Author's Note - Hey everyone, hope you're all doing well! Here's the next chapter for you!
SYMBOL
CHAPTER 021 – IZUKU'S DESIRE
All around him was a black void that seemed to stretch for infinity. The only lighting in the area was coming from the nine different glowing balls of energy that looked like stars hovering in the air above him. One of the nine, the largest of them all that glowed a dark green color, was the furthest one. It pulsed, sending out a wave of energy when he looked up at it and felt it wash over his semi-transparent body.
"One For All…" whispered Izuku after feeling the energy bring him comfort and warmth.
"About time we see you again!"
Izuku turned towards where the pleasant sounding voice came from, knowing who it was. Instead of one person though, he found three people looking at him with different expressions on their faces. Yoichi had a thoughtful gaze on his. Daigoro looked a little angry. And the third person was Nana who looked both proud and somewhat concerned.
"Hey everyone," greeted Izuku. "I guess I'm unconscious again, huh?"
Yoichi had a small smile form on his face while Daigoro crossed his arms while scoffing. Nana however chuckled. "I did say you're a smart one," she said.
Izuku smiled a bit. "Thanks. So, where are the others?"
"Maintaining the connection," answered Yoichi and Izuku understood. "There's something important we have to tell you."
"What is it?" asked Izuku, alternating his gaze between the three.
The three exchanged looks before Yoichi looked at the ninth user. "Izuku, I'm just gonna be blunt with you. You pushed far above what your body could handle."
"I know but if I didn't then…"
"We know," interrupted Yoichi. "But here's the thing. Because of your actions, One For All heeded your desires once again and was about to supply you with all the energy it had at once."
Izuku picked up on what he was trying to say. "Wait…are you saying that…the power I used…even at one hundred percent…it…"
"Yes." Yoichi looked up at the dark green star before looking at Izuku again who was sporting a wide eyed look of shock. "That was not the true one hundred percent of One For All's power. Your body is still growing and still acclimating to it. You only used what we allowed One For All to give you while the rest leaked out of your body like energy waves. Because the thing is…" Yoichi let out a sigh. "If we didn't step in to help control the amount of power it was supplying, you would've had your limbs explode. And even then, we were barely able to keep you together…"
"What?!" Izuku was horrified and couldn't believe it. "But…but I had the suit! And yeah, it broke down but it helped me and…I went even faster and faster at the end! How's that possible then?!"
"Because of you, ya moron!" snapped Daigoro annoyingly that made Izuku jump, startled.
Nana smacked him upside his head immediately. "Hey, don't insult him!" Daigoro frowned while rubbing the back of his head. Nana glared at him before looking at Izuku with a gentler expression. "What he means to say is that your will once again made One For All heed your desire. Even when your body was at its absolute limit, you still wanted to keep pushing to save everyone. I don't know if you noticed it or not, but your body began to glow and it kept getting brighter too near the end..."
"It did?!" asked Izuku in astonishment with even his voice turning a little high pitched that they ignored.
"Yeah, it did," growled Daigoro, making Izuku look at him. Nana smacked him again, telling him to say it calmly. He grumbled a bit before he continued. "Anyways, as hard as we tried to control One For All, some of that extra power still escaped us. When we noticed how your body was starting to break down, we had to use our connections to force it to slow down some by leaking it out. We even reinforced your bones and muscles with the energy and I had to even use Blackwhip to help to do that. But even with all that, in the end, your body just couldn't handle all that power. That's why your blood burst out from your joints because of all that pressure and energy that made you collapse!"
Izuku was absolutely dumbfounded over what he just learned. He had no idea that they were helping him behind the scenes. But the more he heard, the more he understood and the more it made sense. No wonder he was able to keep up the assault until the very end. He hung his head with his hands clenching into fists while shaking a little. "I'm so sorry. I didn't know how much you were helping me. I just wanted to protect everyone. I'll get stronger so you won't have to be bothered by me. I promise and…"
"Hey! Hey! We never said you're a bother Izuku so don't say that," said Nana softly as she walked up to him and placed her hands on his shoulders. He stopped shaking but kept his gaze down. "And we know that you were just trying to protect everyone. Even though you caused us a lot of concern and made us work like never before, we're still proud of you and standing with you. We always will."
It took a moment for Izuku to raise his gaze towards her. The smile on her face with her eyes twinkling with pride made him feel a little better. He raised his hand to grasp her hand on his shoulder, but it just went through hers. "What?!"
Nana chuckled. "You still need to adapt a little more before you can touch us too Izuku."
Understanding, Izuku nodded and Nana released him in time for Daigoro and Yoichi to come closer and grasped his shoulders now. He looked at the two. "Thank you. For helping me and everything else."
"Of course Ninth. We'll always be here and do whatever we can to help you on your journey," said Yoichi, patting his shoulder before letting go.
"Yeah, yeah, what they said. But, I'm a little pissed off at ya, you know?" remarked Daigoro with a scowl.
"What?!" Izuku was alarmed. Why was one of the predecessors of One For All mad at him? "Why? What did I do?"
Daigoro let go of his shoulder, crossed his arms and scoffed again. "Go figure it out!"
Nana rolled her eyes. "He's upset because you didn't use his quirk at the USJ even though you could've."
"Damn it Nana!"
"Oh…" Izuku understood but thought that was kind of childish…
"Childish?! You wanna go right now, punk?!"
Eyes widening, Izuku took a couple steps back while waving his hands in front of him. "N-No and I'm sorry! I didn't know you can hear my thoughts here!"
"Oh, so that's why you apologized huh?! Cause you were caught?! I'm gonna…"
"Knock it off!" said Nana, smacking Daigoro upside the head again. "Don't make me kick your ass again."
Daigoro grumbled some more while nursing his head. "Whatever! Anyways, listen here Izuku!" Not wanting to aggravate him more, Izuku gave him his full attention and he continued. "Make sure you start practicing with Blackwhip! I told you its versatile and powerful! And connected to your emotions so be careful! But…I'm kind of surprised it didn't manifest on its own when you got angry…" Daigoro trailed off and even took up a pondering stance, with his right hand stroking his chin.
"That is particular," agreed Yoichi. "Perhaps One For All prevented it since it seems to be following Izuku's desires. And his desires then were more about protecting and beating the villains than to reach someone who's far away," mused Yoichi out loud. He looked up at the dark green star again and the three copied him. "Though that's only a theory even though it makes some sense..."
They looked back down at one another and Yoichi continued. "Also, one other thing. Because you went overboard, we're gonna have to request that you don't use your quirk for a while."
"What?! Why?!"
"Izuku…" He turned towards Nana who said his name in a concerned tone. "We know how much you want to help others. But you really did go too far. Your body is pretty much broken at this point. Even when you wake up and Recovery Girl starts healing you, you need to take it easy for a bit."
"Oh…o-okay, I understand," replied Izuku quietly. He rubbed the back of his head. "How long?"
Nana glanced at Yoichi who answered for her. "At least for one week, no physical exercise or quirk usage. That'll give your body enough time to properly heal after Recovery Girl helps you. And after that, no more than one percent and light exercises. Then we'll help you get back to it full throttle afterwards. Alright?"
"Two weeks?!" squeaked out Izuku. Unable to come up with anything to counter them, he reluctantly agreed. "Alright. Fine."
The dark green star pulsed suddenly above them, as if to say that it disagreed with Izuku's decision. Looking at it for a moment, they wondered if that was just a coincidence or something. When nothing else happened, the four of them lowered their gazes back down towards each other again.
"Thank you for listening to us. You have time Izuku. No need to rush. Alright, Ninth?"
"Okay, I understand Yoichi-san. Thank you for looking out for me," said Izuku with a small smile.
"Hey, don't forget me you punk!"
"And you too Daigoro-san. I appreciate everything."
A hand grasped his shoulder again and before Izuku knew it he was pulled into a deep embrace by Nana. Izuku was surprised but didn't dwell on that and instead returned the hug. Or he tried to since his hands phased through her upper back, emerged from her chest and he ended up hitting himself.
