Chapter 45: Final Day of Internships!

Bakugou's fury consumed him, unleashing explosion after explosion in the training room, each one more intense than the last. Best Jeanist observed from a distance, noting the boy's unrelenting anger.

"He's been at this for hours," Best Jeanist said to himself. "I knew he had anger issues, but this is different. The events at Seijaku Gakuen Academia, Midoriya's slow rise to fame, and Uraraka's involvement with the hero killer have pushed him to the edge."

Bakugou's hands shook and bled as he glared at an invisible target, his mind racing with questions. "How did you surpass me?! How did you get so strong?!" He screamed, his explosions growing more powerful, fueled by his frustration. The memories of his losses to Midoriya haunted him - the entrance exam, the battle trial, the sports festival. Bakugou fell to his knees, grasping his head in despair. "When did I fall behind? I was always ahead of him, but now...now I'm chasing him!"

Tears streamed down his face as he struggled to come to terms with his own limitations. Best Jeanist approached him, offering words of wisdom. "It's in our darkest moments, when we feel utterly defeated, that we discover our true potential. You let the praise of others blind you and you refuse to see your own weakness. Will you wallow in self-pity or will you rise to the occasion? "

Bakugou's tears fell to the ground as he whispered, "...Dammit."

...

Izuku sat atop a grassy hill, gazing down at the night sky, his mind consumed by the week's events. "From Undertown to the Hero Killer and Seijaku Gakuen Academia... can't believe it's been one week." He thought, his eyes fixed on the glowing Omnitrix. With a deep sigh, he picked up his phone and dialled Momo's number.

"Hey Momo," Izuku said, his voice laced with a hint of nervousness. Momo's response was immediate, her tone stern, "Izuku! I just watched the news, you... "

But Izuku cut her off, his voice trembling slightly, "Can we talk?" Momo's heart skipped a beat as she detected the vulnerability in his tone. She paused, her grip on the phone tightening, as she processed the significance of Izuku's request. He never opened up to anyone, and yet, here he was, reaching out to her.

"I uh... You said if I was ready to talk, we could talk... about you know..." Izuku trailed off, his nervousness palpable. Momo's eyes widened, her cheeks flushing as she glanced at the glasses he and Melissa had made for her. She had been trying to find a way she could thank him and seems she found one.

, "I'm willing to talk if you'll lend me an ear?" Izuku's tone indicated his nervousness, his words spilling out in a rush, "Is just that this whole Seijaku Gakuen Academia, oh you probably don't know about that, I mean you probably do, it's all over the news." Momo's smile grew, her heart racing with she could heart beating through her chest.

Izuku's words continued to flow, "Look, I've come to a realization... I kinda just want someone or a few who I can talk to, and you and Jirou were the first to come to mind... I guess I was wondering... if your offer is still open?" Momo's cheeks deepened to a crimson hue,

"Izuku, it would be my pleasure," Momo said, her voice sincere. Izuku let out a sigh of relief, his tension dissipating.

"T-Thanks." Before he hung up, Momo's excitement boiled over, and she jumped onto her bed, squealing into her pillow, her heart soaring with joy.

Izuku lay gazing at the stars when his phone buzzed. He checked the message from Kodai, his quiet friend from a sister class.

{Kodai: Hey, just so you're aware, you're trending on social media. Don't freak out.}

Izuku's confusion grew as he typed back.

{Izuku: Why would I be trending?}

Kodai's response was incredulous.

{Kodai: Are you serious? Or just messing with me?}

Izuku's confusion deepened.

{Izuku: ?}

Kodai realized Izuku was genuinely unaware.

{Kodai: Oh my god, you're serious! That's both cute and sad.}

Izuku's confusion turned to alarm as Kodai explained.

{Kodai: Okay, let's recap my adorable Izuku.}

Izuku blushed when she called him cute and her Izuku. "I know she's joking about me being her Izuku but can't help but wonder..." Izuku blushed at that

{Kodai: You won the Sports Festival after declaring yourself the next Symbol of Peace. Then, you fought and brought in the Hero Killer who killed 45 pro heroes and crippled dozens more. And after that, you freed and exposed a private high school where parents bowed to you for saving their kids.}

Izuku's eyes widened as realization hit him like a truck. He paled, his face slowly contorting in panic.

{Kodai: Did you think you'd get a pat on the back and everyone would ignore it?}

Izuku hesitated, his discomfort growing.

{Izuku:...}

{Kodai: Oh my gosh Izuku!}

{Izuku: I'm just not used to having attention on me, okay? I was doing what a hero does. I didn't expect attention or thanks. I did it because it was right.}

Kodai's response was empathetic yet firm.

{Kodai: Izuku, whether you like it or not, you're in the spotlight now. Your actions have consequences, and fame comes with heroism.}

{Izuku: But I don't want the attention... }

{Kodai: Want it or not, it's here to stay. You've done too much good, and people can't help but notice. You saved those kids, brought in the Hero Killer, and backed up your declaration. Your impact is undeniable.}

{Kodai: There's some neat #s}

Kodai: I know you don't like the attention, but I couldn't help myself, but here are some hashtags#Dekiru10rising #NextSymbolOfPeace #SmallMight #Dekiru10 UATrainingNextGen # #UAStudentsForDekiru10 #Dekiru10Legend in the making What's your favourite form of Dekiru 10?#TheFutureofHeroism #HeroKillerTakedown#IzuOcha4ever!}

"T-There's so many," Izuku muttered under his breath.

He nervously said looking at them.

