Angel: Final episode of season 7 comes out today! I have not watched it yet, but I'm sure it'll be epic. And in case you're wondering, yes, I am still waiting for that one character's status, and it makes me mad that we haven't seen them for a couple of episodes! I'm gonna be SO pissed if I have to wait until the final season just to see that moment in animation. I haven't even gotten to season 7 as of writing, and I already have ideas, but it's still going to take forever to get to. I still have some extra stuff I have yet to write that I have to finish first.
Toshinori put his arm down, looking up towards the helicopter Izuka was flying away in. "I've used up everything inside of 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. "Now. It's your turn." 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.
Police were gathered around to give a report over what information they had. "The Nomu we captured are just as unresponsive as the last ones. They're basically mindless animals. We haven't gotten any new info from them. The warehouse they were kept in was completely destroyed. We'll continue our investigation, of course, but we don't know how much data we can collect."
"And we haven't gotten any worthwhile information from the bar at all?" The police chief wondered while looking at a piece of paper.
"We're still looking into that, sir."
The chief let out a groan, rubbing a temple. "We apprehended all the Nomu, sure, but we let most of the perpetrators, including Shigaraki, slip through our fingers. Honestly, even though we captured their boss, I'd have to say this whole thing was a draw."
"Don't be stupid," The chief retorted back, getting their attention. "Our country just lost the Symbol of Peace, and a UA student got involved despite the regulations. All Might's weakened body has been exposed to the world. Many people will condemn the choices that girl made. Everyone knows the indestructible hero can be defeated now, and that the girl is a target. The citizens and the villains."
"It's what we get for relying too much on one pro hero and his judgment," The officer next to him commented.
"People now know they can raise hell with just a handful of thugs. Hate to think what that might inspire," The chief looked away. "Our initial profile of Tomura Shigaraki described him as childish and prone to tantrums, but that's obviously changed. His plans are growing more strategic. He now appears to be focused on how he can mold our society. His thought process has evolved. Matured. And since All Might's out of the picture, we've lost our biggest deterrent to criminal activity. And UA has no doubt lost a lot of creditability. Each time the League fails, they come back stronger. And now, Shigaraki can greatly expand his sphere of influence."
One of them leaned back after listening. "Are you suggesting that all of this was part of the League's plan?"
"That does sound like quite a leap," Another one pointed out.
"We don't know," The police chief answered them. "There's only one thing I can say for certain. We must capture the League of Villains, no matter what. As the police, we have to be more proactive in apprehending villains. We are not just backup," He then looked up with a glare. "It's time we implement changes."
"The embers inside of me have been snuffed out," Toshinori stated while looking at his bandaged hand. He had bandages around his head and his broken arm as well. "The mighty Symbol of Peace is no more..." He was speaking to Gran Torino and Naomasa, the former having a bandage around his eye and on his cheek. "However...I won't just sit here. There's still something I must do."
"Tomura Shigaraki," Gran Torino guessed correctly. "Shimura's grandson. Yes?"
"The only proof we have of that is what All for One said," Naomasa spoke up, since there were no actual records of it. "It's not much to go on. The two of you didn't have any interactions with Shimura's family, even though you were so close to her?"
"No," Gran Torino answered him simply.
"But why not?" Naomasa couldn't help but wonder. He figured that the two would've known a long time ago about Shigaraki being related to Nana. They had known her for years.
"It happened soon after Shimura's husband was killed," Gran Torino looked away, as it was something he could never forget. "Concerned, she put her child in foster care to shield the youngster from the hero world. She told Toshinori and me that she didn't want us to have any contact with the kid, even if something terrible were to happen to her."
"...And in the end, your promise backfired, huh?" Naomasa murmured in thought as Toshinori looked at his hand. He couldn't help but think...if he had sought out Nana's child...would things be different? Would Shigaraki be who he was now? He could've changed so much with just a simple visit... "I'm sorry to hear that."
Toshinori made his hand into a fist. "My master gave up her heart so that her family might know a life full of peace. I must track Shigaraki down as soon as possible. I'll find him, and then-"
"Then what?" Gran Torino interrupted the man. "Give him a pat on the head?" Toshinori stared at him in silence. "You're not looking at him like the villain he is anymore. That's dangerous, especially since we both know that if he wasn't involved, your student wouldn't have gotten hurt." Naomasa blinked as he glanced at his friend, wondering if that was one of the reasons he wanted to talk to Shigaraki. "Remember that, no matter his lineage, he's still a criminal." Toshinori then turned away in silence, as he couldn't help but continue beating himself up over it. "Tsukauchi and I will investigate Shigaraki and the League without you for now. You stay at UA. You still have many responsibilities there. Even if you cannot be the Symbol of Peace that you once were, don't forget that All Might is still alive."
Toshinori then gasped, looking up at the two of them in realization. "Young Mido...is she going to face any-"
"No," Naomasa shook his head with a small smile. "The police will not be penalizing her for what she did. It was decided that...we should leave it up to UA to decide what to do. From our standpoint, she had your permission and that's all we need. It's all taken care of on our end. We just want her to recover. She's still in surgery."
"Thank you," Toshinori murmured gratefully, though he'll have to do something about UA... "I'll speak to Eraser and Principal Nezu."
