When the morning light found Class 1-A, it was time for them to explain what had happened during the attack. Surveillance recordings were still being recovered, as the students sat with a police officer, school counselor, and a parent if they chose to have one present; most did not wish to have one present. After they gave their statements, it was time for them to leave, but none did so until all the others had been cleared. This led to Class 1-A minus Tenya Ida, all walking out of the medical wing as one.

Eri was sitting on Izuku's shoulders, smiling as she held her hands up to the sky, seemingly embracing the sunshine. She was pleased about the new dress that Momo had made for her that morning and was gushing about to the heiress who was walking by her side and to everyone around.

It had been agreed upon that they would all return to the main dorms for much-needed baths and breakfast before some students would spend time with their parents after the previous days' events. The dorms had large gender-separated baths after Himiko and Izuku stopped to grab some clean clothes for themselves; Eri was talking with Koda about learning to speak with the birds. Breakfast was a huge spread of all different kinds of food, with Pancakes and Waffles to avoid fighting.

Parents

The parents were meeting with the school officials and the police and being educated on how to respond to any trauma episodes that were bound to occur at some point. It was hard for the parents to hear that their children had been let alone attacked, but when just the hint of the hell they had gone through to survive was laid at their feet, that broke some of them. Their children's insistence on not going home last night, leaving the facility together, and this breakfast felt absurd to them.

"Yes, what happened yesterday is horrendous beyond words," Midnight said, addressing the parents. "When you fight through something like that, a bond is forged with those at your side. As parents, your instinct is to ensure your child is okay; for them, it is to ensure their teammate is. They need to know they are okay to begin processing what they have gone through. Just as if you were in an accident, most of you would be fretting over your family and loved ones before you sit back and assess yourself."

"It is important not to restrict your children in reaching out to classmates and friends over the weekend," Hound Dog added. "They are reaching out to whom they feel safe with or need comfort from. I understand, as a parent, how hard it is when you want to be the one to provide that comfort and support. But you have to let them come to you when they are ready; it is your job in this process to let them know that you are there to provide them with the support they need when they need it. Do not force your children to share what happened; let them do so if they choose."

"I am here if or when you are ready to talk," Midnight said. "Know this phrase, say it, and practice it. We are also going to offer family counseling as well. This is a lot for you and the others in your family to process, and depending on how this process plays out, it can be very stressful."

"Here are some scenarios you may encounter; let us start with Night Terrors…" Hound Dog said.

Rei

Rei sat at the breakfast table and smiled, doing her best not to let her worry show any more than it had already when she saw Shoto the day prior. When word of the attack reached Rei and Fuyumi, they were the first to arrive due to their proximity, and seeing the flood of emergency transports and students being rushed nearly broke her. Shoto had emerged from the battle much less injured than his classmates, but still, he bore the signs of battle, and the look on his face told her that something had happened that he was struggling with.

Having to sit and wait till she was cleared to see him felt like an eternity when they were given the okay; Rei couldn't hold back the flood of emotion as she just held Shoto and cried. The terror she felt thinking that he may have been taken from her just when they had been brought back to each other flooded out as she held him.

It took 10 minutes before she could calm down, and when she finally pulled away, Shoto placed his hand on her cheek. "It is okay, Mom, I am okay," Shoto said, trying to smile for her. As Rei composed herself further, Fuyumi was able to start getting some of the details out of him. His fighting had gone rather well until he made it to the entrance. Then, it was pure chaos, being teleported into a group of villains and fighting his way out of it. However, what weighed on his mind was his assistance in aiding Izuku in permanently eliminating a villain.

"Did you know what he would do when you held him?" Fuyumi asked.

"No, exactly, but I had an idea," Shoto said, his hand at his chin in thought.

"If you knew for sure, would you have not done it?" Fuyumi pressed.

Shoto stopped and thought about it, "Yes." He answered, his voice unmistakable. "I trust him, but I want to know why and asking at that moment was not the right time."

"Then you should ask him," Fuyumi said, though her voice was unsure.

"I will, thank you, Fuyumi," Shoto said as he left the room. Rei was about to stop him, but she stopped herself.

"He trusts him?" Rei said quietly.

Fuyumi paused, "I trust him also." Rei looked at Fuyumi in surprise. "Izuku has spent his life being used; I don't believe he would use another for nefarious means. If Eri or Himiko's lives were at risk, that would be a different situation, but I think you and I would do something we may be ashamed of to save Shoto or Natsuo. If Izuku knew that villain and deemed that the only way to handle him was to end his life, then I would trust in his judgment."