{Kodai: I didn't want this to blindside u.}

{Kodai: And you probably disguise urself if u go outside}

{Izuku: Thanks... For the advice and the warning.}

{Kodai: No problem, seems like you had a pretty stressful week, the last thing u probably need is people giving u unwanted attention.}

However, on the other end, she noticed a certain hashtag that made her pout.

"How come there isn't an IzuYui hashtag."Yui pouted."It's no fair she gets all the tags, plus our ship name sounds way cuter."

...

The final day of internships had arrived, and everyone was bidding farewell to their mentors. Tenya stood before Gran Torino, who offered a characteristic snarky remark.

"Well, kid, I've gotta say, of all the students I've trained, you're definitely one of them."

Tenya paused, then bowed deeply. "Thank you for everything, Gran Torino-sensei. You've helped me greatly, and I'll strive to live up to your example."

Gran Torino rolled his eyes good-naturedly. "Yeah, sure thing, kid. Just remember not to stay wound up so tightly. You'll break if you don't bend."

Tenya nodded, taking the advice to heart. "You know, I never asked you, how did you know my grandfather?"

Gran Torino's expression turned nostalgic. "Oh, he was an old-school friend and drinking buddy. I even helped train your dad and uncles as a favour to him."

Tenya's eyes widened in understanding. "Ah, that explains why Father was so distraught when I mentioned you. I had assumed it involved Tensei. I find it inspiring that such a pillar of righteous behaviour was friends with an unorthodox hero like yourself."

Gran Torino chuckled a hint of mischief in his voice. "Kid, do me a favour and look up the 'Nagano Blurs.' See how righteous your granddad was."

Tenya blinked, intrigued. "I... suppose I will do so. Thank you once again, sensei."

Gran Torino's expression turned serious, his eyes glinting with a hint of curiosity. "Oh, one last question, kid."

Tenya nodded, his hand chopping the air in a sharp gesture. "Of course."

"Who are you?" Gran Torino said, seemingly returning to his senile persona.

For a moment, Tenya hesitated, unsure how to respond. But the internship had taught him a valuable lesson: he might not be worthy of his name yet, but he would become worthy in time. With newfound determination, he replied,

"Ingenium, sir. I am Ingenium."

...

Miruko stretched, her muscles rippling beneath her skin as she prepared for the final training spar. "Alright, let's see how far you've come!" she exclaimed, her grin gleaming with anticipation.

Kendo stood opposite her, determination etched on her face. "Ready?" Miruko asked, her voice dripping with excitement.

"Ready!" Itsuka replied, charging forward with a fierce battle cry.

Miruko's grin widened. "You tried this last time, but it didn't work!" Kendo retorted, her hands enlarging to massive proportions before unleashing a thunderous clap. The shockwave alone sent Miruko stumbling back, her sensitive hearing reeling from the assault.

Itsuka seized the opportunity, her fist cocked back and ready to strike. The punch landed squarely on Miruko's gut, sending her soaring through the air with incredible force. Izuku watched in awe, his eyes widening in shock. "Woah, she landed an attack!"

Miruko, still reeling from the pain, smirked as she twirled in mid-air. "This kid's got skills – she messed up my hearing and landed a hit!" With a swift axe kick, she launched herself at Kendo, who backflipped to avoid the attack. Miruko landed with a crater-inducing impact, sending dust flying everywhere.

Undeterred, Mirko unleashed a powerful kick, only to be blocked by Kendo's enormous hands. The force of the block sent Miruko flying back, but she quickly regained her footing. Itsuka dug her hand into the ground, launching a pile of dirt and then herself at Miruko with a flurry of punches Miruko twirled, generating a small shockwave to clear the dust, but Kendo's enlarged fist connected with a deafening crash, sending Miruko slamming into the wall with tremendous force.

Miruko rose, wiping blood from her forehead, her smirk still intact. "I see you've improved – a lot." Itsuka decreased her fist, bowing deeply. "I couldn't have gotten stronger without you."

Miruko bowed similarly, her eyes gleaming with pride. "You're learning quickly. When you're a pro, let's have a real fight."

Itsuka's face lit up with a bright smile. "You can count on it."

Izuku clapped impressed by the whole scene before Miruko turned to him with a grin. "Oh? And you thought just because you brought in the Hero Killer that you're off the hook?"

"N-No Miruko!" Izuku stated before tapping in for Itsuka and praising the girl for her fighting style.

"You were incredible Itsuka!"

Izuku applauded, impressed by the intense training session between Miruko and Itsuka. Miruko turned to him, her grin mischievous. "Oh? You thought bringing in the Hero Killer would get you off the hook?"

Izuku's eyes widened in alarm. "N-No, Miruko!"

Miruko chuckled, then nodded to Itsuka. "Good job, kid. You've improved but that doesn't mean you can slack off."

Izuku stepped forward, praising Itsuka's skills. "You were incredible, Itsuka! Your fighting style is amazing!"

Itsuka beamed with pride. "Thanks, Izuku! I took inspiration from you – analyzing situations and forming plans."

Miruko's eyes sparkled with excitement. "Okay, use the form you used when we first fought."

Izuku nodded, pressing a button on his wrist device. A holographic figure of Rath appeared, and Izuku slammed down as transformed into the alien form, his body bathed in a green flash. As the light faded, he exclaimed, "Rath!"

With a fierce cry, Izuku popped out his claws, adopting a predator's stance, while Miruko gazed at him with a hunter's intensity, as if he were the prey.