After the fight, we met up with Todoroki and Yaoyorozu. They all stood in front of the hospital, Tenya still having the fake mustache from his disguise. The five of us took Bakugo to the hospital to meet the police so that I could see my sister. I imagine that they wanted to speak to both of them, but...that wasn't possible right now. The whole way there...he was silent. And then, after our worlds had been turned upside down, my sister's surgery was a success, so we went to go see how she was doing.
Izuku, Momo, Shoto, and Tenya were in the waiting room. Tenya was tapping a frantic foot against the floor, sitting down. Momo was biting her lip, her arms crossed while pacing. Shoto was gritting his teeth in worry, and Izuku was silent. He was also sitting, looking towards the ground and processing everything he witnessed Izuka go through.
"Deku!"
"Huh?" He murmured as he heard a familiar voice. They looked up to see Ochaco rushing in first. Eijiro came in behind her, followed by the rest of the classmates that weren't unconscious still.
"I got everyone here like Yaoyorozu suggested! How is she?" Eijiro asked them with a serious expression.
"Mm," Tenya looked away with a small frown. "Still unconscious. The doctors are working hard, though. If only we had managed to account for the villains snatching her like that, even with Mt. Lady..."
The classmates all faltered, looking towards the ground sadly. Izuku gritted his teeth, clenching a fist. If we had been fast enough...if I hadn't underestimated All for One...she wouldn't have to fight him at all. And she wouldn't be here now! This is all my fault.
Ochaco looked up at him, seeing how concerned he was for his big sister. Her eyes saddened and then she reached out a hand. "Deku-"
"Family of Izuka Midoriya?" The doctor asked while walking in and everyone turned to him attentively. He glanced around nervously, knowing that the girl wasn't related to every single one of them...Izuku then stepped up to the doctor.
"I'm her brother, Izuku," He gestured to himself. "How is she?"
The man then looked at his clipboard. "Your sister has sustained some broken ribs, slight burns, a stab wound in the shoulder, and her lung almost burst. But she'll recover smoothly, that power-up of hers actually ended up being helpful in the long run to prevent permanent damage. All except for some scarring she got beforehand in the right shoulder. She's a strong one, her Quirk should be back to normal soon. So I'd advise that she get plenty of rest before she's active again. She should be able to be discharged in a few days."
Izuku sighed in relief, his classmates looking the same way. "Thank you so much, doctor. Can I see her?"
"Right this way," The doctor gestured behind him.
"We'll be right here," Tenya assured the boy and he nodded.
"Thanks, you guys. I know that Jiro and Hagakure would've been here too...and Kacchan," He faltered a little since Katsuki was still talking to the police.
The doctor led him to Izuka's private room, and once the door opened, he saw his sister laying on her back. Her cheek was rested on the pillow away from him, softly breathing as her chest rose up and down. She had some bandages on her cheek and gauze around her right shoulder. She was in a hospital gown, her hair flowing underneath her. She looked...peaceful despite the circumstances.
"Big sister..." He approached her silently, gripping the side of the bed as he looked down at her. "I'm so glad you're okay..." His voice broke a little as the memory of her being dragged off replayed in his head. "I'm so sorry we couldn't catch you in time...what kind of brother am I?"
As I looked at my sister, I couldn't help but think...that it should've been me. Was this All for One's plan? If it was...he succeeded with flying colors.
He shed a few tears and they fell onto the ground. He wiped them with the back of his wrist. No...I won't cry. I'm just glad that she's alive. I wonder what UA will say regarding the situation...Mr. Aizawa especially won't be too easy on her.
"Midoriya!" He heard and turned around to see his classmates rushing into the room. All of them were holding gifts such as plushies, balloons, and candy.
"Shh," He put a finger to his mouth for them to lower their voices. "She's still sleeping. Oh whoa, all of you went to get her something?"
"Mmhm," Ochaco nodded at him as he watched them put their gifts away one by one. Mezo himself had a whole bunch of plushies in his arms and he put them down on the ground. Izuku smiled happily that all of them did that for his sister. "We bought something for Jiro and Hagakure too since they couldn't be here."
"Thanks, you guys, that's so nice of you..." He wasn't surprised to not see Katsuki with them. I imagine that the police will want to talk to her too when she wakes up. "Oh no, Mom!" Izuku's eyes widened as he realized that Inko was probably worried sick, standing up in alarm. "I gotta get her down here. Can you guys please watch over her?"
"Of course," Momo nodded at him and he ran past his friends.
Once visiting hours were over for our classmates, almost everyone finally went home. Although Mom couldn't say anything when she came over... When she did, she could only cry in silence for her daughter, not saying a word about the fight.
Shoto looked at the news over Toshinori being revealed from his phone, and the news about Izuka in the fight. He looked up as he walked around the sidewalk to take the subway. Soon, he was finally home.
"There you are, Shoto! I was afraid something had happened to you," Fuyumi, his older sister, frowned at him in worry. "After you visited Mom, you stopped responded to my messages, so what was I supposed to think?"
"I'm sorry, sis," He looked up at her after taking off his shoes. "I went to go visit my friend-" A loud crash was heard and Fuyumi braced herself. They looked down the hall, and both of them instantly knew who it was.
"He's been like that ever since he came home," Fuyumi gave a slightly awkward look. "Feel free to go say hi! But I didn't know she was your friend!" She blinked at him in alarm. "Is she going to be okay?"
