WARNING:
There are going to be some flash back scenes in this chapter shown through italicized text. These flashback scenes will contain hints and references to animal torture and death. If this is a trigger for you I suggest skipping them. I'm not going to go into crazy detail but be warned that it is there.
Chapter Text
Despite popular belief Itsuka Kendo had always loved cute things.
You may not be able to tell by looking at her first glance. The way she held herself and her disdain for anything flowery and flowing went against that belief, so much so that people would scoff if they ever heard you say such a thing. After all, her calloused hands and scared face told a story of hard work and determination despite everything laid before her. But that was just a shell, an outside layer of something deeper. A disguise that hide her deep love for anything small and cute. But how did such a thing come to be? This urge, this drive to protect things that were smaller and weaker then herself at all cost. Like most things in life it was a combination of multiple events, not just one. This, is one of those events...
It was a bright and sunny day within the town of Tateyama on the Boso Peninsula in Chiba. The weather was slightly muggy with the humming buzz of cicadas, the sun beating down onto the grassy land and the smell of fresh salt water filled the air. Despite the fact that the sun had just recently risen up to greet the day many were already up and about to greet it back. A low bustling of activity moving across the town like a network, the people of Tateyama were no stranger to hard work and Itsuka Kendo was no different.
Standing in a field Kendo held out one of her hands, her short orange hair shifting in the wind. Grunting under the strain of her quirk the eleven year old girl clenched her teeth, the all too familiar feeling of tingling running along her hand. Closing her teal eyes she tried with all of her might, her hand shifting and warping before her thumb grew three times the usual size. All she had to do was hold onto that feeling, grab hold of it with all of her strength and never let go. But sadly it was too slippery for her, the feeling leaving her sharp and fast, her little muscles contracting before letting out a yelp as her hand grew back to it's normal size. Falling back against the soft billowing grass a sea of bugs flew into the air to avoid getting squished under her tiny body, leaving her alone except for the light stinging of her hand.
Shaking her hand to try and make the pain go away she stared up at the big blue sky, letting out small ows as she went.
Despite the calming sight of nature all around her she couldn't help but feel a little frustrated. She had been working on her quirk for a while now yet no matter how hard or how long she tried there was so sign of improvement. Her grandpa and her parents would always tell her to give it time, that it would take a while for her quirk to become stronger.
"But, but that was too long! She wanted to be strong now!" She told herself.
She had always loved the cool type of heroes in stories, the kind that had unwavering beliefs and were able to take on any challenge. She wanted to be like that and she could hardly do it with such a weak quirk. She wanted, no needed, to be cool and awesome now! She could hardly grow her thumb at all and her folks wanted her to wait!? Nothing good came from waiting! Waiting sucked!
"Well well well...if it isn't big thumb!"
A chorus of laughs sounding off nearby making her frown, she didn't even need to look over to see who it was. Sitting up she rubbed at her hand, glancing over at the group of boys with an unamused look.
"What do you want Taro." She grumbled, not really in the mood to deal with him and his lackies today.
Standing nearby was Uno Taro, little hellion and over all trouble maker, surrounded by his group of friends. Taro was one of Kendo's neighbors and one of her classmates. They've known each other for a long time but even then Kendo could not think of a time where she actually enjoyed the boys company. He was loud, annoying and an overall jerk. Just because he was born with a quirk that allowed him to cause paralysis through touch and parents that gave him whatever he wanted he thought that meant that he was going to be the next All Might. Despite the fact that he was really just a bully that had not worked a day in his life.
"Hehe yeah! Big thumb big thumb!" Squawked one of the boys next to him...she couldn't even remember his name.
"What are you doing in OUR field Big thumb?" Smirked Taro smugly, the portly black haired boy shaking his head. "Don't you know that this place is for amazing heroes! Not some baby with a useless quirk!"
Getting off of the ground her overalls were covered in green streaks from the grass, looking down and patting them off as she spoke.
"You can't call dibs on a field Taro. I don't see your name on it."
"That's because...because I'm going to be the next All Might! So so when I say something's mine it's mine!"
Stomping his foot the taller boy got in her face, his hand clenching at his side.
"So move!"
Looking up from her pants she met his angry look with an indignant one, making sure to keep prolonged eye contact as she spoke. "Make me."
The group of boys sent out ooos, letting out shouts and jeers like whenever they think they're going to see a fight.
But the truth was that even though Taro had gotten his growth spurt earlier then most, he had yet to ever throw a single punch. Meanwhile Kendo lived in a dojo and had already participated in a few junior competitions. Even back then she knew that Taro was all bark and no bite.
Staring her down the boy grumbled before turning around quickly to stomp off, his arms swinging from side to side like the big boy he thought he was.
"W-whatever! You are not even worth it!"
"W-wa...Taro! Wait for us!"
The group of boys did a double take before scampering off after him, leaving her once again alone. Letting out an annoyed sigh she placed her hands on her hips, watching the boys wade through the tall grass.
She didn't have time to mess around with clowns! She told herself. She had to continue practicing!
Jumping slightly she was startled out of her thoughts by the feeling of something rubbing against her.
Sliding it's little head against her pants was a cat. It was probably the smallest cat she had ever seen. Rubbing against her it's orange tabby tail swished about, letting out a small chirp.
Wild cats were no stranger to the area, you could usually find them all over the place. Her dad used to joke and say that the cats owned the back alleys of Tateyama. But Itsuka Kendo had never seen one come up close before...they usually kept their distance, any sudden movements making them scurry off out of sight.
For whatever reason this cat was different, despite being the runt of the litter Kendo could see a fire behind its eyes. It's eyes a bright vibrant green the likes that she had never seen before. It had a sharpness to them, a gentle kind of spark that moved along it's kindly face.
Crouching down she scratched behind its ear, watching as it leaned into her touch.
She had just met this cat and she knew she would already kill for it.