A moment of silence hung in the air before the two combatants explosively charged at each other, their collision unleashing a shockwave that cratered the ground beneath their feet. The impact was immense, sending tremors through the surrounding area.

Miruko swiftly launched a leg sweep, aiming to take Rath down, but he reflexively backflipped into the air, avoiding the attack by mere inches. As he soared, Rath raised his fist with a fierce growl, unleashing a powerful strike that smashed into the ground with incredible force. The resulting shockwave sent cracks spiderwebbing through the floor, and Miruko dodged the attack by a hair's breadth.

Seizing the opportunity, Miruko counterattacked with a roundhouse kick that sent Rath flying across the room. The tiger-like hero dug his claws into the ground, arresting his momentum and preventing himself from crashing into the wall. With a feral snarl, Rath pounced, launching himself at Miruko with unbridled ferocity.

"Let me tell you something, Rumi Usagiyama, also known as Miruko!" Rath bellowed, his voice like thunder. "HOUSTON HOWL RATH ADDITION!" As he spoke, One For All crackled with energy, amplifying Rath's strength to unprecedented levels.

With a mighty roar, Rath unleashed a devastating shockwave that threatened to shatter the walls and sent a massive crater erupting where Miruko stood.

The force of the attack was so immense that Miruko covered her ears in agony, her sensitive hearing overwhelmed by the sheer power of the Houston Howl.

Rath's hesitation proved costly, as Miruko seized the opportunity to launch a devastating counterattack. With a mighty roar, she leapt into the air, twirling at an incredible 1440 rotation - four full times - her crimson eyes blazing with intensity. Her powerful roundhouse kick sent Rath flying, smashing him through the wall with a deafening crash.

Itsuka winced at the sheer force of the attack, her eyes wide with concern. Rath stumbled back, his bloody nose and dazed vision rendering him barely able to react as Miruko delivered a swift ace kick. Though he dodged the attack, Miruko's heel turned with ruthless precision, catching him off guard.

"You can't expect to take down your opponent in one move!" Miruko exclaimed, her voice dripping with ferocity. "You have to make sure they're knocked out!" With a lightning-fast kick, she sent Rath flying into the ceiling, his growl of pain echoing through the room.

Enraged, Rath inhaled deeply, his eyes blazing with determination. "16% HOUSTAN HOWL RATH ADDITION!" The resulting shockwave shook the battlefield, and Itsuka covered her ears in agony.

Miruko winced as Rath's vicious knee strike shattered her nose, sending her flying across the room.

Undeterred, Miruko charged forward with a maniacal smile, her eyes locked on Rath. "LET ME TELL YOU SOMETHING, RATH WILL WIN!" The two clashed in a final, apocalyptic explosion of power, the impact shaking the ground and sending a massive shockwave erupting between them. Itsuka shielded her eyes from the dust cloud, her ears ringing from the sheer force of the attacks.

As the dust cleared, a green flash illuminated the room, and Miruko stood victorious, pinning Izuku to the ground. His face was a bloody mess, his nose shattered, and his breathing heavy and laboured. Miruko's grip was unyielding, her arms splayed wide to prevent him from transforming.

Miruko and Izuku locked eyes, their gazes burning with intensity. The air was charged with tension as they remained frozen, their bodies inches apart. Miruko's chest heaved with exertion, her breasts pressing against Izuku's chest. Izuku's eyes darted to her lips, then back to her eyes, his gaze filled with a mix of pain and admiration.

"Miruko," Izuku whispered, his voice husky from the exertion.

"Call me Rumi," Miruko replied, her voice warm.

Izuku's eyes widened slightly at the intimate request, his face inches from hers. Rumi's grip on him tightened, her fingers digging into his skin as she leaned in closer.

Izuku's eyes slightly widened as he felt soft lips on his forehead. His face turned crimson as the dust cloud cleared. And Itsuka was seen coming but she didn't catch the intimate moment.

Izuku stunned his heart beating fast. His face burned with a blush.

"Impressive," Miruko stated, her voice dripping with approval.

"But you still have a long way to go." With a nod, she released Izuku, who lay panting, his eyes fixed on Miruko with a mix of respect and determination.

Izuku lay on the ground, his breathing heavy, his face a mess of blood and sweat. Itsuka rushed to his side, a medical kit in hand, her eyes filled with concern.

"I'm fine, Itsuka," Izuku protested, trying to wave her off.

But Itsuka wouldn't have it. "Don't be ridiculous, Izuku," she said, her voice soft but firm. "You're not fine. You're bleeding all over the place."

Izuku tried to sit up, but Itsuka gently pushed him back down. "Let me take care of you," she said, her hands moving deftly as she cleaned and bandaged his wounds.

Izuku's eyes met hers, and for a moment, they just looked at each other. "Thanks, Itsuka," he said, his voice a little softer.

Itsuka smiled, her eyes crinkling at the corners. "Anytime, Izuku. That's what friends are for."

"Izuku, hold still," Itsuka said, her voice a little closer to his ear than necessary.

Izuku's heart skipped a beat as he felt her warm breath on his skin. He tried to speak, but his voice caught in his throat.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Itsuka finished up and sat back on her heels. "There," she said, her eyes shining with a warmth that made Izuku's heart flutter. "All better."

They looked into each other's eyes for a moment, his face turned a little, as he looked away blushing slightly. "Ahem t-thanks."

"No problem," Itsuka responded.

"Hey," Miruko said, playfully slapping Izuku with his own notebook. "Ow!" Izuku exclaimed confusion etched on his face. "Mhm? My notebook?" he asked, still perplexed.

