Chapter 14: one step back two steps forward
"No no look you gotta commit to the punch, you aren't just hitting them, think of trying to hit behind them. You aren't trying to punch them, you are trying to punch through them" Kirishima explains to the sat down Jiro and Midoriya, both sitting on a bench together, Jiro simply listening, while Midoriya takes notes in his journal, Kirishima, covered in dust and rubble but still with his usual grin as he gives many punching examples in quick succession.
Kirishima continues to shadow box, Midoriya looking at some of the moves, as well as Kirishima's stance, jotting down some drawings as he looks up at him in awe. "Yeah, that's all well and good Kirishima, but the second he punches someone he is going to kill them or cripple himself" Jiro explains, causing Kirishima to stop, wincing at the comment as he gets lost in his own little example. "Oh, right" Kirishima says as his cheeks tint in embarrassment.
"This will still help so much Kirishima, thank you really" Midoriya said to try and help with the situation, scared that they might have hurt his feelings, Kirishima just smiling and nodding.
Jiro soon stood up, stretching her tired body after spending most of the session working on her quirk…and her landing. "Okay, then let's try it like this" she starts, smiling as she looks at Midoriya, offering her hand as he quickly takes it to help him onto his feet. "Remember what I mentioned at the restaurant? About the dial?" she asks, Midoriya smiling as he nods with her, remembering it well. "Do you think that could help you? With the power?" She asks again, looking down at his arms, scared to see them so injured again as memories flash before her eyes.
Midoriya smiled and nodded, remembering the dial well. "Yeah, it makes sense, I tried to use it a little but then it just got out of control" he explains, Jiro nodding, Kirishima not having a clue what they are talking about but decides to nod along as well. "It felt like it was working at first, but then it surges like it always does" he continues, looking down at his hand as he remembers the beach.
Both ponder for a while, talking and discussing different ways around this obstacle in front of them, Kirishima watching from behind them. "Maybe start by punching softer things? Building up to stronger targets?" Jiro suggests, Midoriya simply shaking his head. "Won't do any good, it isn't just the contact, it's activating the quirk to begin with." Midoriya counters.
They continued to talk, starting some slow exercises, Jiro showing off the various levels of her quirk as she shakes, cracks and shatters the ground with her heartbeat. Midoriya is impressed by his girlfriend, nodding along with her examples. "Just try to use as little as possible to start with" she says, Kirishima giving a confident nod as he moves towards Midoriya to observe.
Midoriya took a deep breath in, the exhaled it, looking at his friends, then at his freshly healed hand. He closes his eyes as he focused on his hand, then his fingers, then just his index finger, feeling it vibrate with energy. His finger began to glow, then crackle with energy, red lines soon wrapping around it as the power builds, even when he tries to keep it at a low level. Midoriya soon opens his eyes, panicking as he grips his wrist with his other hand, trying to get the building power under control. He relaxes his hand, able to calm down as the power slowly fades.
Midoriya lets out an annoyed huff, annoyance covering his features as he tries to figure out what is going wrong. Jiro and Kirishima look at each other, worried for their friend. Midoriya sits back, annoyed at himself as his abilities once again hit this wall. "It'll be okay, maybe you just need to train you're arms more so they can withstand your quirk more?" Jiro says with a smile, sitting next to Midoriya to comfort the annoyed hero.
"I just wish it was that simple, I need to train my arms faster, but to test them I have to break them, so they then have to heal instead of being able to train them more, it's a cycle that won't help me progress" Midoriya explains, his head lost in a sea of thoughts, unable to come up with any sort of solution or resolution to this seemingly impossible question.
"Then just use your legs" came a voice, both heroes in training turning their heads to see Kirishima in his own thoughts. Jiro and Midoriya looked at each other confused, then back at the hardening hero. "Think about it, you haven't really been able to train your arms because you keep trying to use them, but you have been walking your entire life, moving, running, squatting. You've been training your legs your entire life. Maybe use your legs, you can then train other parts of your body, then you have your legs and your arms to work with" Kirishima explained.
