Syndicate

by InuKagomeLuver4Eva

The powerful Yakuza clan, Uraraka, has ruled Musutafu with an iron fist for hundreds of years. Now, when the first female heir is born, Ochaco Uraraka must take a stand as rightful ruler of the clan. A fateful encounter with a stranger who saved her life seemed nothing more than a one time event...until he shows up at her door looking for an in. Ochaco x Deku.

8. Lured to the Lion Den

The get-together organized by Yaoyorozu was full of music, food and drinks, and of course; the entirety of Class 1-A. Though the music blasted catchy and energizing, not a single person danced. Nor sang. Or really even moved from their chosen seats. Despite watching the news broadcast just days ago the party remained on. As Izuku cautiously glanced around at his friends, it became clear no one wanted to celebrate. Mina and Hagakure looked upset; puffy eyes, constant sniffling, trying to hold back the tears. Ojiro looked solemn, perhaps a bit remorseful. Kirishima stood against the wall with an untouched beer in hand staring off at something unseen. Bakugo remained oddly impassive about the entire situation despite what happened nearly a week ago. The tension in the room stifled the fun activities.

"Well," Denki Kaminari started off awkwardly. "Yaomomo, great party you've thrown, really loving the decorations and the music. So uh….guess we just…go?"

"Seriously, Kaminari? That's all you have to say?" Kyoka Jiro snapped irately. The blonde threw his hands up immediately in surrender. The edgy black haired woman sighed heavily then stood, ready to address the elephant in the room. "Look. I get this is a lot of news to digest right now, especially since Musutafu is our home. Sitting around isn't going to fix anything; we should see what we can do to help, or at least—"

"You want to interject yourself into a Yakuza war?" Bakugo interrupted sharply from his spot at the in-house bar. The party ended up being held at Yaoyorozu's family mansion. This was only one of the rooms with fully stocked bars and personal bartender. His beer thunked against the mahogany top loudly then he turned to face the room. "You'll be obliterated before you can even lift a weapon. Two of the most powerful rivaling gangs in the area clashing is going to cause utter, catastrophic damage. Possibly even level this city into the ocean."

"Okay, man, take it easy. She's just trying to figure out a way to do something instead of wallowing around. There's enough skillset here to make an impact, right?" Kaminari defended Jiro with an abrupt stand, throwing at arm out in frustration. "And anyways, weren't you, Midoriya, and Kirishima wrapped up in that whole Aizawa mess? He's your boss…"

"Was." Kirishima bit out harshly. "In case you weren't aware, Kaminari, we all got fired for affiliating with the Uraraka Yakuza and hiding imperative information from Chief Yagi."

"I'll admit what we did was wrong," Izuku spoke up, drawing all eyes to him. His focus remained on the glass of water clenched between palms. Chief Yagi's anger still resounded within. "But it's not like we had much choice. We weren't aware of the entire situation until a few weeks ago, at most. I had a hunch Serg—Mr. Aizawa was connected to the Yakuza just not how. He informed Ojiro and I barely two weeks ago since we revealed his undercover status through stacked information. I just didn't comprehend he lied…"

"Of course he lied, Deku. How the hell do you casually mention you're the right-hand to the most powerful Yakuza in the country?" Bakugo snorted against a palm.

"Does this mean…you've known who Ochaco was the entire time, Midoriya?" Mina tearily asked the former detective, tissues clenched tightly. Izuku shook his head slowly. If anything, they deserved to know the truth. Finding out their friend lied and was a ruthless Yakuza tore them down to microscopic levels.

"No. Only once Ojiro became involved under the guise of working for Miss Haniko, then I had my suspicions when we saw him driving around that day. When Mr. Aizawa was in the hospital after getting shot, Miss Ochaco came sprinting in like he was dying. Ojiro tried to stop me from verifying who she really was. That turned into an argument in the hallway where he repeatedly told me to drop it, but I wouldn't. Then she showed up."

"Is she…is she really a Yakuza heiress?" Toru asked, voice quivering with emotion. Mina placed a hand against her shoulder in an attempt to comfort. "Like…this isn't a reality show like Love without Boundaries, right?"

"Yes, she is."

"What she is a damned liar," Kirishima finally engaged himself fully into the conversation. A hefty chug of beer before he began his tirade. "Made us all believe she was an innocent, sheltered girl with no real world experience. I'll admit, even had me fooled. She cozied right on up to you two, acting like best friends, buying your clothes. Even showered us with gifts. How the hell do we know they're not for bribery?"

"Because they aren't." Izuku sharply retaliated. Kirishima looked at him with brief confusion, covering it with a disbelieving scoff. Pulling back his jacket to reveal the pristine silver watch, he held it up for the room to see. "I thought the same thing in the hospital; told Miss Ochaco it was nothing more than a bribery in exchange for friendship. Ask Ojiro what happened after that day when I threw this watch back at her like it was a piece of trash. He'll tell you that she carried it around with her EVERYWHERE. Even cried over it. When that second ambush happened during the contractually obligated meeting between the U.A. Special Police Force and the Uraraka Yakuza, she still had it on her. Even when we were surrounded by Shigaraki thugs out for blood, the moment she spotted that watch hitting the dirt she was after it. That move got her attacked, thrown out of our line of sight for a few excruciating minutes. She risked her life for this watch all because it was a gift of friendship. I even asked her if she truly believed it was a bribery considering she spent three days picking through options. Three. You only do that for friends, not a pay-off."

"It's true," Ojiro confirmed, leaning against his knees heavily. "I'm just now noticing you're wearing the watch, Midoriya, but I know something must've happened between you two in order for that to happen. When I was working under Ochaco, I noticed a few things. The first was that while she abided by her family rules, it didn't define who she was. Her personality shone through in relaxed environments. Yes, she could be intimidating at times; you would be too if your family was a powerful Yakuza clan. But when we sparred, just the two of us, I could feel the excitement of letting loose. Physically, mentally, and emotionally. Ochaco enjoyed having someone on par to her level. Even though that resulted in my first tie…"

"No way! You've never even lost, Ojiro!" Hanta Sero blurted out with wide eyes. Ojiro smiled sheepishly.

"I know. If she really threw everything she had into it…my first loss would be to her. Back to the topic though. Working with her those few months also showed me the immense amount of stress she's under. As the only heir and first female, the pressure resting on her shoulders in immeasurable. Older Yakuza don't believe she can bring the clan to prosperity solely on gender. Mr. Aizawa has done everything in his power to push Ochaco through the doubts and constant insults thrown her way. I think…I think that's why she was let out for that month of public appearances. To give her a break before the throne ascension."

"Where she met us…" Mina whispered. Hagakure nodded solemnly. "Midoriya, Kirishima, you both remember the day of my new line dropping, right? How you weren't expecting me to be there?"

"Yeah, that wasn't an unscheduled site stop for us that day, but there was enough time to swing by. We really didn't know you'd be there." Izuku nodded in remembrance.

"I…this sounds so stupid…but when she came in and realized the security team wouldn't let Toru in, she sent them the nastiest look before signaling to get her. Obviously we didn't know she was a Yakuza at the time but it's the fact that she willingly checked on someone she didn't even know. Even though she scared the shit out of me…"

"Or when you were grabbing more clothes with Miss Nemuri in the back, she came over to sit with me and talk. At first I thought she was curious about our party days; those were wild enough to make records. But I realized she really didn't know anything. Nothing about school, weekend activities, friends. Girl had been to socialite events though probably not willingly." Toru added on with Mina nodding encouragement.

"Miss Ochaco mentioned wanting to get to know you two better. That's why we had it cleared with Mr. Aizawa," Midoriya confirmed lightly, taking the change of conversation to sip some water. His mouth and throat still felt parched. "Let's just say he got very defensive of the idea…that's why it had to be held at my apartment. Now that I think about it, the whole place was probably bugged…"

"And then she nearly slammed me into Midoriya's rug! I deployed a popper in her face and Ochaco went all ninja! Just instantly grabbed me then incapacitated my moves before I could even drop the popper! It was insane." Mina gushed excitedly to the rest of the class with arms flapping every which way. "Like, not even Ojiro can move that fast!"

"I could be reading this wrong, so correct me if I do," Yaoyorozu interjected firmly, hand raising as she stood. "But everything you six have mentioned…it almost seems like you see Miss Ochaco as a friend despite the Yakuza title. You've spent time with her to realize what's beneath the surface. What's happening to Musutafu, our city, is wrenching to witness on a daily basis. After all that time with her, are you still willing to support what she stands for?"

"Of course," Ojiro answered immediately. Hagakure looked at him quizzically, brows furrowed deeply. "Ochaco was born into a family that's linked by lineage and heritage; she never had that choice. Yet the choices she's making by securing the safety of Musutafu citizens shows the strength of her resolve. She's going to protect the city. She's going to stop Shigaraki. She's going to ascend the throne in January."

"She's going to protect her friends."

Everyone turned to Izuku as he stood. Ojiro beamed brightly, pushing himself up to stand beside his friend with a hand clapping against his shoulder. Mina didn't hesitate and dragged Hagakure over to the duo. Kirishima clenched his jaw then looked down at his boots. They so easily swayed in favor of that Yakuza…Mina and Hagakure could understand why. Ojiro as well. Midoriya? Why would someone so determined to take down the Yakuza plaguing the city flip like a tossed coin? His father was killed by an Uraraka thug; the detective didn't slip into the evidence room unseen. He'd followed to see why his friend was sneaking around all of a sudden. Then the report was found.

"Eijiro," Mina called out softly trying to catch her fiancées attention to no avail. She knew the look well. Internal turmoil. Conflicting beliefs. He was trying to disprove the kindness of Ochaco by searching for any reason he could. Just as she made to step forward, a hand inches from her face stopped the pinkette.

"Oi, we ain't got time for you to sulk over bullshit. Get your ass over here already," Bakugo warned lowly as he grabbed Kirishima by the collar, shoving him against the wall roughly. Before his friend could speak the blonde leaned in to block out prying ears. "If Deku can see the good in this person, so can you. Ojiro, Ashido, and Hagakure do. Whatever bullshit reasoning you have in your head get rid of it. The entire city is at risk of crumbling, and I need you with me on this."

"Bakugo," Kirishima breathed as his normally emotionally restrictive friend backed up with a tsk. Bakugo was right. Despite never being the emotionally extroverted type, his friend was never wrong. Chugging the remnants of the beer, Eijiro set it down on a nearby table before moving towards the group in acceptance. "You're right. I shouldn't be judging Ochaco for what she can't control. I know she's not that kind of person. Midoriya, you're the one that knows her best. Where do we start?"

"I don't know where she is, but I know someone who can find her." Izuku stated confidently.