"Yes, she's doing well, but she hasn't woken up yet as far as I know," Shoto sighed a little as he wished she did, it would've given Izuku a peace of mind for a little bit. He then started to walk down the hall. If All Might really can't be the hero he once was anymore, then the number-one spot...is finally my father's. He stopped right near the training room, glancing up at the sign. He recalled the time he threw up from being trained so hard...and then he peeked inside. Some of the equipment was on fire or broken. In the middle of it was Enji, his body slightly on fire as well. And he was pissed off at how he earned the number-one spot.
"I don't accept it. Not like this!" He growled bitterly as he wanted to earn it by properly beating his rival. Not because someone else caused him to go out of commission. If anyone was going to do that, he'd rather it be him. "I should have earned it myself. Not by him failing!"
Izuku was sitting next to his sister's hospital room, a worried look on his face. "Oh, honey," Inko frowned in worry, sniffling. "I just can't believe what a hard time All Might's had lately, and then my own baby...!" She started to cry and he hugged her gently. "Things must be difficult for you too...but at least you're both alive!"
"Yeah," He gave a weak smile, looking towards the room. "I'm gonna grab us some drinks, okay, Mom?"
She sniffed and let go of him, watching him leave. She clutched at her heart, looking away. As he reached the bending machine, he sighed and hit his forehead against the wall. He pulled out his phone, looking at the trending news. I wonder what'll happen now...did I do the right thing, leaving him to fight alone back there? Did Izuka did the right thing, fighting with him against a powerful villain...? I honestly don't know...
It was now nighttime. Izuka's recovery was going well, and she'd be able to go home really soon. She was currently sleeping as a creak was heard from her door. Katsuki peeked in, about to head home himself, but...he couldn't leave just yet. He then slowly shuffled inside, closing the door. He was holding a gift basket full of high quality paint brushes, paints, and some chocolate. It was surrounded by flowers, white plumerias. He slowly placed it next to her table so that she'd see it once she woke up.
…Why am I even here?
"Mm..." He gasped in alarm at her voice, looking at her with wide eyes. She wasn't waking up thankfully, but she did turn her head to the side, her eyebrows furrowing. "Katsuki..." She mumbled to herself in her sleep.
"Uh?" The blond blinked at her in shock, wondering why his name came up. He felt a thump in his heart, realizing that her eyes were still closed. She must be dreaming...dreaming about me. But why the hell would she do that?
"Katsuki..." Her head moved around all over the place slowly. "Don't...worry about the mouse...no, get out...Katsuki..." She whimpered and it finally came to him: she must be having a nightmare about what happened in Kamino.
"Shhh..." Katsuki reached out and ran his hand through her hair, though he couldn't fathom why. Maybe because he was blaming himself...maybe because he couldn't bare to see her go through something just because of him. "It's alright...you're safe now," He murmured to assure her, her breathing becoming short. "I'm still alive and kicking. Go back to sleep and get that damn nightmare out of your head," He told her, but it wasn't enough as she couldn't stop moving.
"Mm...no, don't hurt him, please...All Might, save him..."
"Damn it," Katsuki grunted at his strategy not working. If he made any sudden movements, he might wake her up. He could only think of one thing he could do, if no one was watching that is. He glanced around to make sure no one was here or listening in. He then leaned his body forward and kissed Izuka gently on the forehead. His lips lingered only for a second as he pulled away. "Shh...you don't have to worry about that ever again," He whispered to her and she started to calm down. "So just...sleep...Izuka."
"Mm," She hummed in her sleep, resting her cheek on the pillow again and her breathing slowed down to normal. He watched her go back to peaceful sleep and then turned around. He walked towards the door, glancing behind him to make sure she was okay. He then opened the door and left, as if he wasn't there.
Izuku was sleeping in the waiting room with his mother, drool coming from his mouth. His phone started to buzz in his hand and he slowly opened his eyes. He gasped as he saw the message and got up, looking over his mother. He put a blanket over her and he was about to run off when she opened her eyes.
"Hmm? Izuku, where are you going? When we get home, I was gonna make-"
"Sorry, I can't! But I promise I'll be back as soon as I can!" He looked over his shoulder as he left.
He was back at the Dagoba Municipal Beach Park, where Toshinori was waiting for him. He had been discharged not too long ago. "All Might!" He flinched from hearing Izuku's voice, glancing over his shoulder.
"Ah. You finally made it."
The boy panted while rushing over to him. "Are you okay?!"
Toshinori waved to the boy while running over. "It sure took you long enough!"
"All Might!" Izuku shouted happily as it seemed like it was going to be a happy reunion...
"Texas...Smash!" He was met with a punch to the face by his mentor. Izuku fell backwards onto the sand. "You made a promise!" He reminded his student, looking down at him. "But as it turns out, you can't keep your word," He then let out a small groan. "Ugh, if you kids'd gotten hurt, it would've all been in vain. You've got some bad influences, and I'm gonna tell your sister the same thing when I see her!" Izuku sat up in dismay, holding his cheek. "Young Midoriya, listen. I'm officially retired as a pro. It's clear that my body isn't going to allow me to fight another battle." Izuku's eyes shook a little sadly as he watched Toshinori go to All Might. He punched the air and seconds later, he was back to Toshinori. Izuku let out a scream at this. "The last sparks of One for All have left my body. And my muscle form won't last for any significant amount of time...I can't protect you or your sister when you put yourselves in danger now. And you're always rushing in to try and help, no matter what I tell either of you. Destroying your body, over and over. Yet back there, you managed to..."