Miruko smiled mischievously. "You've earned it." Izuku's confusion deepened as he opened the notebook and flipped through the pages, stopping at the one dedicated to Miruko. His eyes widened in surprise.

Miruko's voice was laced with a hint of shyness. "You may not have pinned me with your regular form, but you were impressive nonetheless." Her face partially hid behind her puffy collar, attempting to conceal a blush.

Izuku's eyes sparkled with pride and fanboy happiness. "Thank you!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with genuine gratitude.

...

Izuku fiddled with the Omnitrix on his wrist, twisting the dial back and forth as he gazed at the device on his wrist.

Itsuka crossed her arms, her expression a mix of amusement and concern, as she gazed at Izuku fiddling with the Omnitrix on his wrist. "You know, you probably shouldn't be messing with that thing."

Izuku looked at her, puzzled. "You've never had a problem with me fiddling with my watch before."

Itsuka's expression turned serious, and her eyebrows furrowed. "That was before I found out the watch on your wrist is a piece of alien technology considered the most powerful device in the universe!"

Izuku continued to tweak the Omnitrix, undeterred. "Exactly, I've got to learn how to master it. All Might thinks there could be hundreds of alien forms, and me just winging it isn't exactly going to help."

He paused, his face turning red as he asked, "Oh, by the way, will you be free tomorrow?"

Itsuka raised an eyebrow. "Mh?"

Izuku's eyes darted away, his voice barely above a whisper. "U-Uh, y-you know, for uhm...uh y'know...date?"

Itsuka's face turned a bright red as the train swayed, forcing the two together. She quickly moved back, blushing intensely, as Izuku did the same.

As the train ride continued, whispers and glances from fellow passengers hinted at Izuku's growing fame. "Isn't that Midoriya, the Sports Festival champion?" someone whispered.

"I heard he's dating Uraraka, the girl who helped him take down the Hero Killer," another passenger chimed in.

Izuku's face turned bright red. "Huh but weren't those talking about a date?" Another whispered as Izuku and Itsuka flushed in embarrassment.

Itsuka felt a twinge as the Ochako's rumours were spreading and a few ones with Momo. "IzuOcha? What is that? It's so stupid."

Itsuka tugged at his sleeve so they wouldn't get too much attention. "Tomorrow meet me at Mos Eisley Station." She said with a small blush.

Izuku nodded, thinking to himself, "Man, this is getting out of hand...Who knew all this attention could be so suffocating."

...

Principal Immawato Goro lay in his room, his head wrapped in bandages, muttering incoherently to himself. "Ryujin, please... My fault... Help me... Shdg..."

On the phone, a voice asked, "What's his condition?"

Sliding, a pro hero with a purple, green, and black costume, slid around his apartment, looking at Goro with disdain. "The doctors say he's got permanent brain damage. He's in constant pain and can't even form a coherent sentence."

Yotishiba's voice came through the speakerphone, "I was hoping we could silence him, but this is a fitting punishment. Make sure any evidence that could lead to our operation is in your possession."

Sliding nodded, "Understood. And what about the Vice Principal?"

Yotishiba's response was ominous, "Let's just say he's in capable hands... and won't be a problem anymore."

...

Ryujin sat in police custody, the evidence against him mounting to an overwhelming degree. The case was airtight, leaving no room for doubt or leniency. As a result, the judge denied him bail, ensuring he would remain behind bars until his trial.

Ryujin's face contorted in rage as he realized the evidence against him was overwhelming. "All because of him! That piece of trash Izuku Midoriya! I'll kill him! I'll make sure I go after everyone he loves!"

His rant was cut short as the door opened and a phone was tossed his way. "Your one phone call," the officer said, closing the door behind him.

Ryujin caught the phone, confusion etched on his face. "Who could be calling me?" He placed the phone to his ear, and Yotishiba's voice sent shivers down his spine. "Hello, Ryujin."

Ryujin's voice trembled. "M-Mr. Yotishiba, s-sir... I know I didn't follow the rules..."

Yotishiba's tone was icy. "You've brought shame and suffering to countless lives, Ryujin. Your actions are unforgivable. I wish I could make you suffer as you made others suffer."

Ryujin's fear turned to terror as Yotishiba continued, "However, letting you live would be a mild annoyance. So, you're going to die. But first, you have 36 hours to endure their... hospitality."

The door opened, and six men entered, carrying metal instruments with jagged edges and rusted surfaces. One of the men cracked his knuckles, and his smile twisted. "We'll make sure you never harm anyone again."

Ryujin's eyes widened in horror as the men closed in, their tools at the ready. Yotishiba's voice came through the phone, "I hope you suffer, Ryujin. Have a horrible day."

...

A towering figure, standing at an impressive 8 feet 6 inches, puffed on a cigar, his muscular physique evident even under his tailored business suit. A distinctive moon-shaped scar marked his left eyebrow, and his eyes gleamed like blood rubies in the fading light. "Dammit, Goro. You just had to get caught, didn't you, fool?" he growled, releasing a plume of smoke as he tossed the cigar onto the grassy fields.

"I was given an order by that bastard to destroy this school," he snarled, his voice laced with reluctance and a hint of sorrow. His gaze swept across the Seijaku Gakuen Academia campus, where he had once walked among friends and allies. His hand hovered over the emblem etched into the ground, as if hesitant to unleash the destruction. But duty bound, he made contact, and magma burst forth, tracing a fiery path across the campus. Buildings crumbled, windows shattered, and flames engulfed the rooftops, casting a hellish glow across the grounds. The earth trembled, and a deafening rumble shook the ground as the school's structures melted and collapsed, reduced to smouldering ruins.