-B-

"Izuku," Inko Midoriya started lowly as her only child sat across from her, anxiously anticipating an answer. He'd called her up suddenly asking to talk, an invitation the mother readily agreed to. Yet his request was… "Let me understand this better. You want me to meet up with that…Yakuza…to talk?"

"It goes deeper than that, mom. But yes. You've formed a bond with Miss Ochaco at the shrine, surely you can meet up with her and get her to agree a meeting." Izuku replied evenly, cautiously studying her furrowed expression. His mother had been horrified once learning of Ochaco's true identity, crying for hours and begging for it to be a dream. Nothing was a dream anymore. Reality began shifting into a nightmare with unreal criminal activity. Countless died a night; skirmishes, robberies, straight cold blooded murders. "I know this is a scary time mom, but you're the only one she'll openly reach out to right now. You know the times she shows up to the shrine."

"What you're asking is too much, Izuku. I've had enough interaction with Yakuza for one lifetime. Look what it did to your father, this family. It cost you the job you always dreamed of since a young age. I've already lost your father; I can't lose you too!" Inko cried out while tears overflowed. It was too early in the morning for such a conversation. "I won't do this, I'm sorry. Since you're here, I need your help to pack up."

"Mom?" Izuku questioned worriedly as his mother shifted away to a few open boxes lying in the living room. He'd wondered about them though never questioned their purpose. "What do you mean pack? Where are you going?"

"I'm going to stay with my sister in the countryside and you're coming with. I won't continue to live in fear for the rest of my days! Help me start packing, Izuku. She'll be here by tomorrow morning."

"Mom! You can't be serious right now! How do you know they won't just follow you out of the city and attack? You're safest here!" Izuku argued with a leap to his feet, shifting around the table to contest his mother's request. She refused to look at him, instead packing away photo albums with a little more force than necessary. "Listen to me, please! You're going to endanger yourself more if you leave! Ochaco will protect you!"

"Like she protected your father?" The mother shot back bitterly.

"The Uraraka clan wasn't the one who assaulted dad. It was a rivaling gang that started it—"

"Enough, Izuku." Inko snapped with a slamming of books. A few pictures fluttered out and onto the rug softly, landing face-up. Neither spoke as the tensions reached peak. Trembling, wrinkled fingers grazed over the closest picture before clasping it lightly. "I've gone through enough pain for one lifetime. I don't need the loss of my only son weighing on my heart as well. I'm trying to protect you, Izuku, and the only way I know how to do that is to leave."

"It's not safe out there," Izuku replied softly, kneeling across from his mother and grabbing a few pictures. Mostly they were of him as a baby, toddler, or young child. One caught his eye, so he reached for it and held it up. It was one of the only pictures of all of them together, smiling happily. "Mom. I understand being afraid; I'm afraid of what's going on and how it'll get worse before it returns to normal. Life may never be normal again. But running away isn't the answer. I know Aunt Utsumi is more than willing to take you in. The problem is it's only going to get more people wrapped up in this war."

"What would your father say if he were still here?" Inko abruptly whispered. Izuku remained silent as she took the photo from his fingers, clasping it tightly. "What would he do? How would he handle this?"

"Dad would've stood his ground to protect his home and family," Izuku replied softly, earning a fast glance from his mother. "I may not have known dad long, but I know he was trying to do what was best for his family. He never told you how he inquired about a loan from the Uraraka clan, did he?"

"What?"

"He inquired though never took an offer. Kenji Uraraka didn't hold it against him and let him leave after asking. Word got around so a rivaling gang intercepted him which caused a skirmish. An Uraraka Yakuza interjected. Ochaco's father forced one of his own men to take the fall after attempting to save dad. He was released five years later and now helps guard a local grocery store. All of this was confirmed by Ochaco." Izuku stated firmly at the motion of his mother about to retort. Aged lips pursed tightly in thought. He gently clasped the quivering hand holding onto a long-lost memory. "I think it's time to let go of the fear holding you back, mom. It's time to take a stand and protect what you love without always having to flee. Dad would've wanted it that way I'm sure."

Inko broke down entirely against her son, relinquishing the years of pain and silent suffering endured alone. Izuku held her tightly. Already he'd released the anger and hatred of the Uraraka clan that fateful night in the mountains. Ochaco had also gone through the trouble of verifying what actually happened after his mother talked about it. She didn't have to do that. She didn't need to go out of her way for a stranger, the mother of a detective who solemnly swore to take down the Yakuza clan. Yet she did to clear the sour air. Stigmas weighed heavily over the Yakuza name, but Ochaco was doing her best to ensure it was cleared. It'd be a long journey, though Izuku Midoriya was more than willing to lend a hand for her cause.

Because in a way…she'd also saved him.

"Ochaco…she arrives at the shrine daily…between nine and ten. It depends on what happens with her schedule. If you leave now you may be able to catch her if she's arriving early." Inko muffled against his shoulder, hands death gripping the jacket he donned. "She may get word of you heading up there, so be careful. Please."

"Thanks, mom. Are you going to be alright?" Izuku asked gently as she pulled back, arms furiously swiping at the tears. She gave a watery smile, nodding. His mother was putting aside her fear and allowing him to continue forward. "I'll be back within the hour, promise."

"Wait!" Inko called out just as he slipped his shoes back on. Izuku turned back around in surprise at the outburst. She shuffled quickly into the kitchen, rummaged around for something, then hurried back with a small, pink box in both palms. "Give this to her. As a thank you for the flowers."

"I will. I'll be back soon, mom." Izuku carefully put the box into his jacket pocket and opened the door. With one last look at his mother he sprinted down the street.

Without her number and Aizawa's disconnected, reaching out to her would be even harder than before. Even the Haniko alias number disappeared from existence. It became frustrating to no end since their chat at the cliffside. They were friends now, shouldn't contact remain open? Then again…after declaring war against Shigaraki, there may be reasons to remain secretive for the time. Her message only seemed to stir the wasp nest and now more of their thugs were swarming the streets. Melissa was relaying information from within the police station to keep him updated, and the data was concerning. The police force was obviously overwhelmed, especially since he and his friends had been immediately fired following the Uraraka official airing. Chief Yagi tried his best to prevent fully cutting the strings, yet it was the Japanese government who overruled the attempt, forcing his hands and ultimately signing the paperwork.

His former boss held some resentment against them solely for the fact they withheld critical information which resulted in a good portion of the office abruptly disappearing. Moreso against Aizawa. A friendship that transcended two decades gone in the blink of an eye. Melissa mentioned quietly that her uncle seemed a bit depressed underneath the stress of a full Yakuza war. It tore up the former detective as well. An entire career gone like that because he meddled where he shouldn't have. Became too intertwined with the dangerous Yakuza business that took his father's life. Ochaco was right; inquisitiveness only dug more trouble. Now he was rushing to save his city and a young woman who desperately needed an outstretched hand.

It didn't take long for him to reach the bottom of the shrine stairs, a bit winded. Izuku remained actively fit despite now being jobless though the rapid pounding against his ribs seemed to shorten his breath a bit. Checking his watch for the time, he found himself five minutes from nine in the morning. Perfect timing. Glancing around for any blacked out SUV's and seeing none, he decided to take the risk of sitting up there alone until her arrival. Though worn and weathered the stairs weren't terribly hard to traverse, yet it made him wonder how his mother could climb all the way up without assistance. A small platform halfway up had him pausing to turn back. Despite the chilly air piercing at every open section of skin, the view was breathtaking to behold. Trees transitioning into vibrant colors ranging from soft yellow to burgundy red. A short lifespan of natural beauty. He took a moment to take in the peaceful silence before turning and continuing the trek.

Nearing the top of the Torii gates, Izuku slowed cautiously in case someone was praying. Partially hiding behind the top Torii post he leaned around to survey. There were two men cleaning the offering shrine with rags and spray, working swiftly and efficiently in silence. Another one was sweeping any dropped leaves out of the pathways. There was even one carefully repainting worn posts. It was impressive how fast they worked, practically in sync. He didn't have to call out to verify they were Uraraka; it was the way they treated the shrine and its ground that gave them away. Must be getting ready prior to Ochaco's ascension.

"After everything you still can't help to stick your nose in others' business."

Aizawa watched unamused as Izuku whirled around defensively, hands instinctively raising. The Yakuza caught the closest fist and shoved back with greater force, forcing him into submission. Izuku backed down and lowered his hands, shaking the grabbed one off briefly. Shota could tell there was still some hard feelings as the former detective grit his teeth and looked away to focus on something else. True, he shouldn't have lied to him. What other choice was there? Believe it or not, Shota Aizawa still cared for the little shit who caused him egregious amounts of stress.

"Mr. Aizawa," Izuku responded tartly.

"Still salty about the police station?" Shota questioned boredly, returning his focus to the shrine and its workers. Ochaco would arrive in a few minutes. He had a hunch that's why Midoriya showed up out of nowhere. Perhaps his mother spilled her schedule. A weak glare was his response. "Look, kid. You understand the severity of the situation we're in, can't go around spilling information like candy. I was trying to protect you."

"Ser—Mr. Aizawa, why didn't you just tell Chief Yagi the truth? About everything? I'm sure he would've understood your positioning." Izuku started after a deep breath, turning back towards the dark haired man. "He thought of you as a friend."

"It's more complicated than that. I can't go around spilling who I am without repercussions on the Uraraka end. Chief Yagi would've been obligated to take me in for questioning then slap whatever charges he could against my profile as a way to cripple a main support of the clan. Despite being a friend…he'd be forced into doing it. It wasn't ideal but necessary. You understand how he works, Midoriya."

"Not anymore…we all got fired for collaborating with you and the Uraraka clan." Izuku responded dejectedly, fully gaining Shota's attention. "Once that broadcast ended, me, Kaachan, Todoroki, and Kirishima were taken into Chief Yagi's office. I knew something was off when I came in and my desk was completely gone without a trace. He was a little more than mad; I've never seen him lose composure like that. For nearly an hour he interrogated us trying to dig deeper into the clan secrets. We didn't tell him anything, of course."

"Sorry to hear that. You were the best detective I had," Shota earnestly responded, hands shoving deep into both pockets. The chill was beginning to seep down to the bone. "I'm not going to sit here and tell you told you so. I did my due diligence in attempting your interference with this lifestyle, but you're so damn stubborn that you did it anyways. I know you won't accept the financial side, that's how you are, but Ochaco has it set up to where you and your mother will be comfortable for the rest of your lives."

"She's…why would she do that?" Izuku questioned. Shota merely shrugged lightly as if to say the reasoning was obvious.

"Because that's what friends do. They look out for each other."

