Chapter 3: Bluntness.

The next day...

Izuku yawns as he walks towards the classroom. Last night had been a bit boring, but it had picked up a little at the end with his little chat with Momo.

It was relieving to see that she cared about him so much.

Still, he felt like... he didn't care much about it.

Her words certainly had an impact on him, but... they didn't quite... "reach" him.

This was weird. Ever since he got hit by that villain's attack, he'd felt like most things didn't even faze him. Momo's words, his date with Itsuka, his confession to Uraraka and subsequent rejection... He would have freaked out by all of this in the past, but all he could feel now was...

Meh.

Izuku pulls out his phone and searches for Itsuka's number in hopes of entertaining himself until he arrived to the 1-A classroom. After a moment of thinking, Izuku types the first thing that comes to his mind.

Smol-Might: Heya, Itsuka.

After staring at his phone for a minute or so, Itsuka responds.

Miss-Handy: Hey, Izuku! What's up?

Smol-Might: I'm bored.

Miss-Handy: Bored? Aren't you in class right now?

Miss-Handy: Don't tell me you skipped class again!

Smol-Might: Nah, I'm just a little late.

Smol-Might: But I'm still bored.

Smol-Might: Wanna talk while I get to the classroom?

Miss-Handy: Izuku! I'm in class right now!

Smol-Might: Oh.

Smol-Might: Why did you answer my text, then?

There's a long pause before Itsuka answers again.

Miss-Handy: I dunno... Guess I like talking to you.

Smol-Might: Meh.

Smol-Might: Thanks, I guess.

Miss-Handy: Still! I can't keep doing this for much longer!

Smol-Might: Gotcha.

Smol-Might: How about we see each other after class?

Smol-Might: You know.

Smol-Might: For a second date.

Another long pause ensues before Itsuka answers again.

Miss-Handy: ... alright.

Smol-Might: Cool.

Smol-Might: See you at the gym.

Miss-Handy: Wait... Why the gym?

Smol-Might: Yesterday you told me you liked to train after class, remember?

Miss-Handy:... Guess I did say that.

Smol-Might: Sweet.

Smol-Might: It's settled, then.

Izuku immediately places his phone back in his pocket, not really caring if Itsuka has answered back or not.

The classroom was coming into his view anyways.

Izuku groans quietly. 'Fine... Guess I have to do this today. Wonder how much Aizawa is gonna scold me.'

When Izuku enters the room, he sees that his classmates are all already there, sparing him occasional glances.

Judging by the expressions of their faces, he could see that they were all worried about him, but no one dared come close to him.

Were they scared of him?

Izuku mentally shrugs as he sits down on his desk.

After a few moments, Aizawa enters the room, addressing the class with his usual stern demeanor. "Settle down. We need to start, and we're already losing time."

The moment Aizawa speaks, every student rushes to their seats immediately.

Aizawa locks eyes on Izuku upon spotting him. "Ah, problem child. You're here."

Izuku rolls his eyes. "Indeed I am."

Aizawa supresses a sigh. "Mind explaining why you weren't in class yesterday?"

The class turns to look at Izuku, shifting uncomfortably.

Momo speaks hesitantly. "Um, Aizawa-sensei... maybe we could let it slide, just this once? Midoriya's been a little... different lately. You know, after that mission with Endeavor..."

Aizawa supresses a groan again, thinking that Momo is trying to cover for Izuku. "I'm aware of his condition, Yaoyorozu. But that doesn't mean he's excused from training, or that I'm excused from doing my job. I've been informed that Midoriya is in perfect physical condition, so he should have no excuse to have skipped classes yesterday. Besides..." Aizawa directs his attention back to Izuku. "I'd like to hear it from him."

Izuku looks at Aizawa without his usual worry or hesitation, meeting Aizawa's gaze calmly.

Izuku shrugs, tilting his head. "Meh. I didn't feel like coming."

Aizawa frowns. "And...?"

Izuku shrugs again. "And that's it."

Aizawa narrows his eyes, clearly displeased. "I don't know exactly what's gotten into you or the exact details about the villanous quirk that affected you, but ignoring your duties because you 'don't feel like it' isn't the behavior of a hero, let alone someone who's supposed to be setting an example."

Izuku leans back a bit, looking at Aizawa with a distant yet steady gaze. "And who are you setting an example for, Aizawa-sensei?"

Aizawa is caught off guard by the question.

Izuku keeps speaking. "You're strict, more than anyone I know. Tough love is your thing, right? But have you ever thought about how that affects us? You push us to be better, but you also push us to the point of breaking. Sometimes... it feels like you're trying to make us just as broken as you are."

The room goes silent.

Class 1-A looks on, stunned by the harshness of Izuku's words.

Aizawa's voice is cold yet measured. "And you think I don't know the risks of my approach?"

Izuku nods with the same blank expression. "Oh, I'm sure you do, and I admire you for it, really. You care about us. But you're flawed, Aizawa-sensei..."

Everyone stiffens.

"... and not in the way you probably think is 'necessary.' You're stubborn, distant... and if I'm being honest, sometimes you're just cruel. You get so caught up in teaching us to survive that you forget we're still people who need support, not just training."

Izuku's words hit Aizawa harder than expected, though he does his best to remain unaffected.

Aizawa speaks with a tense edge in his voice. "You think you understand the responsibility I carry, problem child? Keeping you all alive and prepared for what's out there isn't just about 'support', it's survival."

Izuku nods, unconcerned as a faint smirk crosses his face. "Maybe that's true. But I think you should be the one getting scolded for not balancing it better. We're all training to be heroes, but sometimes it feels like you're preparing us to be soldiers in your personal war against the world. And that's... not really fair, is it?