Rei nodded. The Midoriyas raced to her children's aid when they fled Endeavor; Izuku had brought Shoto out of his shell and helped him navigate this new life. It was obvious that the two boys were close. They had bonded and continued to bond over Eri. That little girl and her son were almost rivals for some unknown prize, and its cuteness was more than Rei could bear at times.

Please don't let the bond between them ever break, Rei prayed.

Breakfast

As breakfast finally rounded down, no one left till all the dishes were clean, and even then, they all just sat for a bit in the common room, being near each other.

"Is it okay if I let your parents know you are ready?" Fuyumi said, breaking the silence. They all looked at each other, slowly seeking an answer; they just nodded.

"Yes, I think that is fine," Momo said. Fuyumi made the call.

Before the parents arrived, Midnight and Hound Dog came to address the students.

"Your parents will be here soon, but before you, we wanted to talk with all of you," Midnight began.

"Yes, it is important that while you are home, all of you understand something vital," Hound Dog said, stepping forward. "That there is no shame in reaching out to your classmates, us, or anyone else for help. Right now, all of you are feeding off the knowledge that those next to you are okay and that they survived. At some point, the weight of this ordeal will hit you, and the trauma of your survival will come with that."

"You may feel ashamed, angry, scared, or have several other emotions," Midnight said, now standing next to Hound Dog, added. "That is normal; it is okay. You must realize that you are not alone, and everyone will process this trauma in their way and in their own time. Talk to someone; even if you are reaching out to a classmate, do not feel you must go through this alone."

"Share as much or as little as you feel you need," Hound Dog said. "Midnight, the other counselors and I are available to you 24/7, as I am sure your classmates will say the same. We have sent all the necessary contact information to your phone and backup information to your emails; here, printed versions and your parents have been provided with the same."

The class nodded as they accepted the papers; Midnight and Hound Dog went to stand in the kitchen as the signal was given, and parents began to enter. Soft goodbyes and promises to call were exchanged as everyone left, leaving Shoto and the Midoriyas in the dorms.

Izuku made sure to catch Itsuka away from the crowd as he kissed her cheek and made her promise to call him if she needed anything. Itsuka paused and kissed him tenderly on the lips. "Keep your phone on you," Itsuka said. "And thank you, Izuku." Their hands lingered for a moment before she slipped away.

Midnight asked the Midoriyas, "How are you two holding up?"

"Probably better than the rest of the class," Himiko answered. "This is new but the same in its way." Izuku nodded. "The quiet afterward is different, but I look forward to it."

"And Eri, how are you?" Midnight said, lowering herself to the girl's eye level.

"I didn't like seeing my mommy and daddy hurt or the others," Eri said. "I was scared that I wouldn't be able to heal them or the others, but I am glad that I was able to help. Are we still going to the aquarium?" Eri asked, looking at her parents.

Izuku looked at Todoroki, "I would still like to go," Shoto said to Rei and Fuyumi. "Something peaceful and bright seems nice after the darkness of yesterday."

"Are you sure you are up to it?" Midnight asked.

"Sunshine is always brighter after night," Rei answered. "I think it would be nice." Rei smiled and took Shoto's hand.

"Please be careful out there; while we feel that the villains behind this attack will not be launching a second offensive so soon, it doesn't change the fact that Shigaraki was looking for you two in particular," Midnight said. "For my peace of mind, would you mind if I accompanied you?"

"More the merrier," Himiko said with a smile.

Tenya Ida

Tenya awoke at home, his mind still processing what he had witnessed upon returning to the USJ. It had to be clear what kind of person Izuku was now; there was no denying it, hiding it, or attempting to justify it. A sense of vindication washed through him. Knowing that now it was only a matter of time before the stain that was Izuku and Himiko Midoriya would be washed away from the U.A. brought a calm sense of relief.

But then he thought of the others in his class, those who had been horrendously injured during the attack. He felt pain for them as their dream of becoming pro-heroes had been taken from them. He was sure that the U.A. would provide what help they could, but maybe he could talk to his mother about hosting a fundraiser for those who were unable to continue in the hero course as a gesture of goodwill; the Midoriya's actions may have blinded them, but that was no longer the case.

After a hot shower, he emerged into the dining room to see his mother sitting with a small morning pastry and her tea. Wordlessly, he sat as a door opened, and some lightly toasted bread, a small square of butter, and his tea were brought; the servant swept out of the room like a ghost.

His mother set her tea cup down and focused on Tenya, "It is good to see you up early after what happened yesterday, Tenya," she began. "I understand the doctor gave you a clean bill of health, but are you okay, my son."