"Hello." She whispered. "My name is Itsuka, what's yours?"
All it did was look up at her, tilting its little head like it could understand her. Their right notched ear twitching.
"No name? That's no good, my mama always says you gotta have a name." Tilting her head in thought she bit her lip. "How about...Taeko. It means brave!"
Taeko seemed to like that, nuzzling up against her and letting out a small purr. Giggling she smiled widely to reveal a gap between her teeth, going back to scratch behind one of his ears.
"Ok Taeko it is! I can already tell that you and me Taeko are going to be the best of friends!"
"What did you say?"
As soon as the words left her mouth Kyouka Jirou stood ram rod straight, turning towards her with a fear in her eyes. The punk rock girl looking more like an open mouthed fish then a rocker at the moment. Anxiously her eyes looked around for a way out, her jacks swaying from side to side.
"I uh said..."
"And there we have it, ladies and gentlemen! Our sixteen rising stars! Let's give them a big hand!" Shouted Midnight from the stand, cracking her whip to draw everyone's attention to her. The crowd cheering at the reveal of all sixteen of the finalist. "For now, we are going to break off for an hour lunch so our finalist can get refueled before the next big battle! I'll see you all in an hour!"
After hearing that the students all started to file out through the one tunnel heading out into the fair. Midoriya walking along with the rest most likely to have his 'talk' with Bakugo.
Another problem she's going to have to figure out eventually...how him and Bakugo knew each other.
One problem at a time...
Looking back to continue her conversation with Jirou Kendo was surprised to realize that she was gone, slipping away when her back was turned. Teal eyes flickered up to see the tail end of her short purple hair as she merged with the growing crowd and vanishing out of sight.
That was not a good sign if the girl was willing to bolt rather then just tell her what happened.
Letting out a huff she crossed her arms as a group of people walked past her, too lost in thought to realize that Tetsutetsu was standing nearby and watching her think. Walking up to her the grey haired man gave her a big sharp smile.
"Hey Kendo! Do you want to go and get some food? I'm starved!"
The festival around the sports festival was a big place, there was no way she could track Jirou down and interrogate her in an hour...
"Uh Kendo, are you ok?"
Tilting her head in thought she hummed before uncrossing her arms, marching off into the tunnel.
Fine. If she can't find out by asking her she'll just go to the source.
"K-kendo? Where are you going?"
Walking off with a purpose her friends watched on with concerned looks, no one moving to stop her. Some students quickly stepping out of her way as she marched past and disappeared amongst the growing people.
"Man that sure was an exciting show eh Shota? You wanna go get something to eat?"
"...Mic your headset is still on."
Standing in the tunnels entrance there was the faint sound of people walking past and heading out to get food. Talking amongst each other you can tell that the group of young adults enjoyed each other's company...unlike the two standing in the tunnel. Bakugo leaned against the wall, his foot tapping against the ground impatiently as he watched Midoriya walk up to him, standing on the other side to look back at him confused. Neither of them went to get closer, the distance between them over the years forming a wall that both of them silently agreed not to cross. Bakugo's red eyes bore down into him as they wanted for silence, the sound of the crowd slowly getting quieter, only really talking once they were sure that they were alone.
"Took you long enough." Bakugo grumbled, the first words coming out of his mouth being a criticism.
Nodding back Midoriya gave him the best smile he could, his mask taught around his face.
"Sorry, it took a second for me to get through the crowd. If you want to say something you should say it, I'd rather not have to wait in a line for some food."
"First off cut out that fake bullshit, it's insulting. You may have everyone else fooled but you cant fool me."
"Excuse me?" Blinking his smile fell for a second.
"You heard me! Or has your hearing gone bad over the years?"
Izuku Midoriya had almost forgotten how easy it was for Bakugo to get under his skin. They've only been talking for a few minutes and he was already exhausted from this conversation.
Letting out a long tired sigh Midoriya's shoulders slumped, running a hand along the top part of his hair.
"What is it that you want Bakugo? You can't have just invited me over here to reminisce on olden times?"
"Shut up." Growling out his response Bakugo took some steps closer, breaking that invisible wall between them. "You have a lot of nerve talking to me like that after everything you pulled!"
"What I pulled?"
"Don't fucking repeat me like you didn't hear! It's because of you that I have a black mark put on my permanent record! That and you ignoring my God damn calls!"
That made him blink in confusion, it taking a second to process what was being said. "Wait, what calls? I haven't heard anything from you in years?"
That seemed to surprise Bakugo, his rage subsiding for a second to stare. "You, seriously don't know?"
All Midoriya could do was shake his head, Bakugo looking up at him with a knitted brow like he was trying to tell if Midoriya was lying. Midoriya having to break the silence.
"...what is this about Bakugo?"
Letting out a huff the blonde marched back over to his side of the tunnel, his hands sliding into his pockets as he walked.
"I got into an accident a few years back. Fucking got caught in the cross hairs of a villain. Not a single person came to help me. No friends, no strangers and certainly no heroes. Everyone just watched on as I suffered like cowards..."
"...jesus Bakugo."
"The doctors said that I may never fully recover...so my mom tried to call your mom to see if you could help me but you never came. I've been struggling ever since."
That was a lot to take in...
Staring at Bakugo as he went back to leaning against the wall, his mind swam with questions, non of them he had answers to. A weird mix of emotions moving through him, he felt sad but also...happy? Almost immediately feeling guilty for feeling that way about someone's suffering.
"Don't just stand there gawking, say somethin."
"Sorry, I just dont know what to say..."
Clicking his tongue in an annoyed way Bakugo rolled her shoulders absently, his gaze flickering to a crowd as they walked past. The shadow of them blocking out the sun from the entrance and casting his face in shadow.
"The way I see it, you owe me after everything you pulled."
Yet again he felt himself shocked, frowning a little at his ex friend.
"Thats what this is about? I haven't seen you in years and the first thing you do is ask me for a favor? What could you possibly want from..."