Ochaco stealthily appeared in front of the two, gloved hands folded at her front like usual. The long, heavier winter coat was indicative of the changing seasons with its woolen inner layer, nearly oversized buttons, and fur lined hood resting against her nape. Chestnut locks remained curled up into a braided bun with a single cherry blossom tassel pin swinging lightly. A soft salmon scarf curled around her neck firmly to chase away the chills. A luxurious kimono peeked out from beneath the knee-length jacket, shimmering in the overcast day with its pink, gold, and white combination. Izuku felt himself staring too long at the softened expression adorning the Yakuza's wind-brushed face, quickly turning away with a cough and tinting cheeks. Aizawa shot a suspicious look his way.

Strange. Why did he suddenly feel so…

"It's good to see you again, Ochaco. How have you been?" Izuku forced himself to focus on the main reason he trekked up the countless stairs. The heiress tilted her head slightly to the side, studying his sudden reaction to her abrupt appearance. Like he knew she'd be here…

"I'm well, thank you. How is your mother faring? I'm a little surprised that she isn't here though I'm sure that broadcast has something to do with it." Ochaco replied pleasantly. The defeated look on his face told her everything. "She still holds a vendetta against Yakuza."

"It's a bit hard for her to come to terms with your true identity. I think it's a matter of trust and being lied to….n-not that I blame you! I completely understand why you had to lie!" The green haired man quickly corrected himself at the slight crestfallen expression. A hand rummaged around in his jacket pocket which caused Shota to tense in anticipation. Ochaco remained relaxed and unbothered as a small box emerged.

Neither of the three moved. Izuku held out the small jewelry box in one hand, the other cusping beneath it as he had one leg shifted back on the previous step. Ochaco just stared in stunned silence at the gesture. Aizawa felt his eye twitching while glancing between the two, alarms now ringing in his head. What. The. FUCK. What the hell was Midoriya trying to pull?! Had he fallen for the heiress and was now proclaiming his motherfucking love on top of the mountain, in front of the sacred Uraraka shrine!? Just as he was about to yeet the former detective off the mountain, Izuku shakily spoke.

"T-this is from mom…as a thank you for the bouquet of flowers you delivered. She insisted I take it in case you were up here."

Ochaco carefully took the box from his outstretched hand, cradled it gently in a palm, then unraveled the perfectly tied ribbon. Once the lid popped open a beautiful fan shaped clip was revealed. Creme with delicately painted sakura flowers and three hand-molded flowers centered with pearls resting beneath. Gold thread represented the folds of the fan that trailed down a few inches with colored petals linked on. Tiny bells at the end of each of the five chains chimed softly as it was removed from the packaging. The heiress couldn't contain the smile threatening to spill over while examining it closer. A kimono hair clip. It was beautiful.

"It's so beautiful, Izuku. Thank you."

"Y-you're welcome, Ochaco. I'll let mom know you loved it." Izuku nearly matched the smile. Ochaco smiling was incredibly contagious…

"Since I'm wearing a kimono, it's only fit to don a matching clip. Would you?" The heiress asked while removing the pin from her bun and handing it to Aizawa who promptly placed it safely inside his jacket. Izuku faltered momentarily. She was asking him to do it? Swallowing the lump rising in his throat, he hesitantly reached for the box extended towards him.

Ochaco remained still as he stepped up, reaching for the left side of her hair with the pin in hand. Trembling fingers carefully undid the latch prior to gently sliding the open end through a handful of taut strands. His heart fluttered out of control as he adjusted the pin before using his other hand to snap it shut, their closeness less than a foot. The tendrils trailed down over his fingers once he began pulling back, the bells lingering against the tips before gently swinging downward. Her hand raised at the same moment his were falling away causing them to touch. What felt like a small shock transferred between.

"How does it look?" Ochaco quickly asked as Izuku stepped back a few feet, cheeks beginning to burn beneath the wind-scratched flesh. While the touch felt warm, it also felt…electrifying. Perhaps it was just the cold weather.

"Like a kimono pin," Shota stated bluntly much to her dismay. A sternly raised brow sent his way caused an amused huff in return. "It looks nice and matches your kimono. Better?"

"Very much so," Ochaco smiled triumphantly then turned to Izuku awaiting his response. Though the detective only briefly glanced back at her as he was currently looking away with a hand covering his mouth. It didn't take long for her to notice his behavior was like that night in the mountains, so she stepped around to be in his view for a direct response. What she wasn't expecting was the full on deep red blush going from cheek to ear, wide virescent eyes glimmering in hidden emotion. "Izuku? Something wrong? You don't…you don't like it?"

"N-not at all! I-I didn't mean it that way, i-it's very not that I d-don't like it, I just think it looks very, very not bad and doesn't match your outfit—does match your outfit!" Izuku sputtered out like a babbling fool while Ochaco's eyebrows raised worriedly. An arm over his face blocked most of the emotion as his ramblings continued on. Aizawa smacked a hand over his face then chose to walk away from the cringeworthy scene. No way he was getting involved in that aspect of their lives. Damn kids.

There was nothing scarier than young people in love.

Ochaco felt a bubbling tickle her throat. Ever so often at first albeit gradually turning into a heavy pressure that had fingertips pressing against lightly tinted lips. Shoulders shuddered as Izuku continued to make less sense as the seconds passed, constantly contradicting himself with corrections and clarifications. The heiress placed an entire hand over her mouth as the urge became too strong to resist. Izuku still hadn't noticed as he continue his ramblings. When he started writing invisible notes was when she lost it. A boisterous laugh slipped out.

"T-that's…I only asked if it looked good…" She wheezed with arms clutching on both sides. How long had it been since she'd laughed this hard? Months? Years? It seemed like a weight had been released from within.

"I-I'm sorry! It's just that I'm n-not very good when it comes to women…" Izuku apologized with waving hands as Ochaco continued to laugh. At one point tears were streaming down reddened cheeks and he couldn't help but to let out a small, embarrassed laugh. "I think…it suits you well, Ochaco."

"I'm glad to hear it," The heiress let out a forced breath to calm herself down, both hands fanning at her face. Just as she went to find a handkerchief one appeared before her in Izuku's hand. She gratefully took it, dabbing at her face lightly. Frigid airs only aggravated the skin further. With one more final fanning she returned to a calm state. "Now that I'm a little more composed, what brings you to the shrine? Surely it's not coincidental."

"Well, no, not really. I asked mom what time you arrived in order to find you. You never left a phone number or anything in case of needed contact."

"Needed contact? For what reason?" Ochaco asked curiously while motioning for him to follow. Yakuza immediately stopped their work, bowed until she passed, then continued without skipping a beat. It still felt odd for the former detective to witness such discipline. She reached the bench both she and Inko shared on numerous occasions, settling down delicately. He sat beside with comfortable space between them.

"Well…friends check on each other, right? After that night in the mountains, it didn't occur to me that you'd be…you know…" Izuku trailed off expectantly.

"Declaring war on the Shigaraki gang in a public announcement?" She finished immediately. He nodded lightly. "It was necessary to stand firm against their attacks and send the message that their taunts would not be tolerated. Although, it only seems to have fueled them more with how crime is rising. I'm doing everything short of tracking down the nest to eliminate the infestation, and even that's a last resort option."

"So what happens now?" Ochaco turned her gaze out towards the city, dreary skies giving a gloomy appearance. The body count was rising daily, paperwork stacking on her desk in piles of Yakuza and civilian. Heavier losses on the civilian side with too many of her family being slaughtered as well. War was creeping closer by the minute.

Everything was becoming…gray.

"More bloodshed. Violence. Death. Immeasurable damage. Things common with war. Nothing will ever be the same after this, Izuku. I can't stop what I've rolled into motion; people will have to die in order to put an end to this." Ochaco stated in a resolved tone. Yet the exterior hardened over the years began cracking the slightest. Another piece fractured then fell. "It's the only way I know how to defeat them once and for all. The blood of every death flows through my fingers, a constant reminder of the heavy price to pay."

"Violence against violence doesn't erase it, only creates a new problem further down the line." Izuku responded after a heavy minute of contemplation and Ochaco looked over. "While overpowering a problem with brute force may seem ideal, the aftermath brews hatred in the younger generation or those who feel jilted at the result. There will always be another to take over. The cycle will continue unless something else is done to prevent future retaliation."

"Shigaraki only understands violence; it's how they've operated for decades now. Their influence spreads far and wide, tainting every person willing to join their cause. They will stop at nothing to overtake the Uraraka clan and snuff out our lineage. We've survived for nearly three-hundred years, Izuku, I can't let it end like this. Not after how many sacrifices my family has made to flourish."

"What about your parents?" Izuku suddenly asked. The look she gave resembled a flicker of sadness though turned to indifference quickly. "Aren't they here to support your decisions?"

"…they're still away on business, on the other side of the island. I've tried to see when they'll come home but communication is hard with our schedules." Ochaco answered while averting a softening gaze. It'd been months now…were they ever going to come home? How much longer would it take? "Issues keep popping up with the official documentation of the latest warehouse purchased. Old liens, zoning changes, back-logged debts and incorrect filing procedures."

"What company is this for?"

"Tomatsu Industries. They're a locally owned company that emerged the last few decades or so. Since their location is ideal, my father wanted to acquire the company for more efficient shipping across the globe. It just seems to me that it's being intentionally delayed again and again. They should've been home by now," The muttering began as Deku racked his memory for any details of the Tomatsu company. Ochaco just watched with fascination. He was like an encyclopedia for random facts. It didn't take long for the green haired man to sudden come to a realization with a breath in.

"Now I know why that name's familiar! I remember reading an article about that company a year or so ago from my dad's old newspaper collection. Apparently they got wrapped up in falsifying documents in order to ship out illegal products, mainly disguised as fruit crates. Drugs I believe is what they were smuggling. They were shut down due to the activity, but someone swooped in and saved them from full foreclosure. Rebranding yet keeping the produce venture. I believe they chose the name Tenko Industries."

"Tenko?" Ochaco murmured against fingertips. Why did that name sound familiar? "Are you sure that's right?"

"Pretty sure. Why? Do you know that name?" Izuku asked worriedly as Ochaco motioned Aizawa over. Either she came to a sudden realization, or this was going to get messy. He prayed it was the former.

"Tenko Industries, why does that name sound familiar?" Ochaco asked Shota once he was in range. A hand scratched at the scraggly beard for a moment of thought then his eyes hardened the slightest bit. Izuku glanced between them uneasily. Though they didn't speak it seemed both came to a realization. "Please tell me that's not who I think it is."

"It may be. There aren't any records of a name change so I'm not sure how that came to be in an article. Midoriya, you still have that paper?" Aizawa turned to his former subordinate with authority. Not that he was intentionally acting as his superior, it came naturally in his line of work.