He reached out his hand and Izuku braced himself for another punch. The man's shadow loomed over him. "Rescue your friend without being injured or getting into a fight," He hooked an arm around the boy's neck in a hug. "I'm so proud of you!" Izuku gasped from the praise, trying not to cry. "From here on out, I will devote myself to training you and your sister. "You're stuck with me, so let's keep working hard together."
"Thank you..." Izuku murmured with tears in his eyes. "Nothing would make me happier, All Might..."
"What'd I say about keepin' your word, you little crybaby?" Toshinori teased, but didn't stop him from crying either. Because he was crying himself... "I thought we agreed that you'd stop it with the waterworks."
Izuku gripped his shirt hard while bawling his eyes out.
Only a slight pain lingered on my cheek. I barely felt it, so I knew it was true. All Might's reign as top hero had come to an end.
Toshinori clamped his mouth shut as he wanted to ask what was happening with Izuka, but...he felt like he didn't deserve to ask about her. Or visit her at the hospital. Because he was the reason she was in the situation that she was, and he couldn't imagine what her family was going through... I wish I could take it back...so that she wouldn't have gotten hurt. I'm proud of you, Young Mido...pull through for him, please. He cares about you so much, I can sense it in him even though he hasn't mentioned you.
The next day, Toshinori was speaking to Principal Nezu, Mr. Aizawa, and Vlad King. "Thank you, All Might. You've saved thousands of people's lives over these many years, though it cost you your body and strength." He then turned to them with a small smile. "As a citizen, a hero, and the principal, I cannot express how grateful we all are to you. However..." He looked at a newspaper detailing the retirement. "Given everything that's happened, there are many who do not believe you should continue as a teacher at UA. Some are pointing out that our troubles began when you started working here." Toshinori looked towards the ground, as he was expecting this reaction at some point... "They're worried the children will continue to be caught in the crossfire, and that you can't protect them anymore. It is a delicate situation. Nevertheless, I believe I know what we need to do to ease the concerns the public has expressed. We must strengthen the faith people have in the heroes we have left. It's true, the threat we face is still troubling. But we will protect and train with more focus and diligence than even before. That is why we're going to implement a plan I've had in mind for a while," He then pushed some papers towards the three. "I'm counting on you to convince the students' families."
"What about Young Mido?" Toshinori spoke up, getting their attention. "As her teacher, I take full responsibility for what's happened to her. I wish I didn't have to involve her, but...she made the decision on her own to survive. Because that's part of what I taught her. I apologize for causing you trouble, all of you," He bowed his head with a frown. "Please don't expel her for trying to help me..."
They all stared at him in silence and Principal Nezu closed his eyes. "...Based on what you've told me and the police, we offer our gratitude towards Izuka Midoriya as well. Even though it is agreed that she shouldn't have risked her life, she did end up helping save the people you did as well in Kamino. As the principal...I admire her tenacity," He looked at another article about Izuka's involvement with All Might and All for One. "However...the same thing I said about you applies to her as well. Just as there are many who think you shouldn't be working here, there are many who think she should be expelled. She had no authority from anyone except for you to fight against All for One. And while that's enough for the police, many disagree. Some even point out that she should've left you behind." Toshinori bit his lip raw, his eyes shaking. "Many of her classmates were worried sick, and I imagine her mother is worried if she'll be put in something like this again. Like with you, it's a delicate situation. Despite all of this...the faculty of UA and I have come to an agreement. We won't be expelling Izuka Midoriya." Toshinori let out a huge sigh of relief. "But, she will be suspended for 2 weeks on our end. As for Mr. Aizawa, he's decided to handle her on his own, which we agreed with. Watching her fight as hard as she did convinced us that we shouldn't turn her away despite the rules she broke. She did what she had to do because if she didn't, the results would've been far worse. And that is why...we'll support her as we do any other student. And we hope that she recovers just as much as you."
"...Thank you, sir," Toshinori bowed his head to the principal, trying not to cry. "I'll do the best I can...to make sure she wins back your trust!"
Principal Nezu gave him a small smile in return.
Izuka and Inko waited by Izuka's waiting room and the doctor stepped out. He gave them a small smile and they beamed happily. He escorted them inside as Izuka was awake, smiling towards her family. The two them glomped her into a hug, crying out floods of tears. "My baby!" Inko bawled out happily and she gave them awkward smiles.
"I missed you guys too, but you're crushing me!" She whined a little, the chocolates Katsuki gave her already eaten.
"I'm so happy you're awake, big sister...!" Izuku cried out happily to her and she hummed happily.
It feels like I've been here for weeks even though it's only been 2 days.
"I'll tell everyone in our class you're awake, I'm sure they're all worried about you!" Izuku pulled out his phone. "And the doctor said you can come home today too!"
"Are you alright, comfortable? I brought you your favorite!" Inko held out some ramen with tears in her eyes.
"You guys..." Izuka gave them a sheepish expression, but gave them a loving smile. She was glad to see them too, so she wasn't going to protest much about how they were acting. She already knew that they were out of their minds waiting for her to wake up.
It all feels like a dream, but...I really did end up in that fight. I wonder what's gonna happen now...I hope Mr. All Might is okay...
She noticed all of the gifts though and smiled at them. But I'm sure I'll see him again. Aside from the gift basket, the other huge present was a big All Might plush from the man himself. She only knew that because his real name was peeking from the tag.
"I dunno," Mr. Jiro spoke up once Toshinori and Mr. Aizawa spoke to the Jiro family. "Sounds pretty outta tune to me. I get that you guys don't wanna keep talking about what happened, but movin' the kids into dorms isn't going to change the fact that my daughter was injured! Or her own classmate, she's asked Midoriya about her nonstop."