"Heal me."
Taking some steps back like he was hit he felt the emotional whiplash of the conversation. Bakugo's voice sounding soft, probably the softest he has ever heard, almost pleading in it's tone. Opening his mouth he closed it before opening it again.
"I can't do that..."
"Why the fuck not!?" Bakugo practically shouted, sparks flickering from his palms. "I know you fucking can, you have a healing quirk! So heal me!"
Shaking his head quickly he took some steps forward to try and bridge the gap, for his ex best friend to understand. "That's not how it works! It heals wounds almost instantly, yes, but it doesn't work if the body has already naturally healed. The injury has to still be fresh. I can't heal scars."
Watching on he saw sadness move across Bakugo's face, his eyes opening wide, the faint hint of tears in the corner of his eyes. Yet as fast as they appeared they were gone, replaced instead with fury. Lunging forward Bakugo threw all of his weight into a shove, pushing his childhood friend back and into one of the walls of the tunnel, not enough to hurt but definitely to startle.
"THEN WHAT GOOD ARE YOU THEN!?"
"B-bakugo I..."
"SHUT UP! I DON'T WANT TO HEAR YOUR EXCUSES!" Marching past Bakugo's shoulder clipped his when he past, head out of the tunnel and into the fair. His hands clenched and taught into fist at his side as if he was ready to punch something any second. "You best give it your all in your match! YOU HEAR THAT DEKU!? Because I swear to whatever god that will hear me, I am coming for you...and I will show no mercy!"
The sounds of Bakugo's stomping echoed through the tunnel before slowly fading away, only leaving Izuku Midoriya and the faint ache in his chest behind.
Lightly pushing herself through a crowd of people Momo Yaoyorozu moved like a ship through water, her tall lanky frame the mast as she looked amongst the waves. Despite her being taller then the average person she still was struggling to find her target.
The amount of people at UA almost tripling in size due to families being allowed on campus for free to see their children compete. Hers however, were too busy to attend, instead choosing to watch the event from the comfort of home. A fact that only slightly hurt...
None the less she understood, her mother and father were very busy. On the plus side she didn't have to worry about her family seeing her fail to make it to the third round at least for another few hours. Giving her ample time to try and do some damage control.
She just hopes they weren't too upset with her...
Shaking her head to stop herself from downward spiraling she went back to focusing on the task at hand, her black spikey ponytail swaying as she looked about. Finally she spotted her, walking with a group of girls that she had never seen before, judging from their school uniforms they looked to be in the general studies program.
Quickening her step she followed at a distance, finally finding an opening to advance when the crowd thinned.
"Kyouka!" She shouted.
But weirdly, Kyouka had her back turned away like she could not hear her despite her impressive hearing, only turning to face her once she got closer. Her face going from a startled one to a happy one.
"O-oh uh, hey Momo. What's up?"
"I wanted to see if you would join me for lunch." Wiping her skirt off her power walk had turned into a normal one. "Yet you fled as soon as we were allowed to leave. Is something the matter?"
Taking a closer look at her best friend Momo noticed that Kyouka looked rather panicked. Her eyes were looking about and she had a tension in her shoulders signaling a possibility of her running at a seconds notice. It taking a bit longer for the rocker to respond.
"Yeah everything is ok Momo, sorry! I just rushed to catch up with my friends."
"Your friends?"
Kyouka had never spoken of other friends before, but she supposed it was normal to have friends outside of school life.
Looking up to greet the three rather rough and tumble looking girls she smiled, giving a gentle bow. "Greetings, my name is Momo Yaoyorozu of the Yaoyorozu family. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance."
Letting out a low whistle the strongest of the three crossed her large arms before smiling. "A Yaoyorozu? Dang that's impressive. I heard the Yaoyorozu's got a mansion and everything."
The smaller one with blue hair gasping as she stared up at her with awe. "Wait really? That's crazy! You know her Kyo?"
Kyo? Was that a nickname? It was cute, she quite liked it...Kyo.
Letting out a laugh Kyouka smiled, giving her a nod. "I do, she's one of my closest friends at UA. We met in the hero course and hit it off immediately." Gesturing to each of them one at a time Kyouka introduced them. "Everyone this is Momo and Momo this is Sango, Shika and..."
"Yoshimura." Walking past the other two the one with black cat like ears and a tail stepped forward, looking her over with her sharp yellow eyes like she was appraising her. "It is a pleasure."
"Please, the pleasure is mine."
Despite saying that she could not help but get a little unnerved from the third girl. Her words, while kind, had a bizarre level of venom to them just under the surface.
"Do not take offense but the curiosity is killing me...I must know why someone as privileged as yourself decided to be friends with our dear Kyo."
Ah, There it was.
This was not the first time that Momo had come across a person like this, someone who judged her solely off of her title. She herself used to hate the way that people would look at her once she mentioned her status, too afraid to mention her family. If most did not look to her with disdain then it was looks of greed. It's one of the reasons she wanted to make her own path.
Choosing not to rise to the challenge she gave her her best smile. "We just clicked I suppose. They do say opposites attract after all..."
"Hmm yes, they do say that..."
Clearing her throat Kyouka looked them both over, practically shoving her way in between to give them much needed space. A deed that Momo greatly appreciated and something that brought a smile to her lips.
"Anyway." Kyouka looked over to Yoshimura as she spoke, the two seemed to have a silent conversation before the cat like girl relented. Turning to face Momo now she smirked. "We were about to go do karaoke, care to join us Momo?"
Momo's smile drifted down.
...pardon?
"Oh that's a good idea Kyo!" Bounced Sango, smiling brightly between them.
Shika giving a nod "Sure. I'm game."
"Then it is decided" Yoshimura smirked slinking ahead to lead the way as the other three started to follow her. "If you have never heard Kyo sing you are in for quite the show."