"Yotishiba, your ways are weak," he muttered, his voice barely audible over the roar of the inferno. He lifted his hand, and the flames seemed to respond, dancing higher and hotter, consuming everything in their path. With a heavy heart, he turned and strode away from the devastation, leaving the burning school in his wake, a trail of destruction that seemed to mock his every step.

...

Izuku approached his apartment, his nerves building with each step. But as he reached for the door handle, a green blur enveloped him, lifting him off the ground. His mother's warm embrace squeezed the air out of him, and he couldn't help but chuckle.

"Mom, easy does it!" Izuku chuckled, trying to wriggle free.

Inko Midoriya's tears of joy soaked into his shirt as she held him tight. "My baby's home! I've missed you so much!"

Izuku patted her back, feeling a mix of amusement and affection. "I've missed you too, Mom. But you're kinda drowning me here."

Inko released him, beaming with pride. "Sorry, sorry! I just can't help it. You must be exhausted. I'll have dinner ready after you eat you can take a bath. I want to hear all about your week, every detail!"

Izuku smiled, feeling grateful for his mother's unwavering love and support. "Okay, deal. But Mom, you have to promise not to cry too much, okay?"

Inko's eyes sparkled with tears again, but she nodded, smiling. "I'll try, dear. I'll try."

Izuku smiled, warmed by his mother's joy, as he entered his room. He dropped his bag and suitcase onto the floor, gazing around the barren space. Since he spent most of his time living in the U.A. dorms, his All Might merchandise and posters remained there. However, he kept a few precious mementos with him, reminders of his journey and the people who supported him

. A photo of himself, All Might, and Gran Torino sat on his desk, taken after a gruelling training session, with all three of them covered in sweat and exhausted grins.

He also treasured a rare, unreleased prototype of All Might's iconic "Plus Ultra" logo, given to him by Gran Torino as a symbol of his growth.

Tucked away in his drawer was a small, personal notebook containing notes and advice from All Might, compiled during their private training sessions. These mementos held sentimental value, and he cherished them deeply.

"Yeah, I'm home."

...

Izuku stared anxiously at his table, guilt weighing heavily on his mind. "I need to tell Mom about everything - well, almost everything. One For All, All Might's secret... she doesn't need to worry any more than she already does."

Inko's voice broke his thoughts. "Dinner is almost ready. It's a shame Uraraka won't be joining us; she's a lovely girl." Izuku's mind wandered back to before they entered UA when he would invite Ochako over.

"Maybe I should tell Mom, just rip the bandage off... but I can't tell her now. I'll do it after I go back to school," Izuku thought.

Inko snapped her fingers, bringing her son back to reality. "Honestly, Izuku, you have that same look you had when your father was hiding something."

Izuku's eyes widened. "Wait, you knew Dad was hiding something?"

Inko nodded. "Of course. Izuku, no offence, but you don't get your terrible lying skills from me." She smiled knowingly. "I knew your father better than anyone."

Izuku squirmed in his seat, remembering the painful truth about his father's death. "D-Dad was... good with girls... I-I was kinda hoping you would give me advice for my date with Itsuka tomorrow."

Inko's eyes widened, and tears built up. "MY BABY!" She exclaimed, overcome with emotion.

Izuku thought to himself, "I'll tell her after the first-semester break when I can comfort her like I did when I was 10. If I tell her now, I know she'll pretend to be strong, but she'll be lying. I can't let her go through that alone."

Inko composed herself, smiling through tears. "I-Izuku, you're growing up too fast! First, it's a date, and then I'll be having grandbabies! I'm not ready for that, Izuku. You're still my baby; my baby can't be having babies!"!"

...

"Mom, it's just a date, please stop crying," Izuku pleaded, trying to calm his mother down.

Inko chuckled, wiping away her tears. "That's what I said to my mother, and nine months later, here you are!" she teased, making Izuku's eyes widen in comedic shock.

"Wait, what?!" Izuku asked, still trying to process his mother's joke.

Inko smiled, "Oh, I'm just joking. But seriously, Izuku, I hope you know how to treat a girl on a first date. First, you should never talk about another girl on a date."

Izuku thought for a moment, "I talked about Itsuka with Momo on our date, and she didn't seem to mind."

Inko raised an eyebrow, "Exactly—"

But then her expression turned stern, "Ahem. Izuku." Her voice sent an eerie aura, making Izuku shiver in fear.

"Don't even think about transforming, young man," Inko warned, as Izuku gulped, praying he would be saved.

"Y-Yes, ma'am," he replied, trying to sound obedient.

Inko asked, her eyes still closed, "Why does it sound like you're two-timing? Why were you on a date with Kendo if you already went on a splendid date with the lovely Yaoyorozu?"

Izuku explained, "Itsuka told me she liked me, and Momo invited me to an event. I felt guilty, not wanting Kendo to think I didn't like her, but also wanting to attend the event with Momo, so I asked Kendo on a date." He said in a rapid succession. Inko blinked in surprise.

Inko contemplated, her eyes still closed, "I see. You are your father's son."

...

As they sat down to eat dinner, Inko's expression turned stern, her brow furrowed in concern. "Dammit, Hisashi!" she exclaimed, her voice laced with a mix of frustration and worry.