Nana noticed what he did to himself and found it funny but she also got an idea on how to mess with him. "Oh? Trying to cop a feel so soon? Who knew how bold and naughty you are!" she said, teasing him while giving that grin of hers with her eyes twinkling with mischief.
Izuku blushed up a storm as he sputtered. "N-NO! Th-That's not what I-I-I…" Laughter escaped from Nana and Izuku understood then that she was playing with him. Though he enjoyed hearing her pleasant sounding laughter, he looked away to the side and pouted while crossing his arms over his chest. "Not funny! I forgot okay?! It's not fair that you can touch me and I can't touch you!"
Yoichi shook his head in disappointment as Daigoro face palmed over Izuku's choice of words.
Which Nana immediately took advantage of. "Oh? So you really are bummed out you can't touch me, huh?" asked Nana teasingly. She moved in closer, making Izuku freeze from her being so close to him in such a way and whispered into his ear with a seductive tone of voice. "If you could touch me, tell me, what would you do?"
Izuku's blush deepened to the point that even while he was semi-transparent, his face looked redder than a tomato and it seemed as if actual steam shot out of his ears.
"Alright Nana, that's enough teasing. He looks like he'll faint even in his own subconscious," said Yoichi. He tilted his head as Nana laughed heartily while letting go of Izuku who looked like he was actually about to faint. "Is that even possible?" he asked out loud to no one in particular. "Questions for later. Izuku!"
Hearing his name helped the ninth wielder to snap out of it. As embarrassed as Izuku was, he forced himself to focus on the first user and hoped they'd move on from that. "Yes, sir?"
Yoichi gave him an encouraging look. "Good luck and remember what we told you."
"Thank you and I will."
"Good. Till next time we meet."
"And make sure to practice!" reminded Daigoro annoyingly.
"I will, sir."
"And Izuku…" Nana waited until he looked at her, which he did but with an embarrassed look. Yet she ignored that and continued. "I might like teasing you but do believe in yourself. You're an amazing person. You're a catch for any girl out there. And remember; follow your heart," she told him in a kinder tone and while giving him a genuine smile.
Izuku reddened again but he smiled in appreciation over her words. He understood her and didn't hold her teasing against her. "Thanks Nana and I will." He looked at the three of them while thanking them again. "I won't let you guys down. I promise. See you later!" Concentrating for a moment, Izuku was able to leave the area.
Seeing him vanish from sight, Nana crossed her arms while looking a bit peeved. "Ah, I wanted to tease him some more before sending him back! Sometimes I hate how he's such a quick learner…"
Daigoro let out an annoyed scoff. "I knew it…you wanna touch him but flip it on him. Freakin cougar…"
"What'd you say?!"
"You heard me woman!"
"Well, mabye I wouldn't tease our successor whenever I see him if I wasn't so damn bored!"
"You can literally manifest anything to use in this dimension with your imagination! How the hell are you bored?!"
"Not everything, it's not the same and you know it!"
"All I hear are excuses for you to pounce on Midoriya like a damn cougar, you conniving vixen!"
"That's it! Get over here so I can kick your ass!"
As Nana started chasing Daigoro around with promises of a beat down, Yoichi began walking away from the two into the endless void while thinking about something that he wanted to know the answer of. Can someone really faint while inside their own subconscious?
While they and the other past users of One For All did their own thing, the dark green star above them all pulsed once more before growing a little larger. Soon after that, it let out such a quiet sound that none of the past users heard it and they wouldn't have been able to unless they were right next to it. But if they did, they would've sworn it sounded like a small whine...
XXXXXXXXXX FRIDAY AFTERNOON XXXXXXXXXX
The first thing he felt as he regained consciousness was how his entire body felt as if he had been used as a punching bag thanks to the slight throbbing pain from all over. The second thing was that every time he tried to move, it felt as if he was fighting against an overwhelming weight on him. Opening his eyes, he quickly closed them due to the bright light in the room and he let out a groan.
"Izuku?!"
Opening his eyes again, but this time a little slower, he blinked several times to clear his vision before he could see clearly. He saw three faces looking at him who were his mother, his daughter and his mentor. "H-Hey," greeted Izuku in a low voice into his oxygen mask.
"Papa!" Eri immediately hugged him, unknowingly causing him discomfort and pain but he kept it from being known by the little girl. "I was s-so scared!" cried Eri.
"It's alright Eri-chan, I'm here. Everything's gonna be okay," said Izuku. He wanted to hug her but still wasn't able to move his arms. That was when he felt his arms and legs wrapped up in casts. He could even feel the bandages on his body. His eyes landed onto his mom and mentor again. The former looked like she was trying to not cry while the latter was giving him a concerned look. "You guys alright?"
Toshinori scoffed. "We should be the ones asking that to you."
Inko moved to stand beside him and placed her hand gently on his casted arm. "We're fine sweetie, now that you're awake."
"I'm sorry Mom," said Izuku in a low voice. "I didn't mean to make you worry. And can you take this thing off me please?"
Inko dried her eyes to prevent tears from falling. Gently removing the oxygen mask, she then ran her hand over Izuku's hair before leaning down and pecked his forehead. She straightened out and looked at her son. "I know and don't worry about that. Just focus on getting better."
"Okay Mom. I will. But first…" Izuku, moved his gaze towards Toshinori. "Is everyone alright? What happened to the villains?" he asked and his obvious concern made both adults smile a little.
Of course the first thing he wants to know is if others are alright..."I'll tell you so just take it easy." Toshinori explained what happened after Izuku lost consciousness while keeping things kid-friendly due to Eri in being in the room. "And that's that. I'm sorry for things not going well. And thank you Izuku, for stepping up when All Might needed help."
Izuku understood why he said it like that since Eri was in the room with them. He also reddened thanks to the proud look both his mother and mentor were giving him. "I…I just did want any hero would do…"
"It's okay to take pride in your actions," remarked Inko, remembering what Thirteen told her.
"Inko's right. Everyone's alive thanks to you. So be proud of yourself. Oh, and you had a couple visitors too," mentioned Toshinori after remembering. "Thirteen stopped by after she healed up a bit to say her thanks and she also mentioned what Inko told you just now. So be proud Izuku. And your second visitor was your future classmate Ochaco Uraraka."
Izuku knew who the first was, but didn't know the second. "Who?" asked Izuku, wracking his brain to try and remember who this Ochaco Uraraka is.
"You apparently saved her a few times from what she said. She's a brunette with neck length hair and slightly pink cheeks," described Inko.
Izuku's eyes widened as he remembered her. "Wait, you mean the nice girl who helped me not fall, the one I saved at the entrance exam?!" he asked in astonishment.
Toshinori slammed his right fist into his open left palm. "That's right, now I remember! That's what you called her. Yeah, she was here. Stayed all night by your bedside while holding your hand too," revealed Toshinori with the biggest grin on his face and even Inko had a large smile on her face too.
Izuku was dumbfounded. The nice girl, whose name he now learned is Ochaco Uraraka, who was the first one around his age to treat him properly and went out of her way to help him without wanting anything in return…had come to see him and stayed by his side all night while he was unconscious? And she held his hand too? How did she even know he was here? Did someone tell her? He couldn't believe it but he felt incredibly appreciative of it. Not to mention flattered by her gesture and how he felt so embarrassed that she did that for him. But he could feel something whirling around inside him as he thought about her and what she did for him.
Izuku knew that he was blushing but forced himself to remain calm as he responded back to that information. "She didn't have to…but…that was…really nice of her. I should remember to thank her for it and tell her how much I appreciated that if I get the chance," he said. His words made both his mother and mentor exchange looks. "What? Why'd you guys do that? What's going on?" he asked them.
"Oh nothing, sweetie," replied Inko with a rather too sweet of a smile.
