Bone of my Sword

by Brony-wan Kenobi

If an effort to help a quirkless Izuku, his parents take him to the U.S where he will take part in a top secret experiment. There he will meet a certain blonde haired, horned girl which will start him on a new journey...

16. Chapter 16

Yaoyorozu let out a sigh as she set down a heavy stack of books upon one of the long tables within the grand library of U.A. The area was situated into three levels, with the current one she was on being the main floor. Along the non-windowed walls were private reading rooms, glassed off with a single wooden door being the only way in or out, for students who wished to study in small groups on various topics without worry of others getting in their way. Across the floor were many long rectangular tables, like the ones she was about to use, for students who just wanted to do some self-study. As for those who just wanted to do some light reading in modest comfort, along the large library windows were groups of four well cushioned sofa chairs arranged in a circular formation with a round coffee table placed in the middle. Finally, there were plenty of computers the school offered where diligent students were making use of to do their homework or simple research.

To reach the next two levels, you would either have to walk up a spiraling staircase or make use of the elevator. There, entire floors were above nothing but rows upon rows of books for students to make use of. The school seemed to have everything one could imagine. On the second floor, one could find the more basic information that one could find at most libraries across the country. Things like history, sciences, study guides, and even a rather impressive fiction section. However, the very top floor had the more specialized learning material that only those in the business, support, and heroic classes were allowed to browse. There one could find books on advanced marketing, heroing laws, advanced mechanics, and so forth. One of the more interesting reads Momo had found was on hero costumes, discussing the pros and cons of every feature they contained. This included capes which, upon a very enjoyable evening read, the author made a rather compelling pro argument on their merits. No doubt made with the intent to help young heroes with costume upgrades. The same author had also made a book explaining the importance of hero names in the modern era as well as explaining the best process when creating your own identity.

However, right now, Yaoyorozu wasn't reading any of those. Instead, she had kept her focus on material from the second floor to continue her normal studies. The materials before her were a wider range of information similar to what could be found in the book she normally carried with her on her hero costume. Each volume talked about various objects and chemicals, going over their function as well as the materials used to create them. To further aid her, Yaoyorozu also had with her a book that would help with understanding the molecular structure of anything she was unfamiliar with should the need arise. Everything she needed so that she could be ready for the Sports Festival.

This was her training. While the rest of her classmates ran around in the massive training areas to help hone their quirks, she improved her mind. Improved her arsenal of potential objects she could create so, when the time came, she wouldn't need to pull out her book to check on what she needed. The more her mind was prepared the better off she would be. And right now, she was on her fourth stack of volumes for the day.

With the weight of the several large tomes finally off her, Momo raised her arms above her head in order to stretch them out. Unfortunately, this caught the attention of several students both male and female alike. With growing annoyance, she noted how they watched her breasts bounce slightly though thankfully none of them were giving her the same disgusting look that Mineta would while drooling. She had had enough of that, thank you very much. She was also glad that, once she stopped, picking up the top book from the pile before sitting down, that they too went back to their own studies without another word.

As Momo's mind brushed aside lingering thoughts on perverts and her own mild embarrassment to her studies, eyes beginning to roam over the page of the first book, a shadow fell over her. That along with the unmistakable scent of sweat. For a split second, she was about to tell whoever it was to politely leave her be without so much as looking up. She did not wish for some random person to try and make small talk with her, not while she was busy training for such an important event as the Sports Festival. Nor did she wish for someone to ask her out. Not because she had some silly fear that Aizawa would expel them should he discover it. Hardly, as she knew that everything the man said was an empty threat made to either control or motivate them. It was what he had done on the first day, threatening to expel the person who came in dead last during his quirk assessment test. The man also seemed to take great pains not to expel certain troublemakers. So the idea that he would expel anyone was highly suspect. No, the truth was that she had bad experiences with this in the past. Most of the time, they were older men and even a few women who wished to date her either for her body or to one day be connected to her family's wealth. Most of the time it was both. There was even this one fat, truly disgusting man from America who had been trying to gain her hand in marriage for years now. It was, to put it mildly, creepy.

However, Yaoyorozu rescinded that thought fairly quickly as she did not believe most of her schoolmates were that shallow. Ok, Mineta and Monoma would be more like that and Kaminari was debatable, but the rest of her class had shown her respect. Perhaps whoever it was would also be like that. Plus she did wish to become more sociable with 'normal' people and make friends. So, there would be no harm in at least hearing them out. Who knows, they might want to study with her.

Glancing up, Momo saw that it wasn't just one person but two. Standing front and center was Kirishima still wearing his school track suit which was still soaked with sweat. However, she could instantly tell something was wrong with him. He had the same downcast expression on his face that her mother had when father brought out the wrong mega-yacht. Or maybe it reminded her of the cloud that hung around some of her father's business associates when their stocks plummeted. Standing next to him was Jiro, standing more aloof.

"Hey Yaoyorozu," began Kirishima, earning a raised brow due to his tone. It just lacked all the normal positive, upbeat energy the teen usually had with him. For some reason, she had believed that despite how he looked right now, Kirishima would at least try to sound cheerful. "Can I…Do you mind if we talk? I need to talk about stuff."

Not knowing what to do, Momo nodded dumbly before gesturing to the seat across from her. Seeing that, Kirishima gave her a weak smile signifying his thanks. But that faded as quickly as it appeared, the red head sitting down and almost slumping into his seat. As for Jiro, she took the spot next to him. Once the punk girl got comfy, she leaned to the side so that her head rested on one of her open palms while the other hand began twirling around the opposite ear jack.

"How can I help you?" asked Yaoyorozu as she shut the book, showing that she was giving the both of them her complete focus. As she did, though, she wondered why they were here together. Briefly she wondered if they decided to date but wanted to ask her for advice. That was something she would rather leave to Ashido, but she still wanted to help.

"I'm…not happy," said Kirishima as he struggled with his words. "I've been wondering all day if this is really the right place for me. If being a hero is really worth it."

"What?" asked a now wide eyed Yaoyorozu, fighting not to stand up and yell her surprise. This was serious! Getting into U.A. was the dream of every child in Japan. Heck, there were people in other countries that wanted to come here simply because it boasted it had the best hero program around! And Kirishima was one of the lucky thirty-six students who got in without recommendation! He had well earned his place. Was it his grades that had brought this on? They did just have a somewhat difficult test by her standards. So was it his grades that was making him feel this way? Or was it something else?

"It's the class," continued Kirishima. "I don't like what it's doing to me. What it's doing to all of us." Before Yaoyorozu could respond to that, the hardening teen let out a long sigh. One that was filled with frustration as well as regret. "Don't you feel it? I don't know if it's the stress from being put on a pedestal for surviving the USJ, having the entire school hating us, knowing that most of General Studies is gunning for our spots, or all of the above. Heck, it might even have been something before all this like back when class began. But it's getting to me. Getting to all of us. Just think about how we've been acting lately. We're turning on each other."

Kirishima paused as he lowered his head, running his fingers through his hair as he stared down at the polished wooden surface before him. "Today, I saw a part of myself that was really unmanly. When Monoma told us about how Ashido had been hanging around 1-B, training with them, I was just like everyone else. I was practically drooling at all the info she could give. I just kept thinking to myself 'With this, I'll have a better chance at getting scouted by a pro'. But when she said no, there was a part of me that wanted to grab her and begin shaking her back and forth. I didn't care about anything, ready to pressure her along with the rest of the class until she snapped." Kirishima then let out a choked sob before slamming a fist onto the table, grabbing the attention of the entire library.

"I've known her since middle school," continued Kirishima as he lifted his head, showing the tears in his eyes. "She's a good person who stands up for others. I admired her so much. So when she called me out, it was a slap in the face that made me look at myself. Like really look at myself for the first time in weeks! She was right. At that moment, I didn't care about her integrity or anything like that. All I saw was something to gain and was willing to do whatever it took to get it. I even agreed with Kaminari that no one would know! But do you know the worst part? She was right about Uraraka! She came to me, begging to help her train for the Sports Festival. Someone came to me for help! And what did I do? I said no, the most unmanly thing I could have done. Crimson Riot would be ashamed of me." More tears began to fall. "I'm losing my friend, Yaoyorozu. I'm losing sight of the type of hero I want to be. But I'm so scared. I've worked so hard to get to this point, trained my body to harden like this. But what if it's not good enough? What if I fail so bad in the Sports Festival that I get kicked out of the hero course? Or worse: expelled! Then everything I've done, everything I've put my body through and every sacrifice I've made will have been for nothing. I will have lost my friend for nothing! But I want to lose her. I don't…I don't…" By this point Momo was on her feet rushing over to the redhead who looked ready to start hyperventilating.

"Kirishima, it's ok," said Jiro as she had also moved. No longer in her laid back, 'I don't care' pose, she had moved so that she was rubbing the back of her male classmate hoping it would comfort him. Though, while they both tended to the redhead's mental state, neither could miss how the rest of the library was reacting. Several people were watching them, whispering to each other. But Jiro, after seeing this, ignored them as she turned her attention to Yaoyorozu. "I found him like this while we were training. Just sitting in this alleyway corner off the beaten trail, unsurprisingly all by himself, looking ready to curl up into a ball. He…" Jiro's words trailed off for a moment, looking at Kirishima for a moment as a look appeared on her face. One that showed she was clearly debating on what to say next. Then, she seemed to steel herself before turning her focus back onto the creation quirk user. "That's when I overheard him say it. About leaving the hero course and maybe U.A. all together."

"Kirishima," was all Yaoyorozu could say as she looked at what could be considered the most noble person in their class.

"I just," began Kirishima as he slowly got control back over himself. "I just thought that, this way, I could leave with my head held high. Take the high road out. But then, when I thought about how happy my family was for me…" A brief, wet sob escaped the teen causing both girls to grimace at his situation.

"Yeah, that's why I told him he should talk to someone," continued Jiro. "I suggested the Principal or Hound Dog." Jiro paused as both girls witnessed Kirishima flinching as if he had been struck, new fear seeming to appear in his eyes. "Yeah, he did that as when I first suggested it so I figured it was a hard pass. That's when I thought about you."

"What about Ida?" asked Yaoyorozu as she cocked her head to the side in confusion. "Surely he was training alongside all of you."

"Again, hard pass," replied Jiro with a look on her face that said 'are you kidding me'. "Knowing him, he'd probably chastise Kirishima for acting in a manner that doesn't represent how a proper student of U.A. should strive to. Or some shit like that. And that's the last thing Kirishima needed to hear right now."

Yaoyorozu let out a sigh of defeat. "As much as I hate to say it, you might be correct," she said before turning her focus to the one who needed help right now. "Kirishima, I need to apologize for how I handled that situation. I should have stepped in the moment I realized that Ashido was uncomfortable with where the conversation was heading. Found some way to defuse the tension."