"What you're saying is quite true, Mr. Jiro," Mr. Aizawa spoke up, still in the suit and tie. His hair was also pulled back. "However, I'd like to assure you that this is not a matter of UA's pride. We've thought long and hard on the issue, and believe this to be the best course of action," He then bowed his head a little. "I hope that you'll give us the honor of continuing to teach Kyoka. I believe whole-heartedly that UA can help her grow into the best hero she can be."
The door then opened to reveal Kyoka herself. "Whoa. No need for you to be all formal, Mr. Aizawa," She held some tea cups for their visitors. "We decided what we were going to do right after we got the notice in the mail. I mean, you shoulda heard my old man during All Might and Mido's fight," She started putting the cups down.
"My daughter's teacher and classmate are so hardcore, man!" Mr. Jiro shouted into a mic as he and his wife watched the broadcast. He also had tears flying from his eyes. "That battlefield is a stadium and they're rockin' it down!"
Kyoka gave a small smile. "Yeah, I'm pretty sure he was crying."
"Kyoka, come on!" He protested at the girl. "I was tryin' to act all strict 'n stuff for these dudes!"
"Oh, chill, Dad," She tried to ease him.
"Hey, cut it out, you two. Save the aggression for your music," Mrs. Jiro warned the both of them.
"And besides..." Kyoka gave a small smile, revealing the mass text she got from Izuku. "I just heard from Midoriya that Mido just woke up and that she'll pull through." Toshinori gasped happily while Mr. Aizawa flinched a little.
"Well, that's a relief," Mr. Jiro sighed to try and calm himself down.
"You know," Mr. Aizawa spoke up as he and All Might were being escorted to the next house. "I thought the parents would come down on us a lot harder," He then rubbed his neck a little. "I suppose...I owe you a drink."
Toshinori let out a small chuckle in response. "No thanks, I can't drink. Besides, it's not a contest. Plus, the next family...probably won't be so easy."
And that's because...it was Katsuki's house. However, once the family heard the news, Mitsuki Bakugo immediately hit her son on the head. "You kiddin'? Hell yeah, get this kid in a dorm room!" She exclaimed with a smile.
"You hag!" He screamed at his mother. "Hit me again and I'll kill you!"
"Oh hush!" She smacked him again, clenching a fist. He looked up while seething at her. "If you hadn't been so damn weak, you never would've gotten caught and caused all that trouble for them and Izuka!"
Katsuki growled angrily while glaring at her. The last thing he wanted was a reminder, and hearing her calling him weak was pissing him off. Mr. Bakugo waved a nervous hand. "Come on, you two. Please, no fighting. We don't wanna frighten your teachers, do we?"
"Shut it, you clown!" Katsuki yelled at him, Mr. Aizawa and Toshinori staring in silence.
"Yeah, you're the one who needs to butt out!"
"Mind your own business!" Katsuki told his father angrily.
"Oh, don't you even think about using your Quirk, Katsuki!" Mitsuki warned her son, which...put off the two teachers a lot, to say the least.
Jeez, some family dynamic Toshinori thought to himself. At least he could see why Katsuki was always so crude all the time...
"So...you're saying you give us your consent?" Mr. Aizawa asked them cautiously as Katsuki was struggling to fend off his mother.
"Hm?" She glanced up while hitting him a third time. "Oh, the dorm?" She placed her hand on his head. "Actually, we're grateful. Katsuki's fearless and good at everything he tries, especially since he's got that stupid-awesome Quirk." He looked up in disdain, not saying another word. "People were always fawning over him whether he deserved it or not." He glared up at her for that remark. "It's probably why he ended up like this. That's why I liked what you said. At the press conference."
"I'd say both of them on equal terms are trying harder than anyone in their pursuit to become the top hero, and to be better than herself," Mr. Aizawa then looked up with a death glare. "Those villains will not change their minds. They'll continue on their paths, I can guarantee you of that."
Mitsuki looked up with a small smile towards the two. "See, that's when I understood that the school was watching him closely," She then turned towards Katsuki, who sneered. "I was worried about the kid and Izuka, obviously, and didn't know what would happen. But he's back now, safe and sound. And Izuka's awake too, so it worked out," She patted her son on the head gently. "I'm sure UA will face harsh criticism from some people. We still trust you, though, so we'll leave him to you. Right?" She put down Katsuki's body so he would bow.
"Mmhm," Mr. Bakugo nodded in agreement, the two bowing to the teachers.
"He's a hot-tempered brat, and we know he's a pain, but...please train him hard and make him a good hero," Mitsuki stated and the two stared. Toshinori nudged Mr. Aizawa a bit with his elbow.
"Hm?" He turned to see Toshinori smiling at him.
"I owe you a drink for this one," He whispered to his coworker.
"Okay, let's see," Mr. Aizawa looked at his phone. "The Midoriya house is close by, isn't it?"
"All Might," Katsuki called out before the man could answer. He looked back in confusion to see Katsuki approaching him.
"Now. It's your turn." Katsuki stared at Izuku crying.
Katsuki slowly came to a stop, and didn't say anything for a few seconds. "I gotta know. What exactly is Deku to you?" He couldn't help but wonder and Mr. Aizawa stared curiously. He didn't even think of asking himself because he didn't care. Yet until now, he never thought Katsuki did, and didn't even ask about Izuka either.