Izuku didn't believe her. When he glanced at Toshinori, his mentor smirked at him and shrugged. Izuku knew something was up but decided to let it go for now. "Fine, don't tell me."
Deciding to move on since both of them were being cryptic, he refocused on Eri who had calmed down a while ago and stopped her crying. "Eri-chan, can you look at me please?" he asked. Eri slowly looked up at Izuku who gave her a soft smile. "I'm okay and I'm not leaving you. So don't worry. How about you tell me what you did with grandma Inko?" he asked.
"You…want to know?" asked Eri quietly.
"Of course Eri," replied Izuku. "I'd always want to know what you did. You're my daughter and I'm your Papa, right?" Eri nodded fiercely a few times and he smiled. "So, tell me what you did and that's how you'll help me get better cause I'll focus on you instead."
"Okay…" As Eri started telling Izuku what she did after he left yesterday, Inko and Toshinori watched the two with fond expressions. Both of them wished that times like this…when they're able to enjoy each other's company and have good times…would never end. Though without the whole injured from head to toe part of course.
XXXXXXXXXX FRIDAY EVENING XXXXXXXXXX
It was now evening and Izuku was still awake. He had informed his mother and mentor about his conversation with the previous holders. He did keep a certain interaction he had with Nana a secret though since no one besides himself and the vestiges needed to know about that particular thing. He didn't need to give them more things to tease him with. That secret he'd take to his grave.
Inko and Toshinori did agree with their requests and even mentioned how they were gonna tell him something similar too; that he needed to rest and take it easy for a bit even with Recovery Girl healing him.
Izuku also had some new guests come see him. He was surprised over them taking time out of their day to visit him. Yet he was very appreciative of it of course.
The ones who visited were Death Arms and Gran Torino. The moment that Eri saw them, she went underneath Izuku's hospital bed covers and pressed against his side. They understood as to why she behaved that way since they were informed by Toshinori about it so the two just ignored her behavior. Instead, they focused on the one they mentored. Glad to see him awake and able to converse with them properly at the very least, they did mention how worried they were for the young man and asked about what had happened.
As Izuku explained things, with Toshinori adding in the stuff he didn't know, the two pros listened carefully. In the end, both were appalled over the villains' actions yet impressed by Izuku. How he was able to help everyone and even take down the Nomu. Even if it was for a moment. Compliments and praise were given to the young man but they also had some criticism for him as well.
Gran Torino was especially annoyed that Izuku pushed himself so far but couldn't really hold it against him. The anger he had towards the villains however was something else. He did have a rather ominous smirk form on his face after telling Izuku that he had some more training to do with him since he needed to be better and that he needed to let off some steam himself. That caused Izuku's eyes to widen as he paled while Toshinori said a mental prayer for his protégé.
Death Arms was at first silent, thinking about what Midnight went through and he felt horrible. He thought of what he could do to help out his fellow pro. It was after Gran Torino finished what he wanted to say when Death Arms decided to think about that later. Instead, he wanted to tell Izuku what's been on his mind for a while now. "By the way, you still owe me for the supermarket incident."
Before Izuku could say anything, Inko spoke up. "Supermarket Incident? What are you talking about?"
"I also don't know anything about that. Do you Sorahiko?" chimed in Toshinori with interest.
"No, I don't. What'd you do now?" asked Gran Torino with a grumble towards Izuku.
"You didn't tell them?" asked Death Arms in surprise as Izuku became nervous over everyone's looks.
"Um, I didn't really have a chance to because of what happened later on," replied Izuku in a low voice.
"Oh." Death Arms rubbed the back of his head and the others understood too. "Right. You know what, its fine. Don't worry about it."
"Hold on," said Inko before anyone else could say anything. "What exactly is this 'supermarket incident' you're talking about?"
Seeing the serious gaze on Inko's face towards him, Death Arms let out an awkward chuckle. "Oh, ah, it was nothing! Nothing at all!" Inko's eyes narrowed and Death Arms began talking without thinking out of nervousness. "Really, nothing happened! Izuku just kept a super market ceiling from falling and crushing some people before he left the scene and I covered for him. That's all and it's no big deal!"
"What?!" shot Inko in a high pitched voice but it was coated with shock, anger and fear. "Izuku…my son…lifted a building's ceiling?!" Her spoken question that was said with a disbelieving tone caused some reactions.
Death Arms just chuckled awkwardly before saying he had to go on patrol with a few others and hurriedly left the room.
Eri poked her head out from underneath the covers and gave Izuku an awed look but he didn't see it because his sight was on his mother.
Toshinori felt proud over his protégé's deed but remained silent about it.
Gran Torino just gave a look that pretty much just said that he wasn't surprised that he did something like that since it wasn't that big of a deal. He'd seen similar actions in his life before.
"Izuku…" Inko moved her gaze towards her son who caught her gaze. "Explain yourself, young man."
The young hero in training felt a shiver go down his spine thanks to his mother's stern look. "Okay. Just, please remember that I'm already beat up okay?" reminded Izuku, hoping that would help.
It didn't. Inko's stern gaze was locked onto his and she remained silent.
Knowing he could do nothing but explain, Izuku took in a breath before he started explaining everything that happened regarding the mall incident. The two villains who caused trouble. The two who looked to be his age getting involved. Death Arms and Kamui Woods who tried stopping the villains. How the fighting caused damages to the building's support and how the ceiling was starting to collapse but there were still people inside it. How he got involved and the outcome. "And that's what happened."
Inko, Toshinori and even Eri were astounded over what they learned. Toshinori realized that Mina Ashido and Eijiro Kirishima were the two he was talking about. But Inko was the first to say something. "That's…I don't even know what to say…but…did anything else happen to you that day? Besides what happened to you in the end when All Might found you…"
"Um…" Izuku had many images flash through his mind about what occurred that day. "A few stuff. Nothing bad though!" he hurriedly added after noticing his mom's expression becoming more horrified and Toshinori's was one of concern. "Really! Just let me explain…"
And so, Izuku finally told them what happened to him on the day before UA began. Helping the young girl Satsuki find her older sister at the mall but he didn't wait around to be thanked and the reasons why. Running into the Jirou family and helping them with a delivery to a rich person's house with their daughter Kyoka leading the way. Finding out that the girl he helped at the beach was part of that rich family. How, for some reason, her mother was being very rude to him and he didn't know what to do and what happened with all that. The supermarket incident. And then finally how Eri just bumped into him out of nowhere and how they knew the rest.
When Izuku finished telling them, Inko and Toshinori both had dumbfounded expressions on their faces. They couldn't believe how many things happened in one day. Even little Eri was too shocked to say anything over learning how her Papa had saved more people on the same day she met him.
Toshinori was the first to snap out of it this time and he moved closer to Izuku's bed. "My boy…even with all the bad stuff, I'm proud of you. And I'm sorry that we didn't ask you about what happened that day. We just figured you didn't want to go into it because of…well, you know."
Izuku smiled a little. "It's alright and thanks." Moving his eyes, he found his mother in a peculiar state. "Um, Mom? Are…are you okay?" he asked and his question made both Eri and Toshinori shift their attention onto her now.
Inko looked like she had frozen due to not moving a muscle while sporting an expression they couldn't really describe. A moment later, her eyes narrowed slightly and she moved closer to Izuku. She leaned over a little and looked her son in the eyes. "Izuku…I'm so proud of what you've done for others. But…" She took in a breath before continuing to control herself. "Tell me…who was this woman who spoke to you in such a disrespectful manner?" she asked with anger coating each word.
Realizing how upset she was, Izuku tried to calm her down. "It's not a big deal Mom. It's fine and I…"
"It's not okay, Izuku!" hissed Inko as she grabbed onto the hospital bed railing. Her angry tone made Eri dive back under the covers, Izuku's eyes widened and Toshinori felt a shiver go down his spine over her anger. "You saved her daughter's life, and this wretched person insulted you and treated you horribly! And she views herself as a high class person?! More like an arrogant, self-centered person!"