"I am Mother," Tenya replied. "I am troubled by what I have witnessed upon my return with rescue to the USJ, but I have faith that the situation will be resolved by the time I return on Monday. Where is the father?"

"He is looking further into the situation along with your brother, offering their services to U.A. should it be required," she said. "Now tell me what it is that is bothering you; tell me it isn't more about those…delinquents who attacked you."

"It is nothing for you to worry about, Mother; their vile nature has now been revealed, so there will be no question of the proper course of action," Tenya said confidently. "Come Monday, it shall all be set right."

"Good; how such a thing was even permitted in the first place is most troubling," his mother said, lifting her teacup. "I was about to march down there and set Principal Nezu straight myself, but your father thought it might cause an issue for you, so I held my tongue. Stick to your principles, my son; it separates us from lower animals. Remember, my son, a wise man, does not need to attack head-on but knows there are other paths to the top of the mountain.

"I will, Mother," Tenya said with a slight bow. Other paths, he thought.

Family

It was hard to say just by looking at how they were acting that they were in a life-and-death struggle just the day prior. It was hard to tell who was more excited- Eri or her parents and Shoto- but watching Fuyumi getting roped in was another part of what made it so wonderful.

Rei and Nemuri stayed back a little, letting them have some space to enjoy, or at least they were attempting to, but Eri was pulling her Aunty Nemi into the circle whether the pro heroine liked it or not. Shoto and Fuyumi were the same as Rei.

The news of the attack had broken the night before and was the hot topic of discussion, but thanks to some ballcaps, the kids could remain unnoticed; though Shoto looked a bit funny with one, he smiled and wore his happily as the four all had matching sets.

It may have been just an aquarium trip, but it seemed like a trip to a magical land as the group fulfilled dreams held close to their chests, walking amongst the exhibits. Izuku smiled softly at Himiko and Eri as they knelt before a tropical tank. Eri's hand was on the glass, and Himiko was kneeling beside her with her arm around Eri's waist as Eri pointed at fish and called out their names from pictures she had been studying. The light from outside was filtering in through the top of the tank, and the way the light played off their faces was stunning. Izuku pulled out his phone and took a few pictures. Himiko looked over her shoulder and gave him this simple smile that conveyed such happiness that it grabbed his heart and squeezed it tight.

Of course, they went to all the shows, bought Eri a new stuffed animal, ate at the café, and enjoyed everything the aquarium offered. The lead trainer even let Eri participate in the show by feeding the dolphins. Little did they know that Nemuri knew the dolphin trainer and called in a favor, but that was not the point.

The point was the memories they created in their little family circles and with each other. The sharing of joy and laughter was exactly what they needed: an embrace of sunshine after the darkness. Rei took the family out to dinner, Nemuri added a movie, and by the end of the day, Eri was asleep in the car, her head resting on Himiko's lap as they journeyed home.

But like any day of sunshine, the night will inevitably come, and when it did, their friends and classmates started reaching out. The group chat had been buzzing slightly during the day, but it was nothing serious as the quiet of the night enrobed them; that was when it began.

It was easier to find that distraction during the day, but when the silence came at night, it was harder to quiet that voice in your mind. It feels overwhelming when the questions come, and you have no answers. Himiko and Izuku were prepared for this as they were accustomed to it and had each other.

Those who had battled in the same zones began reaching out, creating little group chats that led to groups merging until the entire class talked. Mina saved everyone with a watch party. Soon after walking Himiko and Izuku through, all 18 students were on video chat, watching the latest comedy movie and laughing. The distance between them all disappeared as this connection grew and was forged. Some awoke in tears, ashamed and terrified. Seeking that comfort, they were safe, and the others were safe. They were there for each other; when some drifted off to sleep and awoke from a nightmare, they found others on the screens checking on them and reassuring them.

When the morning light began to peak in, the darkness once again retreated. Soon, the video chats closed, but the group chat continued. The morning was a lazy day for the Midoriya before the call to prepare for the week pulled them and Eri's reluctant snuggle bug from the warmth of the covers. Groceries had to be ordered, and laundry and other tasks had become part of their routine. Aizawa came by to talk and check on the Todoroki and Midoriya families and offer his gratitude to Eri for healing him and the others.

Izuku and Aizawa were outside, where Aizawa was helping Izuku repair Eri's bike. "Have you seen the news coverage?" Aizawa asked.

"Some, but not really; most of what I have heard was from the others last night," Izuku replied, removing the punctured tire tube.

"How are the others?" Aizawa handed Izuku the new tire.