"...He's my student. Just like you and his sister. A fledgling hero with bright prospects." Toshinori then frowned as he didn't look up, knowing that Katsuki was bothered by Izuku's advancement a while back. And considering the similarities between him and Izuku, the question was bound to come up. He had already tried and failed to get answers out of Izuka, after all. I'm sorry, Young Bakugo...but I can't say any more than that.
Katsuki didn't say anything, and neither did the two teachers. "DAMMIT, Katsuki!" Mitsuki shouted from inside of the house. "The police said not to go wandering off by yourself!"
"...Yeah, sure," Katsuki turned around to leave. "If you don't wanna tell me, that's fine. Oh, and...thank you. For what you did and for making sure...that Izuka was safe."
"Hm?" Toshinori looked at him in surprise that he was bringing her up.
"KATSUKI!"
"I HEARD YOU!" He shouted back at his mother. Toshinori could only stare at the boy, as he had a feeling this was more than just about him saving Izuka.
Soon, they were at the Midoriya residence. "You're sure you'll be alright by yourself?" Mr. Aizawa questioned, as Toshinori asked that he go in alone.
"Yeah," He gave his coworker a thumbs up. "We need to sit down with everyone in Class A by day's end, right? So we'll divide and conquer," He gave the teacher a big grin. "I'll take this place and you can move on to the next person we have to convince." Besides, he had a feeling that Mr. Aizawa was going to lash out a HUGE punishment on Izuka if he saw her right now. Toshinori didn't feel right doing that today.
Inko and Izuku stood stiff at the doorway once they saw him. "Oh! Please come on inside. We're so honored," The woman had a slight blush on her face.
"Thank you," He said as both of them turned around.
"I can't believe All Might is in our home...!" She tried not to freak out as they stepped in.
"Be cool, Mom. It's totally fine," He tried to ease her even though yes, he was fanboying on the inside.
"He's here already?" Izuka stepped out of her room, dressed in sweatpants and a tie-dye t-shirt. Her hair was down, and she still had bandages around her shoulder and inside her shirt.
"Uh!" Toshinori blinked in shock to see that she was back home already. "Mido. I'm glad to see that you're alright."
"Oh, yes," She gave a small smile. "They released me earlier today. Although I still need to take some pain medicine to recover. My classmates all gave me gifts, though!" Her smile turned happier at the thought. "They're all so nice and I love the thought of it very much. I didn't mean to worry anyone..."
"It's alright," Toshinori assured the girl. "And the faculty at UA is giving you a light pass, though Mr. Aizawa will probably punish you in his own way." She gave a small groan at the thought. I won't tell her that expulsion was on the table. She's gone through enough already.
"Let me make you something to thank you!" Izuka ran off towards the kitchen.
"No, don't, you're still recovering," Toshinori waved a hand.
"I can still move. Wait with my mom and Izuku at the table," She looked back with a small smile and he faltered, dropping his hand. He peeked into Izuku's room to see his All Might merchandise, and he gave a fond smile. He then followed the two into the dining room, as Izuka put down some cakes and coffee. The coffee was decorated with cream in the shape of one large heart with two smaller ones inside.
"You probably already know why I'm here," He spoke up as Izuka took her seat next to Inko's right. "You received a notice that UA is moving our students to dormitories?"
"Yes, about that, I read the letter..." Inko frowned deeply before looking up. "And I won't allow it for either of them."
Both of them gasped sharply at her. "Wait, what?!" Izuku yelped; granted, she didn't have time to tell them since they were focused on Izuka's recovery. But it was also a decision that she didn't want to talk about until now. Izuku managed to convince her to be open to the idea, and she said she was. "But yesterday, you said-"
"I've thought about it since then, and I've changed my mind! Izuku has admired you for so long, even though he never developed a Quirk as a kid. And Izuka's love was subtle, but deep down, I know she wanted to be a hero, even though she never used hers to spare her brother's pain. And then, miraculously, one suddenly appeared, and she started to gain confidence in herself. But ever since enrolling at UA, my child just keeps getting hurt. And then my daughter was fighting with that man when she shouldn't have been in that position! Look at his arms, her wounds. He can't keep this up. One fight, one villain, and he might never use them again. I watched you and Izuka on TV, and I saw what that man did to you and to her. As a regular citizen, I'm so thankful for your bravery. But...as a mother, I was terrified. I know that she had no choice...but I was so scared that I could've lost my child. And that's something I can't stomach despite her Quirk."
Toshinori glanced up at Izuka as she shed a few tears, wiping them with her hand shakily. He could tell that she didn't mean to do this to her mother...
"Izuku wants to be just like you, and Izuka wants to find her place as a hero. But if they follow your path, their futures will be filled with blood. So I'm sorry."
"Oh, help me!" Inko cried out while hiding underneath a blanket.
"I am here!" Izuku opened up the door, dressed as All Might. Izuka then slid inside, striking a pose while wearing the hero outfit her mother made.
"Da-da-da-da!"
"But they're my children."
The woman slowly stepped over to him, bending down and hugging her child. "I'm sorry..." She whimpered as the boy finally started shedding tears.
"I wish...I wish that it didn't have to be like this..." She bent down in front of her daughter's bed, crying.