Jiro and Midoriya looked at Kirishima in shock, Jiro couldn't believe Kirishima could think of something like that, while Midoriya was in awe at his mindset, seeing the difference between himself who overthinks everything, whereas Kirishima knew the body better than most.
Kirishima steps forward towards them, looking at Midoriya. "Okay stand up and copy me" he says. Kirishima steps back before spreading his legs slightly, having his feet both pointing straight before then bending his legs slightly, faintly squatting. Midoriya watched Kirishima as he copied his actions, squatting down in front of Kirishima.
"This is commonly called the 'tower of power', it works as a solid base for most positions, with this you can lean forward and explode forwards, or move straight up to help with jumps, or even help you catch things or stop things from moving, its important to keep your back straight, arms ready and legs firm" Kirishima explains, while not the best at academics, this was him clearly in his element as Midoriya listens to his every word, even Jiro taking some mild interest.
"Now, try to do that dial thing you guys were talking about, but have it just go into your feet" Kirishima says, taking a few steps back. "Remember to have it go into both feet!" Jiro says from behind, both as a genuine reminder, as well as to try and relax young Midoriya. Midoriya takes a deep breath in, then he exhales it, clearing his head as he focuses on his feet. He feels his quirk slowly activate, coursing through his chest, down his spine and through his legs. He closes his eyes as he tries to focus, his quirk finally stopping at his feet, pooling at the soles of his feet. He focuses on his breathing, letting it build and build before trying to block off the flow. He opens his eyes, seeing that he is still there, his legs glowing with raw energy. He looks around on shaking legs, Kirishima grinning as he stares at Midoriya's stance, Jiro smiling as she motions for him to keep going. Midoriya looks down, slowly raising his left leg as he moves it forward, taking a short step forward. As his foot contacts the ground, it cracks and breaks apart with his step, placing his foot down as the ground sunders. Everyone is in awe at the raw power, Midoriya amazed, while his leg feels sore, hell the one he just used HURT, they weren't breaking, it felt like he could even take another step.
"Okay Izuku, ease off the throttle now" Jiro says, encouraging him to slowly let go. Midoriya slowly nods, taking a shaking breath as he tries to calm his quirk down, feeling the energy leave his body as he 'lets go' of the quirk, no longer trying to keep the power just at his feet as it dissipates. With a relieved sigh his quirk fades, his legs no longer glowing as he turns to Jiro, giving a shaking thumbs up as Jiro runs towards him, smiling with a faint laugh as she dives slightly into a hug, wrapping her arms around his chest with a smile. "You did it! You used your quirk and you didn't break anything!" She says as she shakes him slightly.
Midoriya smiles as he returns the hug, holding her tight. "Haha, thank you Jiro, but it isn't that special, I didn't really do anything" Midoriya says, trying to humble himself before feeling a hand hit him on the back, turning to see the hardening quirk user looking down at him with a grin. "Don't sell yourself short Midoriya, any improvement is an improvement, this is the first time I've seen you not hurt yourself" Kirishima says with a chuckle, Midoriya smiling in appreciation.
Midoriya and Jiro stayed in their embrace for a moment longer before separating, the trio discussing what to do next, Kirishima suggesting that Midoriya keeps practicing having the energy in his legs, getting used to the feeling before actually trying to use it for anything such as movement or even combat, Midoriya and Jiro both agreeing. Kirishima explained that he wanted to go and continue with his own training, wanting to see how his quirk reacts to elements like shocking and burns, wanting to talk to the teachers about asking other students for help, waving goodbye as he jogs away.