Despite the rest of them moving on Momo had yet to move, stunned in place as she watched the group of girls start to head off of the campus. Walking to the steps they all turned, just now realizing that their new friend had not moved a muscle.
"You good Momo?" Kyouka said with a raised eyebrow.
"I...do not understand. You are leaving?" Momo tilted her head, taking a step forward as she placed a hand to her chest. "Do you not have a match coming up soon?"
Eyes widening Kyouka looked startled, most likely not expecting her to call her our like that.
"O-oh I um, decided not to go to that." Giving a shrug Momo could tell that her friend was simply trying to seem cool despite it all. Twirling one of her jacks with her finger she looked away. "I mean, I figured since I didn't have a way to use my quirk in combat without equipment that it would be best if I just called it quits...you know?"
"No. I do not 'know.' Please explain it to me, because it sounds like you are giving up without even trying."
"I-its not like that Momo! I just thought..."
Red hot anger bubbled under the Momo's gentle façade. "I would change places with you in an instant."
Taking a step forward Momo watched as Kyoula took a step back.
"Many would be so lucky to go to the third round and you are giving it up without even trying?" Taking more steps forward the normally kind girl spoke with a sharpness that you would find in a disappointed mother. Her tone hinting at a world of having to control yourself at all times. Less she be scolded for her outburst.
She clearly wanted to scream but could not. Her fingers digging into her shirt in frustration. Kyouka looking back equally as mad.
"What do you expect me to do Momo? Go fight even though I know there's not a chance in hell for me to win!?"
"Yes."
That single word stunned Kyouka into silence.
"It should not be about winning or losing...it should be about trying to improve yourself." Momo said stoically. "We have never discussed why we wanted to come to UA...but I wanted to make a difference. To strive on becoming something greater then what I am now. To be more then just my parent's money. It seems, that I had naively thought that everyone in UA were all hoping for the same thing."
Looking down at the ground in a reserved sadness Momo quickly straightened herself out.
"Forgive me for raising my voice, that was uncalled for. I believed that we both wanted the same thing...but sadly I seem to be mistaken. I apologize for interrupting your fun."
Bending at the waist Momo gave them a bow.
"Please do have fun at karaoke."
Turning about face Momo pivoted and walked back onto the campus without another word. Walking with all the grace and poise of an elegant deer.
All three of them looked stunned, unable to even say a single word. Funnily enough the first to speak was Yoshimura.
"Huh, I seem to have misjudged the girl. She has spunk. I like her."
Frowning at the ground Kyouka squinted her face in frustration before sighing. Putting her hands into her pockets she started to follow after her friend.
"I think...I'm going to go too. You guys have fun, I'll catch up with you later." Breaking into a jog Kyouka started to ascend back up the steps.
Sangin and Shika clearly wanted to follow but instead looked over to Yoshimura with pleading looks.
...
"Very well, let us go catch up."
They cheered as the three followed behind.
It was weirdly relieving that no matter how many things have changed over the years some thing would always stay the same. Like an unwritten rule of the universe.
Grass grows.
Birds sing.
And Izuku Midoriya likes katsudon.
It took no time at all for Kendo to find Midoriya, all she had to do was simply to go to the booth selling Katsudon that she saw on the way in and sure enough there he was. The taller boy sitting on a bench as he ate.
How that boy could eat the same meal with such gusto was beyond her...she atleast ate a bunch of different meals.
Sitting down next to him with her own meal of spicy curry they ate in relative silence, her best friend acknowledging her as she sat down with a smile. The sounds of conversation went off at a table nearby but they decided not to speak, simply enjoying each other's company as they ate lunch.
It was nice sometimes not to say things...
Kendo remembers a time where she hated silence, always feeling the need to fill it with something, be it words or actions. Knowing Midoriya for so long had made her appreciate silence.
It also helped to give her time to think about what to say before she said it.
Taking a bite of her delicious food she chewed it slowly as she was hit with a stray thought.
She had no one she was as close to as Midoriya...it certainly helped that he was so handsome.
Inhaling a breath of air she gasped, some rice going down the wrong pipe. Letting out a sputtering cough she slammed her hand into her chest, her face suddenly very hot.
Where the hell did that thought come from!? I mean sure she had always known that Midoriya was cute, she knew it the first time she saw him all those years ago. But handsome!? Did she always think of him like that? When did that happen!?
A large scarred hand found it's way to her shoulder to prop her up as she coughed. Midoriya coming into view as he looked at her worried, holding out a water bottle towards her.
"You ok Kendo?"
His face was so close, only making her blush more. Pushing him away a little she nodded quickly, taking the water bottle and chugging it quickly. Suddenly finding it very hard to look at him right now. "Y-yup all good! Just...swallowed wrong."
That made him sigh, looking at her with a caring look that did NOT help her racing heart.
"God don't scare me like that. You seriously need to learn to chew Ken."
"S-sorry my bad...thanks Midoriya."
The sound of a bell went off nearby drawing both of their attention.
"Ten minute warning everybody! Ten minute warning! Will all of the people participating in the tournament please start heading back to their designated seating! The show is about to begin!"
Shit! She never got to ask about Jirou!
Midoriya was already up and throwing his trash away and her chance to ask was shrinking fast. Throwing her food away she walked next to him, reaching out to take hold of his forearm to get his attention. Looking up at his big green eyes.
"Hey. Can I talk with you for a second?"
He blinked before nodding. "Sure Kendo."
Swallowing she nodded back, gently pulling him along and out of the crowd. Trying very hard to ignore the feeling of his wrist in her hand.
If she just slide her hand down a little more they would be holding hands like a couple...
Moving back inside the building they found a branching hall where no one was around. Quickly letting his wrist go like it was made of fire.
"Is everything ok Kendo?"
"..."
"You're acting a little strange."
"What happened with you and Jirou?" She asked. There was no point in beating around the bush after all.