"Of course, some are struggling a bit more than others," Izuku said, putting the tire in place and starting to secure it.

"Do you think they will recover?" Aizawa smiled and picked up the no longer needed training wheels.

"I think so; they have good support. It was strange last night when they reached out, but not in a bad way," Izuku started to put the chain in place. "It reminded me of the times in the pit when some fighters would sit and talk after a group fight. That night, our survival was tied together; tomorrow, we may have to fight each other, but for that night, we were together."

"That is a good thing; at least you won't be fighting each other in that capacity tomorrow. Heroic class notwithstanding," Aizawa said, helping Izuku secure the chain. "Did you feel that killing Muscular was the only option?"

"I didn't know that backup was arriving at that time," Izuku looked at their handiwork and smiled. "Even if I did, I would have done it anyway; some things you don't let slide or give a chance to return."

"Sometimes there is no choice, or it happens during the fight, but heroes need to do everything in their power to bring the villains in alive," Aizawa looked over the bike, took the screwdriver, and tightened a few things. "I understand the monster that Muscular was; no one will weep at his being gone. I read your report and saw you did that until you couldn't. I saw the same thing with all the others; in that type of situation, it becomes about survival, and once a point gets crossed…"

"You know that if you don't do it, they will," Izuku said, putting the tools away. "If you are worried about any of the others becoming killers, I think you breathe easy. They know now what it is like to go into a battle with death on the line, what it feels like to stand across from people with that intent."

"Something none of you should have had to experience," Aizawa put the kickstand down, stepping back.

"I agree and disagree. I would never have wanted Eri to know that, but I am glad she does," Izuku pulled out his phone and texted.

"How so?" Aizawa handed Izuku a water bottle.

"You never know how you will react to a situation until you are in it. Now they know and won't be caught by surprise when it happens again," Izuku took a long drink as the door opened and ran Eri in her bike helmet and pads with Himiko right behind her.

"Everything in life is a learning experience, but that doesn't mean we wish those lessons to be taught," Aizawa stepped back as Eri circled her bike, ready to conquer learning how to ride without training wheels.

"That I agree with," Izuku said, smiling at his daughter.

"I will see you both tomorrow in class, Eri. Good luck! I have a faculty meeting to attend." Aizawa smiled as he walked away.

Eri learned how to ride a bike that day.

Faculty Meeting

Aizawa walked into the faculty meeting. It had been a while since such a large meeting had been held with all the professors from each class and grade and the chief of security.

"Sorry, I am late. I was tending to something," Aizawa said, taking his seat.

"That is fine," Nezu responded as the meeting began. "As everyone is aware, our school suffered a horrendous attack on Friday where the lives of Mr. Aizawa's class were put in jeopardy. It would be a nearly grave error if not for some luck. I have brought you all here to discuss how we will proceed about this year's Sports Festival."

"I would assume that it would continue as planned," Voodoo said, leaning forward in her seat. Voodoo, or Isabelle, was a beautiful mocha-skinned woman with a shapely figure and very kind eyes.

"My class was attacked, Voodoo," Aizawa said sharply.

"That is terrible for your class, and no students should have to suffer through such a thing, but as the head of 3-B, this is the last opportunity for some of my students to get their names out before they graduate," Voodoo countered calmly.

"Also, with the news of the attack, there will be quite a bit of attention on the 1rst year sports festival as well, partner," Snipe leaned back in his chair. "Those young'uns will have a chance to garner much attention as more eyes will be on them than in the past or ever."

"I agree with Snipe and Voodoo," Vlad King said. "It is terrible what happened to your class, Aizawa. My heart goes out to those kids for enduring such a thing, and I haven't read any of the reports. But this is a great opportunity for my class to get their names out there."

"Also, there is the problem of the empty chair in our class," Technic added as he drank his coffee. Technic, the head of support course 3-H, was always dressed in a plain, crisp white T-shirt and blue jeans; he could have been very handsome if it wasn't for the long, thick scar that ran from his right temple along his face diagonal to his jaw. "There are students in general studies who would like to compete for that seat, and canceling the festival would deny them that chance. Unless you plan to keep it empty, that seems hardly fair."

"No, I did not plan on leaving that seat empty," Aizawa answered. "I am concerned that forcing the students to participate in the Sports festival could have negative repercussions."

"I agree," Midnight chimed in. "Class 1-A has suffered a serious incident, some of which even those seated at this table had not had to endure during their pro careers and certainly not as students. You are asking them to go out and fight for the approval of strangers," Midnight paused and stared at Nezu. "This could have serious repercussions for some of them and trigger them in different ways. We do not know the extent of the trauma that his incident has inflicted on them, and it is not something that can be settled and answered with a one-hour session when or if they return to class."