Izuku, sensing his mother's tension, fidgeted with his chopsticks, his eyes darting towards her. "Well, I know you wouldn't hurt any of these girls, so be careful, dear," Inko continued, her voice softening slightly as she gazed at her son.

Izuku blushed, his eyes dropping to his plate as he mumbled, "I-It's not like that; we're just friends. I mean, we did kiss, but it—" He trailed off, sensing his mother's growing unease.

Inko's eyes widened, her hands hovering over her mouth as if to stifle a gasp. "You kissed?! My baby had his first kiss!" Tears pricked at the corners of her eyes, her voice trembling with emotion.

Izuku squirmed in his seat, his face burning with embarrassment. "I-I mean, uh... Can we please change the subject?" he pleaded, trying to deflect his mother's attention.

Inko's expression turned stern once more, her eyes narrowing as she asked, "Oh, I heard you encountered the Hero Killer. You're not injured?" Her voice was laced with worry, her hands clenched into fists as if bracing herself for the worst.

Izuku nodded, taking a bite of his food to avoid meeting his mother's intense gaze. "Actually, I got out of that without a scratch."

As they continued eating, Inko's eyes never left her son's face, her expression a mix of concern and pride. Izuku, sensing her gaze, began to fidget once more, his eyes darting towards her as he recounted his week.

Inko's expression grew more and more worried, her hands fluttering over her mouth as if to stifle her gasps. She listened intently, her eyes welling up with tears as Izuku told her about Seijaku Gakuen Academia and his heroic actions.

As he finished his story, Inko's face crumpled, tears streaming down her face as she exclaimed, "Izuku, I am so proud of you! Izuku, you saved all those children. You're not a parent, so you can't understand how much you helped those children. But maybe one day, when you have your own, you'll realize your impact."

Inko wiped her tears, her voice still trembling with emotion. "Oh, it seems you finished your plate. You should get ready to take a bath. I'll clean up."

...

Izuku relaxed in his bath, soothing his aching muscles after a gruelling week of internships, training with Miruko, and his adventures in Undertown, Hosu, and Seijaku. His phone suddenly broke the silence, and he looked at it in confusion before picking it up. His face began to turn red as he saw the text message from Setsuna.

{Setsuna: Hey, Midoriya}

Izuku, not seeing a problem, began to text back.

{Izuku: Hey Setsuna, did you need something?}

{Setsuna: What can't I just text you?}

Izuku became flustered, his face growing redder by the second.

{Izuku: Wait, that's not what I meant! Sorry, I just meant you don't usually text me, that's all.}

Setsuna chuckled on the other end of the text, amused by Izuku's reaction.

{Setsuna: Just kidding, dude! Man, your face is all red from embarrassment right now, isn't it?}

Izuku's blush deepened.

{Izuku: I'm not! I'm just surprised, that's all.}

{Setsuna: Mhm. Kinda thought you would be stuttering over text. You know, u-uh wh-wha?!}

{Izuku: I don't stutter over text!... Anymore.}

{Setsuna: Yeah, Yui told us about your endless stuttering over text; it was kinda cute.}

Izuku's face grew even redder.

{Setsuna: So... what are you up to right now?}

Izuku's face turned bright red as he hesitated to respond to Setsuna's question. He didn't want to admit he was taking a bath, fearing she would tease him mercilessly. But his delayed response only made things worse. As Setsuna called him and he picked up the phone in his panic.

"Since you were taking too long, I just assumed you were doing something totally embarrassing... like jerking off," Setsuna said with a giggle.

Izuku's eyes widened in horror as he stuttered out a denial. "I-I-I wouldn't do that! Let alone answer the phone!"

Setsuna chuckled. "Pfft! Relax, dude. If you were wondering, I'm taking a bath right now."

Izuku's face burned with embarrassment as he imagined Setsuna naked. "N-No, Izuku! Stop thinking of Setsuna like that!" he scolded himself.

But it was too late. He had already spoken his thoughts aloud. "I-I said that out loud, didn't I?" he asked, mortified.

Setsuna burst out laughing. "Oh, Midoriya! I didn't think you were a perv! I knew someone as innocent as you couldn't be all so innocent."

As they both realized their phones had switched to a video call, they froze in embarrassment. Izuku's eyes widened as he saw Setsuna's naked form, her hair wet and sticking to her skin. He quickly looked away, but not before catching a glimpse of her bright red face.

Meanwhile, Setsuna's eyes scanned Izuku's bathroom, taking in the sight of him submerged in water up to his neck, his face beet red. She quickly covered her own face with her hands, trying to hide her embarrassment.

Both of them tried to hide under the water, but their embarrassment was palpable. Izuku's shoulders shook with suppressed laughter, while Setsuna's body language screamed mortification. She crossed her arms over her chest, trying to cover herself, while Izuku's hands hovered around his face, as if trying to erase his own embarrassment.

After a few moments of awkward silence, they both slowly emerged from the water, still trying to compose themselves. "Guh... video call..." Izuku muttered, his face still red.

Setsuna giggled, her face still flushed. "Yeah... sorry about that."

As they continued talking, they both tried to move past the embarrassment, but their body language still betrayed their discomfort. Izuku's hands fidgeted with the water, while Setsuna's eyes darted around the screen, avoiding direct eye contact.

A few minutes later, they both composed themselves, still on the phone. Izuku's face still felt warm from the earlier embarrassment. "So, how was your internship?" he asked, trying to sound casual.

Setsuna chuckled. "Oh, you know. My mentor wasn't thrilled that I ditched him for an entire night." She giggled. "I have a feeling he won't be sending me on another one next time."