Aizawa clenches his fists, visibly uncomfortable as the class remains in stunned silence.

Izuku looks to his desk again. "Anyways, that's why I was absent yesterday. One day off wasn't going to ruin my training either way. And... honestly? I was getting a bit tired of... this. Needed a break."

Aizawa's expression hardens as he tries to remain calm. "Midoriya, that's not how a hero should think. You don't get to choose when and where you're needed. And skipping class isn't a decision you're allowed to make so nonchalantly. We all have our own battles to fight, but we don't let those interfere with our responsibilities."

Izuku leans back in his chair, his gaze uncharacteristically steady. "That's exactly the problem, Aizawa-sensei. You treat everything like it's life or death, like if we don't push ourselves to the absolute limit every day, we'll fail. But sometimes, that's too much. You push us so hard that we can barely breathe. And all for what? So we end up as worn out as you?"

Aizawa stiffens, but his voice remains calm, though with an edge. "And how do you think you'll survive as a hero if you're not prepared for that? I'm not pushing you to break you, Midoriya. I'm doing it so you'll have the strength to handle whatever comes your way. You can't become strong by avoiding the difficult parts."

"I get that, but you're missing something, Aizawa-sensei. We're not just your students or future soldiers in some war. We're people. And the way you treat us, you act like we're all just tools to be sharpened until we're perfect weapons. It's like you've forgotten what it means to be human yourself."

The class gasps softly at Izuku's words.

Aizawa's jaw clenches, but he stays silent, absorbing the critique.

After a moment, Aizawa speaks again, softer but resolute. "If I've forgotten what it means to be human, Midoriya, it's because I can't afford to put my own feelings above what's necessary. Sacrifice is part of this life. We make difficult choices not because we want to, but because we have to."

Izuku raises an eyebrow, undeterred. "But that's just it, sensei. You expect us to make sacrifices and to give up parts of ourselves like we're supposed to think that's normal. You don't realize the pressure you put on us. Your 'tough love' makes us stronger, but it also wears us down. Sometimes, it feels like you're preparing us to lose ourselves, just like you did."

The room falls silent.

Aizawa's face is unreadable as he considers Izuku's words. "Do you really think I'm trying to make you into something you shouldn't be?"

Izuku nods. "I think you're trying to make us into people like you. And honestly... that's not necessarily a good thing. You're strong, but you're also... lonely. Burdened. And maybe you're okay with that, but we're not. I'M not, at least."

Aizawa seems taken aback by Izuku's words, his hardened exterior cracking just slightly.

After a moment, Aizawa straightens up, clearing his throat. "Alright, Midoriya. I understand... 'some' of your points, but skipping class isn't something I can overlook, regardless of your 'insight.' Head to the principal's office at once. We'll discuss your... comments further when you return."

Izuku stands up, unfazed, and gives a little nod. "Meh, sure. If I'm going to be honest, it was probably worth it."

Izuku leaves the room without another word.

The class sits in stunned silence, and Aizawa takes a moment to collect himself before resuming the lesson, though his gaze occasionally drifts toward the door, considering Izuku's words more deeply than he'd like to admit.

After a few minutes, Izuku reaches Principal Nezu's office.

Izuku knocks on the door three times, and after a moment, the principal's voice emerges from the other side of the door. "Come in, please."

Izuku pushes the door open and enters the room nonchalantly.

Principal Nezu is already seated behind his desk, a steaming cup of tea in front of him, and another set aside, ready for his visitor.

He gestures for Izuku to sit, smiling warmly. "Ah, Midoriya! Please, have a seat. You came at a very well-timed moment! I took the liberty of preparing some tea, an excellent blend, actually. I think you'll enjoy it."

Izuku sits down, glancing at the tea without much expression. "Thanks, Principal Nezu. Tea sounds... fine, I guess."

Nezu pours Izuku a cup, passing it across the desk. "I heard about what happened to you. Are you alright?"

"Yup."

"Do you feel... comfortable?"

"Meh. Neither one or the other."

Nezu observes him keenly, his small dark eyes glinting with a mixture of curiosity and amusement. "You know, Midoriya, I've always appreciated how insightful you are. But I must say, this... change in you is most fascinating. It's like speaking with a completely different person, yet somehow, not different at all."

Izuku shrugs, taking a sip of his tea with a detached air. "It's just the same old me... only without all the usual... emotions or whatever. Nothing really matters that much right now, so I can just... say things as they are. I'm not worried about what people think or what could go wrong."

Nezu smiles in intrigue before taking a sip of his tea. "I'm assuming that's the same reason you're in my office right now, isn't it?"

Izuku nods. "It is. Aizawa-sensei tried to scold me for skipping class yesterday, so I weighed my options. I chose to speak up my admirations and frustrations about him, and he didn't seem to take it kindly. Still, what was the worst thing that could have happened to me? All I did was say the truth. As I suspected, he sent me here with you, sir. Still, I said everything I've always wanted to say to him, and I don't regret it."

Nezu nods. "How... liberating, wouldn't you say? To act without the restraint of fear or concern? I can't help but envy you a little. Imagine all the things one could accomplish with such unfiltered clarity!"

Izuku tilts his head. "Unfiltered clarity? Huh. That's one way of putting it, I guess."

Nezu leans forward slightly. "Tell me, how has this new state affected the way you view your motivations? Your motives? What about your goals?"