The young couple was left alone with their thoughts, spending the next couple hours making small adjustments to Jiro's equipment, allowing them to give more precise measurements of power when she uses her quirk through them. They discuss what other bits of equipment that could help them, such as some type of gauntlets for Jiro, or some type of leg braces, Jiro describing them as car suspension to maybe help absorb the shock of attacks. Soon enough the training day comes to an end, a loud siren going off through the facilities sound system before they hear the voice of Present Mic. "Okay students! Time to get back onto the bus so we can all go home! If you can please make your way to the entrance so we can do a head count! Go go go!" he says with his usual ring of enthusiasm.
Both of the young hero's began to collect their things and head towards the entrance, soon bumping into more and more of their classmates, all in various states, some with more cuts and bruises than others as they all begin to mingle and talk, starting the arduous journey up the long steps to the entrance to the USJ. Mina and Ojiro were talking with Shiozaki, seemingly spending a lot of time with her during the training, seeing a soft smile on her face as she gladly joins in on the conversation, Shoji and Sato behind the little group, both rather bruised as they discuss techniques.
Soon everyone is at the entrance, Present Mic doing a headcount. Soon enough Ectoplasm and Aizawa approach the group, asking for Midoriya and Jiro for a private word as both students come forward, following their teachers as they say that they'll meet everyone at the coaches. They quickly follow the teachers to the side, away from the ears of other students.
Aizawa's eyes were hidden behind his signature goggles, but his voice was unmistakable in its gravity. "Midoriya, Jiro, we need to discuss an important update about Bakugo's trial". Jiro's gaze met Aizawa's with a mixture of concern and frustration. "We know why he's on trial, what's the update?"
Ectoplasm, standing beside Aizawa, shuffled ever so slightly before taking a step forward. "The trial was set to proceed soon, with him being a minor him and his family were going to go to a juvenile offenders judge to be tried, but there's been a significant development. Due to unforeseen circumstances and the upcoming sports festival, the trial has been suspended until after the event."
Midoriya's eyes widened. "Suspended? But why now, when everything was moving forward? Aizawa leaned forward, his expression softening slightly as he spoke. "There are multiple factors at play. First, the sports festival is a major event for UA. It's important for all students to be focused and perform at their best, without the distraction of an ongoing trial."
Jiro's lips tightened. "And what about us? What are we supposed to do in the meantime? Just wait?" Ectoplasm's tone was reassuring but firm. "We understand this is difficult. The decision to delay was made to ensure that all students, excluding Bakugo, can participate without undue stress. It's also crucial for the integrity of the trial process that no additional pressure is applied at this stage."
Midoriya nodded slowly, his expression conflicted. "I get that. But it doesn't make it easier. What if something happens before the trial resumes?" Aizawa's gaze softened, though his eyes remained resolute through his goggles. "We're aware of the stakes, Midoriya. Rest assured; Bakugo is under constant supervision. We're taking all necessary precautions to ensure everyone's safety. The trial will resume with all the seriousness it deserves after the festival."
Jiro's frustration was evident, but she managed a nod. "Alright. We'll focus on the festival then. But… it's going to be hard to push this aside." Ectoplasm continued. "I know this isn't ideal, but remember that you have the support of your teachers and the entire UA staff. Use this time to prepare for the festival and take care of yourselves."
Aizawa gave a brief nod of agreement. "We're here for you, and we'll keep you updated with any new developments. For now, focus on your training and performances. It's important to stay strong and resilient." Midoriya and Jiro exchanged a look, a mixture of resolve and apprehension in their eyes. They knew they had to put their personal feelings aside for now, but the trial's looming presence was hard to ignore.
As the meeting concluded, Midoriya and Jiro walked back to the now walking away group of students, heading to join them at the coach. Jiro see's Midoriya tensing and clearly uncomfortable at the news, moving a hand to his as she grasps it, their fingers interlocking to help Midoriya snap out of his own thoughts, at least for now. The sports festival loomed large, but so did the uncertainty of Bakugo's trial. They knew that whatever lay ahead, they would face it together.