The air almost immediately changing to a tense one. Midoriya's eyes opening for a second in surprise.
"What...do you mean?" Midoriya said with a smile. Despite his calm attitude Kendo could tell he was deflecting again.
"Jirou came to me after the second event panicked, she was checking in with me because she thought I was going to kill her."
"Huh, that's weird." Looking away Midoriya frowned slightly.
Her brow knitted together.
Ah, so that's how he wanted to play this. Fine.
"Yeah, it was pretty weird. You would think with the way she was acting it was a big deal." Crossing her arms in mock thought she tilted her head. "Its kind of funny. I had no idea you and Jirou knew each other for so long. I thought you and her became friends at UA yet here she is acting like she's known you for years."
...
"Why are you doing this Kendo? I thought...I thought we agreed to leave the past in the past?"
"Kind of hard to ignore it when it comes knocking on your front door."
Walking away to put space between them he crossed his arms as well. "Look, just drop it. Ok? What happened back then is something between Jirou and I."
She should probably back down for now, emotions were getting high but she couldn't help but clench her fist in anger.
"Why do you always do this!?" She shouted out in frustration, something bubbling up from down below. Something that looked to be held in for a while now. "Everytime we start to get close you push me away!"
"I'm not pushing you away..."
"You are! I thought we were best friends but you have told me nothing about your past! The only things I know are from your mother!"
"What do you want me to say!?" Midoriya shouted back, matching her frustration. "That I was bullied by everyone, including the teachers, at my old school? That I've only had three close friends growing up and two of them abandoned me? I made myself perfectly clear that I didn't want to talk about this!"
"Is that what happened? Jirou bullied you!?"
"It's not that simply Kendo!" He lashed out, the distance between them growing yet again.
They had come so far, how could this be happening again?
"Then explain it to me! Help me understand!"
"Just drop it! Kendo!"
She could feel him closing off to her again.
Heart beating, adrenaline pumping. The conversation had shattered against the ground into little pieces and she was scrambling to try and save it.
"WHY CAN'T YOU JUST LET ME PROTECT YOU!"
Her shout was followed by silence, only the sound of her own beating heart. Glancing at Midoriya's face Kendo immediately regretted her words. Midoriya's mask was broken open, leaving a wide eyed hurt face behind. Silence filled the gape between them, only this one was different, it didn't have any of the warmth of their previous silence.
Finally, Midoriya spoke in a whisper, the hurt evident in his tone. "Y-you...don't think I can take care of myself?"
Moving her tongue along her dry lips she struggled to swallow, to say anything really. Managing to choke out a whisper that matched his.
"That's, that's not what I said."
Their conversation felt so long and drawn out yet it had only been a few minutes.
How could a conversation go so bad so fast?
Staring at the ground anger flickered across Midoriya's before quickly being overcome with sadness. Face scrunching up his shoulders sagging. Turning his back to leave she couldn't help but think of all the way back then, when he first shut her out. Except this time she knew why he did it.
Wading through the tall grass of a field Itsuka Kendo held a little dish filled with freshly caught fish. She was older, the faint hints of puberty already starting to rear its head. She was taller now, more gangly and awkward looking. Her hair starting to grow out, not long enough to be tied back just yet.
A year had past since she first met Taeko.
Despite her trying to bring the little cat home with her Taeko refused, instead choosing to live outside. It frustrated Kendo to no end but she kind of understood. No one wanted to be stuck in a cage. Taeko was a wild cat and liked being free to go where he pleased.
So instead she had started to come down to the field every couple of days with food. Usually all she had to do was rattle his bowl and he would come running from his hiding spot. He would cuddle in her lap and she would pet him the way she knew he liked. She would vent to him about her frustrations about her quirk, or something silly that happened to her at school and he would listen contently. Then they would go their seperate ways until they crossed paths again.
She grew to love their little get togethers.
Yet strangely he was not responding today. No sign of hide nor hair of her furry little friend. Coming up the other side of the grassy field she wandered past some back alleys, making sure to rattle the bowl as she walked.
Maybe he just didn't hear her?
"Taeko!" She called out, hoping to atleast see his green eyes peeking out of the dark from somewhere, yet sadly there was nothing.
When she heard noise from an alley farther down Kendo could not help but get her hopes up, her walk turning into a jog as she rounded the corner only to find a group of boys huddled in the corner. Almost immediately her mood soured, recognizing some of the boys.
Great, that's all she needed. Having to deal with Taro today...
"Haha! Hit it again Taro!" One of the boys cheered.
Turning back around to continue her search she only got a few steps before she heard something. It was faint, a small, weak chirp but one that stopped her in her tracks.
She knew that voice.
Eyes widening she moved before she realized what she was doing. Sprinting down the alley and towards the sound, parting the sea of boys like they were nothing. Grabbing hold of Taro's shirt she yanked him back with all of her might, tossing the larger boy onto the dirty grime covered ground.
There, rolled into a ball before her was Taeko. His body bloody and bruiseds twitching as he struggled under the power of Taro's quirk. Next to his body was a pile of sticks, all of them looking used and scattered with small amounts of blood.
"What the hell big thumb!?" An older Taro screamed as he got up off of the ground. "If you wanted a turn you should have just asked!"
Her eyes would not, could not leave Taeko. Her little friend looking up at her with pleading, dimmed, green eyes. They used to be so bright and colorful...
"What did you do?"
"What like it was hard?" Scoffing Taro laughed, like he did not care what he did. "The ratty thing came walking right up to me! It was so incredibly easy."
That got her attention, finally pulling her eyes away to glare at him.
"Oh what? Don't tell me you actually feel bad for the thing? It's just a gutter cat! They are a dime a doz..."
A soft crunch of bone meeting cartilage, her knuckle slamming into Taro's nose, knocking him back against the ground.
All false bravado was gone instantly, leaving a crying little boy in its wake. Taro's tears fell to the hard ground as he clutched his broken nose.
