Angel: Responding to some more questions, regarding Izuka as a symbol and what Bakugo will think, it gets elaborated on later, so I won't say much on that front. As for him finding out what's going on with All for One...I also cannot answer because it does happen in a much later chapter. I mean, if you're watching the anime, then you know what episode I'm talking about. THAT chapter is going to be a lot, that's for sure. Bakugo's jealousy is fueled by his pride, plus he just hates her being possibly interested in just about any boy. Izuka fighting like she dances with ballet...? Huh. I can see it, but her fighting style isn't graceful to me. Personally, I don't know if she needs to tie her art movements into her fighting (and plus, I'm still writing season 5, so it's much too late to implement it anywhere atm). Izuka will listen to just about anything, I haven't listened to Casey Lee Williams yet, but I'll look into it. Bakugo will know about her drawing him, but not anytime soon. As in, I haven't even gotten to the episode where it happens in terms of writing it.
As for getting rid of Izuka's sneakers, hell no lol! Plus, I know they're a simple design, but the sneakers end up coming back in next week's batch of chapters, so there XP That's like saying I'm gonna get rid of Izuku's shoes. Regarding the gas, no, she's not immune to it, it's meant to be ironic. Her own stars she can handle since they come from her body-and there was that smoke from Fujimi's Quirk that still affected her, so that should've been a clue. Izuka likes animals, but if she started crushing on Tokoyami all of a sudden, a certain blond would not be happy. For Mr. Smiley though...it gives off light, true. But it's a bit of a stretch to say Izuka is immune to it. I mean, it did affect Tokoyami if it hit the whole world. Fire gives off light, but Mr. Smiley's teeth is what gets it to work I think. And I don't know if that works the same as light from fire...? That's giving me a lot of thought, ngl.
I must remember...where I started...
On a snowy day, Toshinori looked out to the river and the city. "I wanna make a world where everyone smiles and lives together happily. For that to happen, people need a symbol."
"A symbol?" A woman asked him curiously.
"A Symbol of Peace," He informed as the snowflakes continued to fall. "The reason crime is on the rise everywhere is because citizens have no one to believe in. They need to rely on someone," He then looked up in determination. "That's why I wanna be the pillar that gives people hope."
"Huh," She murmured in thought, looking up. "So that's what drives you to become a hero, even though you're Quirkless."
"Yes!" He answered eagerly, earning a laugh from her.
"Toshinori Yagi. S'that right? Those are some pretty funny ideas ya got," She then gave him a small smile. "You're kinda crazy."
Sirens blared into Kamino as smoke was coming from the area. Cars filled the streets immediately, causing people to stop and wonder what was going on. The citizens on the streets were running away in a panic while the police guided them.
"Midoriya," Shoto was on the phone with Izuku. He and Momo were blending in with the crowd. "Are you five safe?"
"No! Izuka got snatched away by All for One," Izuku informed him, earning a sharp gasp from Shoto.
"What? Why?" He asked immediately, gaining Momo's attention.
"I don't know! She's still back there with All Might, I don't know what else to do," He answered in rapid fashion as he was panicking. "H-How about you guys? No one saw you?"
"I don't think so, but Midoriya, you need to stay away from the area. All Might will take care of it from there, you have to trust in him," He told his classmate calmly, though he gritted his teeth to himself. "We're on the street, blending in with the crowd now. Some pros are here helping people evacuate, I'm sure one of them will notice what's going on with Mido eventually."
"Right...you're right," Izuku murmured, though he was still worried. "We're stopped in front of the station. Luckily, we missed that last shockwave," Izuku bit his lip while people were watching the news alert about the fight. "Our complete rescue...while we have Kacchan, we failed my sister again."
"A rescue?!" Katsuki overheard him, watching the screen. "That's not what happened back there. You idiots just happened to be my best escape route. And we should go back for Iz—short stack," He corrected himself immediately in anger.
"You're welcome, but we can't," Eijiro sighed in frustration, grasping a fist. He hated the feeling that they weren't able to save Izuka like they wanted. Even if they had another plan, they couldn't get past the pro heroes or police. So they had to trust in All Might like Shoto said to Izuku. "There's too many people, and we'll get spotted."
"We had to get out of there so All Might could destroy that guy. But then I had to mess it up by not being able to get the shorty away," Katsuki grunted in anger, as he was frustrated himself just like Eijiro. If she doesn't get out of there, she's dead. There's no way she can take that guy on.
Izuku stared at Katsuki knowingly. He's right. We would've been in the way, but now Izuka's still there. The smart thing to do was leave him to it...just like I have to do now with my sister. Gran Torino can help him out. Izuka, please be okay out there... He heard something and looked up to see planes heading towards the scene. We made the right decision. Didn't we? He at least hoped so, but given his sister was still in danger... This isn't exactly what you would've wanted. But it might even help you if she does what I think she will. Right, All Might?