"They are both correct," Hound Dog said. "Class 1-A's participation in this year's sports festival should be voluntary only after counselors have cleared them. Their seats should not be jeopardized if they choose not to participate this year. The festival is just over a month and a half away."

"What is going to be done about Security for the event?" Aizawa said as he looked towards the head of security Impact; he was a mountain of a 6'6 man with pale white skin, black hair, and eyes.

"Security is going to significantly increase," Impact's deep voice rang out over the room. "We will contact some local pro heroes to provide additional security for the event all three days. I take this intrusion into the U.A. rather personally, and the fact that children were hurt and nearly killed weighs on me. This will not happen again."

"I don't like this, so vote against it," Aizawa said. "It is apparent that this is going to go on regardless of my opinion, but I want my objection noted for the record," Aizawa paused, "I understand that there are those in General Studies who deserve a chance to prove themselves to earn the empty chair in my class, but I will not be demoting any students regardless of the outcome of the festival. Also, sir, I want to speak with you and Midnight privately."

"Understood, Mr. Aizawa. We will do that after this meeting," Nezu said.

Meeting

"Sir, I don't think this is a good idea," Aizawa said, taking the tea offered by Nezu. "I just spoke with Izuku and told him it wasn't like we would have him fight for our amusement. And we are about to ask him to do just that."

"Izuku enjoys fighting; he gets a rush from it," Midnight said. "We will ask a young man raised in a fighting pit to step onto a stage and fight in another pit. The same can be said for Himiko."

"You believe this may trigger some sort of response in him?" Nezu asked. "That he is incapable of holding back."

"We need to be clear of our expectations and how we manage their participation," Midnight said.

"His relationship with Midnight and I is completely based on trust," Aizawa added. "Due to that trust, he does what I ask of him."

"If he perceives that trust to be breached, there will be no way to recover it," Midnight continued. "Himiko is the same to a certain extent. In Izuku's report, he specifically stated that while his fight with Muscular was personal, he was keenly aware of what Muscular would do to any of the students should he get a hold of them, and the last order Aizawa gave him was to get the class to safety, That was why he sent Koda and Toru away when the villain revealed himself."

"If we lose Izuku, we lose Himiko and Eri," Aizawa said. "Todoroki and other members of the class could follow. You brought them here to give them a chance; if this is not handled properly, it could end here and now. They will continue with the program to obtain their freedom, but any possibility of being who we think they can be will be gone."

"You care about them," Nezu said.

"Yes, we both do," Midnight nodded. "They fight for what some say is an impossible tomorrow, but they don't know that. And since they don't know that, I think they can reach it," Aizawa said.

"Eri came to heal the others because Himiko and Izuku tell her they want her to be a good girl," Midnight added. "That is what she told me about when I picked her up, right after she asked if her parents were alive. I quote: A good person does not do something because they need to do it because they can. If they instill that value in their daughter, that same value is inside them, even if it is just wishful thinking."

Nezu smiled, "Then do what you must to ensure they understand why this is happening. Bringing them here was the correct decision. They are affecting change not only upon their peers but you two." Midnight and Aizawa looked a bit shocked. "Also, I have been in contact with the Hero Commission and have filed an appeal on the fine levied against Ingenium as that number was much too low. Second, I have also filed a claim on their behalf for the reward in bringing down Muscular. Third, the Wild Wild Pussycats are coming here to thank them personally. I told you, Mr. Aizawa, sometimes you need to introduce a little chaos into the system," Nezu's eyes twinkled. "More tea?"

Monday

Himiko, Izuku, and Shoto entered class; they saw Tenya, who seemed surprised to see them for some reason. As more students came, Tenya watched as instead of the cold or distant reception he had expected Midoriyas to receive; they were greeted warmly with hugs in the case of Himiko and handshakes for Izuku. Tenya was surprised when he saw Momo talking with Izuku quietly by the window, and the two hugged briefly before she went to her seat.

The class was discussing the news of the attack and the reports that had come out. Each student was a bit uneasy with the extra attention it had garnered, with some comments on how they had even been recognized on the train. The class settled down when the bell rang, and Aizawa walked in. He looked over his class and gave them a faint smile.

"I am thrilled to see you all present today," Aizawa said, standing at the podium. "Today, your regular classes have been suspended as each of you will sit and meet with counselors for evaluations and recommendations on how to move forward. All of you must be open and honest during these conversations. Against my better judgment, it has been decided that the U.A. sports festival will proceed as planned."