"I believe so. It was an unpublished article from the newspaper firm dad used to work for. I'd have to tear through some boxes…" Izuku trailed off as he recalled his mother hurriedly packing to escape the city. A sigh slipped out. "But mom's so freaked out right now about the war that she may have packed it all up. It'll take some time to find it. When do you need it?"

"The sooner the better. It may have something to do with the Shigaraki gang."

"What?!" Both young adults exclaimed in unison, quickly drawing all eyes to them. Aizawa waved them off without breaking eye contact with the former detective. Ochaco seemed to have suspicions about Izuku's dad and the newspaper firm, but that they would deal with later.

"Long story for another time. Get me that document as fast as you can, deliver it to this address before the curfew hits to avoid being tracked. Ochaco," The heiress gave a brief nod. It was time to go. Shota scribbled down the address and handed it over. "Burn this paper so it doesn't fall into the wrong hands after you memorize it."

"There's something I need to do first. Izuku, will your mother allow me to visit? To personally thank her for the clip?" Ochaco turned to Izuku who was safely tucking the paper inside his jacket. Hesitation filled his body giving the heiress an obvious answer. "I understand. Please, send along my gratitude—"

"I think she'd really like to see you again," Izuku abruptly announced as Ochaco began turning away. This was the right thing to do… "She…she's afraid. Of whom you really are, of what's going on around us. When I showed up to her house this morning she was in the process of packing up to leave town. And she wanted me to go with, though I told her it's safest here…under your protection."

"I never go back on my word; your friends and family will be protected. Is everything ready?" The heiress vowed while pressing a hand against her heart.

"Still waiting on a few minor details though everything is livable right now. Do you want me to proceed?" Shota asked with phone already out and awaiting her command. A single nod had the Yakuza walking away directing someone to get moving. Izuku glanced between them thoroughly confused.

"What does Mr. Aizawa mean by proceeding?" He asked. Ochaco merely smiled.

"Accommodations have been set up on the main Uraraka property to house you and your family. The same goes for Ojiro, Hagakure, Mina and Kirishima. Bakugo and Todoroki are in the undecided category due to their personal connections and lines of work. Those who have directly correlated with me are being removed from their homes as precaution. We're expecting Shigaraki to target each of you in an attempt to force us into submission. There is enough space for everyone. Personal drivers have been assigned and ordered to take you wherever you need to go."

"Wait, you're taking us directly to the main house?!" Izuku rasped incredulously, drying mouth agape as his friend merely nodded affirmation. The main house of the most powerful Yakuza family in Japan? Possibly the entire world!? "Wha—is that even safe? To bring everyone together in one location? What if someone traces back to the property?"

"All implemented measures have been thoroughly thought through by Aizawa and his security team. No one has managed to infiltrate the Uraraka estate before; it won't happen now. Ah, if you're not comfortable with the idea then I can add security around your apartment and Inko's dwelling." Ochaco quickly added on as she noted his turbulent expression. While she wanted to protect her friends to best of the power she held, it ultimately was up to them what they wanted. But if Shigaraki managed to get ahold of one of them…

"No, it makes sense. They'd likely try to take us out one by one and play the hostage card in order to draw you out. I think a problem we're going to run into is the rest of my classmates are here in town…and they're willing to fight for Musutafu. To be honest, that's the main reason I came here looking for you. To let you know that my friends and I are willing to do whatever it takes to support the assault against Shigaraki."

The heiress pressed her lips together firmly. Oh. He wanted others involved as well. It was already her fault he was wrapped up in such a dangerous lifestyle, now others wanted to willingly join. That became a liability. Too much for her comfort. Maybe harboring them within the main house was a bad idea…

"You've got a look that says, 'liabilities' all over it," Izuku commented with a grin. Ochaco felt her face heat up in embarrassment, quickly turning away to hide it as a laugh slipped from his mouth. "Don't worry, I understand. Too many people getting involved, too many loose ends to wrangle. They won't get involved on your side unless necessary, I promise. They're good people wanting to protect their home just like you are, Ochaco. Each one has a unique skill that will contribute greatly."

"Are they willing to lay their lives down for this city? Stain themselves with the blood of those lost to violence?" Ochaco asked, sharp eyes swinging back to him and locking on. He didn't seem to be surprised by the answer, more like expecting it. Sometimes she mused if he was too perceptive for his own good. "I can only go so far to protect people, Izuku. Despite doing everything in my power, right now people are still dying. My men are growing tired from endless patrols ending in skirmishes. They can't see their families anymore because of this war. You may lose those close to you and in the end, I may end up sacrificing myself for the sake of this city."

"You need to stop thinking like that." Izuku stated firmly. "When you think like that it means you're already planning to lose. You care for this city and the people in it, are you really just going to lie down and die? Shigaraki will continue to thrive if you falter at any point. Stand firm. Protect what you love. And above all else…don't be afraid to accept that helping hand."

A thunderous explosion rippled across the peaceful autumn day sending birds scattering for cover. Ochaco instantly chose to run towards the sound, Izuku right on her heels. Thick, black smoke emerged from just over the tree line near the local shopping area. Cries could be faintly heard through the dense trees as flames began licking their tops. Aizawa began ordering men to guard the shrine while latching onto the heiress' arm, attempting to guide her away yet she remained focused on the roiling flames as they lashed out in angry strikes. Fingers gently landed on Aizawa's hand.

"Go. Protect the civilians first. Do what you must to save their lives." Ochaco ordered softly, finally dragging focused auburn to his strained expression. Barely a second went by then he nodded. A hard glance at Izuku and he was barking into a concealed microphone. Satisfied, she took her first step down the shrine pathway.

"Wait, you're going down there? What if you get attacked again?" Izuku fretted as the heiress continued forward. He rushed down the stairs, using his body to prevent her from moving forward. "You should go somewhere safe—"

"My people need me," Ochaco replied firmly.

"There are officials for that! Please, Ochaco. You're going to be easily targeted."

"You'll reach out to a hand in need, correct?"

"Always."

"Then," Ochaco delicately held out her hand for him, waiting. Izuku's breath hitched in the slightest. Virescent darted from the hand to unwavering auburn. "Help me protect our city, Izuku Midoriya."

It took only a moment to affirm his mantra, easily reaching out to take her hand with a firm nod. The two took off down the stairs at lightning speed as smoke and screams filled the air. Ochaco flicked off the zori sandals to pick up speed in just socks, hands ripping at the buttoned jacket as well. She needed more range on her legs. A fast rummaging revealed a moderately sized, serrated blade that sliced through the kimono sides like wet bamboo paper, instantly freeing the constrained limbs. Izuku just shot her an incredulous look.

"Why do you have Aizawa's knife?"

"Do you really expect me to carry a gun in this outfit?" Ochaco shot back with a small laugh. "I can't fit the same weapon for different clothes. Besides, he tossed it to me back there, didn't you notice?"

"No…no, I didn't…"

"Where's your gun?" She suddenly asked while keeping the blade secured at the side. A sheepish look was all she caught in between looking at the growing smoke and stairs. "What happened to your weapon?"

"I…got fired from the police department?" He offered nervously, a hand subconsciously reaching for his nape. Ochaco stared at him in disbelief before sighing in disappointment at the inconvenience. "It happened after you announced to fight back against Shigaraki. Chief Yagi wasn't too pleased with our association…"

"You don't carry anything else?"

"I don't really need to! It's not like a go around shooting people all day!"

"You certainly did on the mountainside!"

"To protect you and they were non-lethal impact points!"

"Here, carry this then; I don't need more than martial arts for close combat." Ochaco tossed the blade without a second glance.

"It's dangerous to throw sharp blades!" Izuku cried out while firmly attaching the blade through two beltloops. It wasn't perfect so he kept a hand over the hilt for security. As soon as he looked back over to the heiress he noticed the raised eyebrow and judgmental stare. "What? Did I say something weird?"

"You're worried about a knife when you're running next to the Uraraka successor. I didn't realize a knife was scarier than me," Ochaco suddenly grinned as they reached the halfway platform, shifting one leg back to push against the bottom step.

Izuku faltered at the statement, mouth opening to protest when the heiress shot past him at a dizzying speed. The brunette appeared almost floating over the steps, weightless as she gracefully tapped against the tops of the Torii gates. Izuku tried his best to keep up, but Ochaco was no match. It was as if she'd been blessed by her ancestors with magical powers. Only once did she turn back to check on him...

With the most enchanting expression he could only describe as liberated.

-B-

Dabi watched from the rooftop as flames continued to feed themselves in a never-ending cyclone of destruction. A hefty number of civilians were caught up in the powerful explosion this time, further lengthening the list of casualties. Shigaraki did say to cause as much destruction as possible in order to lure out the heiress. Since that day she formally announced them as a threat, their underground gang of misfits and rejects tore through the city like a plague. Murders. Robberies. Car chases. Destruction. Fires. Anything and everything to cripple their rankings. But the most important thing was to draw her out…and the best way to do that was with a hostage. A large burlap sack behind him squirmed restlessly, kicking bound legs out in an attempt to swivel around.

"Quit swingin' around unless you wanna learn to fly," Dabi warned casually. The bag slowed then stopped, resuming its limp positioning. "Much better. Wouldn't want to waste all of that energy when the show hasn't even begun yet."

"Dabi…she's here and she's not alone…" A voice whispered loudly through the snug intercom in his ear. A smile so tight it pulled at the charred flesh and stitches painfully.

Swinging himself to a stand on the dangerously narrow ledge, Dabi strolled over to the burlap sack and grabbed it with a grunt of effort. The person let out a breath of pain at the sudden movement though remained still and quiet otherwise. He needed to get to the correct positioning in order to really put on a show for the Uraraka heiress. Surely she'd enjoy watching a friend be thrown from a roof, right? Maybe hung like a sack of potatoes, doused in gasoline and lit like a Christmas fire. Of course, Toga mentioned wanting a better taste of the blood…nah, that shit freaked him out and he was a half-rotted piece of burnt meat. Jumping down to a lower level roof via the air conditioning unit, Dabi slowly walked towards the overhanging balcony that gave the perfect platform for his speech. It didn't take long to see through the flames and chaos two people that stood out brightly.

"Well, well, seems the princess has gotten a new bodyguard. Izuku Midoriya. Though, not really much of a threat now seeing as he's lost his job, weapon, and support of the U.A. Police. Pity."