Izuku hurried to try and calm her down. "Really, it's fine Mom! She's just trying to protect her daughter from someone she doesn't know that well! You'd do the same! Plus, Jirou-san was there and she tried to defend me while I was out of it. And Yaoyorozu-san isn't like her mom at all. She was very nice to me at the USJ even though her Mom wasn't! So you don't have to…"
"So, it's the Yaoyorozu Matriarch who was disrespectful to you, huh? And the Jirou's daughter took your side even though she barely knew you?" asked Inko after being able to put the facts together but wanted her son to clarify and confirm it.
Toshinori took in a quiet breath as something clicked in his head all of a sudden. That's why the two of them were arguing during their battle trial! It makes perfect sense from what they said! Noticing the uneasy look on Izuku, Toshinori quickly recovered and forced a neutral expression on his face. I'm sorry but I don't know if I should get involved just yet since it concerns you. But now that I know the reason behind their arguing, I gotta say young Midoriya…I hope you're ready for when you finally go back to UA. But I'll keep an eye out and if things get too out of hand, I'll find a way to help you…
Izuku didn't know what to say and he was unable to look away from his mother. He'd only seen her so angry a few times in his life. The first was when his so called father left them after filing for a divorce. The second was some months into his two years of training when he finally told her and his mentor the truth about what he's been dealing with in his whole life along with what was told to him thanks to therapy. This was the third time and he wasn't sure if he could stop her while he was unable to move.
But, he still had to try. "Mom, please…its fine. I let it go and you should too."
"Izuku! I will not let it go!" snapped Inko with rage filling her. "It's not right! That woman should be so grateful that you saved her daughter's life that she should be kissing your feet! Not insulting you and treating you so horribly!" stated Inko angrily.
"Mom, remember when I started therapy? How I was stuck too? How Dr. Dobrev helped me understand after working with me for so long?" asked Izuku.
Inko stopped narrowing her eyes and her grip on the bed railings loosened. "Yes. Yes, I remember," she replied back quietly.
Izuku smiled a little. "It applies here too. And don't worry; I'm not making excuses for her like I was making excuses for Kacchan in the past. I've learned not to do that anymore thanks to Dr. Dobrev. But I'm also not getting hung up about things like that anymore. So I'm not concerning myself with her actions either. I'm just letting it go. And again, Jirou-san and Yaoyorozu-san were both kind to me so I'd rather focus on that instead. But I have to admit, I'm disappointed in myself for not being able to stand my ground with Mrs. Yaoyorozu."
Inko didn't say or do anything for a moment. Then, she looked away from her son while thinking a little. She then took in a breath, slowly exhaled it out and then turned back towards him. A slight smile formed on her face. "Alright, Izuku. I'll let it go too for now. And don't be disappointed at all. It's fine. And I remember how girls can make you flustered a bit. Especially since you never practiced a situation like that with Nemuri before."
Izuku smiled a little. "Thanks Mom."
"You're welcome," replied Inko before something else crossed her mind and she decided to bring it up. "Well, it sounds like you had your own backup. So, who's this Jirou girl? Another smitten girl of yours like Uraraka?" she finished saying with her small smile turning into a smirk.
Izuku's smile vanished as he reddened over his mother's implied words. "S-She's just a friend, Mom and she was just trying to help. She and Yaoyorozu-san already cried seeing me at the USJ and I don't need things getting weirder and…" He trailed off as his mother's smirk morphed into a large grin.
"Oh?" asked Inko with intrigue. "And do tell, why did they cry seeing you? And please, tell me what you did at the USJ and what happened with the others."
Toshinori face palmed before letting out a quiet groan. Izuku…as smart as you are…sometimes you can be so dumb! Now you're gonna have to tell Inko everything and she's gonna realize how these girls see you! Especially after I told her the comments that were said about you to the police from both classes! Another thought entered his head that made Toshinori realize something else. Wait…does that mean I'm dumb too for saying all that to her?! SHIT!
Izuku realized what he let slip and he felt scared, nervous and embarrassed. "Oh no…" he whispered.
Inko crossed her arms while still sporting that large grin on her face. "Well, I'm waiting young man…"
Thinking a mile a minute, Izuku tried to come up with something that would allow him to get out of this. Unfortunately, he wasn't able to and Izuku decided to just tell her. He had nothing else to do at the moment and he might as well just get this out of the way. And it had nothing to do with Eri asking him to say how he saved them. Of course not. "Alright, okay. So, when I first got to the USJ, I found a small group of my classmates and a couple teachers being targeted by the villains…"
XXXXXXXXXX SUNDAY AFTERNOON XXXXXXXXXX
"Now, how does that feel?"
"Feels good."
"Alright. How about this?"
He nodded. "Also good."
"Hmm." Letting go of his leg, Recovery Girl then moved towards the monitors in the hospital room. "Everything looks good here too." She turned to face her patient who was sitting up on his bed and looking at her. "You're fit enough to leave and attend UA tomorrow."
"Um, aren't you forgetting something?" he asked while gesturing to his right arm that was still in a cast and held in a sling.
Recovery Girl's eyes narrowed. Tapping her walking cane on the ground hard, it made the young man flinch. And so did the others in the room. "No, I didn't! You're body was broken to the point that I had to heal it in sessions! You don't have infinite stamina Izuku Midoriya!"
"Okay, okay! I'm sorry!" apologized Izuku while covering up with his healed arm.
Letting out a sigh, Recovery Girl shook her head. "Anyway, your legs are good to go. So is your left arm. Your body is mostly good but you need another session for that but we'll have to wait till tomorrow. It'll probably be after class."
"Okay. But, why did you heal my left arm and not my right? I write with my right," said Izuku.
A smirk appeared on Recovery Girl's face. "I know. Consider this my punishment for overdoing things." She raised her hand to stop him from arguing when he opened his mouth. "I know you had to but that doesn't mean you just go crazy without thinking! Every action has its consequence, whether good or bad. I won't be around forever to help you every time you break yourself. So use this time to think and take things slow. Understand?"
Izuku hung his head. "I understand." Raising his gaze, he gave a small smile. "Thank you Recovery Girl for everything. But, when can you heal my arm then?"
"End of the week."
"End of the week?!" yelped Izuku but then quickly composed himself after seeing the annoyed and agitated look on her. "Okay, yeah that's fine. I'll just learn to write with my left till then."
"And at least that'll make sure Izuku doesn't do anything with his quirk or start secretly working out for a bit. That'll definitely help him keep his word with the past wielders."
"Mooom!" whined Izuku, causing Inko, Chiyo and Toshinori to chuckle. He huffed and looked to the side. "I should've never told you guys that I talked to them again…"
"Ah, c'mon young Midoriya," started Toshinori as he walked up to his successor. "It's good for us to hear from them. You know how much I miss Nana."
"Yeah, I…"
"And it's always funny hearing about how she teases you," joked Toshinori with a grin while clapping his hand onto his healed shoulder.
Izuku reddened and looked away. "I still can't believe how you were able to get me to tell you that."
The three adults in the room laughed out loud as they remembered what they were told about Nana's antics. It was surprisingly easy for Toshinori to make Izuku say it. All it took was just a few jokes, a little bit of goading, some prodding and Izuku revealed what happened without meaning too.
The attached bathroom door opened and they all turned towards it. Eri walked out of it and made a beeline for Izuku. When she reached his bed, she climbed on top of it and sat beside him before wrapping her arms around his body as much as she could while leaning in.
Smiling at the little girl's actions, Chiyo then made her way towards the room exit. "I'll see you tomorrow young man. Remember to relax and take it easy."
"Thanks again and will do."
"Thank you so much Chiyo," said Inko.
"Take care," said Toshinori.
Waving her farewells while moving, Chiyo opened the door and left the room.
After she left, Izuku turned to his mother and mentor. "So, when are we leaving?" he asked them.
"Soon enough. Just have to sign the discharge papers and we'll be off," replied Inko.