Aizawa could feel most of the class tense, "But sir?" Toru began to protest; he could see her clothes shaking slightly. "The villains…"

"Security for the event will be significantly increased with more pro heroes on the outside and in attendance," Aizawa answered. "The option of canceling the festival would be a detriment to not only 1-B but General Studies and any other student aiming for our empty chair. In normal years, there would be a threat that your seats would be up for grabs, but that is not the case. Under no circumstance will you be demoted from the hero course. Should you participate or not?"

"What do you mean, should we participate?" Denki asked.

"What happened Friday is horrible and could have very nearly been tragic," Aizawa stepped from around the podium. "What you all went through, there are pro heroes who will go their whole career and never have to go through something like that. That is why not only will you be seeing counselors today, but you will also have a standing appointment with them until they clear you."

Izuku raised his hand, "Yes, Mr. Midoriya?"

"What is so important about a Sports Festival?" Izuku said; this only stunned his classmates for a moment.

"It is the biggest event in the country," Mineta spoke up. "All pro heroes watch the event; if you do well, they will offer you a chance to intern with them. It gets your name out there."

"Mr. Minoru is correct," Aizawa said. "Normally, most of the attention is focused on the 3rd years, with some on others, the 1st years being the lowest, as you all are just starting. However, with the events of Friday and the news reports, there will be more attention in the first years than ever. It is a great opportunity for you to get noticed early. This moment may seem hollow, but for your sister class and anyone from General Studies looking to fill that empty desk."

"The world does not stop spinning for anyone," Momo said.

"Sadly, no," Aizawa said.

"Excuse me, professor. You said that none of our seats were in jeopardy and that you were only looking to fill the vacant chair by Bakugo?" Tenya said, wondering why they were only to fill one seat and not three.

"That is correct, Mr. Ida. We have been able to put together a clear picture of the events that happened on Friday, and all of you did the very best that you could," Aizawa said to the class.

The Road To Hell is Paved With Good Intentions

Tenya had to be hearing things. How was this even possible? He thought They did the best they could. Was there not going to be any disciplinary action taken against this murderer?

Tenya wanted to yell to ask if he was the last voice of reason in an insane world, but he knew that if they were all under this delusion, then his words would be lost in the wind just as before. If he pressed the issue, it may bring more consequences for his brother, and he couldn't risk that. He needed to exert pressure another way, from an outside means. There is more than one route to the top of the mountain.

Tenya had heard the media reporting about unconfirmed deaths during the attack. Maybe the media could exert the proper pressure to help correct these wrongs. His class may be under some delusion, but there was no way that the rest of the school could be; maybe if he reached out to their sister class, their voices calling for the expulsion would help finally break the spell and bring justice.

Tenya wondered if he could get enough of an uproar raised that could be used to force the U.A.'s hand and finally bring about justice. He needed to get students involved, and he knew just the person, Aello Sho. Aello had gone to school with him and was a notorious gossip; she and her group of friends loved to talk; unlike the others, Aello was very intelligent and was in a U.A General Studies course. Tenya still had her number from when they had to work on a group project.

Ida: Hey, has your teacher said anything about them canceling the First Year Sports Festival?

Sho: No, Ida, why do you ask? Have you heard something? You are in the hero course, after all.

Ida: No, I overheard a classmate talking about it; I thought if anyone knew, it would be you.

Sho: I will let you know, but I must ask if you agree. The entire school is talking about how your class was attacked. Your class is pretty famous for your pictures all over the news.

Ida: Thank you for your concern, but I am fine. Some in the class were injured, but they appeared to have recovered.

Sho: Any idea why they would cancel the Festival for 1rst years?

Ida: I hesitate to say…

Sho: Ida, it's me. We know each other.

Ida: Those who mentioned something about it would keep their names in the spotlight.

Sho: That isn't very pleasant!

Ida: I agree; there is an empty chair in our class, and canceling the festival would deny someone the opportunity to claim that seat. Also, prevent those who are less deserving from being removed.

Sho: I read that some of the villains died. Is that true?

Ida: I can't talk about that…you understand.

Sho: Sorry, I didn't mean to pry. If you need anything, please let me know. I will see if I hear anything and will tell you right away.

Ida: Thank you, Sho. I appreciate it.

Sho: Think nothing of it.