"M-my nose!" He cried out, scrambling to his feet quickly, the portly boy trying in vain to stop the blood. "Y-you just broke my nose!"
Grabbing at one of the sticks she just started to swing, flailing about and hitting anyone within her reach. All of the boys holding onto their wounds as they turn tail and ran.
"Big thumbs gone crazy!"
"Let's get out of here!"
They cried, Taro finding enough strength to flee like all the rest yet even when they were far gone she just kept swinging, letting out a furious shout as she cocked an arm back and threw the stick after them. The wood clattering to the ground.
"meow..."
Rushing to his side she scooped him up in her arms, his tiny broken body feeling so weak in her grasp. She had never seen Taeko like this before, he always had that strength behind his eyes. A strength she could not see anymore...
Sliding her palm under his head to prop it up she started to run, heading out of the alley and back home.
Her parents could do something she told herself. They could take him to a vet!
Slowly turning his head Taeko lapped at her thumb with his rough tongue.
Almost as if HE was trying to comfort HER right now.
Blinking away at her tears she tried so hard to sound comforting. Whispering down at her friend like he could understand her, telling him lies in the hope that they were true.
"I-its going to be ok." Her words choked in her throat. "I-im sorry I wasn't there, but, but I'm here now. Everything is g-going to be ok. I got you..."
Even after his body stilled in her hands and his eyes closed she still ran, hoping, no praying that he would be ok.
"I'm sorry..."
"I'm sorry..."
"I'm sorry..."
Patting along the fair Kendo's teal eyes looked all around in the hopes of maybe seeing Midoriya.
He might've gotten a head start but she could still catch him!
As she scoured the crowd she sadly did not see hide not hair of the boy. Her gaze only stopping when she saw someone she actually recognized. Running over to her mother she was standing outside of the bathroom, looking back with a concerned look.
"Itsuka, is something the matter? You seem frazzled." The older woman spoke
"Mama." She panted back, still looking around as she spoke. "Have you seen Midoriya? Did he come this way?"
Seeming to think for a second her mother shook her head, her longer orange hair swaying. "Hmm, no? I don't think I've seen him at all today. Why? Is something the matter?"
Itsuka silently cursed under her breath, running a hand through her hair. "We had a fight and he ran off before I could correct what I did. I didn't mean too...I might've said something that hurt him."
"Oh sweetheart..."
"I don't have time for this! I have to find him..."
"Itsuka." Placing a comforting hand on her daughter she stopped her in her tracks. "Tell me what happened."
"B-but mama! I need to..."
"Midoriya will be here all day. You will have plenty of time to talk."
"But..." She wanted to argue but deep down she knew her mother was right. Silently she relented, already feeling her mom start to lead her away. "Alright, but just a quick talk!"
"It's about time for the final event ladies and gentlemen! Sixteen candidates are about to duke it out mano a mano! One on one! Any one of them could be the next great hero, who knows who will walk home with the coveted gold medal!? I hope everyone is hyped and ready for some crazy fights, I know I am!" Present Mic's voice whipped the crowd into a frenzy, a uproarious cacophony of cheers going off all at once. "But first we have to introduce our combatants. She's the crazed inventor that stole the second event whether we wanted her to or not! It's Mei Hatsume!"
Standing on one side of a newly created arena the pink hair girl threw her arms up to stretch, twisting her body until she heard a satisfying pop. Giving them all a big almost insane smile as she waved.
"And in the other corner! We have the Blonde Haired Bomber, the explosive quirk with an attitude to match! Bakugo Katsuki!"
Walking up the steps Bakugo clicked his tongue, squinting at his opponent from the other side of the ring. His hands rising up to pop his knuckles.
Standing from her place on a concrete high-rise Midnight looked over the two participants, reciting the rules as she had said many times before.
"Alright you two. I want a nice clean fight. If one of you is knocked unconscious, tap out or leave the bounds, you are disqualified. I will be watching the match closely to make sure neither of you take the match too far. Do I make myself clear?"
"Sure!"
"Whatever."
"If both fighters are ready!" Raising her whip into the air she looked for confirmation from the two of them. Hatsume giving a quick thumbs up and Bakugo nodded. "Then let the first match...BEGIN!"
Bakugo's hand twitched as he got low, glaring as he raised an open palm towards Hatsume. Bracing his wrist with his other hand sparks flickering around his hand before firing off a massive blast right out of the gate.
"DIE!"
Roaring forward the devastating blast soared straight for Hatsume. The manic girl smiling even wider before raising two gloved hands towards the blast. Everyone expecting an explosion that never came, instead fire erupted outward before almost reversing its path, shrinking and vanishing within Hatsume's bizarre gloves. The lights on her gauntlets glowing orange followed by a clicking sound.
"Normally! Such a powerful blast would do someone like me in easily! But with this!" Holding her gloves out to show the audience Bakugo tilted his head confused. "My energy absorbing gloves! I not only can cancel out such a blast! But I can also redirect it like so!"
Pointing the gloves at Bakugo she smiled widely, Bakugo staring back with surprise as she pulled a pin on the gloves.
Raising his arms Bakugo went to dodge. "Shit!"
BOOM
An explosion echoing out and illuminating the audience in a bright orange glow before it faded. Drifting farther up past awed faces it stops up high in the stands to reveal Itsuka Kendo and her mother sitting near the railing and looking down below as a few more explosions went off.
"And...that's basically what happened." Itsuka said annoyed, rubbing at her arm. Her mother only nodding back gently.
"I see."
Bringing her fingers to her head, Itsuka let out an annoyed growl as she clawed at her ginger scalp in frustration.
"Gah! He drives me crazy sometimes! Why can't he just talk to me!?"
"I know you are frustrated sweetheart but you have to think of it from his perspective, you can get a little..." Seeming to think of the word for a second her mother sighed. "Aggressive, at times."
"What? I do not!" She shouted back, basically proving her mother's point.