Izuku pauses, staring blankly for a moment. "It's weird. My goals... I still remember them, and I know why I had them, but I don't feel the drive to do anything about them. I used to be so focused on becoming the Number One Hero, helping people, saving them. But now... it's like I can see all the reasons, but none of the reasons actually matter to me."

Nezu listens intently, nodding in understanding, though his eyes are glinting with interest. "Hmm... it sounds as though you're experiencing a form of detachment. You're aware of your purpose, your motivations, but without the emotions behind them, they feel hollow. Fascinating..."

Nezu pauses, tilting his head. "Tell me, do you miss feeling that drive? Or is even that beyond you now?"

Izuku considers this for a moment before shrugging. "I guess I don't really care. Missing it would mean feeling like something's wrong or missing a part of myself. But right now... I just don't care. Even if I know something's not the way it used to be, it doesn't feel important. I used to worry about a lot of things, but... now it just feels... a bit emptier inside me."

Nezu leans back in his chair, sipping his tea thoughtfully. "Empty... Yes, I can understand why that might be troubling to those around you. Do you suppose this feeling, or rather, this lack of feeling, might impact the way you approach your hero work? Or your relationships with others?"

Izuku takes another sip of tea, his tone calm. "Probably? I mean, I told Aizawa exactly what I thought of him just now, and... it felt easy. Before, I would've been terrified to say even half of that. But without the fear of hurting anyone or the need to hold back, I just... told him. And, honestly, it felt better. More honest with himself and with him."

Nezu's eyes sparkle with intrigue, clearly fascinated by Izuku's observations. "I see. Blunt honesty without inhibition... it's quite a rare perspective, Midoriya. There's a certain purity to it, don't you think? So few of us get to say what we truly think without worrying about the consequences. I imagine it's quite... refreshing."

Izuku nods, not entirely disagreeing. "I guess. But I don't think I'd want to stay like this forever. There's something... unsettling about not caring. When I think of my friends or family, I know they're important to me, but right now... it's all logical. Like, 'Yes, these people are in my life, they matter.' But the feeling's just... gone. I don't feel that warmth I used to."

Nezu smiles thoughtfully, tapping his paw on the desk. "That warmth is part of being human, or, I suppose in my case, part of being... alive. Emotions are often the bridge between our goals and our actions. They fuel our instincts and drive us to persevere even when things seem insurmountable. But here you are, analyzing this state with a remarkable clarity that few people would have. Do you ever wonder how your friends see you right now?"

Izuku shrugs. "When I came into the classroom everyone seemed scared of me, but their expressions told me that they were still worried about me. They probably think it's weird... or maybe scary. They're used to me worrying about everything and being there for everyone. Now, I don't really feel like doing that. It's not that I want to push them away or anything, it's just that, right now, their opinions and reactions don't really... affect me."

Nezu nods slowly. "Yes, I can imagine that would be rather unsettling for them. But for what it's worth, I appreciate your honesty, Midoriya. There's something refreshing in having a straightforward conversation without concern for social conventions. It's rare to find someone who can think so freely, even if it is due to a quirk-induced state."

Izuku nods, glancing at his tea. "Thanks, I guess. But it's strange... everyone else seems so bothered by it, but you seem... well, pretty okay with it."

Nezu smiles knowingly. "Well, perhaps it's because I've often been regarded as an outsider myself. Intelligence and logic are useful tools, but they sometimes create a distance from others. People don't always understand an analytical mind, and that can be... isolating."

Izuku nods, understanding that feeling all too well due to his quirkless past and his many days of analyzing pro hero quirks while being mocked by it.

Nezu sips his tea. "But we're both aware that emotions are important, even if we don't always let them govern us. And in your case, I suspect your emotions will return in time. Until then, I think you might find value in observing this unique state... as a learning experience, if nothing else.

Izuku nods slowly, a hint of interest sparking in his otherwise dull expression. "I hadn't thought about it that way. I guess... as long as I'm like this, I can learn things that maybe I wouldn't if I had my emotions. Maybe I can understand people better... like you, or even Aizawa-sensei. I mean, he's always so closed off, but maybe he feels the same way you described, isolated."

Nezu nods. "Precisely, Midoriya. You're experiencing a rare detachment that most people might not understand, but that could grant you insights into yourself and those around you. And when your emotions eventually return, I believe you'll come back with a far greater understanding of what drives you and the people around you."

Nezu lifts his teacup, toasting lightly to Izuku's, who clinks it with his own cup in a rare, small moment of shared understanding.

The rest of the day passes as Nezu and Izuku continue their conversation, analyzing everything from heroism to human nature, with Nezu enthusiastically embracing the opportunity to share a candid exchange with someone who speaks without restraint.

As the conversation continues, Nezu gains a deeper understanding of the effects of Izuku's quirk-induced state, while Izuku gains new perspectives on himself and those around him.

Eventually, Nezu looks at the clock and sees that it's time for Izuku to return to the dorms. "Oh, my. Seems like we lost track of time."

Izuku places down his cup of tea. "Indeed we did. Ether way, thanks, Principal Nezu. This has been terribly enlightening."

Nezu nods. "No problem, Midoriya. Come see me again sometime in the future."

Izuku nods, a faint smile forming on his lips. "Will do, Principal Nezu."

Izuku stretches as he walks through the lonely hallways of U.A towards the gym, his expression as calm and composed as ever.

He DID ask Itsuka out on a second date in there, after all.

Just as he rounds the corner, he sees All Might looking for him, visibly tense. 'Oh, great...'

The moment All Might spots him, he strides over quickly, his eyes full of concern.

All Might's tone is urgent, barely containing his worry. "Young Midoriya! Where have you been? I've been looking all over for you! You missed training again! Are you alright? What happened?"