Tenya put his phone away. He was sure that Sho would get the word to the other classes in her "investigation," but now he needed a way to get 1-B to speak out. That would be a bit more difficult; that was what he thought. Now it was time to get the media involved; thankfully, he knew someone who could help, a friend of his mother,

"Hello, Ms. Kizuki, this is Tenya Ida. Yes, it is nice to speak with you as well. I want to share something with you, but can we keep my name away from it? You see, it is about the incident at USJ…"

Izuku and Himiko

Izuku and Himiko were slightly surprised when they were called into Midnight's office at the same time and saw not only Nemuri waiting but Aizawa as well.

"Is this there something wrong?" Himiko said, a bit unsure.

"Not with either of you," Nemuri said, motioning for them to sit.

"I am here because I want to explain something to you both," Aizawa said. "Yesterday, I told you that we wouldn't be asking you to fight each other in front of strangers, but that is exactly what will happen should you both make it to the third round."

Izuku's eyebrow raised, "I voted against the sports festival being held this year due to the attack on the USJ, but for those other reasons, I told you in class it is going forward, and I understand that."

"So you are asking us to fight?" Izuku said, staring at both of his teachers. Nemuri and Aizawa knew that their following words could change everything.

"No," Aizawa said. "I am telling you what will happen should you make it to the third round. Should you decline to participate in the Sports Festival that would not be held against you?"

"So you don't want us to fight?" Himiko asked.

"We would never force you to fight," Nemuri said. "We want you to know that should you make it to the third round, it is your option to fight."

"How about you just tell us what you want?" Izuku sighed in frustration.

"We both understand that our relationship is built on trust," Aizawa said, leaning against Nemuri's desk. "Because of that, we have a unique relationship, and we both have these front-row seats watching you grow and change. You need to understand that this choice has some benefits and consequences."

"Such as?" Himiko leaned forward.

"Should you make it to the third round and participate, your profile will be raised, and depending on how well you do, you may earn more internship offers from other pro heroes who have taken an interest in training you," Nemuri said. "If a higher ranking hero offers you an intern, then the higher your profile is raised. This can lead to your interning with that same hero over the next few years while you are U.A."

"Once you graduate, you will likely be offered a position as a sidekick at that hero's agency," Aizawa continued. "The higher ranking hero, the better pay you can receive as their sidekick."

"Well, I want to go underground," Himiko shrugged. "I don't think running around showing my quirk is the best way to do that."

"This whole thing sounds kind of dumb," Izuku said. "I mean, wouldn't it be better if this was closed to the public? A villain could sit back and take notes on how future heroes' quirks work and what beat them to use later. Denki was saying that this is televised around the world."

Aizawa looked over his shoulder at Nemuri and raised an eyebrow, "Not to mention, it kind of sounds like a fighter auction," Himiko added. "They would bring fighters from other pits and have them show off their quirks and stuff, hoping the Ringmaster would buy them. So, if I make it to the third round, I don't want to reveal all my tricks before I even go pro."

Izuku looked at Himiko, "You want to see how you stack up, don't you?" Izuku blushed; Himiko sighed and kissed his cheek. "As long as you don't embarrass yourself." Izuku looked like a mock offense.

"I understand then," Izuku said, looking at Aizawa and Nemuri. "Thank you both for explaining this to us before we had the opportunity to decide either way. Is it safe to assume that these fights are not to the death but knockout or something?"

"Yes, knock out or ring out," Nemuri said.

"And if a person does well, they get more attention?" Himiko said more to herself than anyone in particular. "Imagine if a person with a blood quirk went far, even maybe won the whole thing," Himiko turned to Izuku. "Imagine how much louder their voice would be," Himiko reached out and touched Izuku's cheek. "Imagine the symbol they could become to those like us," Himiko tenderly kissed the other cheek. "The symbol for the forgotten," another kiss. "For those who have fallen, stumbled, or been cast aside." Both of Himiko's hands were on the sides of his face. "For our daughter." Himiko kissed him tenderly on the lips.

"But underground," Izuku whispered.

"Even the darkness needs a light," Their foreheads rested against each other. "Be the light."

"Be the light," Izuku whispered

They kissed tenderly "For Eri."

It was not very often that Aizawa and Nemuri were rendered speechless, yet that was their state. They watched silently as Izuku and Himiko left the room, staring at the closed door. Neither of them knew how long they sat there.

"I don't get it," Aizawa finally broke the silence. "Just when I think I have an understanding of things…"

"She is right," Nemuri said. "She is right. He can be that and so much more. The scariest thing is that she just gave him a reason to fight beyond what a normal student would go into this competition with. Izuku knows what it is like to fight to win; I don't think the others are ready for what he will bring to the Sports Festival."

Aizawa looked over his shoulder at Nemuri, "No one is ready."