Izuka looked up at All Might, who was still furrowing his eyebrows in frustration. She frowned as she knew that being here wasn't helping, and hoped he saw it her way. Even though yes, it was a major risk to do for her. But she didn't care about that, she couldn't bare to leave All Might now, not like she could. "Please, Mr. All Might-"
"No," He interrupted her sharply as he kept his eyes on All for One. "I can't put you in danger against him. You need to get Gran Torino to safety-"
"Meddling when I don't have to...is what makes someone a hero," She reminded him and he clamped his mouth shut, turning away. "That's what you told me and Izuku, right?" She shook a little, tears running down her face. "Well, this is just like that...! And you won't even be able to hold onto your form, what if you lose it for good this time? Who'd save everyone then?!" She squeezed her eyes shut.
He bit his lip as technically...when he said that, he didn't mean for her to do this with him. If she got hurt, he could never forgive himself for that. Or bear to witness Izuku's sorrow either, since he knew the boy must be heartbroken that she wasn't with him right now. And he wanted to have faith in her, but this was too much for her to handle, even with him around. All for One took down Gran Torino in seconds, and she'd be no different.
Before he could even speak, All for One interrupted them. "As sickeningly sweet as this is...you have so much in common with Nana Shimura, the utter waste of a human who passed One for All on to you," He spoke up without regrets. Izuka flinched and then gritted her teeth at the insult. All Might looked pissed off himself just by the villain talking about her.
"Be proud, Toshinori. You went down a long, hard road to obtain this power," Nana stood proudly as the sun rose in front of her. "Of course it's gonna take a lot of work to master it."
He shook angrily as more smoke came from his body. "My master was a true hero. Keep her name out of your filthy mouth!" He snarled while still holding down All for One.
"A woman with no skill, and grand ideas she couldn't live up to," All for One continued to mock her. "How embarrassing for me, the creator of One for All, to see her inherit the power. And the way she died was so pathetic." Izuka gasped sharply, gripping the ground tight. "Shall I tell you all about it?"
"ENOUGH!" All Might screamed while recoiling back a fist. Izuka scrambled onto her feet while running towards them, growling. All for One's hand twitched as a large blast occurred. All Might was sent flying back, blood coming from his mouth. Two reporters gasped sharply and then a shooting star caught All Might by the back of his costume. He gasped as he looked down to see Izuka holding out a hand to him to maintain it. The other was outstretched towards All for One to restrain him with her Mercury Blast.
Mido, no! He gave a terrified look at her. "Why did you-"
"I don't know her, but she trained you!" She called out to him, narrowing her eyes. He gasped in shock from her words. "That's more than enough for me to do something about it! Ms. Shimura...I know deep down that she died honorably no matter what he says and you do too! Because she went beyond and we need to do the same!"
Gran Torino came in to grab All Might, all of them heading towards Izuka. "Gran Torino!"
All for One let out a cough, seeing his restraints. He then looked up angrily at both Izuka and Gran Torino. "You're both in the way..."
"It's the same as the last time," Gran Torino informed as Izuka dropped her shooting star, turning around to All for One. "Toshinori, calm down! The girl's right! 6 years ago, you got distracted, and that's how he escaped. And put a hole in your stomach," He used his feet to get them both back down. The two landed safely with a small blast, Gran Torino looking up towards the girl. She was keeping her distance as she backed away from All for One slowly, a glare on her face. "That's always been your weakness. Don't let him get under your skin! As for Mido, there's no time to get her out. I don't like her being in danger either, but she's still a UA student. She understands the consequences of what she's doing perfectly well. If she can protect herself as she did earlier, she might have a chance."
"...Yes, sir," All Might coughed, some blood dripping from his mouth. He then stared up at Izuka, not sure what to think now. She looked...much more confident than she had during the whole ordeal, he couldn't deny that. He just hoped that he could trust Gran Torino's word on this...
"His Quirks and fighting style are completely different than they were," Gran Torino spoke as All for One broke himself free from Izuka's hold. She slid back a couple of feet from the amount of power he gave off, but was otherwise fine. "You won't be able to stop him head on. Use your wits! Can you still fight? It's do-or-die," He glanced back at All Might, half his face still normal. "Both of you must go past your limits as a team!"
"I will," All Might declared and looked towards Izuka. She's already formed into the symbol set out for her, that...I almost didn't notice. "Young Mido."
"Uh?" She glanced over her shoulder in confusion.
"You've grown so much. Even though I'm gonna kill you later for getting involved...let's do this together."
Her eyes slowly widened and then gave a small smirk. "Yeah...! Let's save everyone," She nodded sharply, standing by his side.
The news crew looked down at the fight. "The scene below's straight out of a nightmare! Half of Kamino Ward was demolished in a single, horrifying instant. All Might is currently fighting the villain who appears to have caused the blast. A UA student is also involved in the fight despite being just a child! I can't believe it."
Principal Nezu, Vlad King, and Mr. Aizawa silently watched the broadcast. "How is one person so powerful? He's destroyed the city and is more than holding his own against the Symbol of Peace and the student! Just in, incoming news of the student...It's Izuka Midoriya from Class 1-A, who placed top 9th in the Sports Festival!"
Mr. Aizawa and Vlad King both gasped sharply. Then the two glared at the television, not because she was there, but because of what All for One was doing. Although part of Mr. Aizawa was concerned about his student as well.
Principal Nezu gritted his teeth, clenching a fist. Our plan has been thwarted! It's up to you now, Izuka and All Might! Even though a student is in danger...we can only hope for the best right now.