"Yeah like, I don't know, not leaving her out to dry?" asked Jiro, her words surprising both of her classmates. "I mean, we all know you like to study and are good at memorizing things. Yet you didn't do that for any of the other recommended students?"

"Just because I'm good at studying doesn't mean I have a photographic memory," replied Yaoyorozu with puffed cheeks. "There's a reason there's a book on my back so I can go over formulas for what I need. I only met everyone in that exam for a single day and there were twenty of us to start with. I was honestly more focused on my own progress than worrying about what the others could do. Even if I did glance at them doesn't mean that I know what they're capable of! Not every test they had us do allowed us to make full use of our quirks! And with all of us together, it would have been harder for me to figure out who did what. Then, when the exam was over, I didn't exactly feel like walking up to them and asking what their quirks did." She then gave the punk girl a hard look. "Do you remember the quirk of every single person who was in your entrance exam?"

"Ok, ok. Point taken," whispered Jiro, her cheeks turning red. "Sorry."

Yaoyorozu let out a sigh. "No, I'm sorry. What I just did was out of line," she said before turning to look at Kirishima. "The truth is, when Monoma brought up the fact that Ashido was working with 1-B, I was envious of her. That she was making so many connections with our sister class, bonding with them and perhaps having a good time made me feel jealous. My interactions with them have been, well, less than ideal. But, more than that, I wanted all the information she had. She probably knows all of the quirks in 1-B right now and, if I were in her shoes, I could have started a more focused study. I could begin figuring out the ideal items or chemical compositions that I would need to take down everyone and even getting some practice in." Momo then shook her head. "While those feelings are ugly, they are also very natural to feel. All of us want to win, to put on the best show we can for our peers and prospective heroes we wish to intern with. As long as we recognize what we did wrong, as well as to work hard to fight that temptation when it appears in the future, then I think we can say that all is well."

"I guess," mumbled Kirishima. "But I still feel really unmanly."

Yaoyorozu let out another sigh. "I understand," she said. "But please, don't make any rash decisions while you're feeling guilty. If you need to talk, I'd be more than happy to do so. Though I think it would be better if you talked with a professional like Hound Dog. He is the school's guidance counselor. Or perhaps Principal Nezu."

"No!" said Kirishima quickly. A little too quickly. Sweat was beginning to form on his body again as a nervous aura seemed to surround him. Yaoyorozu then watched as he began to look around, as if expecting someone to approach him or to see if they were being watched a little too closely.

"Kirishima, it's not a sign of being 'unmanly' to seek help," began Yaoyorozu, but was interrupted when Kirishima shook his head vigorously.

"I-it's not that," began the red head, gulping loudly as he did while his body began to shake. For a moment, Yaoyorozu wondered if her classmate simply had a fear of animals. If so, she was more than willing to get one of her family's mental health specialists on call to help him. However, those thoughts died when she heard him continue to speak. "I'm afraid that Aizawa will expel me. That he might think that going to talk about your issues is a waste of time or somehow irrational, like with making friends. Oh man, what if he sees me like this? He'll kick me out the moment he sees me!"

"Oh for," began Yaoyorozu, now very irritated by her classmate's fear. She stood up so that she towered over the trembling form of the red head, looking down at him with eyes that told him not to interrupt her. "Listen, you as well as the rest of the class have put way too much stock into this fear that Aizawa is going to expel us. He won't. It's just a tool that the man uses to either push us harder or to keep us in line. Just think about it. The lunchroom incident, Mineta's constant perversion, Bakugo's anger issues, and many more. Has the man ever once expelled a single student? No. In fact, he has gone out of his way to ensure that we all stay here. He's not expelling-"

"He's going to expel Uraraka," interrupted Jiro while Kirishima nodded.

"What?" asked Yaoyorozu, clearly taken aback by this statement.

"It happened when we were leaving the locker rooms and heading towards the training fields," said Jiro, looking away as she did. "It wasn't on purpose or anything. Present Mic and Midnight were in a classroom along the way and the door wasn't shut all the way. It was a little unnerving how Present Mic was keeping his voice down so much. But, they were talking just loud enough that we were able to hear a few things. And both of them were clearly pissed."

"Yeah," agreed Kirishima. "I was only able to pick out a few things. Like 'I can't believe he wants to expel Uraraka for something like that'."

"I heard that as well," said Jiro before sighing. "I also managed to hear them say something about 'thinks she had no potential' and 'after the Sports Festival'. Best guess is that's when he's going to do it. The last thing I heard was 'Ashido being transferred to General Studies'. Honestly, I was tempted to listen in more but given how they sounded, I didn't want them to turn that anger on me."

"But that's," began Yaoyorozu only to then find her words trailing off as she recalled a few moments throughout the day. She, along with the rest of the class, had noticed some of the looks that Aizawa had given both Uraraka as well as Ashido. Like them just being there was irritating the man to no end, so much so that he couldn't hide it.

"No," she said after a moment, shaking her head as she did so. "You must have been mistaken or misheard them. Aizawa is all talk. He's not going to expel anyone."

"Sorry Yaoyorozu, but unlike you, we can't afford to be wrong," said Jiro with a deadpan look.

"What?" was all Momo could say, eyes wide as she took a step back at the comment.

"Look, I'm not saying this to be mean or to rich shame you," continued Jiro. "Honestly, I like you. But…you're not like the rest of us. You can afford to be wrong. If Aizawa did kick you out, your family probably has a dozen lawyers on standby to fight this in court. And even if your parents didn't decide to fight this, you have like a thousand different options you can take. Going to another hero school anywhere in the world. Heck, with the money and grades you have, you'd probably be able to get into any school you wanted and change careers on the fly. You could become a doctor, study law, or just go into business." Momo winced, daring not to correct Jiro that her family had the numbers of the top thousand lawyers in the world who would drop everything they were working on if they called.

"But the rest of us, we don't have those options," continued Jiro, her shoulders slumping. "This school isn't cheap. If we get expelled, well there goes a large chunk of tuition. We can't really fight back. And with an expulsion from U.A. on our records, it would be a miracle for us to get into a basic high school. So sorry if none of us feel like rolling those dice because it's a gamble we can't afford to lose." With that said, Jiro helped Kirishima stand before the two left the library while the heiress just stood there with a look of utter horror on her face.

The reason for this was that Jiro's words had brought forth a certain realization within her: Had she, all this time, operated under this assumption without knowing it? That the reason she could so easily brush off Aizawa's threats was because there would be little to no consequence for her? The girl's legs began to shake, forcing her to hold onto the edge of the table for support to keep her standing. All this time, she had felt somewhat superior for being able to see through all of their homeroom teacher's threats. But now she had to wonder if it was really because, subconsciously, she knew she could use money to get her out of any jam should she be wrong. That she might be wrong about so many things. It was not a good feeling.

As this doubt began to infect her, a security camera zoomed in on her.

[hr]

As Jiro and Kirishima left the library, Izuku Midoriya found himself sitting on a bench outside of school. Dressed in his P.E. uniform, the green-haired teen sat there with his head leaning back along the edge of the bench so that he could stare up at the sky while ignoring the sounds of other students heading home. There was a part of him that knew he shouldn't be lingering here right now. That he should be getting ready to go and prepare for today's after school training session. To help get things set up. Yet he just felt so…lost right now.

As the teen continued to just sit there, his mind trying to process the reality of the situation he now found himself in, he felt someone else sitting next to him. Thinking for a moment that it was Pony, Izuku lifted his head slightly before turning it only to find that it was a different blonde with blue eyes. Also, it was a very muscular guy. This teen, who looked to be a couple years older than Izuku, looked so well built that if he flexed in just the right way his uniform would rip! Though judging by the posture the teen had right now, it didn't look like he was going to do that anytime soon. He just sat there with a frown on his face, looking downward at a spot between his legs while his fingers fiddled with each other in his clasped grasp.

For several long seconds, neither teen said anything. Then, as if feeling Izuku's gaze upon him, the other teen turned to look at him.

"Sorry," he said. "Were you waiting for someone?"

"No," replied Izuku. "Just felt like my world got turned upside down by someone I admired."

"Wow," said the other teen. "Small world. Something like that happened to me not too long ago. And, well, it's all I can think about." The teen then let out a tired sigh before a smile forced itself onto his face. He then turned, extending a hand towards Izuku. "My name is Mirio Togata, a third year hero student."

Smiling a little, Izuku took the hand with his own. "Izuku Midoriya, first year hero student." As the pair shook, Izuku's eyes widened a little as he analyzed the feel of Togata's hand. While anyone with eyes could tell the teen was strong, the callused on the teen's hands showed that his strength didn't come from a quirk but rather his own hard work. There was also the ease at which the teen shook, showing that he had good control. And, as Izuku looked up, he could see that Togata was doing the same thing right back at him.

In fact, now that Izuku was now looking at him in the eyes, something about that face seemed familiar. But where? Had he seen him in the halls? Possibly, though doubtful given that third years were on a higher floor of the school compared to them. Plus the teen had one of those faces that just stood out way too much. So school was out, but then where? If he was in his third year, that meant that he was doing internships and work studies with pros. So maybe Izuku saw him on the news or maybe…

"Wait, aren't you that guy who ended up streaking during the Sports Festival two years ago?!" asked/shouted Izuku as his eyes widened in realization. He could clearly remember it, sitting around the T.V with his family as they went to watch. Izuku remembered how his pen and notebook had fallen to the floor, mouth agape as all the clothing just fell off the kid. How his mother hid her eyes and how his father had just thrown back his head in laughter all while the teen on the screen sheepishly began putting his tracksuit back on.

"Never going to live that one down, am I?" laughed the teen in genuine amusement. "Last year, Present Mic introduced me as Captain Streaker. Hopefully this year I'll be able to put on a good enough show so they'll remember me for something other than that."

"Well, I can tell you've trained really hard," commented Izuku.

"Yeah, I have," said Togata as he lifted an arm up to chest level before placing his other hand on the forearm. "After that incident, I tried everything I could to improve myself. But all I seemed to do was just get a little stronger here or there. It wasn't until last year during a work study that I managed to find myself a great mentor. The man took in this kid who barely had any control over his quirk, could barely fight with it, yet somehow managed to push both my body and my quirk to our absolute limits." Then, Togata's face fell as he slowly lowered his arm. "I honestly thought that he believed in me."

"Did…did the two of you have a fight?" asked Izuku slowly.

Togata, thankfully, shook his head. "No. I can at least be thankful that we're still on good terms," he said. Togata then paused as he slowly looked at Izuku, eyeing him up and down as something was clearly going through his head. For several long moments, the pair remained silent until it was broken by the third year student. "Can I ask you something?"

"Sure," replied Izuku slowly, curious to see where this was going. At the very least, listening and potentially helping someone else with their problems was a great distraction from his own inner conflict.