Izuku apologized, still feeling a bit flustered. "Sorry..."

Setsuna waved it off. "No need to apologize, I learned a lot and got some great experience under Miruko's guidance for a day." This brought a smile to Izuku's face as he remembered their adventures in Undertown.

"But enough about me," Setsuna said, curiosity in her voice. "How was your internship? I heard you fought the hero killer and snuck into a school?"

Izuku took a deep breath, launching into the story of his eventful week. "Y-Yeah... well, it started when I saved Iida, Uraraka, and Jirou in Hosu City..." He recounted his night of heroics, meeting Aoi, and sneaking into Seijaku Gakuen Academia, where he discovered the mysterious journal with the initials M.M.

As he spoke, Setsuna listened intently, asking questions and making supportive noises. Izuku felt his embarrassment fade away, replaced by excitement and gratitude for sharing his experiences with his friend.

...

"Guy sounds like a total creep!" Setsuna shuddered, her voice filled with distaste. "It almost makes me thankful we have Mineta..." She gagged, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "I think I just threw up in my mouth."

As she spoke, she got dressed in her nighttime outfit, consisting of dark blue shorts and a dinosaur-themed shirt with a night-themed green design, matching her vibrant hair colour. Her phone was on speaker mode, and she moved around her room, getting comfortable.

"Yeah, at least Mineta can chalk it up to pervy comments, not sucking their... energy, I guess?" Izuku said over the phone, his voice laced with amusement.

Setsuna chuckled, grabbing her phone and jumping onto her bed. She turned off the speaker mode, holding the phone to her ear. "How do you keep getting yourself into so much trouble, Izuku? I feel like if my eyes leave you alone for a second, boom! You're in trouble again."

She settled into her bed, got cozy, and continued talking to Izuku, her voice filled with a mix of concern and teasing.

Inko was about to knock and tell him dinner was ready but stopped when she heard a girl's voice and from her tone and Izuku's tone she couldn't help but internally squealed. "My baby Izuku is making so many friends I've never heard him so happy!"

Before she cupped her chin. "Okay not true he always seems happy when his with Ochako, Kendo and his teacher Toshinori sensei oh and when he's talking about heroes."

Setsuna and Izuku chatted long into the night, exchanging stories and laughter.

"Hey, what's your favourite food?" Setsuna asked, her voice sleepy but curious.

"Uh, ... Kastudon? Mom makes the best, " Izuku replied, his voice hesitant.

Setsuna giggled. "That's so simple, but I love it. Mine's pizza."

As they talked, their conversation flowed easily, discussing their favourite movies, TV shows, and even their favourite heroes.

But as the night wore on, Setsuna's responses grew shorter, her voice softer. Izuku didn't notice at first, too caught up in their conversation. He found out that Setsuna's favourite movie was something called Jurassic Park.

Izuku's eyes widened in surprise. "Jurassic Park...? I don't think I've heard of it before." He admitted, his curiosity piqued.

Setsuna's voice rose in incredulity. "What?! You've never heard of Jurassic Park?! It's a classic! I know it's from centuries ago, but come on!"

Izuku's confusion deepened. "Is it anything like Quirkassic Park or Prehistoric Park?" He asked, trying to make a connection.

Setsuna chuckled. "Those are just remakes of the original. Since the original is over a hundred years old, they remade it. But I still have the original film... and I was wondering if... Do... you wanna watch it with me?" Her voice trembled slightly.

Izuku's eyes lit up. "A movie from the pre-Quirk era? Those are super rare! Of course, I want to watch it with you!"

Setsuna's voice took on a playful tone, and though Izuku couldn't see her, he could sense her blushing. "We can cuddle up in bed, and I'll curl up with you while we watch this scary movie."

Izuku's face turned crimson as he quickly became flustered. "I-I don't know if that's such a good idea..." He stuttered, his heart racing at the suggestion.

"Hey, Setsuna, what do you think about...?" Izuku started to say but trailed off as he heard a gentle snoring sound coming from the other end of the line.

He smiled, realizing Setsuna had fallen asleep. "I guess I talked you to sleep, huh?" he whispered, chuckling.

Izuku listened for a moment longer, feeling a warmth in his heart as he heard Setsuna's light snores. Izuku smiled before ending the call. He's heart fluttered a little. However unlike Setsuna he couldn't get to sleep.

...

Izuku lay awake, staring at the ceiling as his mind replayed the week's events. Setsuna's conversation had temporarily distracted him, but now his thoughts flooded back. "This week has been one thing after another..." He trailed off, processing everything he'd seen.

He realized his perception of a perfect utopian society had been shattered. "I used to think our society was flawless, that All Might had eradicated crime... but now I see." Memories of Seijaku Gakuen Academia and its students' struggles haunted him. "Society isn't the perfect utopia I believed in for so long."

His thoughts turned to heroes, once his role models. "I thought they were righteous beings who could do no wrong... I always wanted to be a hero, someone who saves people with a smile." But Stain's victims, the heroes who abused their power, and Endeavor's true nature now tainted his view.

"I thought Endeavor was a cool hero, his Hell Flame is incredible... but his personality always rubbed me the wrong way," Izuku admitted. "But knowing what he's done, and the other heroes who might get away with similar things or worse due to their high status... it's unsettling."