"You see this?" A woman murmured with fear in her eyes. "Jeez, and a student is involved too? How could they let this happen?"
"Oh crap, that looks terrible!" The male held out drinks for them.
"All Might looks kind of beat up, and Midoriya can't hold that guy off forever."
"Whoa. I've never seen him like this! What is he doing, letting his student fight this battle?"
Ochaco's eyes shook in fear at the television, especially when Izuka's name came up. "Izuka...no..." She whispered in despair, covering her mouth as fresh tears came to her eyes. She couldn't help but wonder...would things have changed if she had agreed to rescue her? Now she felt awful for not going with the others to help her...even if she was against the idea.
"Where's Kamino Ward again?"
Fumikage gave a nervous look towards his computer, fearing for Izuka's life. "Daddy may not have work tomorrow, hon."
Minoru had his mouth open, grape soda dripping from it. "Really?"
Tsuyu watched in anticipation towards the screen, terror in her eyes. "Why aren't the other heroes helping? That's a student from UA down there!"
"Man, these villain attacks are getting insane." Yuga covered his mouth in horror, shaking on the couch. His mother was nearby, watching in shock.
"That, or the heroes are just slackin' off. Even with a kid, they're still not stepping in."
"They're gettin' soft!"
"I mean, I hate to say it, but it's true."
"It looks bad, sure, but All Might's the best. He'll win in the end and stop the girl, right?"
Izuku, Eijiro, Katsuki, and Tenya stared up at the screens in silence. Watching the broadcast, they could only blame themselves for not saving Izuka. Especially both Izuku and Katsuki. Izuka...I hope you know what you're doing Izuku narrowed his eyes, knowing that she had no choice but to fight at this point. And that she had to do some convincing with All Might to do so. Help him as much as you can...
All Might coughed into his hand. Izuka turned to him in concern briefly. "I find myself conflicted," All for One spoke up, getting her attention. "Tomura has been the one to chip away at society's trust in heroes. So is it fair that I should land the final blows? You know, All Might, Izuka, as much as you both hate me, I think I probably loathe you more equally. I killed your master, sure. And I ordered his League to take back you and Bakugo. But you took away so much from me, everything I tried to build. And she's supposed to be her own symbol?" Both of them gasped, wondering how he even knew about that. "That's why I want you two to suffer until your last breath, and die broken and disgraced, for all the world to see," His arm then twitched, with his attack charging up.
"Big one's coming!" Gran Torino warned the two. "Dodge and counter!" He then jumped backwards while Izuka and All Might prepared themselves.
"Not everyone's so fast," All for One held out his arm. All Might flinched as he could feel the presence of someone. It was a young woman caught in debris nearby. Gran Torino zipped over to the two.
"Watch out!" He went over as fast as he could.
"I will obliterate everything you've protected, including the girl's brother!" He fired off his attack, and Gran Torino got caught up in it. He flew backwards while All Might braced himself. Izuka held up her shield, her eyes squeezed shut as her hair flew, feet planted onto the ground. A huge crash occurred, smoke flying everywhere. "First to go will be your self-respect, and ridiculous public image." The aftermath revealed that Izuka's shield had broke, and she had landed on her back, panting. She also had a head wound at the back of her head. Scrapes and scratches were on her body. He didn't even touch her, and he was that powerful...She looked up and then her eyes widened towards All Might. "Show the world how pitiful you really are, Symbol of Peace!"
Toshinori was revealed, his fingers bloody as he also had a head injury. Izuka tensed up immediately, tears in her eyes. No... She gave a look of despair, knowing that the fight was being televised since she could hear the copters. Mr. All Might...
The people watching in Kamino murmured to themselves seeing Toshinori. Katsuki had a wide-eyed look on his face as they couldn't believe what they were witnessing. They were shocked, confused, baffled that the number one hero...was a man with black eyes and a lanky figure.
"He looks like a skeleton."
"Uh. What's wrong? Is-is everyone else seeing this?" Izuku looked horrified that the secret was out now. He then looked out of his mind since Toshinori worked so hard to maintain it...and yet All for One displayed him for all to see. And they couldn't explain their way out of this one either this time. "It looks like All Might's been shrunk somehow!"
"Most of the world has never heard of this fight." All Might was showing the twins his stomach injury. "I did everything I could to keep the injury under wraps. I'm supposed to be the guy who's always smiling, right? I'm the Symbol of Peace. People everywhere have to think that I'm never afraid."
Swear ran down Izuku's face. Everyone in the world was seeing this, and now...now they'll only think of his moment when they think of the number one hero. All Might...your secret!
Toshinori stayed silent while standing in front of Izuka as he wasn't focusing on it right now. "Hollow cheeks and sunken eyes. To think that you're their greatest hero," All for One stated and Izuka looked up with a snarl towards him. "Now the adoring public knows your true form. Try not to be ashamed." Toshinori narrowed his eyes at the villain, as he still hadn't said a word. Izuka slowly got onto her feet. "Your moves."
"Even as my body rots and grows frail..." All Might approached the villain, Izuka following close behind. "Even as you expose my weakened state," He clenched a bloody fist with a determined expression. "In my heart, I remain the Symbol of Peace!" A glow came from his fist. "And there's nothing you can do to take that from me!"