"Like I said, my quirk wasn't all that strong," began Togata. "In fact, it was very weak when compared to most of my other classmates. But, I worked hard to make it strong. I mean, I went beyond Plus Ultra to get it to the point where even the facility here are saying that I'm part of the Big Three. The three students who are practically guaranteed to become big named pros shortly after graduating. Heck, might even get into the top ten in a year or two. But," the teen then paused to take a deep breath. "It's just that my mentor thinks I need something more. Like a massive power boost in order to do this."

Izuku gulped, not liking where this was going. "You mean like a drug?" asked the bone quirk user as he silently wondered if he should use the Nezu app to inform the principal of this. If there was a pro hero out there trying to fill a student's head with the idea that you can only be successful when doing something like Trigger, well that's something the school needed to know about.

"Ah, not exactly," replied Togata with a wince, causing Midoriya to frown.

"Then is it illegal?" asked Izuku.

"No," said Togata quickly while scratching under his chin. "Ah, let me see if I can…Oh! Ok, so there's this other guy whose quirk can upgrade other quirks. Basically powering up the existing quirk to the point where it could be considered a quirk evolution or upgrade. It'll also boost my own physical abilities big time. I mean, if I look buff now then I'll be a monster when this is all said and done. And it's pretty much permanent."

"Wait! There's a quirk like that?" asked Izuku. In a flash, the green-haired teen had opened up the jacket of his track suit and reached inside for his notebook as well as one of the several pens he always carried with him. Though to most people, it probably looked like these items had just materialized out of thin air. As Togata sat there, no doubt thinking the same thing as so many others, Izuku began to write at a frantic pace. "So it's like an enhancement quirk that works only on other people. Based on what you told me, it probably starts at the genetic level to maximize the potential of a person's quirk genes as well as the genetics that make up the rest of the body. Once it's done making the improvements there, it works its way upward to fully enhance the body to make sure everything is at its new more optimal level. Of course, this is just speculation on my part. I need to meet this person! I have so many questions! Like is it a simple touch based quirk or is there something more to do with it. My money is on a transfer of DNA, either via injection like a blood transfer or consuming the DNA from this person. Like a hair or a drop of blood or even drinking their-"

"Hold on Midoriya!" said a slightly panicked Togata. When Izuku looked up, he saw that the blond was looking really nervous. Like he suddenly realized he had said something he shouldn't. "The guy who is offering this, he doesn't really like a lot of people to know he can do this. Because he, ah, said something about it taking a while for his quirk to generate the power needed to do the voodoo that it does. I think it takes like a decade or something. So he's afraid that if people found out about it, they would begin fighting over it. Or worse, there would be evil people who would want to use this quirk to become stronger."

Izuku blinked as he processed these words. "That makes sense," he muttered as he went into a thinking pose, never noticing Togata letting out a sigh of relief. Now that he thought about it, quirks that powered up others were in high demand. While Izuku had never met anyone personally who had these types of quirks, he had talked to people who claimed to have them on social media and on messenger boards. Nearly all of them said the same thing: that they would be guaranteed employment from any hero agency but as an eternal sidekick. This was to do with the fact that while they could empower others, they could not empower themselves. Also, all of the ones that Izuku had managed to talk to about their quirks stated that the boost was only temporary, meaning the pro heroes had to keep them on. Those who claimed to already be sidekicks complained that it was next to impossible to get any credit as the heroes liked to keep their abilities under wraps. That they had been pressured into signing contracts that prevented them from telling the crowd openly about what they could do. And when one did find a way out, several other heroes who found out about them would be spamming their phone trying to make a better offer.

As for those who were not heroes they had their own stories. There were several accounts of young men and women with these quirks who were harassed and pressured into helping their classmates cheat for the upcoming heroic exams for various schools. And when they were caught or the quirks upgrades wore off during the exam, these same people would turn around to try and pin the blame on the person who boosted them in the first place. More than once, Izuku had read disturbing stories about people who had enhancement quirks almost getting kidnapped. Or successful kidnapping.

"I understand. I'll keep this between us," promised Izuku. Yeah, he could understand why this person wanted to keep a low profile. If what other people went through with their ability to just temporarily enhance others was anything to go by, someone who could do that permanently would be the ultimate prize. Izuku could only imagine the lengths that many people would go through to get their hands on this person. So it made sense to him that he would stay in the shadows, offering up his services to a select few. Probably only those he trusted. And potentially asking for a small fortune.

As Togata nodded in appreciation towards his junior, Izuku continued to think more on the subject. And, as he did, he began to feel uneasy with himself. Now that he understood the offer and how it would work, he could see it as a force for good. With this power boost, given to the right person, that hero could save so many lives. Yet, for some reason, it just felt wrong to him. It was that feeling that made him feel utterly hypocritical. After all, wasn't he here at his dream school because someone else gave his body a permanent enhancement? Naturally, he should just be a quirkless nobody and incapable of saving anyone when danger strikes. But now, his bones could become stronger than steel. He could pull them out of his body, reforming them into weapons as he did so, all while regrowing them instantly. So, what was so different between the enhancement that he received but he felt a desire to shun the offer that Togata was talking about?

Then Togata let out a long sigh. "Anyways, I get what they're saying," continued Togata as he then slumped a little. "My mentor has never steered me wrong before and I know he wants what's best for me. Using this quirk, I could have the dream I've always wanted. To save a million people. Maybe even going beyond that. But then…would I have actually earned any of it? All the work I put into my body, all the training I put into mastering and perfecting my quirk to be like this…it feels like I'd be tossing it away in order to take the easy route. That I only go that far because of the boost and not what I've done for myself."

"I get it," said Izuku, his voice coming out a little relieved as he understood what the difference was. Why he felt this boost, this offer, was wrong. He turned to look at Togata who was now looking at him with wide blue eyes. "I…My quirk, when it first appeared, I knew it would be both powerful and dangerous. But I wanted it to be the best it could be. That's why I spent so much time and effort honing it so that it could be the best it could be. More than that, I put just as much time and effort into myself. I'm pretty sure a lot of people here in the hero course feel the same." Izuku then let out a sigh. "Honestly, I've never cared much about the hero ranking. The only thing that ever mattered to me was helping others and making them feel safe. Maybe even inspiring them the same way I was inspired. But somehow, if I was the one who was offered this quirk and accepted, wouldn't my words and actions ring hollow? How could I even look at the people who admire me and tell them with a straight face that, if they work hard enough, that they too can become a hero when I took the easy way?"

"Exactly!" declared Togata, his eyes widening with gratitude that someone else understood what he was feeling. That sense of pride one felt when they took their quirk to the next level, pushing both themselves and their quirks to the next level. That's what made them Plus Ultra. "Ever since I came back from my work studies, I've had people just walking up to me and asking what I did to improve so much. When I'm talking, I can see the look of amazement in their eyes before they get this fire in them. This look that says 'If he can do it, then why can't I?'. I see them becoming motivated. Knowing that I brought that out of them makes me feel like I'm making a difference."

"I kind of know the feeling," said Izuku. "I'm actually part of a group that's helping others out getting ready for the Sports Festival. Stuff like quirk control or new applications for the quirks, helping them fight with their quirks, basic strength training, helping with combos, and a lot more. It's not just my class. We got a couple people from General Studies and the Business Course that are working hard to show what they're made of. We even got a couple of people from 1-A who are asking for help."

"Really? That's," began Togata before realization seemed to hit him as his eyes suddenly lit up even more. "Wait! You were the guys who cleaned up that beach, weren't you!"

"Yeah," admitted Izuku sheepishly as he embarrassingly scratched the back of his head.

"I knew the news said that it was a group from U.A., but I never thought that they were first-years," continued Togata as he seemed to practically vibrate in his seat. "This is so awesome. One of the other members of the Big Three loves that spot now! Won't stop raving about it."

"It's not that big of a deal," said Izuku, a slight blush appearing on his face. "All we did was clean up the beach as a part of our training before raking out all the trash still in the water. Then we just sort of spent some time enjoying the fruits of our labor. You're acting like we stopped a massive crime ring or something."

"You sort of did," stated Togata. As Izuku looked at him in confusion, the blond spoke up with a single finger raised. "People had been taking advantage of that area to do illegal dumping for years! It's been a problem for so long that everyone just turned a blind eye to it. Well not anymore." Togata then leaned a bit closer to Midoriya. "My friend, the one I told you about, is who loves that beach, well during her work study she and the hero she's working for got a call that some people were trying to dump their trash there again. The person on the other line said they didn't want all that hard work to go to waste or to ruin such a beautiful view. Needless to say, the dumpers got caught and there was enough evidence to prove that they had been dumping their trash there for years. Not just them, but several other people."

"Wow, I never heard that," said an amazed Izuku.

Togata just shrugged. "Guess it wasn't considered to be newsworthy enough," he said. Then his eyes held a look of sudden realization before snapping his fingers. "Hey, would you mind if me and my friends helped out with your training? Pretty sure we could give you guys some pointers."

At that, Izuku felt like he had been floored. So far, it had just been him and Kendo watching everyone. Sure Kan was there, but he was there more as an observer to make sure everything was ok and that no one got hurt. To have three extra sets of hands, from people who were far more experienced than either of the fighting duo of 1-B, was like a gift. However…

"Are you sure we won't be cutting into your time?" he asked. "I would hate to mess up your chances at the Sports Festival."

"No worries," said Togata, waving off the concerns politely as he seemed to almost propel himself off the bench. "Feeling really confident with my own skills right now. Plus, it never hurts to review the basics. Pretty sure the others will agree." Before Izuku could say anything else, Togata began to walk away though he didn't get far as he suddenly stopped. "Thanks for this. Talking to you really helped me feel better about all of this. Glad someone feels the same as me."

"I'm glad I could help," replied Izuku honestly. "And I hope you can work this out with your mentor."

"I think we will," said Togata, his voice laced with hopefulness. "I told him to wait a bit so the guy offering me this enhancement can find someone else. It's a little complicated. Honestly, I think he should be looking for someone with a good heart that's quirkless. I'm already blessed with one and if I went through this, then it would be like having two. And that's just not fair to all the people out there without one, you know?" With that, Togata walked away.

"Yeah," whispered Izuku, lowering his head as he brought his fingers together. His mind, which had temporarily forgotten his grief, returned to the lesson with All Might. About how people without quirks didn't deserve a chance to try and be a hero. That no matter how hard they trained their bodies, how good they became at fighting and rescue, no matter how much support equipment they received, it would never be enough in the eyes of All Might. A man born with all the power he could have ever wanted, standing at the top of the world the moment his quirk appeared at the age of four. Then his thoughts shifted towards that man that Togata spoke of. A person who had the power to give others amazing strength, so much so that it might be considered another quirk. One that would only be given to those who already had power.

"It just isn't fair," agreed Izuku in a whisper as his mind then went to Blackhound's request.