Izuku meets All Might's concerned gaze with an unbothered calm. "I was talking with Principal Nezu. He wanted to ask me some questions, so I went. That's all."

All Might sighs, his shoulders relaxing slightly in relief but then tensing up again. "You missed training two days in a row, young man. You can't afford to be skipping it, not with how important it is to master One for All. This quirk is no small responsibility. You've got to take it seriously, every single day."

Izuku nods. "I know, but-"

All Might interrupts him. "You know how important it is to be consistent! Mastering One for All requires a steady, disciplined approach. You can't afford to be careless with it."

Izuku supresses a groan. "I get that, but-"

All Might keeps speaking. "One for All isn't just any quirk. It's a legacy that's been entrusted to you. It requires more than just physical training, it needs heart, conviction! You can't lose that passion, my boy. It's part of what makes you who you are."

Izuku looks away for a moment. "My passion is-"

All Might interrupts him yet again. "Young Midoriya... do you realize how dangerous this habit of skipping training is? One for All isn't something that can be handled without... without giving it your all! If you let yourself become complacent, even for a little while, it could put you in serious danger, or worse!"

Izuku groans. "All Might, please stop that."

All Might looks at Izuku with a small surprised expresison. "Huh? Stop what exactly, my boy?"

Izuku waves his hands in front of All Might. "Stop... all of this."

All Might raises an eyebrow. "Stop... worrying about you? Why would I do that, young Midoriya?"

Izuku shrugs. "Guess it just makes me nervous."

All Might frowns softly. "Hm. I'm guessing that villain's quirk affected you more than I thought, young man. You wouldn't be so indifferent about training otherwise."

Izuku nods, his expression still calm and detached. "I know it's important, All Might. But lately, all this... responsibility feels like it's piling up with no end. I feel like every time I make a step forward, I just get reminded of how much further I have to go to be like you."

All Might blinks in surprise, taken aback. "Like me? Young Midoriya, I don't expect you to be me. I just want you to be the best hero you can be."

Izuku's tone is flat, yet piercing. "But it's not just about that, is it? In the future, people will see me as 'All Might's successor.' I know that's what you secretly want too. I know you believe in me, but sometimes it feels like I'm just carrying around the weight of your legacy. There's this pressure to be as good as you, or even better. It's like... like there's this unspoken standard I can't reach, no matter how hard I try."

All Might struggles to find words, clearly pained by Izuku's admission. "Young Midoriya... I never wanted you to feel that way. I... I wanted you to have One for All because I believed in you, because I knew you had the heart to carry it."

Izuku keeps speaking bluntly, his expression blank. "But that's the thing. I don't feel anything about it anymore. It's all become... facts. 'You're the successor. You have to be strong. You have to live up to the legacy.' Honestly, it's exhausting. I've been pushing myself for so long to meet expectations... yours, society's, my own... that I didn't realize how heavy it was until now, when I can finally just... look at it for what it is."

All Might looks at Izuku, deeply concerned. "But... Young Midoriya, this isn't just any quirk. It's a part of who you are now. It's your future, your purpose. Doesn't that mean anything to you?"

Izuku shrugs slightly, his tone unbothered. "Not really. Not right now, at least. Maybe it will again someday, but right now? All of this feels like a burden someone else handed me. And... I know you see me as your successor, All Might. But sometimes, it feels like you're looking at me and hoping to see a version of yourself that you can be proud of."

Izuku felt his heart beating a little faster.

He would never have guessed in a million years that he'd be speaking like this to ALL MIGHT of all people.

And yet...

Despite his mind and heart feeling quite detached, Izuku felt... a small sense of release as the words left his mouth.

All Might visibly winces, the words hitting deeper than he anticipated.

He takes a steadying breath, trying to respond thoughtfully. "I... I didn't realize you felt that way, young Midoriya. It was never my intention to make you feel like you were just... carrying on my story. I chose you because I saw someone with a heart that could give the world something it hadn't seen in a long time. But... maybe I haven't been fair in my expectations."

Izuku nods, his voice steady. "Maybe, maybe not. But it's fine. I'll still do what I need to do with One for All, I just don't feel that weight of purpose you talk about right now. Right now, it's a quirk like any other. I'll work with it, I'll train with it, but I'm not feeling the same drive that you and everyone else expects me to have."

All Might looks down, the emotional weight of Izuku's words settling heavily on him.

For a moment, he seems unsure of how to respond, his legendary resilience and conviction faltering in the face of Izuku's frank honesty.

All Might speaks quietly, almost to himself. "I... didn't realize how much pressure you were under. Thank you for telling me, young Midoriya. Even if it's difficult to hear... I needed to know how this was affecting you. I understand that you don't feel the way you once did, but... you're still the person I believe in, with or without those emotions."

Izuku gives a small nod. "And I get that you're trying to help, All Might. But right now, I need you to understand that pushing me to 'live up' to a legacy just... doesn't mean anything to me today. It feels like everyone's trying to tell me to care about something I just don't feel like caring about right now... You know...?"

All Might nods slowly, processing everything. "Yes... I think I'm starting to. And maybe it's my turn to re-evaluate some things too. I don't want to be another voice that adds to your burden. I just want to be there for you, however you need."

Izuku watches All Might closely, seeing the genuine regret and care in his expression.

Izuku speaks calmly. "Then maybe we both need to look at what we're trying to do here. I'll keep training, All Might, because that's what I do. But maybe you can stop looking at me as the person who's supposed to carry on everything you left behind. It's... too much."