Izuka growled at All for One, clenching her fists. "You and your ideals...really piss me off. You take and terrify and mock, but no more. I'm not just a UA student. I am the...Shining Bright hero, Callista!" A beam of purple appeared and suddenly there was a flash.
"What...?" All for One murmured, Toshinori turning to her in shock.
Once the flash stopped, her hair was much lighter in green as a flow of energy was surrounding her scraped body. Almost like when Izuku activated his Full Cowling. "No matter what you do to us, there will always be a hero to stop you."
Toshinori's mouth opened in shock and then he gave a small smirk. I'm proud of you...Callista.
"Is that so? Ah, well. I'd forgotten how stubborn you are. Or how feeble-minded your student is for that matter. I guess I'll just give up," All for One continued to mock, both of them gritting their teeth at him. "Oh! But there is one thing you might be interested to know. Tomura Shigaraki? My apprentice? He's Nana Shimura's grandson."
Both of them stood there in silence as they let that fact sink in. Izuka dropped her hand in shock, unable to move in that moment. And neither could Toshinori as his eyes widened. Ms. Shimura...and Shigaraki...are related...?
"I kept wondering what would annihilate your golden heart. And so I found Tomura. Groomed him to hate you, and watched you smile so proudly as you beat your master's descendant," All for One revealed to them both, and Toshinori remembered the USJ Incident. Never...did he think back then that Shigaraki would have any relation to his master. And he prayed so hard that this was a sick joke or just something to distract him.
"That's a lie..." He muttered as his mouth wouldn't close.
"That...that can't be true..." Izuka's eyes shook in disbelief. How could someone so evil...be a descendant of a hero? And it might not even be the first time something like this had happened, but...to have it be told to her. It was just unheard of.
"Oh, come now. You know it's the truth," All for One stared at the two, wondering if they were really doubting him. "That is clearly something I would do. Huh! Well, well," He silently relished in their reactions. "That's strange, All Might. Where is your smile now?" He mimicked what All Might would do to smile. He cackled as he enjoyed his moment and it made Izuka wanna punch him. But...she couldn't even do that right now. She glanced up at Toshinori, wondering what was going through his head.
"If you have to save someone..." Nana looked up to the blue sky and clouds. "That means they've probably gone through something terrifying. They'll be frightened. Remember that real heroes don't just save lives. They save a person's heart, too. You know what I think? No matter how scared you are, you should smile to show that things'll be okay."
It was just unfortunate that both he and Izuka were scared out of their minds right now.
Nana stretched out her mouth with her fingers to smile. "In this world, the ones always smiling are the ones who are the strongest!"
"You...bastard," Toshinori muttered with hate in his voice.
"I wish I never met you..." Izuka murmured while shaking, her eyes wide. She felt awful for her teacher having to go through this, and she felt like...she shouldn't be witnessing this. But All for One didn't really give her a choice in the matter.
He just let out a laugh. "How very entertaining. I think I've taken a piece of you after all."
"He's my master's grandchild..." Toshinori's voice broke a little and Izuka's eyes saddened towards him. "My god, what would she say if she knew how we turned out?!" He then let out an agonized scream at the news. Izuka covered her mouth, shedding a few tears as her power died down.
"Don't...lose," The woman in the debris looked up, a pleading expression on her face. "Keep going...All Might, Callista! We need you!"
The citizens watched this in despair, fearing for him in spite of his secret being revealed. "They're frozen!" A woman exclaimed at their state.
"This is bad."
"...Beat this guy," Katsuki muttered to himself while looking at the screen.
"No way."
"What next?"
"Are they gonna lose?"
Eijiro, Izuku, and Tenya whipped around, seeing the uneasy crowd behind them. "He's always been able to win before, so he can do it again, right? Even if that girl is in danger, he'll still be able to get her out of this."
"Yeah, even if he looks totally different, he's still the same All Might!"
Katsuki gritted his teeth, as just like everyone else, he needed them to win this. "Come on, All Might and Callista, you can do it!"
The whole crowd was shouting for the two in encouragement, even though Toshinori was powerless, and Izuka was injured. "Beat this sucker!"
"Show 'im what you can do!"
Izuku shed tears as he couldn't let either of them lose their lives today. "Win this!" He shouted towards the screen.
"Beat him!" Katsuki shouted next after him.
"Come on, All Might and Callista!" Katsuki and Izuku both screamed in unison. Katsuki was more urgent, pleading for her to get out of this alive. Izuku had tears flying from his eyes as they were squeezed shut.
Toshinori and Izuka both powered up at the same time. "Fear not, miss," He growled as his arm grew stronger. The citizen looked up at the both of them in shock. "We're not done yet. You were right. A hero has so much to protect in this world!" His eyes glowed while Izuka's hair flew around. "Which is why we will defeat you!" His arm was muscled up while Izuka's power grew.
"I'm just a child, and I know people are worried. But...that's also why I'm here. Just because the odds are against me...doesn't mean I won't fight back!" Izuka declared furiously at All for One.
"Toshinori," Nana spoke up during the snowfall, a flame appearing. "When you think you can't go on anymore, look inside."
"I must remember..."