[hr]

All Might walked out of the main building of U.A. Though he did not do so with his usual bombastic energy and seemingly endless charisma. Instead he was back in his skinny form, head down while being weighed down by his seemingly oversized suit. Students around him gave the man quizzical looks, wondering who this strange man was before giving him a wide berth. No doubt done in order to keep their distance from the depressing aura that seemed to surround him.

All Might felt so very lost and low, more so even when he found out that he would have to limit his hero time due to his injuries. He couldn't understand it as he felt like things had been progressing in the right direction with the other half of his students. Sure, it had been a rocky start at first with some of his 1-B students complaining about how he was doing things. Yet he could see in their eyes that they were beginning to come around. That he was slowly winning back their respect and trust. Then, in a single moment, the foundation he had been working on came crumbling down all due to him telling them simple facts.

It honestly confused the man. What was he supposed to do? Lie to them and say that, yeah, a quirkless person had as much chance as any of them to become a hero? There was no way that could happen.

With a sigh, the man turned away from the crowd to move down one of the many paths that lead around the campus. He needed some time to think, to come up with a plan. But what could he do? It had been so very long since he needed to work hard to win over a crowd. Normally, he just needed to smile while speaking from the heart. When he did that, the crowd always cheered him on. They agreed with him. So why didn't it happen this time? Was it simply because their trust in him had already been shaken? Or maybe emotions were just running high after that exercise? No, that wasn't it.

Shaking his head, All Might briefly glanced around him. Sakura trees could be seen on either side of him, their petals already softly falling to the ground in a gentle display. There were also a number of evergreen bushes, all properly trimmed, along with well polished benches on either side. He had seen mostly General Education students and Business Course students using them during their lunch breaks. Mostly young lovers wanting to have a private lunch together. But, more importantly, he realized that the path he was on would take him towards where the large indoor training areas were kept.

Where 1-B would be doing their own after school training.

Pursing his lips, All Might continued to consider his options. Should he seek out Kan's help once more? Perhaps the man would be able to give him some insight into where he messed up in explaining such a simple truth to the young heroes. Or, better yet, how to fix the situation he was now in. The man had offered to help him improve his teaching and this definitely counted as such an instance. However, All Might still remembered the man's words about losing his students. There was the sad chance that, while Kan understood what he was saying, it would be too late to fix the situation. It was probably that fact wiggling in the back of the hero's mind that caused him not to seek Kan out right away.

That or maybe he was just feeling sorry for himself. Why? Because not only had he lost 1-B, but among their number was a potential candidate for receiving One for All. Bitterly he cursed himself for not making more of an effort to get to know the young man. To arrange a sit down between them and have a friendly discussion. That or offer some one on one training so that they could bond. As much as he wanted to curse his time limit for getting in the way, he knew deep down that he was just making excuses. With his new teaching method, he would have had plenty of time for a sit down during lunch or something similar. He could have talked to the boy, asking about how his training program was going before offering advice. That the young man could come to him if he needed anything.

Deep down, All Might knew the reasons he hadn't done this. The first was that he had wanted to wait for his friend Nighteye to finish his own investigation. Especially now since the man had some suspicions on the lad given what his investigation had so far uncovered. Given how fresh their reunion was, All Might didn't want to take a chance at ruining it again by becoming too friendly with Young Midoriya. No, they would, and should, tackle this issue together in order to find the best candidate for One for All. The other reason had been more about optics than anything else. Given how 1-B had reacted when All Might had finally shown up to begin teaching them, there was a very high chance that they would react negatively if he singled one of them out right away. It might have given them the impression that he had only begun teaching the class because he was interested in Midoriya. And if he started fawning over him, it might lead to some unsavory rumors. So, to avoid this, All Might felt that waiting a bit would have been the smarter option. Just until everyone became comfortable with him again and he had won back their trust.

Now, however, that seemed to have been shattered forever.

Upon realizing this, All Might shook his head vigorously. No! He would not let this be the end. He was not just going to give up simply because it seemed impossible! Perhaps he could talk to Kan before the training session began. Then-

All Might's thoughts came to a crashing halt as he noticed something just up the path. Eyes widening in surprise, he spotted the form for the green-haired teen he hoped to make his successor. He lowered and hands clasped together, he didn't seem to notice the slender man staring at him. As All Might stared at the young man, an idea popped into his head. It might seem underhanded, but if this worked he might be able to fix all his problems right here and now!

So, with his best friendly smile he could muster in this form, All Might approached Izuku Midoriya.

"Hey there," said All Might with a hand raised, waving it slightly. "Fancy running into you again." All Might watched as Young Midoriya's head rose slightly to look at him. At first there was a hint of confusion until realization and recollection hit him.

"Mr. Yagi?" exclaimed Midoriya as he suddenly straightened up, All Might's smile never wavering, pleased that the teen remembered him despite him only ever meeting in this form once. Which was a good thing for any hero hopeful when interacting with fans. "What are you doing here?"

"Come on kid, what do you think? The Sports Festival," said All Might as he sat down, the lie flowing out of his mouth seamlessly thanks to his many decades of doing just that. "The school is bumping up its security big time for the event. They're calling in all sorts of pros to help out. Even no named ones like myself. Not that I mind as it gets me a free ticket inside."

At that, Izuku nodded under All Might's gaze. As the now slender hero watched him, he could see that the teen didn't seem to have any doubts about the lie. After all, why would he? The U.A. security gate had been upgraded and only people who were allowed inside could get past it. Even students knew that it took a great deal of time just to get a visitor pass for a family member and twice as long for a non-member. What's more, when the students had been told about the continuation of the Festival despite the recent villain attacks, the teachers had made sure to tell their charges about upping the security even further for the event. So having a 'little known' hero offering to help out with the event wouldn't be too much of a stretch.

"So," continued All Might as he continued his role. "How have things been since I last saw you? Have things improved at all with All Might?" The pro hero couldn't have missed the wince on the teen's face even if he tried, causing him to break his smile. "That bad, huh?"

"It," began Midoriya, looking a little uncomfortable at the moment. "Well, after we talked, it was getting better. I mean, All Might did start to actually teach us."

"Well, that's good to hear," said All Might with a slow nod. "However, I am sensing a 'but'."

"That's, ah," began Izuku, his discomfort seeming to grow. Seeing this, All Might placed a hand on the boy's shoulder.

"Hey, whatever you say stays between us," said the old pro hero, smiling once again. "So don't worry about it. Besides, I can see that whatever happened is clearly bothering you. Maybe talking about it will help put your mind more at ease." As Midoriya seemed to relax, All Might silently thanked how much people trusted heroes. Even 'no namers' like how he was presenting himself. The people trusted them completely to get things done, to help when needed. Even when that trust could potentially be exploited. But this was for the greater good.

"Ok," said Izuku, this time taking a breath to get his thoughts in order. "Like I said, things got better after we talked. I mean, a lot better. All Might was showing up and, well, while he seems to be way out of his element and doesn't seem to know what he's doing most of the time, he is making an effort." At that, All Might felt like an arrow pierced his heart at the open admission of how much he sucked as a teacher. "And I think that's what matters most. You know, trying your best at something and slowly improving. It's his first year doing this so I honestly can't fault him for making mistakes. Plus, his lessons have been pretty interesting and creative." Hearing that, caused the pain in the hero's heart to be replaced with a warm glow.

"But today, I saw a really ugly side of him," continued Midoriya, causing all that warmth that All Might had felt to freeze up. "We were doing an exercise, heroes going up against 'quirkless' criminals. And…he let us know what he thought of the quirkless. That they don't deserve to be considered villains…or heroes. In fact, he even stated that he's against U.A.'s policy to let quirkless students try out for the hero program." As the young man spoke, frustration seemed to leak out of the boy. All Might couldn't help but notice how the teen was gripping his pants legs, hands trembling as he spoke. There was more anger in him now then when the event had happened. At the time, he had simply looked hurt. But, now after time had passed and he could fully process everything, that hurt had turned to anger.

"It sounds like you took this very personally. Do you have a family member that's quirkless?" said All Might carefully. Hopefully, if he played his cards right, he could get the boy to open up to him more. Then, perhaps he could get this young man to see his point of view was correct. Then maybe Midoriya would help the class understand.

"I…there was a small period of my life where I thought that I was quirkless," said Midoriya slowly, his eyes dulling a little as though he were reliving a painful memory. "It was easily the worst time in my life. It all started when the doctor gave me the results. I don't remember what he looked like, but I do remember how uncaring he was when he told me and my mom. Like I suddenly didn't interest him anymore and he wanted to get me out of that office. Hearing him saying I couldn't become a hero hurt more than you can imagine. But it only got worse when I returned to school the next day." Izuku paused to grimace slightly, an act that didn't go unnoticed by the hero. "The people who ran the pre-school looked at me like I was an old rusty gear in an electronics store. Something obsolete that didn't belong there, but they couldn't get rid of me. As for the other kids, people who I thought were my friends…they weren't as friendly towards me once they decided I was a freak. From that point on, it was like there was this weight on me that seemed to grow the more they glare at me. The more they told me how worthless I was. How I wasn't needed. That I should just disappear."

Izuku paused again, this time to wipe away tears that were forming in his eyes causing the older hero to shudder. Briefly, he recalled the days when he had been quirkless. While people didn't think much of him, he couldn't recall anyone ever treating him to this extent. Maybe this was just a bad school or kids being kids? Then again, being quirkless wasn't as rare as it was today so maybe that had something to do with it.

"Then came the day when I lost the person who I thought was my best friend," continued Midoriya. "It's funny, I can't even remember his face or anything. But I do remember vividly what happened. How he was bullying someone else. How I tried to stop him, saying what he was doing was mean. Well, he decided to be 'mean' to me. There was pain, a burning blast all over my body. After that, I somehow limped back home crying the entire time. My mom tried calling the school about this, but judging by the way she reacted afterwards it didn't go well. I remember that she threw the phone across the apartment so hard that it shattered against the wall. And for a while, that was my life."

"I'm sorry to hear that," said All Might slowly, honestly. "But at least it worked out for you in the end. You're quirk was just late coming in so-"

"So that makes it alright?!" snapped Midoriya with anger that surprised the hero. "So I only deserve to be treated like a human being if I have a quirk?" The boy's eyes then widened, hands swiftly moving to cover his mouth. For a moment, he sat there in silence before his hands lowered themselves. "I'm sorry about that. It was uncalled for."

"It's fine Young Midoriya," said All Might in a calming tone. Now understanding the boy a bit better, the pro hero relaxed in his seat a bit. "I suppose hearing All Might talking like that brought back those painful memories."

"That was part of it," agreed Izuku. All Might then watched as the teen raised his hand, staring at it for several long moments. "After I got my quirk, there would be times when I was afraid it would just…go away. It was a fear I had for a while. There were a few times when my quirk wouldn't activate and I'd go into a full blown panic attack, afraid that I was back to being worthless. Thankfully, my parents helped calm me down and showed me that I had either over used it or something like that. It didn't fully go away until I started my martial arts training."