Her eyes were shaking as she knew she was breaking their hearts...but she couldn't bear to watch them risk their lives anymore. "Forgive me, Izuka, Izuku," She sniffed while trying not to cry. The twins glanced at each other in disbelief. "Back when you were Quirkless, you were always so happy just watching the heroes do their jobs. And Izuka was happy to support you. Maybe it was better that way. I don't know."
The two gasped at her in shock. "That's not true!" Izuku stood up in alarm.
"Mom...I only supported him because he was happy that I had a Quirk!" Izuka squeezed her eyes shut. "Deep down, he still wanted to be a hero!"
"Honey, I told you both I'd support you, but that I wouldn't stop worrying," She reminded her children. "Do you remember that?" The two stared at her in silence, furrowing their eyebrows. "And I know all you want is to keep going to UA, but...I can't take it anymore," She looked up with tears in her eyes, finally putting her foot down.
We shouldn't have been so surprised. We'd been ignoring our mother's feelings for so long.
I honestly wish I couldn't see where she was coming from...but unfortunately, she was right. And I've been so selfish not considering how she would've felt seeing me fight.
"I'll speak frankly, sir," Inko spoke up again. "As the mother of the twins...I don't have the nerves I'd need to entrust my children to UA," Tears fell from her eyes while she was shaking. "Not with everything that's happened at your school and for allowing her to fight with you." The two stared at her in silence, shaking. They couldn't disagree...but still... "It doesn't matter what a wonderful hero you are. When the villains attacked, every class had to be canceled. And you couldn't stop your students from getting seriously injured, almost killed. I won't put my children in danger. It's my duty as their mother to keep them safe."
Toshinori got onto his feet. "Ma'am-"
"It's not like that, Mom!" Izuku interrupted, getting their attention. "It's my own fault that I kept getting hurt," He showed his bandaged arms.
"And mine for stepping in when All for One was mocking Izuku...I just lost it," Izuka gritted her teeth a bit.
"The teachers warned us over and over again, but we didn't listen," Izuku added in, gesturing to her. "If it was me, I wouldn't have held back either!"
"So you're saying you didn't learn and that Izuka's picking up bad habits? And from who, might I ask?" Izuka flinched as she glanced to Toshinori, gulping a little. In a sense...her first answer would be Katsuki. But even if he wasn't her first choice, she refused to answer the question. Inko's opinion was already low, so Izuka would only make it worse if she answered. "Don't you think that means the school's responsible?"
Neither of them answered and Toshinori felt her questions were deserved. "Both of you...sit down," He took a seat as he didn't protest. He already knew what he'd be in for trying to convince the parents.
"I might be acting like an overprotective parent, but I'm at peace with that. And while I don't want to steal the dreams of my children away from them...they can always go to different schools."
"Schools?!" Both of them exclaimed, Izuka standing up in alarm. Toshinori looked at her wide-eyed.
"It's clear to me that you two are picking up things from each other that I don't like! There are lots of other hero courses out there besides the one at UA. And I think it's best if moving forward...that they both go to different schools. That way, they won't be influenced by each other. The last thing I want is for Izuku to do what Izuka's done, and vice versa."
The two stared at her in despair. Izuku looked away, squeezing his eyes shut. He then turned around and ran off.
"Izuku!" Inko cried out, but he slammed the door shut. Izuka sat back down while turned away, shaking while covering her mouth. She started to cry a little, and they could hear it. She couldn't believe that their mother wanted to separate them...
This must be heartbreaking...you looked up to me. Followed in my footsteps. I know what it means to you to study at my Alma Mater. And to give it all up after working so hard...and to put them in different schools? They've been close ever since they were born. Even though they were completely different, I can still tell how much they respect each other.
Inko reached out to her daughter. When she touched the girl's arm, Izuka gently pushed her away, shaking while still crying. Inko frowned deeply at the thought of damaging her relationship with both of them... "I'm sorry. I'll go talk to him." She turned around to get him, but Izuku opened the door himself. Izuka looked back in alarm.
"Mom, it doesn't have to be UA!" He answered in determination, and he was holding something. Both Toshinori and Izuka looked up in surprise. "Here, look at these. You too, All Might. I meant to give Izuka this when she was healed, but now is probably the best time. I got letters at the hospital. They're from the boy I saved at the training camp." Izuka's eyes slowly widened at this as she stepped up. "Kota, someone who hated heroes and Quirks, wrote to thank me for saving him. He wrote to Izuka too!"
She took the letter and opened it to read it out loud. "Dear Ms. Midoriya...I'm sorry for hurting your brother. Thank you for helping me at the baths even though I've never talked to you. Please be okay soon...so that I can say I'm sorry in person, Kota," She gasped a bit after reading it.
"I know I'm hopeless and we make you worry all the time. But still. When I read this note, even if it was just for a moment, it made me feel like a real hero..." He gripped the paper a little. "I was so happy..." Izuku murmured and Izuka hugged the paper a little.
"...I know it was a dumb decision, and that I was risking my life," Izuka spoke up quietly. "But now, knowing that he wrote to me even though I've never even said a word to him...I'm happy too. And it makes me think...that it was worth it."
I see... Toshinori's eyes softened a little.
"We know who we're meant to be, and that's what we'll train for!" Izuku declared to them, holding the paper close. "At UA or not, I swear it!" Izuka stood by his side, nodding sharply.