"Remember why it is you clench your fist," She stood in front of the flames, her cape flowing.
"Where I started..."
"Your past," She put a fist to her heart, smiling. "Remember where you came from. Keeping your origin in mind will help push you past your limit."
"My origin," The younger Toshinori murmured to himself. "Of course. I wanna make a world where everyone smiles and lives together happily."
That still rang true for him as he and Izuka stood side by side.
Best Jeanist looked towards Izuka. "But...it seems that every day, you manage to surprise people with how much you're willing to do for others. That is just a small essence of being the hero you want to be."
Yellow sparked from All Might as Izuka narrowed her eyes. The kind of hero I want to be...maybe this won't answer that. But it'll at least mean something to me. Which means that I can't mess this up for Mr. All Might. This form of mine is like my brother's...I hope it'll last.
Gran Torino looked up at the two from his spot, glaring towards the three. "How many times is he gonna have to counter such a large-scale attack? He shoulda been outta power a long time ago. Muscles are only forming on his right arm. This distorted form can't be good...and how long will the girl last against him? She hasn't been in this form before. Her power is off the charts right now...controlling it won't be easy."
All Might gasped as All for One floated into the sky. "There it is. That's the last of your strength, isn't it, All Might?"
Izuka gasped a little, glancing at her teacher and noticing his arm. She then bit her lip, looking forward. This fight...would be his last, she could tell. And she wished she could do something about it, but this was way beyond her understanding. "A wounded hero is a most frightening animal. Do you know that even now I sometimes dream of you charging at me with your entrails strewn across the ground? Although I never imagined the girl being involved," His arm charged up just like All Might's, he and Izuka glaring up at him. Gran Torino gave a look of alarm.
Oh no!
"You have, what, two or three punches left? And she has what, maybe 5 minutes of maintaining control?" He held out his arm to the both of them. A bunch of flames then appeared to attack him, even though it didn't do anything. Izuka and All Might glanced at each other in confusion as the attack didn't come from either of them.
"Are you serious?" A familiar voice spoke up and they turned to see that it was Endeavor responsible. "What the hell's going on with that weak little body? And you're letting a student fight him?!" He gritted his teeth and Izuka looked away a bit awkwardly.
"Look like we made it in time," Edgeshot landed nearby the number 2 hero.
"We've got the Nomu under control," Naomasa informed as the police were cuffing the creatures that the heroes took down. He then turned around towards them. "You have to help All Might!"
Edgeshot narrowed his eyes a little. "Tsukauchi must've expected this. He feared for his friend's life. Although he didn't mention that girl was here. We have to get her out of here."
"Hm. Those Nomu weren't particularly strong," All for One pointed out as he noticed the two. "But I'm still impressed you handled them so quickly. As expected from the man who clawed his way to the number-two spot."
Endeavor gritted his teeth as he recognized the man just based on the costume. "Dammit, All Might. I did everything I could to get ahead of you! But the harder I worked, the more obvious it became just how much of a widening gap separated the two of us!" He could remember once in his younger days that All Might had beat him to a mountain rescue. "The stronger you got, the angrier I became!" He then remembered Shoto and his wife. "Stand up and show them why you're better!" He screamed at the number one hero. He then faltered as he saw Izuka standing there looking up at All for One...and how much of a hero she looked despite being younger.
"Endeavor..." All Might murmured towards his rival.
"Let's grab her-"
"No," Endeavor interrupted Edgeshot, to his surprise. "If she's still here, that means...he wants her to be. Even though it is a poor choice on his part, we should trust them." Edgeshot stared at the two of them in silence and didn't like this at all. But...he hoped that Toshinori made the right decision in the end.
"If the only reason you're here is to cheer them on, I'd prefer you to remain silent," All for One held out his arm, about to attack the two heroes.
"Think again, madman," Edgeshot flew into the air, and then headed for the villain. "We're here to assist."
Kamui Woods grabbed Gang Orca, Mt. Lady, and Best Jeanist from the rubble. "That's our job as heroes! You did your best, Mt. Lady."
Izuka looked at the three of them in a bit of awe. Toshinori was a bit surprised as well, since his secret was out. But...none of them really cared in the end, it seemed. "All of you came."
"Of course we did," Another voice spoke up, and they turned around to see Tiger. He was still holding onto Ragdoll, and then was assisting the lady that spoke to Toshinori earlier. "We can't do much, but if we can just help a little...then we have fulfilled our duty."
"Thank you," Toshinori murmured gratefully at them. Izuka just gave them a small smile.
"You have to stop him, you two," Tiger spoke as Edgeshot maneuvered around All for One. "This personification of evil." The villain then deflected Endeavor's fire. "Pros and citizens everywhere are praying for your victory and the girl's safety." All for One dodged another fire attack. "No matter what you look like, you're still everyone's number-one hero!"
Gran Torino gritted his teeth from his spot. "Toshinori Yagi?"
"He's an interesting guy," Nana informed as both of them stood on a rooftop, looking towards the sunset. "A little crazy. For instance, he thinks that crime hasn't gone down because the citizens don't have anyone to rely on. That the world needs some kind of pillar of support. And he says that's what he's going to become one day."
He panted quietly while looking towards the man. Neither he or Izuka had moved yet. Toshinori. You are a pillar. One that must not be broken. You are the number-one hero. Principal Nezu and Vlad were shouting in encouragement towards the screen. Mr. Aizawa still had that anxious look for his student. Ochaco was also screaming, her eyes squeezed shut in support of her friend and Toshinori. Fumikage was doing the same. You two can hear them, can't you? Tsuyu had her mouth covered, tears in her eyes. Even after everything he's done so far. Minoru watched the computer intensely, squeezing his fists while crying in fear. The entire world continues to cheer you on, even though Izuka shouldn't be here...but she is for you and for them. Their united voices cry out for your victory! That includes your students and her classmates, whose admiration knows no bounds. Along with everyone else in Kamino, Eijiro and Tenya were shouting for the two's victory. Who aspire with their whole hearts to be like you. Izuku and Katsuki continued their shouts as well.
"All Might! Callista!"
Izuka shed a few tears, shaking a little as she thought he'd be booed for letting her be here. But instead...they were cheering for the both of them. She then squeezed her eyes shut, wiping her eyes with her wrist. No, don't do it. Not in front of them. I have to win this for everyone!
All for One just scoffed at this. "How pointless," He fired off another huge wind attack, sending everyone flying. Izuka held up a shield in front of her and Toshinori, who hugged her close to him. She squeezed her eyes shut as her hair flew behind her. Thankfully, it didn't continue for much longer. "Let's stop dwelling on heroism and start focusing on reality." His muscles from his arm started to grow just like Toshinori's. "Springlike Limbs. Kinetic Booster times four." Principal Nezu, Vlad King, and Mr. Aizawa grew nervous at this. "Strength Enhancer times three."
Katsuki and Eijiro looked terrified towards him. "Multiplier. Hypertrophy. Rivets. Air Walk. Spearlike Bones."
Izuku's eyes shook in horror for what they were dealing with. Tenya couldn't keep his mouth closed. Toshinori gritted his teeth towards him and Izuka let out a small growl. "The shockwaves until now were simply to wear you two out. I knew it would take much more than that to kill you. In order to put you down for good, I'll punch you with the ultimate combination of Quirks I have stored up within me right now." His arm was a humongous beast of power, bigger than his own body. "This will end you."
Toshinori prepared himself while Izuka stood bravely, glaring towards him. "I wasn't certain until we exchanged blows tonight, All Might. But now I am. One for All no longer dwells within you. What you're attacking me with is just a lingering ghost. The embers that remain from what you've already passed on." Toshinori's arm started to flicker with power. "And that fire gets weaker every time you use it. Even now, it's a feeble spark about to put itself out." He then started to fly right towards them. "Izuku and Izuka Midoriya!"
The two gasped sharply from their names being said. "He's the child you passed One for All on to, isn't he? I bet he came here without your asking. You have no control over him, do you? And she's the one you want to make your Symbol of Light...even though she's a pitiful excuse for one. She can't even control her own brother."
Izuka snarled angrily at his remarks and then jumped up. "No!" Toshinori called out, since this was what All for One wanted. But she didn't care anymore.
"You shut up about my brother!" She screamed as power sparked within her. Something swirled from her palms, alarming Toshinori and the rest of the crowd. "Uranus..." Ice came from her hands to power up. "Orbit!" She then fired it at All for One while only a few feet away from him, submerging him in it supposedly. Toshinori opened his mouth in shock that she learned a new power. Perhaps it was out of anger for what the villain said about her. Either way, it was impressive. She looked up ahead in anticipation, wondering if that really took him down...
But it didn't as he revealed himself a few seconds later, and she flinched in shock.
"Honestly, All Might...you should put the girl out of her misery. I know I will," He used his tentacles as they headed straight for Izuka, only they were much bigger than last time. He pierced right through her lung and shoulder before she could react, her eyes wide. Her mouth also opened in shock, blood flying out of the corner of her mouth. Toshinori slowly opened his mouth, a light gasp escaping him. It was a deafening silence throughout Japan as they watched this moment. Ochaco stood up with a scream, Momo's eyes shaking as she let out a horrified sound. Her brother himself tensed up immediately, his body shaking. Katsuki, Tenya, and Eijiro couldn't close their mouths, watching with pained and shocked expressions.
Izuku...Mom...I'm so sorry...
"IZUKA, NO!" Izuku cried out in horror, his eyes shaking that his sister got hurt...and he couldn't do anything to have prevented it or help.
"Iz-Callista!" Katsuki corrected himself in a panic, a fist shaking. The rest of the crowd looked at her, worried as she started to fall.
"Young Mido!" Toshinori got over his shock and held out his arms to catch the girl, falling backwards. He placed her down safely as blood came from her injuries, the girl trying to breathe so that she wouldn't lose consciousness. "Are you alright?" He examined her quickly as she placed a hand over her bleeding lung, grunting in pain.
"He...got me good," She said in between pants, putting pressure over her wound and letting out a groan. "I'm sorry, Mr. All Might..."
"No, don't apologize. How bad is it?" He didn't blame her at all for this, he more so blamed himself for not being fast enough to react to it.
"He...got my lung and shoulder blade...I feel like I can't breathe..." She sat up, but then he placed her down, knowing that she still wanted to fight. But she was his responsibility as well throughout the whole incident, so he had to stop her for her own good.