All Might's gaze softens, and he finally nods, a quiet determination in his voice. "You're right. You're not a mirror, Midoriya. You're your own person, and I'll do better to support you as you, not as a version of me. You don't need to be anyone but yourself. I'll always be here for you, no matter what."

Izuku nods, a slight understanding passing between them, though he feels no relief or shift in emotion.

All Might takes a deep breath, watching as Izuku gives him a calm nod before walking away.

As he watches him go, All Might clenches his fists, a new determination settling within him to be the support Izuku truly needs.

"I promise... I'll support you in a more balanced way, young Midoriya."

Izuku enters the gym and spots Itsuka coming out of the changing booth wearing some tight shorts, some platform red converse sneakers, a small blouse and some bandages around her knuckles.

When she spots him, Itsuka waves happily at Izuku. "Hey, Izuku! You actually came!"

Izuku nods nonchalantly. "Why would I not? I know how to keep a promise."

Itsuka chuckles. "I'm kinda concerned about your place of choice for a second date, though. I mean, the gym isn't exactly a 'romantic' place, you know."

Izuku shrugs. "Meh. I don't want you to break your routine for me, Itsuka. Plus, I don't mind coming here. This place is pretty quiet."

Itsuka giggles. "I know, right? How ironic for a hero school to have a gym that's pretty empty most of the time."

Izuku shrugs again, a faint smile forming on his lips for a moment. "Guess that's just how life goes sometimes."

Itsuke points to some dumbbells on the floor with a smile. "Come on, you should get warmed up too! Even just a little training every day makes a difference!"

Izuku stands nearby, hands in his pockets, observing Itsuka train with a slightly raised eyebrow. "Nah, I'm good. I already know my limits and strengths, so I don't see the point today."

Itsuka pauses, blinking in surprise. "You're... You're gonna skip training again?"

Izuku nods, his expression calm and steady. "Yup. I usually train to push myself, but there's no reason to push just for the sake of it. Besides, there's more to improving than overdoing the basics every day."

Itsuka frowns, genuinely puzzled by this logic, though still drawn by his conviction.

Itsuka grabs a dumbbell and starts lifting, giving him a sidelong glance. "I don't know... Training regularily is important. You build stamina, discipline... I mean, isn't that what makes you stronger?"

Izuku shrugs. "Maybe for some people, but I think you're overestimating it. Constantly pushing yourself isn't always the best path, especially if you're doing it for the wrong reasons."

Itsuka slows down, absorbing his words.

Itsuka sets down her weights, looking at him with a curious expression. "What do you mean 'the wrong reasons', huh?"

Izuku crosses his arms, his expression focused but not harsh. "You're really dedicated, Itsuka. But sometimes, it seems like you're more focused on being good enough for other people instead of being happy with who you already are."

Itsuka's breath catches.

His words resonate, linking back to the conversation they held at the ice cream parlor.

She's struck by how perceptive he is, even if he's speaking without much emotion.

Izuku continues speaking. "I'm not saying that training hard is a bad thing, but you don't have to put all that pressure on yourself just to meet everyone else's standards. You're already skilled and respected, Itsuka. Maybe it's time to give yourself a break, don't you think?"

Itsuka stares at him, her usual confidence shaken.

It was as if he was peeling back layers she hadn't even realized she'd built up with every conversation they held.

Itsuka rubs the back of her head. "I... guess I've always felt like I had to keep up, you know? To prove I belong here, especially since I'm not as flashy or powerful as some of the others... I mean, heck! I bet even Monoma could outshine me in every fight if he wanted!"

Izuku nods. "I get that. But you're more than qualified. You don't need to work yourself to exhaustion or prove anything. Overdoing it won't make you stronger if it's only to live up to other people's expectations."

Itsuka looks down, a hint of vulnerability crossing her face.

Izuku's words are hitting her harder than she thought they would, yet they're somehow comforting.

Itsuka speaks softly. "Do you... really think I'm... good enough? Just as I am?"

Izuku nods, his expression steadfast. "Yes. And honestly, it wouldn't hurt if you relaxed once in a while. Maybe it's time to focus a little more on yourself, instead of pushing so hard to be what everyone else expects."

There's a long pause as Itsuka lets his words sink in.

He thinks she's good enough.

He doesn't care about her many defects.

He isn't even lying to make her feel better about herself judging by his lack of emotions or inhibitions.

Itsuka feels her heart fluttering, the crush that had been budding now growing as she takes in his words.

She's never had anyone talk to her like this before. Someone who had a grounded view of her worth.

Itsuka smiles softly. "Thanks, Izuku. I... I really needed to hear that."

Izuku shrugs, unfazed. "No problem. Just don't overdo it. You deserve some time to relax too."

Itsuka's smile widens. "You know, I was right."

Izuku raises an eyebrow. "About what?"

"You're dangerous when you're this honest. I like it, though."

Izuku shrugs. "Meh. I'm just being honest with what I feel like."

Itsuka chuckles. "Still, I'm surprised at how much you're able to observe and analyse! You're pretty damn intelligent!"

Izuku shakes his head. "I'm not smart. Like I said, just good observation skills and quick analysis."

Itsuka lightly elbows Izuku on the side. "And yet, you're like, the best at it!"

Izuku looks away. "I don't know about that, but I think I got good at it after a long time waiting on the sidelines."

Itsuka's smile fades. "Huh? What do you mean by that?"

Izuku's expression remains unbothered. "It means I have experience. My quirk manifested pretty late, and I think you know how people normally treat the quirkless, right?"

Itsuka's eyes show sympathy for Izuku. "You... were bullied?"