...
"Look, sweetheart, I love you very much..."
"Why do I feel like there's a 'but' on here..."
"But...you've always been very protective of Midoriya. Some would even say too protective." Her mother whispered, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder. "Men tend to not like making people worry about them all of the time. They have this weird obsession with saddling all of the burdens of the world onto themselves. Especially if it meant keeping people they care about safe...your father especially. That man would carry the entire world on his shoulders if it meant protecting you and our family."
It was true, her father was as stubborn as they came. Its probably where she got it from.
Crossing her arms Itsuka huffed, her cheeks puffing slightly out as she muttered.
"I wouldn't exactly say too protective..."
"Come now Itsuka. There was that one point in time years ago where you refused to have Midoriya walk to the car by himself and walked with him everywhere like a body guard."
"He was attacked by a baseball and wore a cast! What if it happened again!?"
"Or that time you didn't want him walking the piers by himself?"
"Well I mean, Taro and his goons can be jerks!"
"Or even the time you wouldn't let him go into the kitchen?"
"In my defense those knives were really sharp!"
"Itsuka."
Slowly letting out air from her nose she sagged against the railing like a balloon. "I know...I don't mean to be so clingy!"
Leaning in Hada gentle combed her fingers through her daughters hair like she used to when she was a child. Hada wrapping an arm around to pull her daughter into a side hug.
"I know you do it because you care so much for people, that you don't like it when people you care about get hurt. But sometimes, you have to let people make their own decisions. For better or for worse." Gentle cupping her cheeks she pulled her daughters gaze up to meet hers. "Go easy on the poor boy, you know he's trying. He'll talk to you when he is ready."
"Thank you mama."
Pulling each other into a warm brace the mother daughter duo fully wrapped their arms around each other. Itsuka cuddling into the comforting embrace, her stress seeping out of her.
This was nice...why was she freaking out again?
Her mothers voice ringing softly next to her. "Don't be mad...but I know where Midoriya ran off to."
Pulling away Itsuka stared at her mother shocked. "Wait really? You knew this whole time and didn't say anything!?"
Meeting her shocked look with a smug one Hada shrugged her shoulder. "What can I say, someone has to stand up for my future son in law."
"Mama..." Ignored her reddening cheeks Itsuka looked at her mother with a frown.
"I kid I kid...mostly."
Placing a hand under her elbow Hada walked her back over the railing and gesturing out with her hand. Following her finger she saw on the ground level the faint glimpse of green poking out in one of the halls close to the fighting.
"I promised him I wouldn't tell you where he ran off to but that doesn't mean I cant point you in the right direction. How about we keep this little conversation between us?"
Gripping the railing Itsuka frowned as she squinted from a far, trying to see any sign of how he was feeling.
Was he still mad? Was he just going to yell at her if he saw her again so soon?
"Best go make up now. Your match is next if I recall." Her mother looked down to see more explosions going off followed by more cursing. "I wouldn't worry too much about time though. It looks like this one is going to go on for a while."
Walking down a few of the steps Itsuka paused, quickly running back up to give her mom a quick hug before running back down again. Her mother watching on with a hand on her hip and a knowing smile on her face...
Running down two steps at a time she was gunning straight for him, thinking about all the things she was going to say. Her mind racing a mile a minute before thinking about what her mother said, her running turning into a jog and then a walk. Turning the corner she finally got a good glimpse of Midoriya, he looked...sad. Leaning against the wall as he stared up at the ceiling.
Hesitating for a second she bit the inside of her lip.
Izuku Midoriya was a man who was hurt a lot as a child. She had no idea the extent of what happened to him but somewhere along the line he quickly learned to build walls around himself to keep himself safe. She had spent so long trying to break those walls down that she never once considered how scary it would be to be on the other side.
She tried slamming against it, trying to break it down like a sledgehammer. But there was more then one way to take down a wall. What if, instead, she started to remove the bricks one brick at a time? Slow enough that you would not even notice it was happening. Maybe then, she would be able to stand next to him with no walls between them.
Walking over slowly Midoriya looked up at her surprised to see her. She didn't say anything, instead sitting down next to him and letting the silence do the talking. Sliding her knees up into her chest she sighed.
"...I'm sorry. I didn't mean to push you like that. You don't have to tell me if you don't want to."
Running a hand down his face Midoriya let out a slow, tired breath.
"I'm sorry too...you're right, I really should just tell you what happened. It would be a lot easier then all of this."
"Apology accepted." Smiling at that she tucked a hair behind her ear. "What are you even doing over here?"
"I dont know, I just wanted to go somewhere quiet."
BOOM
"GOD DAMNIT! HOLD STILL PINK HAIR!?"
"BWAHAHAHA!"
Letting out a snort Kendo couldn't help but roll her eyes. "You couldn't have picked a better spot?"
"You know what I mean."
"I really dont. Explain it to me please."
Midoriya looked over at her, a little surprised with how gentle she was being right now. A small blush creeping up his cheeks before he looked away, thinking of how to phrase it.
"I have this voice in my head and it never goes away. Its always there in the background, whispering things to me. Saying things like...'they're just pretending to like you' and 'they're just going to leave you when a better person comes along.' Stuff like that." Shrugging he could feel her eyes on him. "I know what they say isn't true but sometimes I need a second to remind myself."
Nodding along Kendo listened, a hand squeezing her knee.
"Does that voice talk about...me?"
Midoriya's silence was an answer all on its own.
"I don't want it to be that way with you." His words leaking out like a whisper, a secret only between them. "I'm going to get better about knowing that you like me not because of the things I do for you but for me. It will take come time but I know you are worth it...nothing makes me happier then being able to do things for you."
Pulling her knees in tighter Kendo could feel her face turn bright red, any sassy remark or playful banter she was planning to say dying in her throat. Leaning in close her shoulder touched his, a small bridge between them.
