly, feeling the warmth of her enthusiasm. "Sure!" he replied.
"Did I hear something about movies?" came a familiar voice.
The three friends turned their heads to see Kinoko, Shihai, Pony, and Shoda walking toward them.
"Oh, hey guys!" Izuku greeted, waving at them.
"Sup!" Setsuna added, flashing a grin. "Yeah, Midori and I are going to watch Lizard Love!"
Kinoko ooo'ed and smiled brightly. "That sounds fun! It's been a while since I've seen a movie," she said, her eyes twinkling with excitement.
Shoda nodded in agreement. "Yeah, same here! It'd be nice to catch a movie," he said with a friendly smile.
"Maybe you guys could join us next time?" Izuku suggested, his voice filled with genuine warmth.
Setsuna nodded, her eyes sparkling with the prospect of a group outing. "Sounds good to me, but it should be a movie we all agree on," she said, looking around at her friends.
Shihai crossed his arms and smirked. "I'm in, as long as it's not too sappy," he said, teasingly glancing at Setsuna.
Pony giggled. "I'm sure we can find something that everyone will like," she said cheerfully.
Kinoko clapped her hands together. "Perfect! A movie night with friends sounds amazing," she exclaimed.
They all nodded in agreement, and Kinoko was about to say something when the classroom door swung open. All eyes turned to see Monoma standing there, his glare fixed on Midoriya.
Monoma strode into the classroom, stopping just a few feet from Izuku. "I'm gonna make this clear right now... I hate you," he declared, his voice dripping with disdain. "I'm gonna show you who the real star is, and I'll make sure to leave you in the dust. Got it, Midoriya? From here on out... we're rivals."
"Whoa! Chill there, MonoBro!" Tetsutetsu's voice called from the other end of the classroom, attempting to diffuse the tension.
Izuku met Monoma's glare with a determined look and a small smile. "Sounds good, Monoma," he replied calmly.
Setsuna looked at Izuku in shock. "Hey! Izuku! Don't encourage him!" she protested.
"May the best man win," Izuku said, extending his hand towards Monoma.
Monoma hesitated for a moment before nodding curtly. "Indeed," he replied, shaking Izuku's hand firmly.
With that, Monoma turned and walked out of the classroom, heading towards the cafeteria. Tetsutetsu followed him, trying to catch up. The remaining students exchanged looks, each processing the confrontation differently.
Juzo and Setsuna were visibly annoyed, their expressions darkening at Monoma's sudden hostility towards Izuku. "What's his problem?" Juzo muttered under his breath.
Kinoko, Pony, and Shoda were confused, glancing at each other and then at Izuku, wondering if something had happened between him and Monoma during the battle trial. "Did something happen between you two?" Pony asked, her voice filled with curiosity.
Izuku shook his head. "Not really. I think he just sees me as a challenge," he explained, trying to downplay the situation.
Shihai, however, watched Monoma's retreating figure with a thoughtful expression. He sensed there was something deeper driving Monoma's actions, something more than just rivalry. "There's more to this than meets the eye," he murmured, mostly to himself.
Setsuna sighed, placing a hand on Izuku's shoulder. "Just be careful, Izuku. Monoma can be... intense."
Izuku nodded, appreciating the concern. "I will," He replied. "Thanks, Setsuna,"
As the group made their way out of the classroom and toward the cafeteria, the three recommended students began to converse and get to know their newfound friends. The camaraderie was building when suddenly, Izuku felt a sharp, stinging pain at the back of his neck. He winced and instinctively reached up to see what had caused it, but his fingers grasped at nothing. A moment later, a bee buzzed away from his neck and hovered in front of his face.
"AHHH!" Pony cried, backing away from the insect in alarm.
Juzo also stepped back, his eyes wide with a mix of surprise and unease. "Where did that come from?" he asked, his voice tinged with a bit of fear.
The bee buzzed away, disappearing down the hallway.
Izuku continued to rub the back of his neck, feeling a dull ache where the sting had been. Pony noticed his discomfort and looked at him with concern. "You okay there, Izu—Midoriya?" she asked, her voice soft and worried.
Izuku nodded, trying to brush off the incident. "Yeah, just a sting," he replied. "No worries."
Shoda frowned slightly, curious about the sudden appearance of the bee. "Wonder why it stung you, though?" he asked.
Setsuna chuckled, trying to lighten the mood. "Maybe it got trapped in his curls, and when it was freed, it decided to take revenge!" she joked, her eyes twinkling with amusement.
Kinoko giggled, joining in on the teasing. "Maybe," she said, her tone playful.
With the small nuisance seemingly behind them, the group resumed their journey to the cafeteria. They laughed and chatted, the earlier incident quickly fading from their minds. However, none of them realized that the sting Izuku felt was not from a normal bee. The tiny creature had carried something far more sinister—a small syringe, its needle injecting an unknown substance into Izuku's neck.
the substance injected by the bee was already starting to take effect, slowly altering something within him. The true nature of this incident would reveal itself soon enough, and when it did, it would bring challenges none of them had anticipated...