"Do you think they'll be okay?" Ectoplasm asked, his voice barely above a whisper. Aizawa sighed, his gaze fixed on the young couple. "They'll manage. They're strong. But it's our job to ensure they have the support they need. The festival will be a test of their resilience, but it's also a chance for them to demonstrate their growth, as well as let out some much-needed emotions."
Ectoplasm nodded. "Just a shame that it had to be postponed, from what I was told it was something to do with scheduling getting mixed up" he explains, Aizawa looking up slightly in his own thoughts. "Strange…"
As Midoriya and Jiro sat down on the coach, everyone was either resting, in their own conversations or were in their own thoughts, some even taking notes from a day's work. Both looked at each other, not needing to say a word, both knowing that the news of Bakugo's trial being delayed is upsetting news to put it lightly. Jiro moves her hand on top of Midoriya's, Midoriya grabbing it and holding it tight, placing his other hand on top of hers in a calming hold. He looked at her, smiling as he gives a small nod, signalling that he is okay, her quickly returning the soft smile as she lays her head on his shoulder, the young boy going stiff before relaxing.
Some of the nearby students looking at the young couple, Mina quickly tapping Momo's shoulder and pointing at them. She goes to coo over the young couple before Momo quickly covers the pink hero's mouth, wanting the young couple to enjoy themselves in peace, thought giving her own smile as she see's her friend so happy.
The coach soon arrives back at UA, the students unloading off the coach, heading towards the changing areas to wash off the training, as well as get changed so they can leave and head home. Midoriya was the first to finish, waiting outside the changing rooms for Jiro, Jiro soon walking out, applying some last-minute finishes to her hair before she spots Midoriya. She smiles and heads over to him. "S-So, want to head to m-mine? We can look into the festival" Midoriya says, clearly still nervous about asking her over to his house. Jiro simply giggles at the cute hero in training. "Id love to, let me just let my parents know" She says as she pulls out her phone, sending her dad a message explaining that she was going to go to Midoriya's, her dad just responding with a thumbs up emoji as she huffs at the very 'dad' response. She looks back up at Midoriya as she nods, both of them soon heading to the entrance to leave.
They spot Shoji at the entrance, someone fiddling with one of his arms. Midoriya quickly waves to catch the masked students attention, Shoji spotting Midoriya and quickly waving back. As the couple gets closer they spot that it is Shiozaki, applying a small plaster to an injury Shoji seemingly got during training. They keep walking past, Jiro smiling wide. "Oh they totally like each other" she says with a giggle, Midoriya looking clueless. "Really? How can you tell?" Midoriya asks. "They haven't left each other alone since the Bakugo incident" she explains. Midoriya gives it some thought, realising that they are always together, the couple giggling to themselves as they head in the direction of Midoriya's house.
As the sun began to set, casting a warm orange glow over the city, Midoriya and Jiro walked side by side, making their way back to Midoriya's house. After the long day of training, pushing past their limits and learning new abilities, they were more than just a little tired. The exhaustion was starting to show on their faces, but despite the fatigue, they couldn't help but smile at each other, their eyes sparkling with affection for one another.
As they walked, they fell into a comfortable silence, their footsteps synchronized as they strolled through the quiet streets. Midoriya couldn't help but steal glances at Jiro, his eyes drawn to her features, admiring her beauty in his eyes. "Hey, Kyoka?" he said, his voice softening. "Yeah?" Jiro replied, looking up at him with a curious expression.
"I'm really glad we're doing this, you know?" Midoriya said, his voice filled with sincerity. "I don't know what I'd do without you." Jiro's expression softened, her eyes filling with warmth. "I feel the same way, Izuku. I'm really happy we're together." Midoriya's heart swelled with emotion, his chest feeling tight with affection. He reached out, his hand brushing against Jiro's, their fingers intertwining as they walked.