"No, don't get up. Thank you for your help, but it ends here. Keep pressing on your lung. Can you patch up your shoulder?" He stared down at her, patting her on the head.
"I can try if I'm quick..." She looked up while he got onto his feet, looking towards All for One. "All Might, please...don't do this," She wheezed, knowing that if she had to watch him lose all of his power, she wouldn't be able to handle it. Nor would Izuku witnessing it.
"...I no longer have that choice. I will protect you with my life, as you did for me," He spoke up softly and tears appeared in her eyes. If only she hadn't let herself get into this situation...if only she hadn't insisted on helping him...but if she didn't, he'd be dead right now.
All for One went back to falling towards them. "It sounds as though you'll both die full of regrets, All Might," The villain mocked while extending his fist. Toshinori clenched his fist, recoiling it back as he prepared himself. "As a hero and as a teacher!" Once he was close enough, Toshinori let out a yell as he collided his fist with All for One's. Izuka yelped as she turned away, covering her face with her arm. As the two forces collided, a large blast came from the both of them.
"Impact Recoil!" Blood came flying from Toshinori, trying to hold him back from Izuka as much as possible. He pushed Toshinori backwards and as he did, the hero scooped up Izuka with one arm. She clung on for dear life from the two clashing forces. Izuku continued to scream in encouragement for the two.
"You're right." Izuka looked up at him in shock. "As the teacher of the twins, I should have reprimanded him for coming here. And for her fighting by my side as brave as it was." He looked up with a grunt while trying to hold him back as much as he could. "I failed. Which is why I have to make it up to the both of them!"
Izuka's eyes widened at him for his statement, blood still coming from her own injuries. "I see...The weak embers inside you are resisting." He could feel it dwindling even now. "Trying to rekindle some of your former strength. A desperate attempt to rage against the inevitable, and fulfill your duty. But it's not enough!" He pushed back harder against Toshinori's bleeding arm, causing him to let out a painful yell. He accidentally lost his grip on Izuka, who fell face first into the ground. She shook a little trying to keep herself awake, but she was losing blood almost quickly.
Izuku, Gran Torino, and Katsuki gasped, the green-haired boy with tears in his eyes. Toshinori was heading straight for the ground as he couldn't keep up much longer.
"When you think you can't go on anymore, remember."
Toshinori used his feet to steady himself, his hair flying as he maintained his fist. "I'll beat you, not because I'm a symbol...but because I will do as my master did for me! And I will make sure today isn't Young Mido's last day!"
She looked up weakly at the two from where she was. Toshinori was being slid backwards from All for One. "Until I finish training her and Young Midoriya..." Once they stopped, a burst of energy came from him. "Until he's ready..."
"It's embarrassing how much you're resisting," All for One mocked him and Izuka gripped the ground, snarling towards him.
"I won't..." Toshinori's other arm gained some muscle.
"Perhaps I was wrong."
All Might narrowed his eyes, flinging his other arm. I refuse to die! His free fist came swinging in to strike All for One in the face. Izuka's eyes widened in awe of him actually pulling that off.
"You won't be able to stop him head on. Use your wits!"
Gran Torino could only watch from his spot. At the last moment...he transferred the power in his right arm to his left. He used his right arm as bait! His right arm was now broken, just like Izuku would do using One for All. But...
All for One turned towards the hero, as the punch didn't seem to affect him much. "A clever trick. That's so unlike you." He held up his other arm which grew immensely in size as well just like his right arm. "Still weak, though!"
Izuka's eyes shook a little, realizing what Toshinori did just like Gran Torino. All Might...he's fighting for his life for me and Izuku...I need to do the same. If it wasn't for him...our lives would be so much different...All this time, I've been afraid of my Quirk and what I can do. I've always used it mostly for protection. But…I can't keep living like that. I need to do this…I need to fight! Otherwise it'll be for nothing!
She gritted her teeth and scrambled onto her feet, running towards him. A sharp twist of pain came from her lung, but she ignored it. Toshinori's arm was smoking and All for One gasped. "That's because...I didn't put my back into it that time!" He flailed his broken arm into the air as powerful flames came from Izuka's left arm. Gran Torino, Izuku, and Katsuki all blinked in shock.
Remember your training, Izuka. Everything you learned...build it up into right now! You only get one shot!
As she ran up, One for All started to emerge within Toshinori. He glanced back at Izuka briefly, seeing her on her feet already. He flinched, but didn't protest since he knew she was ignoring what he said in favor of assisting him.
"This power has been passed on from hero to hero. Each praying that it will bring joy and peace to humanity. That One for All will give the world hope." Nana then looked back with a small smile. "And now, it is your turn. Do your best, Toshinori," She held out her arm.
It was like she was giving it to him all over again...He took it into his hands, unbreaking his arm. Izuka's flames continued to build up as she was almost there. All for One growled towards the two, attacking them both. Izuka ran right into the flames to join Toshinori's side. Both of them charged in with a yell as they planted their feet.