A blade emerged from his pocket and made swift work of the sack to reveal the hostage. It was one of the women Shigaraki pointed out on the target list. Blonde, American foreigner, spiteful expression that only tickled his excitement. The very own niece of Chief Yagi, daughter of famous inventor David Shield…

"You won't get away with this," Melissa Shield hissed while roughly pulled to her feet, swaying wildly until the man yanked her fully upright. The smell of decay and ash hit her nose, so she pulled away when her stomach churned. "When my uncle hears about this—"

"He's going to be too busy saving those burning corpses below, right? Luckily for you he's not the one we're going after today," Dabi chirped, eyes wide and wild. The blade swiftly pressed against the side of her neck menacingly. "You see, we're after that woman way down there in the kimono. See her? Over there with Izuku Midoriya, now former detective of the U.A. Special Police Force that you have close ties with. I need you to be a good hostage and get her within range."

"Within range of what?" Melissa shakily asked as he shoved her forward, the blonde nearly tripping over the roof ledge.

"You'll see. In position. Do it." Dabi drawled against the comm.

Melissa could only watch in horror as gunfire erupted across the burning remnants of a park center. She could only guess hundreds of rounds went flying through the people trying to escape the burning haze. Down they fell, one after another; women, children, elderly, disabled. It didn't matter. All lives died in a fraction of a second. Blue eyes watered as she could only watch on in horror. A hand painfully latched onto the back of her head, forcing the foreigner to watch.

"Wouldn't want to miss the fun! Make sure to keep those peepers nice and wide open so it becomes engrained in that mind of yours."

The gunshots ceased. Silence filled the air as any remaining citizens fled for cover during the exercise. Charred, smoking bodies lay in Olympic sized pools of blood amongst the dying plants and flowers. Stone statues became powdered pebbles. It was a gruesome scene to behold, and Dabi couldn't be happier. As long as it drew the heiress into their trap he could live with putting on a theatrical number.

Ochaco peeked around the car she'd taken cover behind, squinting through the thick cloud of dust concealing the area. An ambush, no doubt meant to draw her into the open. There had to have been at least three hundred rounds condensed in the small area of the park. Fire to garner attention then gunfire to make a point. They were waiting for her to show. Would they attack outright? A stupid tactic…unless a hidden card was ready to be revealed. Izuku was crouched behind a nearby bus with a few civilians under his arm, glancing between her and the clearing smoke.

"Status." Aizawa spoke lowly through the nested earpiece. At least he was still alive.

"Crouched behind a car. It's like they're waiting for something…rather, I believe my appearance is what Shigaraki wants." Ochaco replied with a slight clenching of her jaw as the first body became visible. "How many people were in that area?"

"Too many to properly evacuate. We've got eyes in the skies. Remain aware of your surroundings."

A low whirling had the heiress looking up in time to see a helicopter snooping around the scene; a news station looking for the latest scoop, obviously. Police would have to scramble and that took time. Ochaco hastily began tearing at the obi and kimono, tossing the pieces aside carelessly. This was going to turn into a fight and expensive formal wear wasn't going to cut it this time. Luckily, having grown up in a Yakuza household meant being prepared at all times. Beneath the kimono was an all-black stealth suit made of flexible, alloy-carbon fiber material that was impervious to almost all heavy attacks. Bombs were another story though as the suit was designed to be protective enough against close combat, not high-density explosives. Reinforced areas had a low shine to them; shoulders, arms, chest, abdomen, sides, back, thighs and shins. Each piece molded perfectly to her body thanks to a certain clothing designer.

Opening a pouch resting flush on the right hip, Ochaco pulled out two slipper-like shoes. They were made of the same material though offered more sole protection with a special material dipped onto the bottom. The dirty socks rested atop the pile of discarded as the new shoes slipped on, the heiress flexing them easily. Under normal circumstances her clothing would be skin-tight in private training environments, though considering she was in public and now openly announced as heiress, things had to be looser to remain decent. Loose sleeves, pant legs. The only tight sections were around her neck, wrists, and ankles. Sneaking another glance around the abandoned vehicle, Ochaco's attention shifted from the scene over to Izuku.

"Can you see anything?"

"It's a bit hard to with the smoke, but I think…I think there's someone on the roof directly ahead." Izuku pointed upwards with auburn following the trail.

"Guess our burnt piece of charcoal needed to make an appearance after last time." Aizawa growled in annoyance. Damn pyromaniac wouldn't rest until he had Ochaco's head. Already their best snipers were in place and locking in on the Shigaraki member. "He's waiting for you to appear."

"Then let's not keep him waiting any longer." Ochaco decided with a stand.

"What are you doing?!" Izuku loudly whispered as the brunette stood in full view of the warzone. He quickly reassured the scared people beside him before crawling like a madman over to where she'd sat moments ago. "Ochaco, they want you to go out in the open! It's a trap!"

"Do you see what they've done to my city? My people? Enough is enough, Izuku. Today marks the day the Uraraka clan fights back. Focus on escorting the civilians out of the area and to awaiting evacuation trucks." She ordered in an authoritative tone, hand pointing in the opposite direction. "They'll be taken to a shelter impervious to heavy attacks and under constant surveillance. Do your part as an idolized hero and protect those in need. I'll be fine."

"…as much as I don't want to leave you alone against Shigaraki, I…I trust you, Ochaco. Be safe…please…" Izuku admitted without looking at the heiress, instead choosing to scuttle back to the bus to escort the civilians out.

Ochaco briefly closed her eyes, taking a deep breath in. That was all she needed right now. Trust. Izuku trusted a Yakuza. He trusted her. Steeling mentally and physically for the fight about to occur, she opened both eyes then stepped forward into the destruction.

Dabi knew the moment he saw a figure moving through the clouds of dust it was her. Who else would willingly walk into a destroyed zone with dozens of air ventilated bodies? The action elicited a twisted grin on oozing, raw flesh; blood trickled from the never healing surgical staples. Walking alone into the battlefield, admirable for a woman about to be annihilated.

"Well, well, if it ain't the big boss herself! I figured you'd enjoy the welcoming party I organized for you! Red certainly seems to be a fond color for you," Dabi proclaimed loudly atop his soapbox, rasping voice travelling into the open area. When the heiress stopped just prior to the first body in the park he leaned forward nonchalantly against a knee, hand almost bored against his face. "Tell me something; how's it make you feel to know your citizens are being slaughtered left and right?"

"Murdering innocent people is a cowardice move," Ochaco voiced loudly, eyes remaining on the body of the small child at her feet. Such an innocent life lost due to callous, deranged behavior from a rivaling Yakuza gang. The fact that they called themselves such sent her blood simmering.

"Cowardice? That's rich coming from a princess who hides away in her castle while daddy does all the work. How's that warehouse of his coming along? I've heard through the grapevine there's been some hiccups—"

Ochaco let out a chuckle that remained concealed behind the back of a hand. Instantly Dabi became irked at the unexpected response. Auburn sharply locked onto ice blue. "I didn't think you'd actually be dumb enough to confirm that information. Now that I know Shigaraki is fully behind that decoy of a warehouse, I can send the signal to burn it to the ground. Though…I believe you've already been doing that to some of my properties, right? Flushing out the weak in order to trail them back to the main nest."

"Sharp mind you've got,"

"Dangerously so. Are we really going to play the hostage game now? Release the young woman and we'll have a face-to-face conversation since you seem so eager to engage." Ochaco studied the blonde woman being forced to stand beside the villainous man. Definitely a foreigner with the hair and body, stark red glasses standing out like a sore thumb. She almost seemed familiar yet… "I don't have time for childish games, spawn of Shigaraki. Either you release the hostage safely or I take matters into my own hands. And believe me; you won't like the results of me doing so."

"You know what's funny?" Dabi asked suddenly, lurching Melissa closer to the edge of the roof. A whimper escaped when rock crumbled beneath her boot. "I don't think you'll do anything with that news chopper circling around like a vulture. Why? Because the Uraraka clan strayed from the violent ways of the Yakuza. Are you really risking to throw away decades of peaceful ways for a single woman?"

"I'll do whatever it takes in order to preserve the lives of the citizens of Musutafu," Ochaco shouted proudly, palm against her heart. "It's my job to ensure the safety of those living under the Uraraka protection, and that includes everyone! Those who serve under the Shigaraki gang are nothing more than parasitic rats plaguing the city with ruthless behavior and loose laws. You've gone too far; this ends today."

"Ooh, such a scary girl you are!" Dabi cackled heartedly. The wide grin on his face slipped to that of an arrogant smirk. She had no idea what she was getting herself into. "Let's face it, sweetheart; you're nothing more than a child attempting to play in a world full of adults. Oh, but I do have a message from Shigaraki for you."

"And that would be?" Ochaco shifted slightly around the child's body taking care not to step on even a single hair.

"Tell your parents not to worry when you meet them in Hell; the Shigaraki gang will take good care of the city."

Ochaco shot forward as sniper rounds pinged off the concrete just shy of her body, dodging and weaving as the relentless fire continued to drive her through the death zone. Their attacks were just barely grazing the reinforced clothing and armor; they weren't attempting to assassinate, merely guide the heiress to a certain area. She only kept her eyes on the hostage nearly completely dangling over the edge of the roof, remaining ground only thanks to the strong grasp of Dabi holding her hair. That woman…

"Melissa Shield, daughter of David Shield and niece of chief Yagi."

"That's why she seemed so familiar. A friend of Izuku's?"

"Yeah. They've worked together before at the station."

"A friend of Izuku's is a friend of mine. Are we in positioning?" Ochaco rolled out of the way as an incoming molotov singed the dried out grasses. If they were hoping for a more exciting result, they were wrong. Guiding her towards a more confined area? Predictable.

"Indeed we are, Miss Uraraka. Ready on your command," A deep, southern accent filtered into her ear. Ochaco huffed triumphantly.

"Fire at will."

Piercing sniper rounds filled the area as return fire commenced. It barely took more than three rounds before silence echoed in the air. Ochaco noted the slight downward ticking of Dabi's lips at the elimination of their snipers. "Did you really think we wouldn't retaliate after the last attack? It seems Shigaraki's plan is a little looser than you've realized."

"It'd be a waste to reveal everything now, right? The fun's just beginning!"

Waves of heavily armed men suddenly poured from the building holding the villain, armed to the teeth with weapons of varying levels. Axes, swords, guns, spears. Whatever they could get their grubby little fingers on. Despite their attempt to throw everything at the heiress at once, she wouldn't back down. Couldn't when a life was in danger. They made a beeline straight for her weapons raised. Time for a workout.

A figure in white appeared at her side silently.

"You don't have to sacrifice yourself for this," Ochaco mentioned as she dodged a thrown spear, grabbing it at the last second then spinning around to hurl it through the mob. The person beside merely sighed in slight annoyance.

"I've made up my choice to stand by your side, Ochaco. Even if it means riding into battle together. I have a request for you though; if we win this war, Mina and Toru want to hang out every single day."

"When we win this war…I'll do whatever the hell you guys want to." Ochaco smiled briefly at Ojiro, him returning a brighter one. "Let's see if your ranking really holds up in the field."