It isn't long until they arrive at Midoriya's house, Inko nowhere in sight, seemingly out shopping for household supplies. The young couple soon get comfortable, taking off their school bags as Jiro gets comfortable on the sofa. Midoriya moves to his room, quickly getting changed into some more comfortable clothes, a plain white shirt with some simple shorts. Jiro spots him as he walks back inside, smiling up at him. "Think I could borrow one of your shirts? These school shirts aren't so comfy" she explains.
Midoriya froze, not able to process the thought of Jiro wearing one of his shirts. His cheeks flush red as he nods, quickly darting back into his room and looking across his shirts, grabbing one of his All Might shirts, a simple All Might blue with the words 'I AM HERE' in yellow across it, placing it on the bed. He then quickly moves back to the living room, pointing at his room. "I-I-I l-left the sh-shirt on the bed!" he blurts out, Jiro smiling as her own cheeks turn a shade redder, was he overreacting or was she thinking this was too normal?
She moves to his bedroom, smiling at him before she closes the door behind her. It isn't long until she returns out, her lower body still wearing her school uniform, but the shirt fitting her nicely, a few sizes to large so it was baggy on her, but Midoriya loved it, unable to take his eyes off her. Seeing Midoriya stare made Jiro blush a deep red, gripping the rim of the shirt slightly, looking down at it. "W-What? Do I look stupid?" She asks. "You look incredible" Midoriya says clearly, not realising he her just blurted out his own thoughts.
This only made Jiro blush deeper, though a smile crept onto her face at the sincere compliment. "Thank you" she murmurs, everything catching up to Midoriya as he blushes deeply at his own words, becoming a stammering mess. The two stay there for a moment, the awkward silence breaking when Jiro takes a step towards the sofa, sitting next to Midoriya.
"S-So I thought w-we could watch last year's festival, C-Could help us know what's upcoming" Midoriya explained, Jiro simply nodding as she leaned back, getting comfortable on the sofa as Midoriya fiddled with the remotes. He then leaned back as the video began to play. Jiro looked up at Midoriya who was already focused on the video, watching the students entering the large arena. She slowly scooted closer, soon tugging on his arm before she hugs his arm, nuzzling into it slightly as she gets comfortable, still watching the video. Midoriya was surprised, smiling down at her as his hand holds hers, resting his head against hers as they watch the video in peace.
On the opposite side of Musutafu was a large building, the windows bared, each room lightly padded, the furniture minimal, guards at every corner of the building inside and out. This was the Musutafu juvenile corrections facility. Inside one of these rooms was a particular explosive quirk user, pacing back and forth in his room, his hands wearing special gauntlets that soaked his hands, preventing easy quirk usage. He paced, getting more and more angry. "This isn't right, the hero of the story shouldn't be locked up, this shit doesn't happen until the third act, I can't be that far yet, what am I missing" he says to himself over and over, groaning as he eventually falls onto the bed that was provided. He rolls from side to side, unable to get comfortable,
"Stupid Deku, taking my place, if he was here I would…" He tries to light a spark in his gauntlets, watching as nothing happens. He groans in annoyance again before he slams one of the gauntlets against a nearby wall. He leaves it there for a moment, before lowering his arms and then his head. He hears a faint cracking noise, looking up at where he slammed his fist into the wall, looking at it as he sees a crack forming. He smiles, before it fades as he watches more cracks form across the wall, watching it start to crumble, turning to dust and rubble before it erodes away, crumbling as the setting sun blinds him for a moment, covering his eyes with his covered hands.
His eyes struggle to adjust, two figures coming into view, a man wearing a top hat, and a man with his hand outstretched against the wall with a cruel smile and a rough voice. "Hello Bakugo, we've been looking for you" came a rasping voice from the hooded man. Bakugo watched as the man stepped forward, gripping his gauntlets as they eroded away, soon falling off his hands. He rubbed his hands together, small firecracker like explosions crackling at his fingers. He grins and stands up.
"Of course, that's what I was forgetting, the hero meeting his team" Bakugo says with a sinister laugh.