There was a brief pause as Izuku lifted his head into the air, a smile forming on his face. "There was this one lesson that I'll always remember. My Master had commissioned several wooden weapons, each one of them similar in shape and size as the ones my quirk can produce. He then had me fight one of his most senior students, a guy who could produce a single long steel chain from both of his forearms. What's more, my opponent was the only one allowed to use his quirk while I had to use the wooden weapons. Everyone thought he was crazy, including my opponent. But my Master refused to budge." Izuku paused as he took a deep breath while a hand reached to the other arm to stroke it, as if remembering a phantom sensation. "It was easily the most difficult match I had had up to that point. My opponent whipped his chains around with enough force that they created large holes in the floor. When they struck my body, it felt like my bones would break at any moment before realizing that the chains had wrapped themselves around me and then I was tossed around. But somehow, I managed to keep going. I pinned one of his chains to the ground using a dagger just long enough to get a good hit in on his gut. Used a spear to block his chains. Even had my own whip to use against him. I might have lost in the end, but my opponent was on his hands and knees looking almost as bad as myself. That's when my Master told us something: a quirk is just a tool. A powerful tool, but a tool nonetheless. And, like any tool, it can be replaced as long as you have the proper training."

As All Might fought the urge to shake his head in disagreement, Midoriya lowered his gaze to stare directly in front of him. There was a fire in his gaze as he continued to speak. "I don't know if he had created that lesson just to help me or if it was just something he liked to do from time to time so none of us would get a big head. But it did help. After that day, the fear I had that my quirk might just vanish one day didn't seem so terrifying anymore. And, slowly, that fear just went away. I think it was because my Master had so much faith in me. That he believed that and wanted to show me that even if I never got my quirk I would have been able to be a hero." Then, Midoriya turned to look at All Might with that fire still burning in his eyes. "And that's why what All Might said today was so ugly. Not just to me, but everyone else in that room. We all worked hard to get into the hero course. But none of that mattered to him if we didn't have a quirk. That the quirkless don't have any worth in his eyes when helping others."

"Whoa there," said All Might quickly, so quickly that a bit of blood leaked through his teeth. "I'm sure he doesn't feel that way. I mean, there are other ways to help people without being a hero. Like maybe the police or a firefighter."

All Might was then surprised when Midoriya let out a sad sounding laugh. "Yeah, jobs that receive nothing but criticism from the public," said the teen. "That they stand around, doing nothing until the heroes arrive or roping off the area and loading up the villain for transport. I remember hearing last year that there were calls to just disband the police, firefighter, and paramedics in favor of shifting it to more specialized heroes. Somehow, I doubt people who are treated as useless would enjoy a job title that the rest believe is obsolete."

All Might opened his mouth, ready to argue with the teen. To comment how one of his best friends is a police officer and a highly respected one at that. However, the words died in his throat as he knew how hollow his answer was. Yeah, he knew just how poorly groups like the police, despite being a fine profession, had it when compared to heroes. Most of the members were people who wanted to be heroes, having to settle with this path as their quirks weren't suited for heroism. There were also a number of quickless people, though the exact amount and their positions in the force wasn't known to him. He himself only knew two and both of them just checked parking meters all day. As for his friend, well, he had some special circumstances that might not help make the man's point. Like how he had taken special courses to earn the privilege to use his quirk in conjunction with his work.

"But do you know what really sucks?" continued Midoriya. When All Might looked at the teen again, he saw that the fire that had been in his eyes had burnt out a bit. Now, there was a dull look in his eyes. "It was how he tried to justify himself. All Might said that there are villains out there that can't be defeated without a quirk. It makes me wonder if he's oblivious to the fact how lucky he is or just conceited. I mean, the man hit the quirk jackpot! Superhuman strength powerful enough to change the weather with a single punch, super speed that lets him travel across Japan in just a couple of minutes, and seemingly invulnerable? There's not a villain out there that he can't defeat with his quirk. He's been on top of the world since he was four! But everyone else? What if I came across a villain that completely nullified my quirk? Does that mean I should just give up being a hero since there are villains out there that I can't beat with it?"

"I think you may be taking All Might's words a little too personally," began All Might, doing his best not to wince at the new perception his student had of him. It was painful to hear and, if the teen now learned the truth, he really would lose this young man as a potential successor. But for the sake of keeping the truth behind One for All a secret he would have to lie and hope that his young man, if he became chosen, would understand his reasoning. Still, he needed to help this passionate hero-in-training understand the sad truth of the world.

"I want to show you something," continued All Might. Midoriya said nothing, but his eyes were focused enough on him that All Might made his move. With one hand, he lifted his oversized button up shirt quickly to reveal his wound. Midoriya let out a gasp when he saw it, though the pro hero did not need to look up to know that the teen had an uneasy look on his face. "Pretty nasty, isn't it. I got this wound several years ago fighting a pretty nasty villain. Lost a lot of organs and due to the many surgeries I've had, it's greatly weakened my body to the point where I can only really do hero work for a few hours a day. So I get what All Might is trying to say, though it may have been done in a clumsy way. He's been around a long time, something both he and I have in common. We both remember the days before he became the Symbol of Peace. How, at any moment, an entire neighborhood would be destroyed without warning by metallic spikes shooting out of the ground. How a young woman would be sliced to pieces by invisible wires right now in the street. Not even heroes were spared. I once came onto the scene of a villain attack a bit too late finding that the hero who had gotten there before me was already dead. His arms and legs had been twisted off. Pretty sure someone like All Might has his own collection of horror stories, sights he's seen that are thankfully well in the past now. But, even with most of that chaos in the past gone, being a hero can still be dangerous. Something you put your life on the line for even with a powerful quirk."

For a moment, there was silence allowing All Might to feel relaxed. It was pretty much clear that he had made his point, that those without quirks couldn't become heroes. Not because they lacked the spirit or drive, but due to the dangers entailed with such a job, their lack of a quirk simply made it impossible.

"So what about you?" asked Midoriya softly, his words causing All Might to whip his head around towards the teen. Their eyes met once more and the skinny hero could see a fire now burning in the eyes of his student. "I mean, you said it yourself. You got hurt pretty badly. To the point where most people would tell you to just retire."

"More than a few did," admitted All Might, a sheepish smile on his face. Upon hearing that, Midoriya's face brightened.

"But you didn't!" he exclaimed. "You're still out there, still trying to help people despite having such an injury! Despite now having a massive weak point and health issues that put you at risk you're not letting that stop you! You're still trying to make a difference and save lives! On some level, even you have to see that there's a hole in All Might's logic." Upon hearing this, All Might began to see that his attempt at getting Young Midoriya to see his point was going would not be as easy as he thought it would be. Yet, he did not give up.

"Oh?" he asked, hoping to poke some logical holes in the boy's theory.

"You said it yourself, you got hurt. Even with their quirks, heroes can get hurt," said Izuku, as if this were the most simple thing in the world. "I know deep down that one day I'll come across a villain that I can't defeat with my quirk. Maybe it'll be a villain with a slashing nullification quirk or a hydro body mutation quirk or something like that. And, when that time comes and I only rely on my quirk, I'll probably get as hurt as someone who is quirkless. But that's why I'm here, to learn how to handle myself when that day comes. The same with the rest of my class. We all know that none of our quirks are unbeatable. Why we need to train as much as possible to cover our shortcomings. Kind of like heroes like Sir Nighteye." All Might's eyes widened when he heard his former sidekick's name dropped so suddenly.

"Sir Nighteye?" questioned All Might, doing his best to play off his question as more curious than the slight panic he was feeling.

"Yeah. I'm, ah, bit of an All Might fan. Or, maybe, I was," replied Midoriya, this new admission causing All Might's heart to stop for a moment. "So I followed his career and know that he's only ever had two sidekicks. One in the United States, a man named David Shield, and the other being Sir Nighteye. All, well, Sir Nighteye has a pretty impressive quirk that allows him to see the future. Of course, he keeps the activation information about it secret as well as its drawbacks. But, that's all his quirk gives him: information about the future. The rest of his body is no different than someone who's quirkless. So he had to train his body to go beyond, Plus Ultra Style! It was all so he could make the most use out of the information he got from his quirk. So, if he can do all that, then why can't someone who is quirkless? Why can't someone who has trained themselves in a martial art, with weapons, or manages to get support gear become a hero? Why should they be told just to give up?"

As Young Midoriya turned to look at All Might, the man bent over in his seat while bringing his hands together so that he was pressing his fingertips together. Honestly, he had never looked at his friend that way. The bespectacled man had always impressed him, ever since they first met. All Might had always admired the way Marai could break down the situation before them, figuring out the path that could lead them to the villain the quickest. While he wasn't one to get his own hands dirty, when the time came the man was always able to hold his own. Never once had All Might truly ever consider the amount of effort it took for the man to achieve such results. Though maybe that was because, in the end, it didn't matter to him. They were on the same side, working towards the same goal of making a better world. Nothing else seemed to matter.

There was then a slight pause in the man's line of thought as he stumbled over this. If nothing else mattered beyond having the same goal, then why did it matter whether or not they were quirkless. However, just as quickly as that thought came, All Might shook it from his mind. It was utterly insane. In order to make the changes to the world, to help others, one needed power. The power of a quirk. It was the same back when he was nothing more than a boy, unable to do anything really when all he had was guts and an old steel pipe to protect his home. He couldn't accomplish anything until he got his Master's quirk. Without a quirk, you just couldn't do it. You couldn't be a hero.

However, All Might knew he couldn't say that. Doing so would mean closing the door to this young man using this form for good. So perhaps a half truth would do.

"I understand where you're coming from," said All Might honestly. Slowly he turned to look at Midoriya. "And you've made some really good points. The skills you have brought with you should have been taken into account. But…I also understand where All Might is coming from." Midoriya looked ready to argue again, but the slender hero cut him off. "Tell me, can every quirkless person out there afford the type of training you and your friends received? Can those without a quirk get the support they need in order to achieve the same results?"

Midoriya was silent for a moment, head lowered as if the weight of the hero's words were holding him down. "You have a point," said the green-haired hero in training. "They don't have the support. At least, not right now." With that, Midoriya politely excused himself before walking away, leaving All Might to wonder what he meant by that.

[hr]

Elsewhere, at the same time, the pro hero Endeavor walked out the rear door of the main building of U.A. The man stood like a giant when compared the swarm of students that he had passed by, his body bulging with almost the same muscle mass as someone like All Might. His hero costume was mostly blue, with metallic bracers running from his wrist all the way to his elbow. But the most striking feature of the man was his flaming beard that danced like a wildfire upon his face.