"Okay." Izuku turned towards Toshinori. "So, did you find out if we can see her?"
Nodding at first, the blonde hero then explained. "We can finally visit her. We'll do that after we leave."
"It's about time," remarked Izuku. "They should've let us see her earlier."
"Well, they do have procedures and other stuff to follow Izuku. Plus, you couldn't even move without help till now."
"I know Mom but still," replied back Izuku and Inko couldn't argue. Looking down to the side, Izuku couldn't help but smile though. "Hey Eri, what'cha thinking?"
Raising her gaze up to look at him, Eri didn't say anything for a moment. "I don't like doctor places. Bad stuff here."
Unable to help himself, Izuku chuckled as he hugged her tighter with his left arm. "I don't either Eri. But we're gonna leave soon. And we're gonna visit someone first before going home. Okay?"
"Okay…" said Eri before lowering her gaze and resting her cheek against his side.
They waited there while making some small talk until a nurse walked in and handed over the discharge papers. Once signed, they left the room and followed after the nurse who agreed to lead them to where the one they wanted to visit was staying for the time being.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
It was just like any other battle she was in. Even if she was outnumbered. Even if it was raining. Sure, it was closer to about twenty against her and the windy rain was stronger than other situations she was in. But she could still handle it. She was a pro hero who faced far more dangerous thugs than the ones in front of her. She'd have no problem doing what she needed to do.
Then why was it that her quirk wasn't working against all of them? She even pushed it to its absolute limit to affect them all. But that damn wind! And that one villain with the slit nose seemed to be inhaling her gas faster than the others and yet he was still conscious. It didn't take her long to figure out that her quirk was rendered useless in this situation but by that time, it was too late.
Even with affecting about a dozen of them and putting them to sleep, there were many who were still conscious. And before she could react, the one who inhaled her gas moved far quicker than he did before. She barely avoided the strike by throwing herself to the side. She quickly got back to her feet and struck back with her whip. It hit him but it barely stunned him for a second. Another one tried to attack but she pushed him back with a flick of her whip. She rolled out of the way from a ranged attack. But then the slit nosed villain regained his senses and lunged at her. Another whip strike was sent his way but he caught it. He then wrapped his arm around it and pulled on the whip hard.
She was sent stumbling forward thanks to the pulling of her whip and the wet ground. Letting go of the whip, she dodged another strike from the side by ducking and slammed her boot's heel into the villain's gut. Shifting to the side, she avoided a stomping attack and got back up onto her feet.
Panting a little heavily while ignoring her wet hair that was stuck to her face, she glared at the villains in front of her who were giving her angry and lecherous gazes. She saw the slit nosed villain toss her whip away behind them. Grimacing internally, she began thinking of her options of what to do. She had knocked out most of them. And she should've bought enough time for her students to make it to the exit. The ones in front of her were a little too strong for her to take on fairly. Her whip had kept things somewhat level between them but now she was unarmed.
With no other choice, she decided that a tactical retreat was her only option. She kicked some water from a puddle towards them before she turned around and ran as fast as she could away from them. She heard some shouts and screams but ignored them while increasing the distance between them.
Or so she believed. All of a sudden, someone had grabbed her from her hair and yanked her back. Letting out a shocked and pain filled scream filled, she then felt the cold hard ground against her back. She tried to fight them off but then a kick landed against her side that made her yelp in pain. And then she felt multiple hands on her. A second later she realized that each of the villains had taken hold of one of her limbs and pinned them down.
She screamed at them to let her go before a punch silenced her by breaking her nose. More hits followed that made her cry out in pain from each one. When they finally finished, she was groaning in anguish and unable to move. But even while feeling all that pain, she could still sense what they were doing. She felt her costume being torn apart while her legs were forcefully spread apart. She could only protest in a low, wheezing voice but that was ignored too before she felt it enter her. And that was when she screamed the loudest scream she had ever let out…
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHH!"
Nemuri woke up suddenly from her unconscious state and let out a bloodcurdling scream as she shot up in her hospital bed. Yet her mind believed she was in that horrible situation of being violated and she had to fight them off. She thrashed against several hands that were trying to push her back, unable to properly see who or what was in front of her at the moment.
"NO! NO! I WON'T LET YOU! GET OFF ME! NO! I SAID NO! AAAAAAAAAAAAAHHH!"
Letting out another high pitched scream, Nemuri continued fighting against her oppressors. Punching. Kicking. Biting. Whatever she had to use to keep them away. She might be the 'R-Rated' hero, but that didn't mean she was a slut! She wouldn't let them use her and abuse her like some cheap whore! No, she'd rather die fighting than let that happen to her!
Hearing shouts and yells filled with panic and uncertain tones, made Nemuri believe that she was making a difference. She tried to use her quirk, but for some reason, she couldn't. It wouldn't come out no matter how hard she tried. But she still felt that she could fight them off thanks to the worried tones she was hearing from the villains. They still tried to grab her and push her down however. She felt their rougher grips and their rather forceful ways on her but she still thrashed against it as much as she could.
"NO! I SAID GET AWAY! I WON'T LET YOU! NO!"
As she continued to fight against the villains trying to violate and abuse her, Nemuri heard something that sounded like a door opening. But that couldn't be right since she was out in the open with rain and wind hitting her...
Suddenly the rough hands that were on her and trying to push her back down were gone. Instead, a single hand grasped hers. But she attacked it with all the ferocity she could muster.
"LET ME GO!"
"IT'S OKAY! MIDNIGHT SENSEI!"
"NO! I WON'T LET YOU!"
"MIDNIGHT SENSEI!"
"NO! GET AWAY! STOP!"
"PLEASE, I'M NOT GONNA HURT YOU!"
"NO! YOU CAN'T TRICK ME! GET OFF ME!"
"NEMURI-SAN! IT'S ME! IZUKU!"
Freezing in mid strike, Nemuri stopped her assault and looked towards the direction the voice came from but all she could see was a hazy figure in front of her.
"Nemuri-san…it's me…Izuku…"
"Izuku?" she asked with a confused tone while still in a tense state.
The hazy figure didn't answer her back immediately, as if thinking. A moment later, it spoke. "Yeah, it's me, Izuku…your cinnamon roll. I'm here Nemuri-san. Please, you're safe now…"
Nemuri was still unsure until she heard those two words; cinnamon roll. She had only ever said those words to describe him. Finally hearing and registering his voice made her calm down and that was when she started noticing everything. The warm and strong hand holding hers. A much softer and warmer thing she was sitting on than the cold hard ground. Her mind finally escaped the haze it was in. She realized she could only see with one eye at the moment. Her eyesight cleared after blinking several times and saw who was in front of her. Green eyes that seemed to be shining with so much emotion staring back into hers were the first thing she noticed.
"Iz…Izuku?" she asked again in barely a whisper. She noticed a rather peculiar expression form on his face that she wasn't accustomed to seeing. It was a mixture of sadness, concern, guilt and so much more that she couldn't even describe.
"Yeah, it's me. I'm here Nemuri-san. Please, don't be afraid anymore. You're safe now," replied Izuku softly as he slightly tightened his grip on her hand.
His words seemed to restart her brain and trigger her memories. That was when Nemuri understood. The nightmare she saw…it wasn't a dream. It was a memory. That really happened to her. She really was violated and abused…
As soon as she realized that was when multiple things happened. Nemuri felt the throbbing pain all over her body with her lower body having the most pain. She noticed how sore her throat felt. She also was so exhausted that she just collapsed back onto her bed. And that was when she completely fell apart. Letting out stuttering breaths at first, Nemuri's good eye filled with water before rapid tears flowed down her cheeks.
"I'm sorry," said Izuku quietly as Nemuri started crying.
She felt him tighten his hold on her hand and she did the same, wanting to feel something besides the throbbing pain along with the crushing truth she was feeling but it didn't do much.
Izuku himself couldn't help but shed tears while keeping his gaze on hers. "I'm so sorry Nemuri-san…"
Nemuri was so lost in her despair that she didn't hear Izuku speaking. The only thing she noticed was his hand in hers. Until a short while later when another hand grasp her shoulder and she felt something wash over her. Soon afterwards, she felt herself calming down. As she calmed down, her exhaustion took hold and her eye began closing. Before she lost consciousness, the last thing she felt was the warm and strong hand of Izuku still holding hers.
Izuku kept his teary sight on Nemuri's face until she fell asleep. But even then, he didn't remove his hand from hers. "I'm so sorry…" he said again in a whisper while feeling absolutely horrible as many tears escaped his eyes.
The red haired doctor who used her quirk to calm down Nemuri lifted her hand and turned her gaze towards Izuku. She noticed how distraught he looked. A sullen expression formed on her face and she moved closer to him before grasping his shoulder. "Midoriya…"
Izuku shook his head slightly. "No thank you, Dr. Dobrev…I don't want it…I need to feel this…"
Understanding him, Natasha squeezed his shoulder a little. "As you wish. If you need anything, please let me know." He nodded slightly and she turned to leave the room to give them some privacy.
When she left the room, she looked at Inko, Toshinori and Eri who were waiting outside the room. She sighed. "Just one more person." They didn't argue and Natasha went to check on her other patients.
"I think I should go."
"Okay. I'll stay out here with Eri," said Inko who was holding onto the little girl who was shaking with fear. The young girl heard the screams from the room and was too afraid to enter.
Toshinori opened the door and walked inside. Stopping beside his protégé, Toshinori felt a whirlwind of emotions erupt inside him at the sight of Nemuri. Those damn villains! Keeping himself from exploding, Toshinori glanced at Izuku and he saw how devastated he looked. He placed a hand on his shoulder. "I'm sorry Izuku. I'm so sorry. I know how you must be feeling. But this isn't your fault. I should've been there earlier and I should've…"
"N-No," croaked out Izuku as he shook his head while keeping his gaze on Nemuri. "I took too long in each of the zones. I could've gone faster. I could've just checked the main areas but I decided to be thorough. I could've just beaten the villains and moved on. But I spent time checking on each group in the zones, giving them first aid and information…"
Izuku took in a stuttering breath and Toshinori's grip on his shoulder tightened a little. "I should've realized how dangerous and disgusting the villains were after seeing what that one green haired girl went through. I just…" His feelings became a jumbled mess and Izuku was having a hard time controlling himself as more tears escaped from his eyes.
"I understand my boy. Just let it all out," said Toshinori softly. Izuku took his words to heart and started crying heavily over it all. "I know what you're going through. I've been there more times than I'd like to admit. But you can't save everyone Izuku. No matter how hard you try, sometimes you just can't reach someone in time. Sometimes, there's just nothing you can do."
"W-Why?!" cried Izuku as he hung his head but his left hand was still holding Nemuri's. He started shaking as he continued crying heavily. "W-Why can't I?! I want to he-help everyone I can! I want to save everyone I-I can! Why ca-can't I?!"
Toshinori remained silent but he understood Izuku's words. He understood what he was feeling. This was something that he didn't want his protégé to experience. It was wishful thinking at best but he hoped he wouldn't experience it so soon but it was unfortunate that he did.
Izuku took in another stuttering breath. He tried to control himself as he spoke. "A-All…this power…all this potential…and I couldn't save Nemuri-san! W-Why?!" He slowly raised his gaze and looked at her. "After everything she did for me…helping me, teaching me…and I couldn't be there for her when she needed help!"
More tears escaped from his eyes while feelings of despair and sadness filled him. Feeling unworthy of looking at her, Izuku's gaze dropped once more. "I'm sorry Nemuri-san. I'm so sorry!" Izuku cried a little more as his feelings intensified. Many thoughts flowed through his mind until one stood out and he latched onto that as a sudden desire formed within him. "I wish…I wish I could at least heal her! All this power! All this energy! And all I can do with it is beat up villains! Why couldn't I be able to heal people too?! I wish…I wish I could heal her…"
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
"He's not gonna get over this one easily."
"Can you blame him?"
"No."
"It's not his fault though."
"Well, he did mention how he took too long in each zone."
"Even so, he's not a pro yet. And pros take time to check on people too."
"True, but he's worked with several already and was told to check as quickly as he could. Not take his sweet time. He should've known better."
"It was his first real mission. You think you would've done better in his shoes?"
The vestiges of the previous holders of One For All were discussing what their newest successor was going through. They had gathered around a floating platform that they manifested that had comfy throne like seats stationed in a circular pattern on it so they could all see one another easily. Most of them were speaking while one was not.
Yoichi Shigaraki, the first holder of One For All, was just listening for the time being as his fellow holders conversed. He understood the pain and anguish that Izuku was going through and though Izuku could've done some things better like what he heard some of the others say, Yoichi didn't believe that he did wrong. He was still learning. He was still growing. He was still inexperienced. Even if Izuku believed it was his fault, it really wasn't. The only ones at fault are the villains who committed those atrocious acts.
Having heard enough, Yoichi decided to speak up. "Alright, everyone, that's enough." His words made the others stop and turn to look at him. There's no point discussing this any further. Some of you…" He glanced at a few of the holders. "…believe that he should've done better. While others…" This time, he looked at the rest. "…don't blame him for his actions and that he did the best he could."
Moving his gaze forwards, he spoke to nobody in particular. "Remember everyone, that we all made mistakes even when we tried our best. Ninth is barely beginning his journey. There's still a lot for him to learn and overcome. He'll stumble at some points. Our job is to help him along his path where and when we can."
No one spoke for a moment as they understood what the first holder was saying. They exchanged looks with one another and they realized that there really was no point in talking about this.
[I wish…I wish I could at least heal her! All this power! All this energy! And all I can do with it is beat up villains! Why couldn't I be able to heal people too?! I wish…I wish I could heal her…]
Hearing Izuku's voice again in One For All's dimension made them all shake their heads. They could see, hear and feel what their successor was going through at all times if they wanted to. Most of the time however, they only did that when necessary or if they were bored. But of course, they would give privacy when it was needed too. And sometimes, whenever their successor was feeling something particularly powerfully, whether an emotion or a desire, it would manifest in their realm on its own. Just like before when Blackwhip was manifested.
Each of the previous holders reacted over his words. Some shook their heads while others glanced at one another with somber expressions.
"That would've been nice, huh?" remarked Daigoro.
Yoichi smiled a little. "Yes. Especially when…"
A dark green light flashed throughout the dimension all of a sudden that cut off Yoichi. Immediately afterward, the entire realm they were in began shaking as if a powerful earthquake just struck.
"What the hell is going on?!" yelled the third user who stood up abruptly without thinking and stumbled around the platform.
"I have no idea Bruce!" shouted Daigoro while holding onto his seat's arms so he wouldn't fall off.
"Get back in your seats!" ordered the second user.
"Way ahead of ya, Kudo!" replied the sixth user who was holding onto his seat for dear life.
"Shut up, En! Yoichi, what's happening?!" asked Kudo in a demanding tone as he turned towards the first user from his seat.
But before Yoichi could reply back, another flash of dark green light occurred and then they began hearing loud rumbling while the area's shaking became even more violent. They started using their connections to One For All to at least try and shield their platform and keep it from breaking apart.
"Yoichi! Everyone! Look up!" advised Nana with urgency in her tone of voice. When they all looked up, their gazes landed onto the largest star.
The dark green star that signified Izuku's place as the ninth holder was going haywire. Streaks of what seemed to be electricity were constantly arcing around it while it seemed to be spinning extremely fast that also caused its energy to flow around it like gusts of wind.
"What…the fuck…" said Daigoro with wide eyes out loud for everyone since they were all thinking it.
Before any of them could say anything else, they started seeing faint images all around the dark green star. Some of them consisted of the elderly pro heroine Recovery Girl. She was using her quirk and healing Izuku's injuries. Several others showed Izuku administering first aid on himself to treat the burns, bruises and cuts he received from his bully when he was younger. Some even showed Izuku watching movies or shows where someone was being healed or treated by various means such as magic, quirks or by conventional means.
"Those…those look like…memories," commented En.
"But…but why are they…being shown…like that?" asked Daigoro.
Another flash of dark green light happened that made them shield their eyes and prevented others from saying anything. When they recovered they looked up at the dark green star and they became even more startled. The electricity around it was cackling and arcing all over it even more erratically and it was now spinning much faster than before with the rumbling sound becoming louder while they did their best to maintain their connections.
"GUYS! IT'S NOT JUST THAT ONE DOING IT!" yelled Bruce so they could hear him and they all shifted their gazes around to look at their surroundings.
The other stars around them that represented each of them seemed to be doing the same thing as Izuku's. Then, they all began connecting to one another as they went from the first star all the way towards Izuku's. When they were all connected, their spinning, electricity and even the energy flows around them somehow strengthened and sped up even more. And then, they began seeing even more faint images around all the stars of One For All. Every single one of those images had something related to the act of healing. Whether by them or others they saw.
"Yoichi! What's happening?!" repeated Kudo while moving his gaze back towards the first user.
Nana however, let out a shocked gasp as she realized something before she spoke up, unintentionally interrupting the first user. "It's Izuku!" she shouted in awe, drawing attention to her while she kept her astonished gaze on the dark green star. "He's affecting One For All again with his desire! Yoichi! Remember what you said?! One of the possibilities!"
Yoichi had his eyes widen in disbelief even as he understood. He returned his gaze back towards the dark green star. "I…I can't believe it! It's…its evolving! One For All is trying to heed Ninth's wish!"
It was after Yoichi finished speaking that one more dark green flash of light happened before everything seemed to just stop all of sudden. No more rumbling, shaking, winds, electricity or spinning. An eerie silence filled their realm. Until they heard a word being spoken that seemed to be Izuku's voice along with something else coating it that echoed in the endless void…
[Heal]
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Toshinori allowed Izuku to let out his grief in silence. He still had his hand on his shoulder and hoped that it brought some comfort to his protégé. Even though he was feeling absolutely horrible, Toshinori kept his despair in check so he could provide some support for Izuku.
Understanding Izuku's final words before he stopped talking, Toshinori couldn't disagree with him. He too sometimes wished he could've healed people instead of just beating up the bad guys. Unfortunately, healing abilities were rare, even today with so many different kinds of quirks. That's why Chiyo Shuzenji was so valuable and she was protected at all times by UA and the HPSC when she wasn't at UA. She may seem to be alone when she traveled around, but she was always guarded by their agents who hid in plain sight.
After a few more minutes passed, Toshinori decided that it was enough crying for his protégé. It was good to let out some stuff, but it also wasn't good to dwell on things. "Young Midoriya, I think that's…" He trailed off as something caught his attention, making his eyes widen.
Izuku's hand that was holding Nemuri's began emitting a faint dark green light as it began to glow. Before he could say something, the glow flowed onto Nemuri's hand and began going up her arm.
"Young Midoriya! What's going on?! What are you doing?!" asked Toshinori in alarm.
Izuku didn't know what his mentor was talking about since his gaze was still down. He raised his head while starting to reply back. "W-What do you me-" He stopped talking as he just noticed what was happening.
His hand was emitting a dark green glow and it seemed like it was traveling up Nemuri's arm. He let out a gasp as his eyes widened. "What the…?!"
He was about to let go of her hand when someone spoke up in his mind. "Don't let go!"
"Nana?!"
Toshinori snapped his gaze from Nemuri to Izuku. "Nana?! What's going on, young Midoriya?!"
"I…I don't know!" replied Izuku with fear and confusion filling him while keeping his hold and gaze on Nemuri. "I was about to let go when I heard her shout in my head not to let go!"
Toshinori took in a shocked breath. Never before had he been completely lost as to what to do. But trusting Izuku and his Master, he said no more and moved his gaze back towards Nemuri.
The dark green glow traveled over the pro and after a few more seconds, covered her entire body. And then, after several more seconds, Nemuri began to heal. The swelling around her eye lessened. The bruises that they could see on her face and neck began to fade away somewhat. The cuts, scratches and other wounds that they couldn't see due to being covered by bandages and the blanket on her healed a little as well.
Izuku and Toshinori watched with completely amazed expressions. They couldn't believe what they were seeing happen right before their eyes. About a minute passed before the dark green glow on the unconscious pro began to move again. It receded from Nemuri quickly and regressed back towards its origin.
When the glow was fully gone from Nemuri, Izuku finally let go of her hand. Raising his hand to be in front of his face, he concentrated on it. Izuku saw that it looked like some sort of energy that seemed to be flowing over his hand like very small flames. He glanced at Nemuri. Even though she wasn't completely healed and the green glow only healed her a little bit, she still looked so much better than before. Moving his sight back onto his hands, the green aura around his hand seemed to pulse.
It was at that moment that Nana spoke in his mind once more. "Izuku…I can't believe it but you can heal now! One For All evolved so you'd be able to heal others! I don't know how it did it or why it did it, but it heeded your desire!"
"Are you serious, Nana?!" asked Izuku in his mind while still staring at his hand and Toshinori was silently staring at his successor in astonishment. "And how can I hear you now with no problem?!"
"I don't think we'll always be able to do this but I think One For All is allowing me right now so I can explain what just happened. Anyways, you now have the ability to heal, courtesy of One For All basically upgrading itself for you by going through everyone's memories that involved any kind of healing. You should feel special! But since it's a new ability, it's probably weak but you should be able to train it. Just don't go crazy and pace yourself Izuku! Oh, I feel my connection slipping but take care of yourself and remember to follow your heart! That's what gave you this amazing new ability so keep at it! But we still want you to rest so do that first! We're always with you and we're all so proud of you! Good luck and tell Toshi to stop gawking at you!"
Izuku's eyes widened even more as his heart skipped a beat over her words. He couldn't believe it. He felt so many different feelings fill him and so many thoughts flowed through his mind that he couldn't hold it in anymore. "No way…no FUCKIN way!" exclaimed Izuku, feeling excited, shocked, confused and so many other emotions while staring at his hand as the healing aura finally faded away from it.
Izuku's yelling was not what snapped Toshinori out of his trance. It was the curse word that he used that did it since he very rarely used them. Especially such a vulgar one. "Young Midoriya! What happened?! What's going on?!"
Before Izuku could reply back, the door opened to the hospital room. Both Inko and Eri had heard Izuku shouting and feared that something happened since Izuku almost never cursed. "Are you okay Izuku?! Did something happen to Nemuri?! Why did you yell and curse?!" asked Inko.
Eri ran to Izuku and did her best to hug him as he was still seated. "Are-Are you okay, P-Papa?"
Taking in a breath, Izuku composed himself the best he could. He said his thanks to Nana, the other previous holders and to One For All in his mind. Even though he heard no replies from any of them, he knew that they heard him.
But he didn't dwell on that because he had something else to focus on. "I'm sorry for cursing and worrying you all. I'll tell you guys but, just gimme a minute please." Lowering his hand, he looked at Eri who was giving him a fearful look. "I'm sorry Eri. Everything's alright. I just got surprised by something that I never thought possible." Giving her a smile, he caressed her head affectionately and Eri leaned into it. Standing up, he then picked up Eri with his healed arm and the little girl hugged him tightly while putting her face into the crook of his neck.
Izuku looked at the unconscious pro on the bed. Nemuri-san, I still wish that this never happened to you. But at least now, I'll be able to do something for you. I promise I'll come back to heal you more Nemuri-san. And I'll do my best to always be there for you from now on.