Izuku nods and keeps speaking as if this was the most logical thing in the world. "Yes. Since everyone thought I was quirkless, everybody looked down on me and made fun of me for as long as I can remember. I guess I learned to survive thanks to my good observation skills. I got good at observing stuff to survive, you know?"

Itsuka puts her hand on his shoulder while giving him a concerned look. "Izuku... I know you're not able to express much emotion right now thanks to the quirk that affected you, but you can't just talk like this as if it's nothing!"

Izuku shrugs. "It's just how things were, I guess. Since I didn't have a quirk like everybody else, I just stood out in a bad way."

Itsuka feels a pang of sadness and anger on his behalf. "That's... awful, Izuku. How did you deal with it?"

Izuku looks up thoughtfully. "I guess I just got used to it. It's not like I could change who I was. And since I didn't have a quirk, I figured they were right. I mean, if I couldn't even become a hero, what else was I supposed to do? It was just logical to feel... inferior."

Itsuka's heart twists in knots as she takes in his words.

The way he's talking about it so calmly and nonchalantly... it was like he was talking about someone else.

Itsuka leans in, her gaze filled with concern. "Izuku... That's not logical at all. You didn't deserve any of that, quirk or no quirk. You're not inferior to anyone, not even close."

Izuku looks away for a moment. "Meh. I guess it was logical to feel that way back in the day."

Itsuka sighs. "Izuku, let me tell you something personal..."

Izuku tilts his head. "Are you sure, Itsuka?"

Itsuka nods. "You're being open to me, so it's only fair I do the same."

Izuku shrugs. "Alright. If that's what you want."

Itsuka withdraws her hand from Izuku's shoulder. "Well... When I first heard of heroes... When I first got to witness the famous combat hero 'Lawful Arms' fight fist to fist in person... It was amazing! The stunts he pulled were out of this world! My heart burned at the sight so much so that I imagined I was the one doing all the fighting instead of him at one point. Heh, like I plastered my body all over his."

Itsuka chuckled, and Izuku did so softly as well.

It kinda reminded him of the times he pretended to be All Might and rescue his mom when he was little.

Itsuka paused, thinking of the right words to use next.

Izuku took this opportunity to examine her. She was starting to sound different.

"After I got home, I tried to do the same stunts myself... which didn't end well." Itsuka chuckled softly to herself before continuing. "I felt like I could do anything, yet I kept failing to do those tricks and techniques as I kept trying. The next day, other kids from my school were performing those exact same stunts and tricks with little to no sweat."

Izuku raises an eyebrow. "You were worried about someone being better than you?"

"I was worried about everyone being better than me." Said Itsuka, letting a long pause linger after the words leave her mouth. "I kept trying and I kept failing. I could have asked for help, but I was too afraid people would look down on me if I did so."

Izuku nods. "So... Did you give up on your pride and ask for help?"

Itsuka shakes her head. "Nope. I just stopped complaining and kept going."

Izuku tilts his head. "So the point of the story is to never give up?"

"What? No. If I'd stopped feeling threatened by everybody else's talents, then I would have been able to improve my fighting style significantly by asking for help." Itsuka groans. "Now missy-monster-claws-Kendo has an inferiority complex."

Izuku keeps tilting his head, not really understanding the story. "Huh."

Itsuka sighs."Look, Izuku. The point of the story is that you should put your own advice into practice! You're a pretty cool guy, and if others are better than you, then they're just better! And if they're worse, then they're worse! In the end, it's you who you should really worry about. It took me a long time to come to that conclusion and I'm still struggling to fully put it into practice, but it's true."

Izuku shrugs. "Meh. I'm not sure if that could have applied to me, Itsuka."

Itsuka raises an eyebrow. "What do you mean by that?"

Izuku rolls his eyes. "Our cases were pretty different. At least you have the whole 'martial arts thing' going on. Me? I was just a grey blur that no one noticed. No quirk, no special skills, nothing that made me stand out... What I mean to say is that from day one, I never felt like I fit in. Everyone always stood tall with their quirk, while I sat down in the shadows. And, if I ever got to tag along, it felt forced. I was that boy no one wanted to be around, so that's why I stayed behind observing and analyzing everything on my notebooks instead."

Izuku added with a chuckle. "Who needs friends anyways, right?"

Behind Itsuka's eyes, a fire lit, burning away all other emotions.

A fire that Itsuka did her best to maintain from growing, yet it felt incredibly difficult to do so.

Izuku continued. "With my observations came some knowledge and understanding. I don't get as sad or frustrated as I used to, but that wasn't why I observed things, no. The reason I observed was to reach this, level, everyone else was on. But the more I observed, the more I realized: I would never become greater than those I respected. All that was left for me was going back to being looked down on by everyone else."

Izuku's tone remained the same, but the words felt good coming out.

His mind offered no clarity, so he shooed any thinking away.

Izuku stopped talking, sensing that Itsuka was about to speak again. He waited for the verbal lashing she was for sure about to give him.

Though, it didn't come.

After a moment, Izuku saw Itsuka squatting.

Izuku raises an eyebrow. "What are you doing, Itsuka?"

Itsuka smiles reassuringly. "Looking up to you."

Izuku laughs dryly. "Har har."

Itsuka pouts. "No, I'm serious about this."

Izuku shrugs. "If you say so."

Izuku yawns into his hand and looks around. If Itsuka was about to do some cringeworthy thing then he had better things to do.

Sensing his intentions, Itsuka replies. "Not until we solve this."

Izuku looks down to her and nods. "Hm... Alright, then."

Izuku sits on the floor so that he was on the same eye-level as her, which makes Itsuka huff. "Stand up, Izuku."

Izuku shrugs. "Nah, I'm good. When I speak to someone, it feels better if we're both on the same level. Seems more respectful that way."

Itsuka sighs, standing up and offering Izuku a hand.

When Izuku stands up, he speaks with a raised eyebrow. "Itsuka... What did you think of me before... all of this happened?"

Itsuka raises an eyebrow.

Her first instinct was to say the first thing that came to her mind, but the words died as soon as they reached her throat.

Instead, she asked her soul that question.

"Nothing." She answered.

Izuku raises his eyebrows. "Nothing?"

Itsuka nods. "Yeah, nothing. I mean, you were a confusing guy. A bit awkward as far as 'plain-looking dudes' go. You kept to yourself. I couldn't lock down your personality, since there were moments when you acted smart, cool and brave, and others where you muttered to yourself and acted shy. Eh, slightly uncomfortable to be around at times. At the end of the day, almost... forgettable."

Izuku's emotions were still as dull as ever.

However...

He still felt a spike pierce his heart.

Izuku's expression remains as blank as before. "So... Everyone else feels that?"

Itsuka shrugs. "Dunno. You'd have to ask them yourself to know that. But you asked me how I felt about you and I answered your question."

Izuku looks away. "That's cool. Thanks for letting me know. Now, what do you-"

"But that's not how I feel today."

Izuku looks back at her over his shoulder. "Huh?"

Itsuka smiles warmly at him. "Today, I feel like my respect and admiration for you have increased over ten times. I mean, being bullied for all that time and still wanting to be a hero? And ACTUALLY accomplishing that goal? That takes a whole different level of courage. Most people would have given up right there, but you just keep pushing forward. It's like you're constantly fighting against the odds and winning."

Even though he doesn't feel the weight of her words to their full extent, Izuku feels the spike in his heart fading away.

Itsuka continues. "Honestly, I don't think I'd have that same drive if I had been in your shoes. You got this strength that's not just physical, it's all heart, too. It's amazing you managed to keep your spirit so strong despite everything that's happened to you. Now that I understand you a bit better, I have the confidence to say that you don't have to carry everything alone. You don't need to bear the weight of the world by yourself. Someone like you deserves to have someone fighting alongside you, fighting for you just as you've been fighting for yourself and everyone else."

Izuku smiles. "Wow... You really think all of that?"

Itsuka nods. "Yup. You deserve better, Izuku."

Izuku smiles faintly. "Thanks, Itsuka. You know, now that I think about it, you-"

"OI, DEKU!"

And then his faint smile fades instantly at the sight of Bakugo entering the gym.

Itsuka mirrored his less than pleased expression as the blonde stepped closer.

Bakugo crosses his arms. "There you are, nerd! You skipped out on training AND on class again! Don't think you're getting away with this! And what the hell are you doing with this extra of all people?"

Izuku looked up at Bakugo, his expression as calm as ever. "My business with Itsuka only concerns me and her, Bakugo. As for the other thing, I didn't skip because I thought I could 'get away' with it. I just didn't feel like going. Plus, the principal asked me a few questions today, so I went. Besides, I doubt my absence affected anyone too much."

Bakugo's eyes narrowed, a scoff escaping him. "So what, you're just giving up on traning now? Being lazy because you're too 'tired' or because of your 'emotionless' shit? Pathetic."

Izuku tilted his head, his gaze as steady as his tone. "That's an interesting interpretation, but you're overlooking the reality of the situation. Right now, I don't have emotions, so I don't feel compelled by pride or fear of failing. That's not laziness, it's a lack of unnecessary emotional motivations."

Bakugo's fists clenched. "What kind of shitty excuse is that?! Emotions are what push you to be better! To grow! Without them, you're nothing but an empty shell, Deku! Without them, you won't ever be able to surpass me!"

Izuku blinked slowly, then spoke with the same detached tone. "Actually, Bakugo, if you think about it, emotions often cloud your judgment. They lead you to act impulsively and aggressively, which makes it hard for people to take you seriously. If anything, you rely too heavily on your anger. It's like you think brute force is the answer to everything, but it's often counterproductive. That's why I'd like to make fun of you intellectually rather than physically."

Bakugo's scowl deepened, but he remained silent, the comment catching him completely off guard since Izuku had never been one to actually defend himself.

Izuku continued, his tone unchanging. "And your condescending tone doesn't help. You look down on people constantly, as if you're above them, but it just isolates you. You've pushed people away for years, and now you're trying to pretend that your way is the 'right' way, even though most of the time, you just make situations worse."

Itsuka suppressed a smirk, watching as Bakugo's expression fluctuated between shock and anger.

She'd never seen him THIS thrown off-balance before.

Bakugo's voice lowered dangerously. "You really think you've got all your shit figured out, don't you, Deku? What makes you think you understand anything about me, huh?"

Izuku's gaze remained steady. "Because you're becoming predictable, Bakugo. You think showing strength means controlling people with fear and arrogance, but that's not strength. Real strength is in recognizing your limits and working to overcome them without tearing others down in the process."

Bakugo was speechless for a moment, his jaw tightening. "Ugh, shut up! You're reminding me of that gross meatball guy at the provisional license exam! You're just running your mouth because you think you're on the right, don't you?"

Izuku shook his head calmly. "I'm not 'on the right.' I simply don't care about the consequences of speaking the truth right now. And the truth is, for all your claims of superiority, you're just insecure. It's obvious, and your constant need to prove yourself has made it harder for you to connect with anyone."

Itsuka bit back a laugh, amused by Izuku's unfiltered honesty.