This was how the man was usually seen. Though, if one was dedicated enough, they would notice a slight change to the man's appearance. Something that seemed off with him. It was his eyes. Normally, they held a cold, almost icy fury within them that was directed at the rest of the world. Or maybe it was something more akin to disinterest at all he saw, more focused on where he was going to go next rather than wasting time in an area with no villains to fight. But now? Now he seemed lost in his own thoughts as he did his best to go over the offer he had just been given. One that came right out of nowhere.

[hr] Flashback [hr]

"Thank you for seeing me so promptly," Endeavor said, ignoring the trio of girls who walked out of the Principal's office. Instead he had his eyes locked on the creature of unknown origin sitting behind his desk, a fresh cup of tea placed next to him with steam rising from it.

"No trouble at all," said Nezu in a cheerful tone. There was a brief pause as, while Endeavor sat down in one of the seats placed in front of the desk, the small mammal took a sip of his drink. "I do try to accommodate the parents of all the students here within my school. Especially those within the hero course, given what they have recently been through. More so when a busy man such as yourself reaches out to speak with me, even calling during the middle of a fight with a villain." At that, Endeavor could not stop himself from flinching slightly. Whether Nezu didn't notice the gesture or merely decided not to speak on it, the flaming bearded man could not say. Instead, the principal just took another long sip of tea before setting down the cup.

"Then allow me to get to the point," said Endeavor, his voice commanding and full of authority. "I believe that soon your students will be in danger." There was seemingly no surprise on Nezu's face, the smaller creature just staring at the large man with those unblinking eyes for several long moments. It was as if he were trying to deduce something from that statement alone.

"Would this be related to the recent attack from the League of Villains?" Nezu finally asked, his attention now fully on the man before him.

"No. At least, not directly," said Endeavor. At that, he watched as Nezu just slightly slumped in his seat. No doubt he had been hoping for some tip that the pro hero had wanted to bring to his attention or a rumor that the League had planned to attack during the Sports Festival. Something that would help put an end to the embarrassment, as well as the threat of danger, the school had suffered recently. Yet Endeavor would not be that person today. Instead, he was here to bring forth more danger on the horizon.

"I don't know if you have noticed, but there has been a slight increase in disappearances recently," continued Endeavor. "Mostly younger people, around the ages of your students."

"No, I have not," answered Nezu slowly, almost sounding a bit more curious than anything else. "I do check the news on the regular and have wonderful contacts within multiple police stations spread across the world. Sadly, the number of kidnappings and disappearances of the youth has not drastically changed to a point where one would be noticeable. For ill or good."

"Agreed," said Endeavor with a nod. "One to three additional disappearances a year in a certain area would not normally attract attention. And that is probably intentional." The man then took a deep breath. "There has been a special case I've been working on for the last couple of years. It began with a boy that went missing. He…his quirk reminded me of my son…Toya." There was another pause as Endeavor took another breath while the Principal gave him an understanding look. "This young man had a quirk named Flame Storage. Basically, he could breathe in pre-existing flames and somehow store them with his body. There the flames would be compressed, increasing the intensity and heat so that when he expelled them they would turn blue. However, if he took in too many flames he would get a bad case of indigestion and if he kept the flames inside of his body for too long the fires would die out. With proper training, he could have been an amazing fire rescue hero.

"Because of this, I decided to look into the case," continued Endeavor, running a hand over his face briefly. "When I arrived at the town the local pro heroes told me I was wasting my time. That the kid just had a fight with his parents, feelings were hurt, and he just ran away. Something that had happened several times before and the kid always came back after a couple of days. Nothing to worry about. But, when I talked to the family, they claimed that while he did have a tendency to run away in order to sort out his emotions, the fight they had was far less heated than what it normally took to get him to flee. Also, their son usually took a few personal items with him when he ran away. But all his bags were still there. I asked around and it seems that his habit of running away was well known to the town."

"I believe I am beginning to understand your line of thought," said Nezu in a somber tone. "Some nefarious party did their homework, knowing that if they took him it would be a while before the local authorities took his disappearance more seriously."

"Agreed," responded Endeavor, his eyes narrowing. "Then, while I was working on the case, there were two more disappearances. The first was of a teen girl who was last seen leaving a local gym that was licensed for quirk combat training. Apparently she had her eyes set on the U.A. Hero Course. From what I was told, she had a very good chance. Her quirk was called 'Absorb and Redirect'. Using her right hand, she can 'catch' an incoming attack before expelling the force out from her left. She already had a good handle on it when she came in, already discovering that she could delay the release of the force and for each second she did so she could multiply the power of the release by a factor of ten. Though there was a drawback to doing this beyond ten seconds caused tremendous stress on her bones. One time she nearly shattered all the bones in her left arm. After some time, they discovered that she could do other things. Using rubber bullets, they discovered that the force and inertia of the projectile would be absorbed using her quirk. As for something like fire or a laser, the actual flames or beam would appear out of her left after being taken in by the right. She had just updated her quirk registry a month and a half before she was taken."

"Hmm, interesting how you focused more on their quirks than the people themselves," commented Nezu slowly, eyeing the man. "I do believe there was a reason for this."

Endeavor felt himself nod automatically. "Yes," he said firmly. "During my investigation, I went through as much about both victims as I could. Nothing seemed to overlap. They went to different schools, none of their friend groups had any connections, different hobbies, different tastes in music, came from families from different financial classes, and so forth. The one thing both of them had in common was that they had quirks that were on the higher end of what was normal. They were top grade, easily hero material if they continued to train them."

At that, Nezu made a noise before pressing his paws together. Head lowering slightly, he seemed to be deep in thought. And Endeavor could tell what he was thinking right now due to the recent events that had happened at this school. Then, after a moment, Nezu looked up.

"What of the last kidnapping?" he asked.

Despite himself, Endeavor took in a deep breath. "That one, at first, I thought was unrelated. During the course between the first and second kidnappings, I caught wind of a few mobs. The first time this happened, I was naturally struck at the fact that no announcement was made through the local channels. Not the local heroes, the hospital, or even the majority of the police. The only reason I did hear anything was a local rookie on the police force who contacted me, speaking in a hushed voice. When I arrived on the scene, it was surprising. The mob looked like the average everyday locals with a few of the police mixed in. As for the heroes, they were hanging in the back having a smoke as they watched everything. Naturally I became frustrated, not even bothering to yell at them and instead went to break up the mob. That's when I found the target of the people's ire: a pair of siblings who shared a similar mutation type quirk that made them look rather…unpleasant. I could tell just by looking at the scars they had that this wasn't the first time they had experienced this."

There was a moment of pause as Endeavor allowed Nezu time to process this. Both men were aware of these things. It happened all over the world, people with 'less than desirable' mutations being treated more like animals. It sadly happened all over, though you were more likely to find it in smaller communities and away from more progressive minds. What was even more saddening was that those with mutation quirks out in the country were often treated similarly to the quirkless living in the cities. And vice versa.

"Over the next several days, I received more calls from that rookie to help deal with the issue," continued Endeavor after a long sigh. "From what I heard, the police were somewhat privately trying to figure out who the leak was. Not that I ever told them. I also decided to check on the kids and their family. My hope was that, if the people saw me visiting them then they would back off and I wouldn't have to waste more of my time while waiting for the Hero Safety Commission to get off their asses and deal with this problem." Endeavor let out another sigh. "Honestly, it was a little odd finding out that I had become their favorite hero. Not that I really felt like one."

"I see," said Nezu, nodding his head slightly. "And may I assume that you believed the town's folk were responsible for their disappearance?"

"Well, I certainly suspected at least one of them," responded Endeavor, earning a raised eyebrow from the unknown mammal. "The last time the rookie called me, the mob was still searching for them. Couldn't find them. At first, I thought one of them had decided to act on their own. It took a while, but I managed to get a warrant to check out all the homes belonging to those in the mob as well as any businesses operated by them. When that turned up nothing I firmly believed that the siblings had given the mob the slip and were still in hiding. But after waiting for a couple days something told me that wasn't the case. I thought about it for a while and came to the conclusion that they had simply run away. Something that seemed rather believable given that the last time I saw them, I had said I wouldn't be sticking around this place forever. There was no point in lying to them or giving them false hope." Endeavor then took a deep breath to study his nerves for what he was about to say. "That's what I believed until last year. Their bodies were found in a gravel pit in Russia, along with dozens of other children with mutation quirks. The bastard…tortured them until their bodies gave out."

For a moment, Endeavor felt a prickle behind his eyes as he withheld the fact that they were both still wearing the tattered remains of a shirt with his face on it. The prickle then grew as his mind betrayed him, wondering not for the first time, how long they held onto the hope that he was looking for them. And how he had failed them completely.

"Yes, I recall reading about that rather ghastly affair," said Nezu in a somber tone. "The man in question still hasn't revealed how he obtained them, correct?"

"If he has, the Russian government certainly hasn't been forthcoming with that information," growled Endeavor. "But, this was all just where my investigation started. Since then, I have been keeping an eye out for disappearances and trying to come up with an idea on how they operate. Gathering whatever clues I can find to create some sort of working theory. The best I have been able to come up with is this: this is not the work of a single person, but rather a large group. They operate almost like sharks, seemingly appearing out of nowhere as they pick their targets at random. Most of the time, they aim for young teens just entering maturity who possess desirable quirks or monstrous mutations. Though there are a few exceptions. I believe that several girls who had been making a name for themselves modeling or appearing in teenage beauty contests were also targeted. None of them were big enough names to earn widespread attention when they vanished, but according to the people who worked at these events they had the potential. Their disappearances are eerily similar. Also, I believe that my first encounter with this group was not their first."

For a long moment, Nezu sat there with his paws pressed against each other while lowering his head. Slowly, a grim look appeared on the Principal's features as he looked up.

"Do you have any idea as to the reason for specifically targeting these young men and women?" asked Nezu.

"A few, sadly," said Endeavor. "There are plenty of people across the world who are bitter that their own quirks were never powerful enough to make them heroes. Not to mention those who were forced into early retirement because of new talent appearing on the streets. If the siblings are anything to go by, there is a chance that the victims were sold off so that these people had something living to vent out their frustrations. Another, less sickening theory, is that this is some twisted adoption plan for those with powerful quirks. I can imagine that there are people out there that want the 'glory' that comes from raising a person who would become a hero while not wanting to put in the work. This group might have someone on their payroll who can help make that happen. Erasing the kids' histories so that they accept whoever as their new parents. However, after hearing about the Nomu, I began to wonder if these kids were being harvested for their quirks and that thing was just the first to actually work."