"Just watch me!"

One by one the ruthless attackers fell by the martial arts duo who swept through them like a field of grain. Even those attempting to use guns were instantly disarmed then hit with their own weapon hard enough to obliterate consciousness. No man could lay a finger on either for more than a second before being slammed into the ground or given a nap time. Ochaco constantly watched the blonde dangling over the edge; Dabi would run out of patience soon enough and send her to a fiery grave below. If their plan was to drive her through the building then another route was needed. No doubt more enemies would be awaiting up top, armed to the teeth, willing and able to fight.

"Your best shot is to climb directly up the front, Ochaco, they're going to have the inside completely rigged. If you're going to save Melissa it's your only chance." Ojiro remarked with a powerful kick to a thug, sending the man flying through the crowd and crumbling their defenses. Ochaco quickly scanned a route up to the roof; doable though treacherous in areas. "Go! I can handle them until reinforcements arrive!"

"Thank you, Ojiro. For everything you've done." The blonde merely shook his head in response as she took off sans hesitation.

"That's what friends are for, Ochaco."

Shota rushed across the rooftops taking enemies down left and right the fastest way he knew how. Their necks sliced open like warm butter with his trusted blade Izuku had returned. It was coincidental to meet at the first civilian evacuation point since he was on his way to assist Ochaco. He quickly explained how she'd taken off to reach the blonde dangling precariously over the ledge…which meant right into a trap. Before he sprinted off once more, Izuku alerted the former officer that he was going to continue assisting civilian rescue as he trusted Ochaco in her choices.

The Yakuza couldn't have hoped for a better response.

"More targets coming up, Shota. Give em a rockin' time!" Hizashi crowed into his ear much to his displeasure. There was no denying their tight friendship, they'd gone to school together years ago, but sometimes he wished for just one quiet, normal conversation with the wannabe radio host.

"Have you zoomed in on pyrofreak?"

"Standing atop the Kinsai Gardens building. Signal gets a bit rough the closer I am, probably a scrambler. Either they got something hiding in that building or someone else is waiting."

"It wouldn't be just Tomura either. Any word on Kenji and Fumi?"

"Nada. Their phones are down and so are the direct guards. I've reached out to that local branch to send reinforcements, but I've gotta tell you Shota…things aren't sounding good in the rankings. Someone got to them and they're now questioning about Ochaco's ability to lead the clan. Her escapades through the city drew a lot of unwanted attention. You-know-who seems to be planning a move to visit."

"That's fucking fantastic. If he shows up then shit's really going to hit the fan. Can you deter him with a heavy load of roadblocks?" Hizashi was referring to Kenji's father, Ishikawa Uraraka. The man was known for being ruthless in his younger years and kept strict diligence in training Kenji. He was feared throughout his entire reign. Visits to the main Uraraka mansion usually meant one of two things; a celebration or ascension…or a council meeting had been called. Considering neither of the former had yet to occur, Shota had a sinking feeling the elders were going to call for re-evaluation of Ochaco's ascension.

"I'll do my best. Got some movement in the gardens out back…looks like one person? Argh, signal keeps scrambling—w-we've got a problem, Shota! I know who that is down there!"

"Tell me!" Shota snarled mid-leap to another roof, aiming to execute a roll.

"…the big boss himself…Shigaraki…alias All for One…"

Aizawa froze up at the name, hairs on the back of his neck shooting straight up. It couldn't be…the Yakuza hit the roof hard since the distraction caused a faulty landing. He rolled to a stop a few feet away, face-down against the rough material. A grunt of pain slipped out as he forced himself to both elbows, staring widely at the floor. If that truly was the big boss of Shigaraki, then flambé for brains was trying to lure Ochaco right into his hands. She couldn't go against him even with all the latest military weapons known to man; Shigaraki was a monster. "You're sure—"

"As fucking sure as I'm going to get, Shota! Right before the feed cut out completely, I saw his face…once you see those eyes you don't ever forget them. You need…get…othasdf…"

"Hizashi? Fuck. They've scrambled all communications. Really pulling out all the stops…" Shota grunted with a shove to his feet, moving with more purpose than before. He needed to stop Ochaco from getting in range of that man…even if it meant sacrificing a life to do so.

The heiress launched herself against the brick facing of the building with gusto, latching onto the top of the first story window frame and swinging a leg up. Just like rock climbing. Use your legs not your arms, focus on the next spot you want to attach yourself to. She pushed herself up onto the top of the window and jumped up towards the next. Thankfully the building was only three stories tall meaning it wouldn't take long to reach Melissa Shield. A mop of messy black hair leaned over the edge of the roof, shaking in disappointment. Ochaco scowled as Melissa leaned further over the edge, toes just barely hanging on.

"Climbing the wall like a spider, huh? Unless you're Spiderman, I don't think it's going to help you when it comes to rescuing your damsel in distress. Oops, slippery fingers and all that," Dabi grinned and released Melissa, giving her a good shove for measure. "Say hi to the charred corpses for me, will ya?"

Melissa went tumbling over the roofs edge at a sharp angle that sent her path directly towards a damaged statue, shot up head now a lethal dagger. Letting out a heavy tsk the heiress gave the pyromaniac a nasty look before repositioning to lunge at the blonde. She only had a few seconds to do so before it turned into a fatality yet the chances of her having a safe landing were slim considering the intersecting angles. She could knock the young woman towards some charred trees, but it would take an immense amount of force to do so. The wall beneath her feet vibrated violently and the heiress barely managed to jump away before a large sledgehammer busted out the window and numerous bricks.

"You can't climb the wall if there's nothing to hold onto!" A large, burly man chuckled deeply as he stuck his head through the wall, mostly concealed face turning to Ochaco. She'd just barely managed to hang onto an opposite ledge though time hadn't been very kind to it as the edges corroded.

Ochaco swung her other hand up to grasp the crumbling ledge then crouched as low as possible before launching towards Melissa. Damn those bastards! They weren't going to make it easy to get after that fucker who kidnapped her in the first place. Both arms outstretched towards the blonde. She could feel the glass exploding towards her like dozens of tiny missiles, heat quickly following. Now they were starting to piss her off. Melissa snapped both eyes open as soon as something wrapped tightly around her waist, throwing their trajectory off and away from the statue.

"You're—!" She exclaimed. The heiress ignored the blonde in favor of focusing on the landing. Debris prevented a completely smooth landing though Ochaco dug her heels in upon impact, consistently shifting her weight around to prevent a hard fall. Yet a section of concrete with rebar sticking out sliced across her leg sharply ultimately sending them both crashing into the ground. Melissa let out a breath of discomfort when she rolled to her back. At least nothing seemed broken. Blue eyes blinked away the dust then looked up as a figure appeared before her.

"If you know what's best for you, you'll leave this area. Head towards an evacuation center. Izuku will be there assisting others." Ochaco stated calmly with only a few seconds of acknowledgement, turning away to continue for her target. A hand latched onto her wrist desperately. "Release me."

"It's a trap! They've got some plan to lure you in—"

"I'm aware." Ochaco stated harshly causing Melissa to flinch at the coldness. "Go find Izuku at the evacuee center."

Melissa opened her mouth to retort, yet the brunette shot off like a rocket towards the active demolition zone. The hand reaching towards her slipped back to the gravely earth. Why wouldn't she listen to her plea? And what she mentioned…about knowing Izuku. Had he known the heiress of the Uraraka clan this entire time? Deciding it was a matter for another time, the blonde forced herself up and towards the people directing citizens. She needed to find him, tell him what they were planning. She'd only heard snippets of their plans, but it involved using the black haired one as a lure to someone else.

All they mentioned was the name All for One.

Through the throngs of civilians Melissa could hear Izuku's voice and it was like an angel sent from heaven. His expertise in crowd control had the civilians steadily climbing into unmarked evacuation vehicles, calming words preventing chaos. There were others there that she didn't recognize; men that assisted with processing though they didn't seem the type. Rough, rugged looking with piercing expressions and voices. Most, if not all, were heavily armed with automatic rifles, pistols, knives. The blonde felt like she was looking at a militia in the making.

"Miss, you need to move along if you're evacuating. We don't have time for you to stop and gawk." A baritone voice had her turning towards a towering man, armed to the teeth, pointing sharply at the evacuation vehicle. Melissa clasped both hands tightly against her chest, trembling instinctively. He looked like one of the men that ambushed her in the alleyway. "Come on, we ain't got time for this—"

"I-Izuku Midoriya! I-I need to find him; he should be over here assisting with evacuations." Melissa interrupted loudly as the man reached out to grab her arm. He latched on with incredible speed then began pulling her towards the closest vehicle. "Wait, let go of me! I need to find him first!"

"Evacuees can search for their loved ones after arrival to the evacuation point." The man bluntly replied, brushing past other guards without a glance.

"IZUKU!" Melissa shouted over the murmuring of people, all eyes turning to her. "IZUKU MIDORIYA!"

"Knock it off or you're going to draw the wrong kind of attention this way!" The man hissed while yanking her along harder, eyes now scanning the rooftops. "You're making us all targets—"

"Melissa?!"

A strangled moan of relief slipped past her lips as the dark-haired man pushed his way over. His eyes hardened at the guard who released her with a sharp snapping of his tongue, moving away to redirect other people. Before Izuku could turn back towards his friend, she latched onto both of his wrists tightly and tugged on them. "I need you to listen to me right now! That girl…the Uraraka one? She's heading right into a trap set by the Shigaraki gang!"

"What kind of trap? Where did you even come from?" Izuku frantically asked, shifting them both away from prying ears behind an abandoned bus. Already he knew about there being a trap to lure the heiress in, though that was it. He hadn't seen Melissa in the fray prior, so where had she come from? "How do you know about Ochaco?"

"The Shigaraki gang managed to snatch me the other night when I was leaving the police station. I don't really remember much, but I overheard them talking about luring the Uraraka heiress in for someone…All for One?"

Izuku let his arms drop heavily at his side. The pounding heartbeat in his ears drowned out the calls for evacuation, senses became numbed as the name rang through his mind. That was the same man who'd assaulted Chief Yagi in his younger days, the one who crippled the officer and forced an early retirement from the field. The newspapers talked about it for months solely because of the immense scale of the fight. Numerous buildings had become demolished, dozens of innocent lives taken. Izuku shakily placed a hand over his mouth while virescent widened considerably. Melissa realized the severity of the situation as she too mimicked his expression.

"Melissa," Izuku started shakily, unable to contain the tremble in his voice. "A-are you positive…that's what they said…"

"One hundred percent. He…he was the one who hurt Uncle Toshi, right?" She asked barely above a whisper, his quick nod affirming. Both hands flew to her mouth, and she looked back towards the building. Just barely she could see the woman beginning her ascent once more. "Oh, no…someone needs to stop her, Izuku, she wouldn't listen to me when I warned her."

"I told her I believed in her…I don't want to break that trust. But at the same time I can't just stand around here and do nothing. I don't even have a weapon on me! But…I can't let Ochaco be killed!" Izuku slammed his fist against the side of the bus out of frustration. She wouldn't ask for his help...wouldn't accept it in a situation like this. Did she even understand what she was walking into or was it her pride as the future Uraraka heiress fueling her? Another slamming of the fist before the green haired man walked away with conflicting emotions. "Damnit! What do I do?!"

"Do what you were born to do, Izuku; save those in need."

Both turned to see Inko Midoriya standing a few feet away, hands clenched together tightly, tears welled in both eyes. Slowly she shifted forward and reached for her son's hands, cradling the bruising knuckles gently. Izuku pursed his lips to keep the emotions at bay. "Mom…"

"I've been watching the news since the first explosion…Ochaco…she's running right into the fight without hesitation. She saved this young woman from being seriously injured after falling from the roof. She's driven and strongheaded, yet cares immensely for this city and its people, Izuku. Just like you do. I won't stop you. You know what needs to be done right now."

"Mom…" Izuku embraced her tightly, as if it would be the last time. When they pulled back both had tears streaming down cheeks. "Thank you, for always believing in me. I shouldn't be sitting here doubting myself when I already know what needs to be done."

"I'll watch over your mother, Izuku. Go. Help her." Melissa gently laid a hand on his mother's shoulder and nodded reassuringly. Izuku sent her a grateful smile, taking a few steps back.

"I'll bring Ochaco back, I promise. She still wants to thank you for the hair piece, mom."

"I'll be waiting for her response."

Izuku turned and sprinted towards the destroyed park, eyes on the target. Ochaco was climbing up the face of the demolished building while avoiding attacks from the inside and sections of the wall crumbling beneath her feet. Yet it didn't stop her; the heiress kept pushing forward, responding with powerful kicks to fend off attackers then swinging to another window frame with ease. If she was avoiding the inside of the building then it meant traps had been laid out. The only other pathway was straight up to where that maniac still stood, cocking his head mockingly while making hand gestures. The pyromaniac who attempted to burn Mr. Aizawa to a crisp. Anger boiled his blood.

A flash of white caught his attention while carefully navigating the field of corpses covering the concrete. "Ojiro?!"

"Midoriya! Great to see you. Little help?" The blonde huffed out a laugh while dislocating the shoulder of one man before throwing him on top of a few others attempting to get back up. Izuku immediately threw himself into the fray without holding back; full powered punches, kicks, and a combination of what martial arts he learned in academy had the two clearing the field with ease. Ojiro swiped at his face, a little worn as the flow of villains ceased. "Thanks, man. These guys just keep spilling out of the building."

"Haven't you tried to stop Ochaco?" His friend immediately cut to the chase. The knowing look sent his way spoke volumes. "What's waiting up there for her?"

"Don't know, she didn't mention why she was going back after that Shigaraki member. Though judging by the ferocity in her eyes, it's for a personal reason now, Midoriya."

"Aizawa." Izuku stated sternly and Ojiro's eyes widened a fraction, swinging up to the heiress nearly at the top. "She might've found out he nearly crisped us alive. Not to mention being chased through downtown and into the bridge tunnel system. I think she's attempting to take them down one by one now."

"Well," Ojiro stretched his hands high into the sky, alternating which direction he moved before turning back to his friend with a solemn expression. "Guess we better go help her out then."

Ochaco reached the overhang of the roof and swiftly threw herself on top, crouched and ready to strike. The black haired man leaned casually against an emergency access hatch almost in a bored manner. Swaying to a stand she began walking towards him, expression dangerous. Piercing blue eyed her with little interest even as she drew close.

"Impressive. I'd give you a gold star for your efforts, but…I'm all out of fucks to give. Sorry." Dabi shrugged heavily, palms upward.

"You've got my full attention. I suggest you get out what you want now before things get worse." Ochaco threatened lowly. Dabi let out a wheezing chuckle, shoving both hands deep into his pockets. Auburn darted downward at the motion though abruptly returned to the unnerving blue. Like his eyes were made of pure ice…and underlying madness. "Something funny?"

"Just that you think you're the one to call all the shots here, girl. Last I checked, you haven't fully ascended the throne which makes you nothing more than a glorified receptionist. You? A Yakuza leader? Don't make me laugh; my staples are going to pop out."

"Glorified receptionist. That's the best you've got? Didn't realize that's the best you could do with all that time you had waiting and watching from above. Surely you've got something better, Mister…?"

"Ah, can't forget my manners now can I? Just call me Dabi, sweetheart, though…not sure it's really going to matter in a minute when you're joining your precious citizens down there." Dabi flashed a cocky grin at Ochaco who scowled at the gesture. Pushing off from his comfortable leaning post, the villain strolled over to the back side of the roof, lolling his head back at the heiress. Before she could question his movement the man fell forward without so much as a flinch.

Ochaco cautiously stepped over to the edge and peered. A boot suddenly swung at her face, and she narrowly dodged it with a few steps back. Instead of Dabi returning for a rematch, it was a young school-age girl with blonde hair wrapped up into two odango. Metal flashed in her vision. The knife swung over and over, keeping the heiress on her toes across the flat rooftop. They danced from corner to corner, around the emergency door, AC unit, even some old scaffolding abandoned from a repair job.

"I want to taste some of your yummy blood!" The girl cheerfully crowed as the stabs grew more wild and unpredictable. A few swipes reflected off the armored sections like rubber against stone; somehow it didn't deter the girl, instead fueling her rash slashing. "Just a bit! I want to see if royal heritage has a certain flavor!"

"You're insane," Ochaco retorted after landing a solid abdomen kick, the blonde screeching backwards hunched over. "If you're here to serve as nothing more than a distraction I'll end this quick."

"Insane?" The girl parroted angrily while shifting to a stand. A second blade unsheathed from a side pouch, spinning to a forty-five degree angle at her side. Golden eyes shot up to meet those of the heiress. Venomous hatred oozed from the sharp glare, sneering lips matching the twisted expression. A wave of surprise crashed over Ochaco; tears were welling in the girl's eyes. "Then you're just like the rest of them. The rest of society who can't see who a person truly is beyond the surface. You should die just like the rest of them!"

Faster and faster the girl struck with movements that became nearly impossible to predict. Ochaco could only stay on the defensive as two blades swung wildly at every part of her body. A few swipes across her face stung though didn't affect much. One good swipe against her forehead after a slight foot slip left blood trailing down into the left eye.

Enough—

When the next knife swing came within range Ochaco latched onto the wrist, pulled the girl off balance, then slammed her onto the roof with every ounce of strength she had. Both knives scattered from the impact, twirling away from the duo with one flying over the edge. Strong hands pinned one hand above the girl's head with the other arm yanked painfully across her back. A slow sigh released from the heiress. This girl was a threat to keep a close eye on. Never before had she seen someone so fueled to fight and with knives no less. The cuts across her face and hands were proof of the skill she possessed. But who was she?

"What's your affiliation with the Shigaraki gang?" Ochaco demanded, full weight pinning the blonde down. When no answer was received she dug a knee against a kidney which elicited a grunt of pain. "Why does a child such as yourself align with a ruthless gang of murderers?"

"Look who's talking," Toga grunted out as the coarse roof dug into her face. Damn, this woman was stronger than she looked. From this position it'd be too hard to escape without a secondary hand to assist. "I could ask the same of you."

"There's a difference between being born into a rich lineage of Yakuza blood and crawling from the street gutters. Tell me what their plan is."

"Screw you! You come in here thinking you're such a hard-ass, wannabe Yakuza when you're a nobody! Just because you have royal blood ain't mean you're the boss! You'll never succeed on the throne!" Ochaco was nearly shaking by the insult. Who the hell did she think she was talking to? Both hands tightly considerably until the girl let out a yelp of pain, though the heiress barely noticed through the red tinting vision.

"I suggest you watch your tongue, girl. Those who stain the Uraraka name receive the harshest of punishments. Tell me where your boss is."

"F-fuck you…"

"You're running out of chances." Ochaco warned coldly. The arm being pinned behind the girl's back creaked loudly under the strain of force. A cry of pain filled the air, and she tried to squirm beneath the solid weight. "Final warning. Where is Shigaraki hiding?"

"Unhand our young Toga!"

Multiple small explosions resounded around them with smoke beginning to fill the area. Ochaco heard the attack and ducked just as something shot past. The shing of a blade unsheathing reached her ears from the other side. A sharp edge narrowly missed the heiress' head, snipping a few threads of hair in the process. They were surrounding her on all sides. Either the hostage or survival, Ochaco needed to choose. Releasing the blonde to jump back she chose the later then slipped into a defensive stand five feet back. Her heel hit the edge of the roof. The smoke had her sense of direction backwards.

Always keep your sense of direction; it's the fastest way to be outsmarted in a fight.

The only way out was down.

Ochaco grit her teeth as the smoke began to thin. Four figures including the blonde girl sitting on the ground all with weapons out. While indeed a trap, it didn't necessarily mean it was a one-way route. Glancing back she studied the pathway. Taking the exact route as Dabi would ensure a fast getaway from those surrounding her but would lead the heiress straight into the hands of whoever was waiting inside the building. She stepped back.

"Wait, wasn't she just here?! Where'd she go? Who cares, all that matters is Toga-chan is safe!" Twice gawked as the smoke cleared to reveal the heiress gone. "Toga-chan, are you okay? What a bully!"

"This certainly was a close one, if I must say so myself." Compress sighed, fingering three marbles between knuckles. They disappeared back into his sleeve with a flick of the wrist. "Now what? Surely she couldn't have gone far with you-know-who waiting down below."

"Weren't we just a distraction? We should await Tomura's next orders," Spinner grumbled with a sheathing of his sword. He was sure it connected with some part of the woman, but no trace remained.

"No rest for the weary! Where there's a high prize always follows a trick. Best we make ourselves scarce lest we run into that menace of a man."

"What, that guy from the rooftop of the police station? Think he's around here somewhere?"

"That guy?! He called me a cosplayer! But I kinda liked it…"

"Let's just leave already. I've had enough for one day," Toga spat beneath her breath, standing and experimentally moving her shoulder. It'd nearly been snapped out of the socket from the force of that girl. While she didn't look it, the Uraraka heiress was a force to be reckoned with. Her shoe scraped lightly against something so golden diverted down. "What's this?"

A tiny chain with a bell attached to laid in a curled heap beneath the shoe. Fingers delicately picked it up, examining it closely. It was adorable. Toga flicked the bell lightly and let out a small hum of satisfaction. She'd hang onto this for now; a small reminder that she needed to finish the job.

"Toga, come on! We're gonna get shot to pieces by a maniac! Bring it on, I'll kick his ass!" Twice called out as the group shifted towards their escape route. Shoving the bell into her pocket, the blonde followed with a hint of a skip in her steps.

---

She'd slipped into the first window she could reach, instantly on guard in the empty building. Only the emergency lights remained on creating an eerie environment to navigate. Ochaco lifted a hand to tap on the earpiece nestled securely in the right ear. "Aizawa? Can you hear me?"

Static filtered through the piece. Communications were down. Not ideal, it's fine. All she needed to do was reach the emergency exit, take the stairs, then reach the front of the building to call for reinforcements. Her men knew the civilians were priority. Were Izuku and Ojiro still fighting for their people? What about that girl, Melissa? Had she gotten to safety? Her focus at the time had been going after Dabi who no longer surfaced. Was he hiding behind a wall? Door? Waiting around a corner? Ochaco swallowed the rising fear down. Panicking wouldn't do anybody good right now. She needed to focus. One step at a time. One. Step.

Just breathe—

A metal door at the end of the hallway creaked open slowly, halting her progress while sending her neck hairs to attention. Someone was inviting the heiress in. Auburn scanned the area around in search of an exit. There weren't any other doors on this floor. Now that she thought about it, only the first and second floor were used for public access. Was this floor isolated from the rest of the building or did it serve another purpose? What about the windows? Whirling around to head back for the window, a spark flashed mere feet from Ochaco before igniting into a small fire that rapidly feasted upon the aged floors.

"Motherfucker!" Ochaco shouted over the flames, arm pressing against her mouth as the smoke grew thick. "You damned bastard, you're head is mine when I find you!"

He was forcing her forward down the doorless, windowless hallway and straight into the awaiting room. Even as she searched high and low for another option time was running out since heavy smoke began filling the area. A few coughs then she begrudgingly surged forward. One hand on the wall as a guide and the other placing cloth against her mouth. Straight into the lion's den, as they say. She only had a single weapon strapped to her body; the gun handed over during that fateful night in the mountains. Bakugo had hunted down an Uraraka Yakuza then coerced him into returning the weapon with physical persuasion. Aizawa found it entertaining though reprimanded the thug for being so weak.

The door was a foot away, cracked open and awaiting for her to take the bait. Ochaco let out a grunt of frustration. Was there truly no other option? Should she just run back through the thick smoke and flames for an escape? Relying on someone to save her was out of the question. Surely Aizawa would narrow in on her location…right? The smoke was becoming too thick. She needed to move now. Grasping onto the cold, steeled edge of the door, Ochaco pulled it open enough to slip through then entered the darkness.

A loud groan filled the air as the door sealed with a loud click.

---

Aizawa felt a sense of dread wash over him the moment his foot hit the roof tiles. Something wasn't right. Dark eyes scanned the battlefield urgently, searching for that familiar mop of chestnut hair. It wasn't there. It. Wasn't. There. Did she truly chase after that arsonist? No…no, she was smarter than to fall for an obvious trap. Unless she had other motivations behind the pursuit. The police files in his office had been moved despite the meticulous rearrangement. She knew who attacked him that day. The same people most likely luring her into a dangerous situation.

For the first time in his life, Shota Aizawa was truly terrified.

He was her protector, teacher, shoulder to rely on. Yet he couldn't even find her amongst the dozens of corpses seeping into the earth. Communications were downed thanks to Shigaraki interfering. Snipers lining the rooftops were assisting with the skirmish, taking out every opposing attacker, though they just kept coming. Their forces were too occupied evacuating civilians to fight back; more innocent lives would be killed if they stopped. Ochaco ordered him to ensure civilians were safe first. Shota shook his head out of frustration while aiming for the next roof.

"Damnit, Ochaco. I warned you to lean on us for support!"

Ochaco warily stepped into the room cloaked in darkness with heart in her throat. Fists trembled despite the tight clench threatening to break skin. Breaths came out quivering in rapid, low puffs. Every strand of hair was on end. This was wrong. She should've tried harder to find another way out. It wasn't the darkness that had the heiress spiraling out of control; it was the unknown waiting on the other side for her presence. Shit. Where did that door go?

"I welcome you to my abode, Heiress of Uraraka." A smooth, deep voice suddenly spoke in the darkness followed by the sharp snap of a light turning on. Ochaco shielded her eyes until they better adjusted, squinting in the direction of the voice. With watering eyes she could only make out a mop of white and the contrasting black of a suit. "I apologize for the sudden scare; there are certainly better methods for an introduction."

"Who are you?" Ochaco attempted to demand with authority though it fell flat and sounded wary, a little scared. The man merely chuckled lowly. An icy shiver shot up her spine. Just his voice alone conveyed dangerous undertones. Goosebumps rippled across both arms and down to trembling legs.

Get it together, Ochaco! You're in danger!

"Forgive me. Sometimes I tend to get ahead of myself. Though I do have a rather normal, birth-given name, I prefer to go by another. One that sends a message about my heritage, my aspirations in this wonderful world."

"That would be?" The heiress asked hesitantly. Vision cleared up to fully reveal the man sitting atop a very unusual throne comprised of…hands? A sinking feeling told the brunette those weren't just molds glued together…but the worst part was his eyes; eerie, blank, and pure white. They seemed to look straight through her soul.

You're in danger, get away!

"My, eager to get straight to the point! Such is the strict diligence of the Uraraka clan, hm? First; why don't you tell me more about yourself, Ochaco? It's not often two powerful Yakuza gangs are gathered under the same roof to discuss plans for the future amicably. I want to know more about how you plan to lead Musutafu and Japan into the future." The man spoke casually, almost comparable to bored, while looking straight at her.

"Answer my question." Ochaco demanded with a stronger voice. Despite the unreal levels of fear created by the man on his throne, she needed to remain strong-willed. This was a test of Aizawa's years of training and diligence. "I don't even know who you are and I'm not about to make assumptions about your status."

"I just love your confidence! Straight to the point, no fuddling around. Now that's what makes a great leader of a powerful clan. Your father has done justice in your trainings, Ochaco. I should really send him a gift—"

"You leave my father alone!"

The man merely notched a brow at the outburst from the heiress. Oh-ho, a sensitive topic. A weak spot. Prideful of her family, defensive. Such a tough exterior for a mere child. He leaned forward clasping both hands over his knees. While her expression remained guarded and wary, the trembling of appendages and slightly shifting feet said otherwise. The heiress was nervous. Afraid. "I did not mean any harm—"

"You're refusing to announce yourself then you have the gall to bring my father into this conversation? I am the one leading the Uraraka clan. I am the one you will show respect to. If you refuse to announce yourself properly to the Uraraka heiress then I will have no choice but to force you to your knees. You will respect my authority and my city of which you are currently harboring on its land. Unlawfully crossing into Uraraka territory without the proper written procedures and permits shall—"

"You are nothing more than an insignificant insect beneath my boot."

Ochaco's voice died off as he spoke demonically, eyes piercing hers through lashes. The man remained sitting hunched forward though all attention was on her. She tried to quell the trembling though it prevailed once the fear washed over heavily. All air left her lungs leaving the brunette struggling for breaths. Cold. She was becoming frozen in place. Her mind screamed to run yet both feet remained rooted to the concrete.

YOU NEED TO ESCAPE!

"You pretend to be an all powerful Yakuza yet here you stand before me quaking like a leaf. You talk tough, appear tough, even speak properly when questioning an outsider. Yet you lack the steeled will to do what you must in order to prevail in this world. Kenji Uraraka became soft after being handed the throne from Ishikawa. A world without violence? Don't make me laugh. That's how humanity has survived for thousands of years. Eliminate the weak to enhance the strong."

She couldn't respond as he slowly stood.

RUN, OCHACO! HE'LL KILL YOU!

"You're quivering in your boots, dear. Are you afraid? What would you have to be afraid of? Certainly…not me?"

The man took slow, agonizing steps towards the frozen heiress.

Ochaco couldn't look away from the ghostly eyes locked onto wide auburn. Closer and closer he stepped, the heels beneath his shoes nearly deafening in the enclosed room. Gun…she needed to reach the gun…it was right there…

"I'll let you in on a secret; Yakuza leaders need to have the fortitude to get things done. Like taking out other, weaker clans standing in the way."

He stopped merely a foot away, towering over her meager, trembling form. A hand slowly raised from his side though Ochaco barely noticed; her eyes wouldn't tear from his, entrance by fear. His hand hovered just in front of her neck, contemplating, testing.

"I will commend the Uraraka clan for this; your resilience is strong. It's how you've survived for three hundred years. And with that turn of a new century comes new change such as a female heir. Have you ever heard of the phrase, 'Nanakorobi yaoki'? Fall down seven times, stand up eight?"

The hovering hand suddenly shot forward to latch against Ochaco's petite throat, killing off any semblance of oxygen. She began clawing and prying at the large hand. With ease he lifted her from the ground sporting a triumphant expression.

"You may get up over and over again, Uraraka heiress, but know there won't be an eighth resurrection. The Uraraka lineage ends before the start of the new year."

Everything began to swim hazily as no oxygen reached her brain. Both hands grazed against her sides, numb. Lacking energy. The world was becoming gray…

Cold.

So cold.

Thank you so much for your kind words, they truly mean a lot. I've worked so hard to get this business off the ground and having you as my very first customer means the world. Thank you, Ochaco. You're amazing.

You're too much, Ochaco. I can't ever repay you for what you've done for me and my business. You're a kind soul and I'll always be here for you as a friend.

I know you'll lead us into a brighter future, Ochaco. Your strength lies in loyalty and numbers, not what your body alone can hold.

Call me anytime you want to spar, Ochaco.

Do whatever you want to me, I don't care. I'm trying to protect you right now! Why can't you see that?

Acceptance is the first step to inner peace.

That's not who you are, Ochaco. You're kind and compassionate to the plights of others.

It's okay to be afraid.

You taught me that just because you're known for your family or lineage, it doesn't mean it defines who you are.

Friends.

Well…friends check on each other, right?

I trust you, Ochaco. Be safe…please…

Ochaco cracked an eye open. Friends…she had…friends…waiting for her…worrying…protecting…trusting.

Fingers slowly shifted backwards towards the hidden weapon in the back of her waistband. Though they smacked against the metal like boneless rubber, she latched on as tight as she could and pulled.

A single gunshot resounded loudly.

Then a thunk as the heiress fell to the floor, head bouncing against the concrete.

Nothing.