Goodbye...All for One! Both of them then thought in unison while punching the villain in the face at the same time. "United...States of...Smash Comet Punch!" The two shouted as they both knocked All for One into the ground together, creating another huge gust of wind and fire. Gran Torino yelped as he couldn't stand up straight and was sent flying backwards. Thankfully, the flames weren't as big as the wind, though it also caused the news helicopter to go out of control. A tornado appeared as Toshinori knew...that the embers in him weren't going to last anymore.
"Goodbye...One for All..." And with that, the embers within him...fully died out. Which meant the end for All Might...as the number one hero...and the Symbol of Peace. Everyone watching stared in silence, taking in what just happened. Katsuki let out a sharp gasp as he knew...that if he didn't get kidnapped, none of this would've occurred in the first place.
Once the tornado cleared, All for One was unconscious, and wouldn't get back up anytime soon. He had a burn mark on his face as well from Izuka. Blood dripped from Toshinori's teeth, Gran Torino looking up weakly. Izuka was slouched over, panting heavily as she stared at the villain, giving a weak chuckle for what she just did. Toshinori slowly reached out his arm, and Izuku let out a small gasp as he took Izuka's hand. Gran Torino watched in anticipation as Toshinori held up both of their arms in victory, gaining some muscles.
The reporter then started to sob happily. "All Might and Callista win!" The crowd erupted in both tears and cheering over this. "The villain's not moving! He's knocked out! All Might and Callista stand victorious!" He then went into his muscle form as Izuka looked up at the helicopter with a small gasp. She didn't think things would turn out the way they did...but she was honestly glad that she was able to assist him. "He's saved us yet again and the girl is alive!"
Izuka then faltered as she closed her eyes, letting go of Toshinori's hand. She fell to the ground unconscious. Toshinori kneeled a bit in front of her, noticing her state.
"They shouldn't push themselves," Edgeshot pointed out to Endeavor and Gran Torino.
"Let him be," The latter stated from behind, getting their attention. "He's still working. This is his last job." A final act as the Symbol of Justice and Peace, and the number-one hero. As for the girl...I can't say whether or not this will make or break her future as a pro hero. This will bring a lot of different opinions over her decision...
He continued to hold his fist up in the air. "All Might! Callista! All Might! Callista! All Might! Callista! All Might! Callista! All Might! Callista! All Might! Callista! All Might! Callista!" They continued to cheer their names while Katsuki's eyes were stuck on both him and Izuka on the ground. If only she were awake to hear them.
Izuku had tears in his eyes just like everyone else, relieved for his sister, but also...worried about her state and Toshinori's.
As the sun started to shine, a helicopter flew over to where the fight took place. Uwabami was searching for injured citizens. "Two people! Below the rubble. And more there!" She pointed in two directions.
"The heroes began rescue operations during All Might's fight with Callista, but the scope of the damage is staggering," A reporter was already on the scene while heroes were moving around behind her. "Authorities are estimating a large number of casualties. The villain who caused this is-" She gasped as All for One was being taken away by police into a secure chamber. All Might was watching, as well as Endeavor. "There! He's being led into the maiden right now!" Toshinori looked away with a cough. "Meanwhile, All Might and other heroes remain on high alert! The young UA student known as Izuka Midoriya is currently on the way to recovery, possibly in critical condition."
Toshinori watched as Izuka was put onto a gurney by paramedics, a breathing mask over her face. She was being taken into a helicopter to be taken to the hospital. He then pointed towards the camera, looking away. Everyone stayed silent, wondering what he had to say.
A whole crowd of people were in front of the subway in Kamino, as all of the transportation was shut down right now. "Sorry, the trains aren't running right now!"
"We can't go anywhere," Tenya frowned as he looked at the excited crowd. "I wish we could find Todoroki and Yaoyorozu. We should be there for Mido right now!"
"We'll get to her, I know it. Let's just head that way," Eijiro pointed towards the left. "We should let the heroes know we got Bakugo in case they're lookin' for him," He reached out to grab Katsuki, knowing that he was concerned for Izuka. Katsuki just grabbed his arm back and stomped off without a word.
"Good idea," Tenya agreed and followed them. Izuku was also silent, looking over his shoulder.
"Now." He gasped as Toshinori had spoke up. He came to a stop and turned around. The boy let out another gasp as he slowly turned around...to see Toshinori's finger pointed at the camera still...but he knew what it was meant for. "Now. It's your turn."
He couldn't speak as a light shined over the crowd. Izuka was placed into the helicopter and then it took off.
"That's our hero!" A woman gushed happily.
"He couldn't be more amazing!"
"Yeah!"
They all cheered for him, as they took it as towards all the villains out there, except for one.
All Might's message was only a few words long. As far as most people were concerned...it was meant for other criminals. A warning that the Symbol of Peace endured. But...to me, it meant the opposite. Izuku tensed up while staring at the screen, unable to look away from it. Toshinori then put his arm down, looking up towards the helicopter Izuka was flying away in. He'd used up everything, risked everything to protect my sister. And now it was left to me. Izuku then started to cry as it hit him...that he had to realize the truth. That All Might...would never see the light of day again. And he dreaded if the same thing would happen to Izuka...that she was now Quirkless. As he sobbed, he attempted to wipe his tears, but more kept coming. Katsuki watched him in silence, as he had a feeling that the message was for Izuku. But he didn't understand why.