Though, a growing part of her felt this conversation was on the brink of escalation.

Bakugo's fists clenched even tighter, a vein visibly throbbing on his temple. "You think you're so wise now, huh?! Just 'cause you can talk without any filter doesn't make you smart, Deku!"

"Maybe not." Izuku replied calmly. "But at least I'm aware of my flaws without needing to put others down to feel better about myself. Until you learn that, Bakugo, you'll keep alienating the people who actually want to help you."

For a moment, silence stretched between them, the tension thick and almost palpable between the two childhood "friends".

Izuku's calm gaze stayed steady as he addressed Bakugo's scowl. "You know, Bakugo, I've always wondered why you act so entitled around me. Maybe because... well, it's kind of a habit for you, isn't it?"

Bakugo's expression darkened, his fists clenched. "Now what the hell are you saying, Deku?"

Izuku's tone was nonchalant, almost indifferent. "I mean, you used to bully me all the time. It only stopped because we came to U.A. So really, it's not like anything's changed between us. You still see me as weak, and you still think it's okay to throw your strength around to prove a point."

There was a stunned silence for a moment.

Itsuka's smile vanished instantly, replaced by a look of shock that quickly morphed into anger as the realization set in. "Wait... WHAT?! HE bullied you, Izuku?! All throughout middle school?!"

Izuku gave a small shrug. "Yes, but it was logical, right? I did say everyone thought I was quirkless back then, so everyone treated me like an afterthought. Especially Bakugo over here, since we both grew up together."

Bakugo's face turned crimson with anger and embarrassment, his fists trembling. "You... I... what the fuck did you just say?!"

Izuku continued, still without a hint of fear or hesitation. "I said you bullied me, Bakugo. Isn't that just the truth?"

Bakugo's rage reached a boiling point. He took a step forward, hand sparking as he raised his fist, his teeth clenched in fury. "You little piece of-"

Izuku's expression remained the same, yet his heart started to race.

What if a fight between him and Bakugo broke out AGAIN?

But before Bakugo could move any closer, Itsuka stepped firmly between them, glaring up at Bakugo with a fierce look that was both protective and unyielding. She raised a hand, palm out, warning him to stop.

"If you want to hit him, you're going to have to go through me first, Firecracker." Itsuka said, her tone deadly serious.

Bakugo makes small explosions on his hands as a warning. "Man Hands... Step. Away. From Deku."

Itsuka growls, not intending to move in the slightest. "Not a chance, bud. Even though he was acting like a prick, he's still my friend and I have his back. By the way, if you lay a hand on me, Bakugo, you'll be expelled. Last I checked, U.A. doesn't tolerate attacking classmates, let alone a girl who's standing up to you."

Bakugo hesitated, his hand still sparking, his jaw clenched tightly as he glared down at her.

For a moment, his anger and frustration held him in place, his pride clearly warring with the threat she presented.

But he lowered his hand slowly, scowling in frustration and defeat, muttering curses under his breath.

Itsuka didn't budge, still watching him closely. "That's what I thought. You can't just push him around anymore."

Bakugo gave her one last glare before turning sharply, storming out of the gym without another word. The door slammed shut behind him, the sound echoing through the quiet room.

Itsuka turned to Izuku, her eyes softening as she placed a hand on his shoulder. "Come on, Izuku. Let's get out of here before he comes back."

Izuku nodded, still calm but looking at her with a faint, thoughtful expression as his heart rate slowed down again. "Thank you, Itsuka. I didn't expect you to defend me like that."

She smiled, though there was a new, fierce determination in her eyes. "No one gets to treat you like that. Not on my watch."

They left the gym together, Itsuka's arm protectively around him as they stepped out onto the quiet corridors of U.A.

Outside, Itsuka and Izuku slowed to a stop, turning to face each other.

Itsuka gave him a soft smile, her usual confidence mingling with something gentler. "Well, Izuku... I guess this is where we say goodnight."

Itsuka chuckles, rubbing the back of her neck. "And, hey, about today... I know it was kind of a surprise that you set this up as a second date that almost ended horribly, but... I liked it. A lot! It was nice to spend time with you like this."

Izuku blinked, watching her carefully. "I'm glad you didn't mind. I just thought... I should show you how much I appreciate you."

A slight blush colored Itsuka's cheeks, but she didn't look away. Instead, she reached out, placing a hand on his shoulder, her gaze steady. "Izuku, I want you to know... no matter what happens, I'll be here for you. You've been through a lot, and you shouldn't have to deal with it all alone. So... if you ever need someone to talk to, or even just someone to listen, I'm right here, okay?"

Izuku nods, absorbing her words, a faint spark of warmth beginning to build inside him. "Thank you, Itsuka. That means... a lot, even if I'm not feeling much these days."

Itsuka smiled, giving his cheek a light peck. "Then it's a promise. We'll get through this, Izuku. And hey, if you ever want to go on yet another one of these surprise dates, I'm game."

For the first time since the villain's quirk had affected him, Izuku felt a faint flutter in his chest, a feeling almost like... excitement.

He didn't fully understand it, but it left him watching her with a quiet sense of awe.

Itsuka steps back with a grin. "Well, see you around, Izuku. Goodnight."

Izuku replies, his voice softer than before. "Goodnight, Itsuka."

She waved, turning to walk away, her figure soon blending into the path ahead.

Izuku stood there for a moment, watching her disappear into the distance, an unusual warmth lingering in his chest.

Izuku places a hand over his heart. 'That's strange.'

Even without his emotions, the feeling persisted.

A gentle reminder of something special, of someone who cared.