"Young Midoriya...Young Mido..." He then poofed into All Might, shocking all of them. "You are not just aspiring heroes following in my footsteps. You are on your own paths toward greatness," He slowly stepped up to them. "As your teacher, I must walk beside you both," He then kneeled in front of them, and then bowed his head to the floor, to their utter shock. "I'm afraid I haven't been upfront, ma'am. Please allow me to try again. I believe that Young Izuku is the right person to succeed me. That is, he is my choice to become the world's next Symbol of Peace. Young Izuka, likewise, is the right person to be her own symbol. The world's next Symbol of Light."
The twins gasped sharply at his words, frozen in place. "Huh?" Inko was utterly confused by what he was doing. "Hold on...what are you saying, All Might? What is this?!"
"It's an apology. As the one who held that title...I allowed myself to remain their hero rather than giving my all as their teacher. And I allowed her to be in a difficult position that many still don't understand. I'm sorry...I don't even deserve her forgiveness or to be in her presence."
Izuka slowly tensed up, a pool of tears falling from her face. She didn't even know he felt that way all that time... "Mr. All Might..." She whispered, feeling bad for him.
He then went back into Toshinori, causing them all to yelp. "As a UA teacher, I implore you to forgive my past weakness and my poor judgment. It's true that my path has been filled with blood...but that is what makes me the right person to help them find their own way. Free of the mistakes that I made as a young hero. And...they're not influencing each other. It's because of me..."
"Don't do this, All Might," Izuku murmured, as he didn't blame his sister or Toshinori for what she did. And he certainly would forgive him because if it wasn't for his hero, his sister wouldn't even be alive. If he had decided to not let her fight, she would've been killed. As for Izuka, she never blamed All Might for her personality change because it was a good thing for her. If anything, he helped her see what she could do differently in situations.
"He never gives up..." Izuku had tears in his eyes, but wasn't shedding them while pointing at the screen. Even when things seem impossible. Do you think Izuka and I can be heroes too?"
Izuka continued to sob sadly after revealing her Quirk to her family. "Even when things seem like the end, All Might always brings hope. He's the greatest hero in the world...because he's the shining one we need..."
She teared up remembering these from them. She knew that she couldn't shield them from mistakes...but that the two never gave up being heroes. Izuka, it was more deep down than for Izuku since he almost gave up when they first met All Might.
"The heroes at UA know that things can't continue as they've been. We're committed to ensuring the safety of our students from here on out. It's our top priority." She sniffed a little as tears appeared. "Look not at the current UA, but toward the future. Will you allow me to devote myself to your children? Together, we will go beyond. I will lift them up. And I will protect your children, even if it costs me my life."
Her eyes widened and then she fell to the ground. "Mom!" Izuka exclaimed, bending down to her first.
"Are you okay?" Izuku asked as he approached from behind.
She lifted up her head, surprised by the man's dedication, but...she didn't want that at all. If he were to die, the twins would be devastated. And she didn't know if they could recover from that knowing he did it to protect them. "...I can't. I mean..." She then moved to sit on her knees. "You are Izuku's reason for living. And you're the reason my daughter has grown from being shy and nervous to...to a confident, strong, and brave young woman." Toshinori gasped, looking up at her. "It's not that I hate you or UA. It's just...I want Izuku and Izuka to be safe and happy. All Might, don't give up your life. They need you. To protect them. Raise them. If you can promise me you'll do that, then they can return to UA and I won't separate them."
Both of them teared up in happiness. Izuka covered her mouth in shock. "Oh, Mom..."
"Thank you, Mom..." Izuka sniffled with a weak smile.
"I...promise," Toshinori bowed his head again.
"Izuku. Izuka," Inko spoke up sternly to them. "If you're both going to go back to this school, you have to be SO careful."
The two wiped away their tears. "Of course! We won't make you worry," The boy promised her.
"We promise, and we're so sorry for what we did," Izuka squeezed her eyes shut, shaking.
"Mr. All Might. Please. Take good care of my children. And...I can forgive you for having her fight. Not immediately, but...you don't need to blame yourself for it either."
His eyes widened at her in shock that she noticed it too. He then gave her a weak smile. "You're right. I'll keep that in mind..."
The twins approached and bent down to hug him. "I could never be mad at you, All Might! It's because of her that she's here with us," Izuku sniffed as he looked at both of their heads in surprise. "Thank you for saving her."
"I'm not angry either...thank you for protecting me out there," Izuka let out a small sob. "Please don't beat yourself up over that. I probably won't get as much encouragement from UA when I'm back, so I'll need all the support from you I can get!"
He blinked and then smiled, hugging her back with his free arm. "Let go of him, he's still injured!" Inko warned the two of them.
"Aaah, we're sorry!" Izuku yelped in alarm, earning a small chuckle.
"Nah, you're fine. Don't worry about it," Toshinori gave them a soft smile.
"But we're probably staining your clothes with our gross tears too..." Izuka sniffed a bit in amusement.
At the prison Tartarus, All for One was being taken to solitary confinement. I lost to you, All Might. The struggle I put up was truly pitiful, against your student as well. But it is you who failed in the end. Beating me put you on a course that led you closer to your students. He had a big grin on his face. You missed your opportunity to vanish. You lost your chance to die. A teacher's job is to help his student become independent. The League of Villains were currently in hiding. When a student relies on a master, and that master disappears, the student's hatred grows, allowing him to walk the path of a true leader. Mine has comrades, and he's learned how to increase their number. You'll be fine, Tomura Shigaraki. Kurogiri stared at Shigaraki up ahead, who was mourning All for One's defeat. Take all this experience, loathing, and regret, and use it as you move forward. Now. It's your turn.