As Nezu let out a shudder, indicating to the fire hero that the Principal had also been thinking along those same lines on the League, Endeavor lowered his head. There had been another theory he had, one he had not voiced aloud in this room as it hit a little too close to home. Quirk Marriages. Or, rather, Quirk Breeding. There were a lot of people out there that longed to have a child with a powerful quirk, himself once being a part of that mindset. And while he had done everything legally at the time to get his hands on a woman who had the right quirk, there were people out there that would have done so much worse than he would have been willing. Taking teens so that they could be constant sperm donors or an available womb, doing this over and over again until they got the right quirk. Stripping them of their freedom, maybe even their will to live.

Despite the flames on his face, Endeavor felt a chill run down his body. He could imagine, and not for the first time, the possible fate of some of these teens. Locked away in a cage or chained to a wall with some sort of quirk suppressing drug running through their systems. Only given enough food to keep them strong enough to be healthy but not strong enough to fight back. Used over and over again. There might even be the additional sick individual out there who deluded themselves into thinking that they could further break these kids into falling 'in love' with their captors.

"That is certainly concerning," said Nezu, breaking the pro hero out of his thoughts. Looking up, he could see Nezu's trembling paw reaching out for his cup. The teacup shook enough for the liquid inside to slash around, large amounts spilling across the pristine desk. While Endeavor's expression remained stoic, inwardly he understood what was probably going through the Principal's head. Given that Nezu had been used in experiments, he was probably thinking of all the things that the less ethical side of science might be doing to those children if their theory was correct. No doubt also reliving some of those old memories.

Finally, after taking a sip of what was left of his drink, Nezu managed to calmly set his drink down before giving the tall pro hero a look. "Thank you for this intel," began the rodent. "However, what I fail to understand is why my students would be in danger now. You said it yourself, this group has been active for some time now and never once have they attempted to capture one of my students."

"That might have been the case if we were having this conversation before the school year started," said Endeavor sternly. "However, the attack at the USJ has caused the criminal underground to smell blood in the water. While their overall goal was unsuccessful, they showed everyone that you are not as prepared as you let the rest of the world think. That there are holes in your security. That you can be taken by surprise. And with the upcoming Sports Festival, where you will be displaying the quirks of many of your students, it might just tempt this group to make their move on the school. Maybe they will and maybe they won't. But they are getting bolder as they have now struck twice right in your own backyard."

"T-They have?" stammered Nezu, eyes wide.

Endeavor nodded. "Yesterday, a young man went missing after leaving his heroic prep-school. After looking at the report, I believe this to be the doing of the group I mentioned."

"I…was unaware of that," said Nezu, slowly and sadly. "Things have been rather busy due to…in house issues as well as preparations for the Sports Festival."

Endeavor shrugged. "That could have been what this group was counting on," he said. "Or they just got lucky."

"And the second?" asked Nezu quickly. At that, Endeavor had to look away.

"It happened today, right before I called you. They went after," began the pro hero, fighting a battle with his own anger, frustration, and something else. However, it seemed like this was one battle he was doomed to lose as Endeavor suddenly slammed his meaty fist on the desk, scorching and cracking it at the same time while the flames on his body grew tenfold. "They went after Fuyumi! My daughter! Those bastards went after her in broad daylight!"

"Enji," said Nezu, the use of his real name snapping the pro hero out of his rage. Slowly he moved back into his seat while the Principal, for the first time, offered him some tea. "Now, please, kindly explain to me what happened."

Endeavor didn't respond right away. Instead, he picked up the cup while staring into its contents. Like this, he could see his reflection in the dark liquid. Including how his face, which normally was fixed as a scowl at all times, fell. Now he wore a face he had not had in a long time.

"I was investigating that kid's disappearance when it happened," he began, the teacup trembling slightly as he spoke. "It was a text, an urgent one at that. When I pulled out my phone, I saw that it was from Fuyumi. She…she had no classes that day and she had said something during breakfast. I wasn't really paying attention. I decided to respond, if only to tell her that urgent messages were reserved for my sidekicks only in the case of an emergency and to not bother me with trivial things while I was working. But, when I saw the message, my heart nearly stopped. It was just her location. Something was wrong because she never sent me anything that short. And the fact that it was urgent…I raced over there to find…"

Endeavor closed his eyes for a moment as the scene he had landed in played in his mind. There was his daughter, captured and helpless in the clutches of two villains. The first looked like a pile of dark green sludge that had come to like. Using his body, the villain had bound Fuyumi's arms above her head in the middle of the alley while her legs were anchored to the floor. As for the other, Endeavor felt even more disgust despite the fact that he was the more human of the two. The man wore a light purple suit with dark shades to hide his eyes. His skin was a slightly darker shade than most, with a wide smile on that scruffy face that showed off all his teeth. But what really stood out was his hair. It was purple, looking like it was made of slime as it ran down the back of his head till it touched his shoulders. His hair was also molesting Fuyumi! Endeavor's daughter was thrashing as the purple hair slid under her blouse, pulling off her bra while fondling her breasts while other tendrils were sliding under her pants.

"One of them managed to get away," said Endeavor, remembering how the purple haired man's smile never faded as he made a break for it. Almost like he was unable to stop smiling in that sickening way. "As for the sludge one…I showed him the error of his ways. Even if we had to take it to the street. Once the fight was over with, I called someone I trust to take Fuyumi home. As we waited for her ride, I questioned her. She said…" Endeavor paused, his hands trembling as tears threatened to spill. "She said that the purple guy claimed that Endeavor's daughter would fetch a lot of money…even if she was used." At that, Endeavor couldn't contain the feelings he had as reliving them was simply too much. With a howl of rage he flung his teacup across the room before burying his head in his hands. He had already lost one child. But to almost lose another? That was simply too much.

"I am glad she is safe," said Nezu gently after a moment had passed, the broken teacup as well as the liquid running down the wall completely ignored for the time. "If you would like, U.A. would be more than willing to offer her additional protection."

For a moment, Endeavor said nothing. "If you had asked me that yesterday, I would have laughed in your face due to the USJ incident," said the man as he wiped away a tear. "But now, I'll speak to Fuyumi about this. Whatever protection I can get to keep her safe. The same with Shoto. I need to make sure they're safe while I find these bastards."

Nezu nodded. "It would be my pleasure," he said. "And thank you for bringing this issue to light. The school shall do its best to protect the students. With that said, given that you have stated that you have been on the hunt for these villains for years now with little to no success, perhaps you would like some additional assistance? Perhaps we could enlist All Might to-"

"No," snapped Endeavor. Then, the man took a deep breath. "Before you say it, let me be clear: this has nothing to do with ranking or even a matter of pride. I am well aware that that man has been struggling to teach his own classes. Not only that, the man lacks any sense of attention. He is a glory seeking showboater! The moment he senses cameras are on him he'll pause to pose, wasting my time in this. Or he'll jump in and help other heroes at the drop of a hat. Let that fool continue to struggle teaching while I find these villains." Endeavor then took another deep breath. "As for the rest of your staff, I am well aware of how short handed you are at this moment. The Sports Festival is an internationally viewed event. I would rather you focus your efforts on making sure everything goes well on your end, keeping the students safe. I only informed you of this because I caught wind that these villains were in the area and so you could continue to upgrade your security accordingly."

Now it was Nezu's turn to sigh. "As much as I hate to admit it, you have a point," said the Principal. "Between our recent in house issues, the League of Villains, and the Sports Festival we are stretched rather thin. All Might's time would be better spent as a last resource." Endeavor could not help but note a slight bitterness in Nezu's tone as he brought up the number one hero.

"But perhaps there is a more effective way for us to help each other out," said Nezu after a moment.

"And that would be?" asked Endeavor.

"Both yourself and your daughter could work here at U.A!" declared Nezu, throwing his front paws high into the air.

Endeavor stared at the creature as though he had lost his mind. "If this is a joke, I find it highly unamusing," he stated in a deadpan manner.

"No joke," answered Nezu quickly, his eyes seeming to signal his thoughts moving at a rapid pace. "As you yourself said, All Might is struggling to teach two classes for our first years. So my proposal is this: All Might will continue to teach one class while you teach the other on a temporary basis while your daughter takes up the position of a teacher's aide to both yourself and one of our homeroom teachers. I believe this will work well for Miss Fuyumi as she is studying to become a teacher herself. Not only will she receive protection as a hero will be beside her at all times, but will also earn her college credits. And I might add that earning those credits from U.A. will be most helpful towards her career."

"I see," said Endeavor, a new pang of guilt hitting him. He was somewhat aware of her plans for the future. However, the details or how to help her beyond writing checks for her schooling were beyond his knowledge. Not that he ever bothered to look into them.

"As for yourself, there are plenty of benefits," continued Nezu. "I doubt I really need to go into how using U.A. as a base of operations will be useful to your investigation. It certainly makes more sense than renting a facility here in town or making the commute to your agency everyday. You will also have a more diverse set of co-workers who will be able to assist you. You will also have far more freedom with this arrangement, able to leave the school ground to continue your search and investigate other matters. And while you are teaching, your sidekicks can take over the hunt. Meanwhile, the school will benefit as well. Not only will we have gained another impressive hero whose presence will help deter more criminals from attacking, but it will send a message to the rest of the world that we are taking these threats most seriously. The extra help would also help ease the burden of our staff, making it possible for them to assist in other matters more easily. Furthermore, there are the students to consider. As it stands right now, our first years have been getting by having one teacher alternating between them. Yet just imagine how much further they could go if they each had another dedicated teacher for heroics. At least, for the remainder of the semester."

[hr] End Flashback [hr]

With a heavy sigh, Endeavor shook his head. On paper, this should have been a no brainer. By working here, he could easily conduct a more detailed investigation. One of the issues he always had when he traveled to another area in Japan to hunt down these kidnappers was securing the right place. There were businesses out there that rented out temporary headquarters for visiting heroes, but more than often they were lackluster at best. Most of the equipment found there was low grade, maybe two or three generations older than what even those who were ranked below five hundred used. Then there were the maggots who tried to squeeze every cent out of you, trying to go over other 'options' even when you asked for their best. All those fools did was waste time.

Then there was Fuyumi. It really shouldn't have been strange to feel like this, yet Endeavor found himself still surprised by it. Despite her quirk not turning out the way he had wanted, despite mostly ignoring her for her entire life, the idea that he could have lost another one of his children weighed heavily on him. His only daughter. If he had been just a little more careless, if he had just ignored her text then she would be gone.

But why call him? After all, he had never really been there for her before.

Shaking his head, Endeavor pushed that question off to the side. Maybe he would ask her about it later. For now, he had to focus on Nezu's offer. Yes, if he accepted it, then Fuyumi would be much safer. He couldn't keep her walled off at home, putting her life on hold. Nor could he arrange it so that at least one sidekick was always by her side. He only hired so many after all and hiring a new one while doing a background check would take too much time. Plus, maybe having her working here would help mend some burnt bridges between them.

Why did that thought make him feel a bit better?