That left a bad taste in his mouth. Izuku's anger grew as he thought about the principal and the heroes who had enabled him. "Why does someone's Quirk have to matter? Why do you have to have a powerful Quirk to be considered useful? And it's not like those with powerful Quirks are all righteous... "

He then thought about Stain and his twisted crusade. After he heroes of who are supposed to take care of the Seijaku district, he couldn't help but agree on some level."No, I don't agree with Stain's methods. Murdering people just because they don't fit your worldview is wrong. I met Ingenium, he's a good guy who didn't deserve to die. And Ochako, she's a true hero who fought to protect others, despite Stain's twisted beliefs."

Izuku's frustration turned to disgust as he thought about the heroes and authorities who had turned a blind eye to Seijaku's wrongdoings. "Those heroes and police who ignored the school's problems... they're just as guilty. They allowed a toxic environment to thrive, they allowed everyone to get the way just because they were paid off!" He sighed as he thought the consequences of their inaction were severe.

The heroes who had turned a blind eye faced public scrutiny and lost the trust of the people. The police officers who had ignored the school's issues were facing internal investigations and disciplinary actions. The government was forced to take action, launching a full-scale investigation into the school and its enablers. This eased him a bit but not by much.

As he thought about Stain and his ideal and he would have probably murdered the heroes. But in some way, they justified Stain's ideology that not all heroes deserve the title.

Izuku's thoughts swirled with frustration as he pondered Stain's twisted ideology. "He was a murderer, but... he had a point. Not all heroes deserve the title." Izuku's face contorted in disgust. "Pro heroes and police turned a blind eye to the school's atrocities just because the victims weren't strong or powerful. They let it happen because they were bribed! How could they be so easily swayed by money?"

Izuku's anger simmered as he struggled with the moral implications. "I'm conflicted... those heroes were corrupt, abusing their status to exploit others. Killing them is wrong, but... I think about their victims, probably relieved that their tormentors are gone." He sighed, his gaze drifting upward as he thought about the parents who had bowed to him, grateful for his heroism.

"I don't condone murder, but... I understand why Stain thought it was necessary. The system failed, and those heroes became villains in their own right. But that doesn't justify taking lives. There must be a better way to hold them accountable, how to make them true heroes again." Izuku's thoughts trailed off, his mind still grappling with the complexities of heroism and morality. He sighed.

"I just want to do more. I need to do more, I can't just sleep knowing there are heroes who abuse their powers like that victims of this society."Izuku thought in frustration wanting to do more.

"Maybe if I become the number one hero, the symbol of Peace, I can do more... More than just fighting villains. Maybe I... I can I don't know create real change, hold heroes accountable for their actions, and help people that go beyond than just saving the day. "Izuku thought as he rubbed the Omnitrix feeling One For All coarsed through his veins.

"Our society isn't perfect, but maybe I can... change society." Izuku's eyes widened as he sat up, his thoughts gaining momentum. "Maybe I can stop heroes from doing unheroic things. Maybe I can hold them accountable. I can change society so people see being a hero as more than just a profession. When they put on a cape, they can be heroes like All Might - not in strength obviously, but in character. Maybe I can..." Izuku cupped his chin, his mind racing with the possibilities.

Izuku's thoughts swirled with a growing sense of purpose. "I know All Might is a symbol of Peace and has brought peace to our society, but despite that, crime still plagues the world. It's still rampant everywhere... Maybe my scope is too narrow. Maybe I don't just have to help people in one country, but globally! Maybe I can make a difference on a larger scale, and improve lives everywhere... So no one has to suffer like Aoi did." His mind raced with the possibilities of a broader impact.

"I can help everyone, not just people in Japan, but all over the world," Izuku said, his eyes gazing up at the stars as if envisioning a global impact. But as he lay back and stared at his ceiling, his thoughts were abruptly halted by a wave of self-awareness. He couldn't help but chuckle at his own naivety, realizing how childish and grandiose his dreams sounded. Yet, despite the initial embarrassment, a spark of determination remained, refusing to be extinguished.

"Change society? Me? I sound like a total naive idiot. How can I help everyone? How can I hold heroes accountable? It's ridiculous. I'm just one person. Stop it, Izuku. Just like All Might has his grand ideals, it's okay to dream big but be realistic. Make your goals attainable," Izuku chided himself, shaking his head. But then he remembered his own impossible dream from childhood - becoming a hero without a Quirk.

Everyone had said it was impossible, but he had refused to listen. And now, here he was, with One For All coursing through his veins. And the Omnitrix stuck to his wrist. Sure he didn't make being a quirkless hero a reality but that goal despite being impossible, always dreamed big.

"I was quirkless, and I still wanted to be a hero. Everyone thought I was crazy, or said my dream was unattainable but I didn't let that stop me. So why give up on this dream now? Why not aim for the impossible again?" Izuku's thought reignited, his voice filled with conviction.

"I-I know it sounds impossible. I know I sound super childish. I know it may be an unattainable goal but... I have to at least try." Izuku thought a determined look as he closed his eyes resolving to himself that he would strive to reach it. As he drifted to sleep a question plagued his mind.

"What kind of symbol do I want to be...?"

...

Thanks for reading! Please leave a review and let me know:

What you thought of the latest chapter

Your favorite ship or moment

How I can improve the story

What you're excited to see next

Any other thoughts or feedback!"

Guest:: Thank you! The final sequence was my favorite to write.

Yeet6345: Feedback and RipJaws? I'll probably put them after the final Exams.

Guest G: Thank you! I'll see maybe in future chapters they will make small cameos seeing if they alright.

CRabbit348665: Some of them were already blacklisted but now... Anyway I hope you enjoyed it.