"Ditto."
Embracing the small comfort Midoriya smiled, his own face a bright color of red.
Shoulder to shoulder and surrounded by a blanket of understanding Midoriya opened his mouth and spoke about the past. His words flowing out like a cleansing song.
And Kendo? Kendo listened.
Jumping into the air Bakugo twisted his body, firing off a blast from his palm to propel himself out of the way of a flying capture orb. Sweat dripped from his body as he lunged at pink hair just for her backpack to protect her yet again, a solid metal rod pushing her out of the way of his attack.
The entire time this girl had been playing with him, she didn't once try to actually eliminate him, just dance around as she yapped about whatever hell she was talking about.
Any direct attack was useless against her backpack and her gloves canceled out his quirk.
Damnit damnit damnit! She's playing around with me as if I were a new toy!
Watching her for a moment he squinted his eyes, his gaze hardened at her backpack as it fired off a rod to push her into the air. The thing couldn't tell what was a potential danger at all, it just used sensors to keep anyone from getting close...
...
Crouching low Bakugo ran straight at her, dodging and weaving an explosive blast from her gloves. Jumping up he spun, bringing a foot into an incoming capture orb and launching it straight at her. Only instead of it hitting her, it curved downward smashing into one of the rods of the backpack. Expanding outward it pinned one of the legs of the backpack onto the ground.
"W-woah!" Pink hair wobbled, trying to free her spider leg from her own capture orb. "How did you..."
He was ontop of her in a second, placing both of his hands onto her shoulders and faulting over the top. Twisting his weight with all of his might Bakugo screamed as he used the momentum to yank her free from her backpack, the leather straps ripping and tearing from her shoulders. Hatsume flying over the bounds and landing safely in the grass.
Raising the whip Midnight pointed it at Bakugo. "Hatsume is out of bounds! Bakugo goes on to the next round!"
Standing on the edge of the concrete square Bakugo panted, raising a hand to wipe his mouth with the back of his hand.
That was too close...he'll give her one thing. She was hard as fuck to pin down.
Hatsume getting up to run over and grab her backpack in a panic, not even looking up as she ran off down the entrance and out of sight. Most likely going to go work on her machine.
"What a crazy show ladies and gentlemen! I don't know about you but I was on the edge of my seat the whole time! Dont press that dial viewers at home! We're going to do a quick break to reset the stage and then get back to the action!"
"Man that was pretty crazy!" Cried Kirishima, smiling down at the emptying stage from his seating. "Baku bro sure gave it his all out there!"
"I know right!? I loved his passion!" Shouted Yoarashi even though he was just sitting next to Kirishima.
"I'm a little surprised on how close that actually was." Iida nodded, adjusting his glasses. "Bakugo is a ferocious opponent, the fact that Hatsume held him off for so long is indeed an impressive feat."
"I'll say!" Bounced Mina in her seat. "His dodges were crazy! I wonder if he can show me how he moved like that!"
Looking down at the stadium Yaoyorozu stared as robots ran about and fixed any minor damages to the stage, Bakugo slowly walking off of the stage and off of the field.
Her mind was obviously elsewhere. Too busy feeling guilty to register anything else being said around her. Frowning Momo's mind raced with the last conversation that was said between her and her best friend.
Were they even still best friends? She was not so sure anymore.
Momo did not have much friends growing up, the ones she did have were more like friends of family then they were actual friends, even the ones her own age.
Acquaintances through environment she supposed.
So when she finally made a friend of her own she was quite thrilled, her and Kyouka fitting together rather nicely. But now she would not be surprised if Kyouka never wanted to see her ever again, afterall, no one wanted to spend time with a boring stick in the mud.
Maybe she should apologize the next time she sees
"...see Jirou, Momo?"
Blinking she turned to find Kaminari sitting nearby, looking over to her expectantly.
"Pardon Kaminari?"
"I asked if you've seen Jirou, Momo." He asked with a concerned look on his face. "Her match is up next and I haven't seen or heard from her at all."
Swallowing Momo could not help but look a little guilty. "Yes I have Kaminari, it pains me to tell you that..."
"Oh never mind there she is!"
Pointing out over the railing Momo's head whipped around to see where he was pointing.
Sure enough Kyouka walked down the field and up the concrete steps onto the stage with a serious look on her face.
Huh, will you look at that.
Smiling at the sight Momo could feel a blush lightly paint her cheeks, sitting back into her seat with rapt attention.
"Alright! It's about time to get the second match on the way! Let's hear some noise for our two amazing competitors!"
Nervously shifting her weight Kyouka lightly smacked her face with her open palms before getting into a fighting stance.
"She's a rocker gal with a killer voice! It's Kyouka Jirou!"
Coming up the other side Kendo looked over at her opponent with a stone cold fury, her orange ponytail swaying in the wind.
"And in the other corner we got the Ginger Clothesline! The red head beat down! Oh no! Here comes a big fist, it's Itsuka Kendo!"
Staring each other down the two would not look away from each other, their eyes having a silent conversation between them. Midnight explaining the rules as they sized each other up.
"Are you both ready?"
They nodded.
"Ready!"
Kendo's hands curled into fist.
"Get set!"
Jirou gulped as she bit her lip.
"Begin!"
Notes:
I like to call this the "everyone cries" chapter...which may also include me. I might have hurt myself more then anyone with the Taeko side story...if I ever get a cat I'm naming him Taeko as an apology to the world.
Drama and kitty torture aside I actually really like this chapter, it was interesting to dive into the mentality of Itsuka Kendo and why she is considered the big sister of 1B ontop of the growing/changing dynamic she has with Midoriya.
Just to clarify, I'm not really blaming her on why Midoriya turned out the way he did but if you've ever had someone be overly protective of you it sometimes does more harm then good. In your anxiety riddled brain you tell yourself that sometimes If you don't want someone to worry about you the best way is to just...not tell them. Ya know?