Once more, Endeavor shook his head. Yes, there were a lot of pros to consider. However, the man did have one issue. He was a man who was always on the move, always on the hunt to stop the next villain. His record for most crimes stopped as well as most disasters dealt with were at a record high, far more than even All Might's. Heck, there wasn't a member of the top ten heroes who had a better record than him. That was what he did. He-

Endeavor paused in his thoughts as his attention was grabbed by a sight before him. Just up the path before him was a large gathering of students in front of the gyms, all of them in their P.E. uniforms. Briefly the man tried to recall if the school ever did any after school heroic training sessions back when he was a student at U.A. After a moment or two of coming up blank, save for punishments, he began to believe that these students were doing this on their own. An idea supported as many of them were chatting with each other while doing some stretches. The sight made the man nod in approval. If they were willing to do this then they were truly living by the school's motto of going Plus Ultra.

With a hum, Endeavor began to scan the crowd to see if his son was among them. As he did, he noticed a few familiar faces. One was the girl with brown hair and rosy cheeks that had exited the Principal's office when he entered. She was stretching with the green-haired girl helping by pressing on her back. There was also that blonde haired girl with the horns and upon seeing her the man nearly did a double take. While he didn't know her by name, Endeavor was aware that she was the daughter of the American Hero Unicorn! Said girl was hopping from side to side, punching the air in front of her as she did so.

Moving along, Endeavor noticed a few others that caught his attention. There was one boy who clearly wasn't in the hero program. He could tell by the way this purple haired, sleep deprived looking teen was doing push ups. The kid looked like he was struggling, though not giving up. Also, Endeavor could also see that there had been some recent muscle growth. If he had to guess, the kid was from General Studies and trying to use the festival to get into the hero program. Nearby was a girl with serpents coming out of her back. She was using them to move about, one seeming to extend as far as it could before biting onto something before the long neck of the quirk retracted and pulling the girl over to the spot. Endeavor nodded, seeing that she had come up with a practical use for her quirk. There was also a pink girl with smaller horns on her head, stretching her legs by leaning as far as she could from side to side before suddenly lifting one leg as high into the air as she possibly could. It was honestly rather impressive she was that flexible.

Near the pink girl, Endeavor noticed another girl who was just standing there talking with someone else. This girl had bright orange hair that was tied to one side of her head like a ponytail. However, going by her body language, he could tell that she wasn't having an ideal chit-chat and wasting time while everyone else was getting ready. Her eyes were focused and seemed serious. Not only that, but her posture showed that she was serious right now. When she then shot a short glance at the gym, he began to wonder if she was talking about her training. As for the person she was talking to he looked…

Endeavor blinked as he took in the features, despite being only the backside. There was something about that hair that made him think he had seen it before. Before he knew what he was doing, the man began to approach the teens who seemed to finally notice his flaming presence. When his target turned around, a name came to mind. He wasn't a perfect match. The man he knew was older, a bit taller with much darker hair and few freckles. But…

"Excuse me, but by any chance do you know a Hisashi Midoriya?" asked Endeavor.

"Ah, yes," said the boy before giving the older gentleman a polite bow. "He's my father."

"Thought so," said Endeavor with the smallest of grins. Though, judging by how people were reacting, it probably looked a tad evil on him. Not helped by the narrowness of his eyes or the beard made of fire. A few even began to back away. But not this teen before him. He just stared up at the huge hero with eyes that held a degree of amazement as well as curiosity.

"Excuse me, but how do you know my dad?" asked the young Midoriya, tilting his head to the side as he spoke.

"Oh, we go back several years," said Endeavor, making what seemed like a dismissive gesture with his hand. Though it was done more to show it was no big deal. "It was back when the annual fire quirk convention was held in Tokyo. That year I had been invited as a guest speaker, but before I could get to the main auditorium I heard that a fight was about to break out. Two people manning different booths, one from Detnerat and the other from Houndhunt products."

Endeavor nearly laughed aloud when he saw Midoriya's head fall down in embarrassment. "That's when," mumbled the teen before a shudder ran through his body. He then gave Endeavor a look. "Mom wasn't very happy when she found out dad got into a fight that needed a hero to break them up."

"Please, I would barely call that a fight," scoffed Endeavor. "More like a welcome distraction as it kept me off stage for a bit. And I will say your father made quite the impression on me. I can still remember the way your father flung his arms around, yelling at the sniveling coward from Detnerat with flames shooting out of his mouth. 'Say that again! I dare you to say that again to my face!' he yelled over and over. Didn't even seem to notice I was the one holding him back until I pulled him to the side. When he finally calmed down, Hisashi was more embarrassed that I had to get involved. Then he just laughed it off, saying maybe he'd tell his son about this one day if his wife didn't kill him. Guess he never did."

"Not in great detail," sighed Izuku as a few of his classmates began to move forward. As if they were now realizing that this was an easy conversation from one of the most intimidating heroes in Japan.

"What struck out to me was that fire your father had," mused Endeavor, gazing at Midoriya but instead seeing Hisashi. "Not the fire he was breathing out, but the one he had in his eyes. After the situation was handled and things fully calmed down I found out what had happened. That Detnerat coward had made a few remarks that sent a few warning bells going in the heads of the people running the other booths. Nothing too major, just some remarks towards people with weaker quirks saying that Detnerat products weren't for them. But things took a serious turn when the Kamiji family showed up. They're a family with mostly fire based quirks. I remember that their oldest had just been accepted into the hero course and they wanted to get her some products to help in case her quirk grew too powerful. As for their youngest, well, the kid was having a bad day. Yesterday, he was diagnosed as quirkless." Endeavor paused for a moment, noticing how Midoriya seemed to tense up for a moment at that phrase. "That Detnerat pig said he'd be happy to offer their product line to the sister, but 'it would be a waste to even give their scraps to a quirkless'. He went on some long ramble about how their products were made with the intent to make the lives of those with quirks better while stating that the child should be happy to be allowed to live at all. Well, this made the Kamiji family pretty pissed off but before they could tell the man to fuck off your father stepped in."

As he told the story, Endeavor wondered why Detnerat would send someone who was so open with his bias towards the quirkless. The best he could come up with was that they sent him there because, well, it was a fire quirk convention. Maybe no one thought anyone would bring a quirkless family member to it. Then again-

"I'm not surprised," said Midoriya suddenly with a loud sigh, shaking his head a little. "Houndhunt and Detnerat have vastly different business philosophies. It all boils down to quirks and the people who they believe should enjoy their products. Detnerat, while they market themselves as a lifestyle company that makes your quality of life better with your quirk in mind, usually prefers to focus more of its attention on those with more powerful quirks. Basically, if you have a top grade quirk they will give you the five star treatment. Those with quirks on the average level get the over the counter treatment. If you have a weak quirk, you get the scraps. No quirk, well, that man is a prime example of how they'll treat you. Houndhunt, on the other hand, has a more inclusive business model. They do make products that are specifically made with certain quirks in mind, but they do have some 'all purpose' products. They also have a strict belief in 'every costume matters'. Including the quirkless." Midoriya's eyes then widened before his hand shot towards his mouth to cover it. "Sorry, did I say all that out loud? I'm really sorry I went on such a ramble. I didn't mean to-"

Midoriya, however, was cut off as Endeavor began laughing. "Haha, you really take after your father in that respect. Don't ya?" said Endeavor as he continued to give a belly laugh. "Hisashi did that same thing after I decided to drop Detnerat as my office supplier." Endeavor didn't go on to say that whenever he needed anything, from fireproof desks for his office to training equipment, Hisashi was the person he called to make the arrangements. The man was not some average corporate grunt nor was he some head of a department. It was honestly hard to place where Hisashi was on the corporate ladder. But, he knew that Hisashi was high enough to walk into a meeting room with the most powerful men working there listening to him as he went over his charts. But despite how busy he probably was, Midoriya would always pick up for him and listen to the pro hero's needs. He would then ramble on about all of his options in a manner that suggested he had the entire company catalog memorized. He would then break them down, going over their pros and cons while Endeavor listened. And, if there wasn't anything that didn't meet his needs, Hisashi would direct him to where he could find it while making a note so that the next time he called what he wanted would be available to everyone.

"So, ah," began Midoriya suddenly, the sound drawing Endeavor out of his own thoughts for a moment as he looked down at the teen. "Can I ask what you're doing here? I-I don't mean for that to sound rude or anything, but we don't normally have heroes visiting the school that aren't part of the staff." Then, suddenly, his eyes widened. "Wait! Did something happen? Was the League of Villains spotted in the area?"

As the other students heard this, putting up their guard as they began to look around and scan the area, Endeavor was both impressed and disappointed at the same time. What impressed him was that Midoriya had come to that conclusion of a villain group being in the area. While it was the wrong group, it was, as a certain sleep deprived teacher he knew would say, a logical deduction given the current state of things. But, it was concerning to see that he hadn't come to this conclusion sooner. The boy should have seen him, looked at the facts as he had just done, and then asked if something was wrong.

In the end, Endeavor would not chastise him. Not because he was Hisashi's son, but because of how this interaction had gone. Endeavor had approached him calmly, asking him a question which probably threw the kid off. Add to the fact that they did get into a conversation about something that happened so long ago. Plus, he was not the kid's teacher or parent so he really shouldn't.

With that said, what should he say? Maybe…

"Currently, the school is not in any danger," stated Endeavor in a matter of fact tone. What he said was true, as the League of Villains were still quiet. And for the kidnapping group, Endeavor only believed that they might target the students here. "I just got out of meeting with your Principal, going over potential additions to U.A.'s ongoing security improvement as well as being offered a position as a heroics instructor."

As he said that, Endeavor prepared himself for what he knew would come. Shocked gasps followed by nervous looks before they averted their gaze elsewhere. Perhaps even a few people wondering aloud that they would no longer have All Might teaching them. Heck, he wouldn't have been surprised to see a few of them running off in search of the oaf to beg him not to leave them. Such was the unshakeable love the world had of that blond buffoon. Yet, while he did hear some gasps, none of them looked away. Also, he could hear murmurs that sounded…excited?

"Then would you like to join us for our after school training?" asked Midoriya, sounding very excited. "We would all really appreciate the extra help! Plus it might help make up your mind. If you haven't already, that is."

Endeavor opened his mouth, ready to give his patented reply of no. To tell them that a pro hero had to be on the move and that he had stayed here longer than he should have. However, no words came out as he looked down at those green eyes. As he looked into them, he believed he had an idea on what had compelled him to speak to this young man. He could recall a conversation he and Hisashi had once over drinks. How Hisashi had thought for a moment he was going to lose his son. The man never went into details, but the way he spoke about it indicated just how terrifying the ordeal had been. Like he had walked into a nightmare situation and thanked every deity in existence that his son was spared.

Just like he had today with Fuyumi.

"I suppose I could," said Endeavor, oddly earning a cheer from the group. Yeah, it might be a good idea to try teaching them to see how he liked it. Well, teaching more than one person at a time.