Turning around, he looked at his mother and mentor. "Before I explain what I can…I think we should have Dr. Dobrev come here and then we gotta go see Principal Nezu. I have to tell them too about what just happened. And I need to ask Principal Nezu if he could help me out with this…"
XXXXXXXXXX SUNDY EVENING XXXXXXXXXX
Nezu sipped on his tea as he thought about everything. Though he looked to be the perfect image of calm, inside was another story. Excitement could hardly describe the feeling that filled every cell of his being over what he was just told. He never expected something like this to occur. Even after he learned about Midoriya being able to manifest one of the previous holder's quirks, he didn't feel this way then.
But this? This was something else entirely. Being able to manifest a completely different ability from the quirk just because of his desire… It was unheard of. And yet, it was absolutely fascinating and Nezu was beyond intrigued. Because now, one of his predictions came true and Nezu believed that many more possibilities existed. He'd be lying if he said it didn't interest him at all since he very much would like to learn what can and can't be done because of this new development.
Putting his teacup down, Nezu remained silent for a little bit longer as his extraordinary mind raced while keeping his gaze on his guests. Standing up on his chair, he then moved to stand on his desk and placed his paws behind his back. "Midoriya…" he started, making the young man straighten a little in his seat. Eri, who was sitting on his lap, hugged his casted arm a little tighter over the hybrid's tone. "I must admit…this is one piece of news that I never expected to receive. And it's such a surprise that I'm filled with exhilaration over it."
"What do you mean?" asked Inko for them all.
Nezu allowed a large smile to form on his face. He began explaining while keeping things vague so Eri wouldn't know what they were talking about exactly. "Just think about it. A quirk that we had believed to know what it was capable of after seeing it in action for so long. But then Midoriya is able to have his quirk do something else, forming Blackwhip when all we believed was his quirk made him stronger and faster. And now? Now, he has the ability to heal someone else! This…this is absolutely phenomenal! And it brings up so many questions!"
"Questions? What kinds of questions?" asked Toshinori.
"For one, I believe both you and Midoriya have heard about the 'Quirk Singularity' theory, yes?" asked Nezu. Both Midoriya and Toshinori understood but Inko and Eri were lost. Seeing their confusion, Nezu decided to explain. "The 'Quirk Singularity' theory hypothesizes that since quirks end up becoming stronger with each new generation, that a time will come when they'll become too powerful for people to use and cause their inevitable self-destruction."
"Wait, are you saying that Izuku's quirk is reaching this singularity?!" asked Inko in alarm.
Even Eri understood and she felt fear fill her at the thought. She looked up at Izuku and saw him giving his attention to the white animal. Papa…
"Not really, no," replied Nezu, making everyone there feel a little better. "I merely brought that up as an example. This evolution of Izuku's quirk brings up questions. Is his quirk reaching singularity? Or, is he just molding the quirk to fit his desires? Or is the quirk evolving to meet his wishes? Is his quirk becoming sentient? Is it more than just energy based? Could it be something else entirely? Could an outside force be causing this? Like some sort of cosmic entity or god that is just messing with us? There are just so many questions! So many possibilities! So much potential! I can barely contain my excitement to see what else is possible!"
Inko, Toshinori and Izuku all understood what Principal Nezu was saying. Even little Eri understood some of it.
"I have to admit, Principal Nezu, I'm kind of excited myself. I can do more than just punch villains now. I can actually help people directly," stated Izuku, making Nezu's smile become larger. "But, I was told to take things easy." The way he said it made Nezu understand and the hybrid animal nodded his head. "For now, what about my request?" he asked.
"Your request is granted. I have no problem with it. Ms. Shuzenji will probably be both thrilled and aghast over learning of this development. But either way, I'm sure she'd have no problem having someone else help her with her healing duties," he said jovially before his expression turned suddenly serious. His sudden switch startled his guests. "But, do your best to keep this new ability of yours under wraps for the time being. Healing is quite rare and there'll be many who'd want to use it for their own nefarious means. Until you become stronger, for now, just learn all you can under Recovery Girl. I'll let her know of the situation of course before you start."
They all agreed and Eri nodded a few times. She wouldn't do anything to cause problems for her Papa.
"Good. Anyone else who knows of your new ability?" asked Nezu.
"Just Dr. Dobrev. But she already promised not to tell anyone. We can trust her," said Toshinori.
Nezu nodded. "Ah yes. Good, since she can cover for you on Nemuri's new condition. Good choice too since she was taught by our resident healer and is well respected by her peers and community. Anything else?" he asked them.
"Principal Nezu," started Izuku as he stood up while carrying Eri in his good arm. "I can't thank you enough. For everything. If I can ever help with anything, anything at all, please let me know!" Bowing to the principal of UA, Izuku wanted to show how much he appreciated Nezu's kindness and assistance.
"Come now, Midoriya, there's no need," said Nezu as he smiled. When Izuku straightened out, Nezu continued. "All I ask is for you to keep doing your best and keeps us in the loop. And a personal request of mine if you will?" he asked.
"Yeah, of course!"
"Then, once you're situated here and things are back on track at UA, I'd like for the two of us to have some private lessons regarding your quirk and some of your other talents such as your quirk analysis from time to time."
"Sure!" agreed Izuku with a beaming smile.
Toshinori however felt a cold shiver go down his spine as he suddenly realized something. Oh no…Nezu and Izuku together talking about quirks, analysis and stuff like that more often?! It was bad enough when it was once in a while during Izuku's training! Oh dear God, I don't even want to know what kinds of things they'll come up with!
"Something wrong, Toshi?" asked Inko as she placed a hand on his shoulder.
Forcing himself to remain as calm as possible, Toshinori looked at the kind woman. "Oh, I'm fine Inko. Just thinking about how amazing your son is." How amazingly terrifying he'll be if Nezu rubs off on him even just a little bit!
Not knowing of Toshinori's inner turmoil, Inko just smiled as she removed her hand before looking at her son. "C'mon, Izuku. We should head home so we can have dinner, rest a little and then you'll be coming back tomorrow for class."
"Alright Mom."
"Don't forget, it's when we'll have everyone officially move into their dorms too so be prepared. But come see me first when you arrive tomorrow," said Nezu and Izuku agreed.
Inko spoke up after that. "Thank you for everything. Please, if I can help out in any way as well, I'd be happy to do so."
"If something does come up, I'll definitely let you know Ms. Midoriya," stated Nezu. As the Midoriya family and Toshinori left his office, Nezu bade them farewell.
When he was finally alone, he moved back to his seat, sat down and began using his computer once more. Quickly typing down all the thoughts, plans and ideas that he'd come up with in the last few minutes, he made sure to get them saved so he wouldn't forget.
After getting everything he thought of typed out, he saved the document on his computer as well as on two extra separate external drives just in case. When done with that, he moved his gaze to another screen that showed his upgraded surveillance system. He saw his earlier guests leaving the UA campus. "Izuku Midoriya…you truly are one of a kind…and I can't wait to see what else you'll be able to do as time goes on."
Nezu noticed something else and his eyes moved towards that. He found a few of his staff also outside and amongst them was the newest member who he had brought back with him from the HPSC earlier that day. They were looking at the Midoriya family and Toshinori leave the campus.
His smile widened even more as he caught the gaze on his newest member. "Not only do I want to see what you're truly capable of, Izuku Midoriya…I also can't wait to see how you affect those around you…"
Author's Notes - Izuku's back on his feet with a brand new ability courtesy of OFA! What'd you guys think? Love to hear from all of you!
Also, the next chapter, chapter 22, is already up for pa tre on members! I'd really appreciate it if you can become a member as I'm trying to become a full time writer. I'm not asking for much either so if you can, that'll be awesome and I'll be very appreciative of it. If not, that's fine. You'll just have to wait longer to read.
However, it's gonna be the only way to read my all original story that's gonna be posted up there soon along with some member exclusive goodies. I know I've mentioned it before a few times, but I've made some progress on it and some stuff is gonna be posted up soon. To become a member, just add /silentplayermc03 to the end of pa tre on's website!
Hope all is well, that I hear from you all so leave a review, fav and follow! Thanks in advance and take care!
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