"We forgot to mention that the Wild Wild Pussycats were coming by today," Nemuri added.

Unexpected

It had been a long day for the students of Class 1-A; their first counseling sessions were challenging and emotionally draining. The comfort of returning to class and the others could not be underestimated. A topic of plans to study and eat together in the main dorm was being discussed when the bell rang, signaling an end to the school day. It took the class longer than normal to gather their things and prepare to leave. When Ochaco stepped out the door, she froze and stepped back, nearly bumping into Mina.

A large group of students looking to be in their first years was forming a semi-circle in the hallway. "Can we help you?" Ochaco said a bit hesitantly.

With Periwinkle eyes and a contemptuous look, the blonde pointed his finger in her face, "We have come to see the glory hogs and cowards of Class 1-A. Try as you may, the sports festival will proceed as planned. Though I fail to see how any of you are worthy to compete against your betters!"

"You can run all you want, but you cannot hide," Added a tall boy with Indigo hair and eyes, sleepy eyes with dark circles; one would think he was related to Aizawa from his appearance. "Consider this a declaration of war; we are coming for your seats, so you better quit running and hiding and be ready to fight."

Momo had stepped out past Ochaco, flanked by Ejiro, Itsuka, Kyoka, and Izuku. "I know not who you are, but you are talking from ignorance and stupidity. I suggest you apologize and leave."

"Look, both of you are talking out of your ass right now," Ejiro added. "Let's just all walk away from here and not have this escalate any further."

A boy with wild silver hair and black eyes, "Of course, the coward and murderers would want to run and hide. It is a wonder that you are even allowed…"

No one even knew where he came from, but Yuga landed a right hook across Silver hair's jaw out of nowhere. Blonde went to move towards Yuga, only for a snapped left jab from Momo. Indigo moved to grab Momo, but a right cross from Izuku sent him down like a sack of potatoes. That was how the hall brawl began.

A blonde girl with horns tried to grab at Yuga, but Ochaco wanted to tackle her back into a group of students as the chaos erupted. A girl with a short brown bob and mushroom cap eyes grabbed Ochaco by the hair to yank her off her classmate, but Mina was right there to defend her friend. She drove a knee into the girl's chest, sending her tumbling back.

Now, there was a moment when Itsuka thought that she needed to stop this insanity, but the words cowards and murderers made her pause, and then she saw a group attempting to pile on Izuku. Himiko landed blows, Izuku at a hard right to the midsection, doubling him. Reason seemed to fly out the window as Itsuka rolled over his back and landed a kick, sending his attacker flying. She blocked a counterattack from another student and landed an elbow that crumpled that attacker. Izuku spun around her back, landing a trust kick on another attacker. Himiko flipped over, using Izuku's shoulders to brace herself and drop an ax kick on another. The three were surrounded by general studies smiling; they stood back to back as the chaos escalated.

Kyoka was on the back of a boy with a headband, dropping elbows, when suddenly a boy with a Mantis quirk yanked her down to the ground, her head bouncing. Momo saw her friend fall but was too far away. But Denki came in and tackled Kyoka's attacker away, Denki pushed up and landed a headbutt under Mantis's chin. Manits head snapped back but landed an elbow to Denki's temple. Denki was stunned, and Mantis rolled him onto his back, rose, and dropped another elbow. Denki had both his arms up to block the attack. Mantis went to attack again, but a running knee strike from Kyoka saved him.

"Get up. We aren't done yet," Kyoka said, yanking him to his feet.

"No, we are not," Denki grinned.

Tenya was stunned as the rest of the class was waiting for the fight; he wasn't even sure what had set them off. His calls for everyone to stop were drowned out in the chaos. Suddenly, everyone froze and grabbed their heads, none louder than Kyoka, when a high-pitched sound echoed through the hallway, dropping everyone to the ground. Present Mic was the source of the disruption; Ectoplasm came in right behind him and began to separate the combatants. Aizawa and Midnight came running into the hall; he turned to Izuku, "I didn't throw the first punch or the second," Izuku said, holding his head.

All the students were confined to dorms pending the investigation; Class 1-A had barely entered their dorms when they saw the Wild Wild Pussycats standing there. Their leader, Mandalay, stepped forward, looking over the class, "Izuku Midoriya?" she managed to say, her voice cracking.

Izuku stepped forward, "Yes, ma'am."

Mandalay took a hesitant step and crossed the room quickly; she took his face in her hands. "Thank you, thank you for killing Muscular," Mandalay stared at him for a moment, then, in front of everyone, she kissed him. The class erupted, and Tenya stumbled back. WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON!