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.

10. Challenge Issued

Soon after the first wave of the cyber-attack, Musutafu began slipping into a lawless wasteland filled with fear and despair; injured civilians helpless as the skyline burned heavily with roiling flames and suffocating smoke. Business after business ransacked for any valuable even if it cost the life of someone struggling to survive. Hospitals practically useless as all medical equipment linked to their network had turned into heaps of scraps some clamored to steal. Banks, grocery stores, dockyards. All affected by the virus attack through Shield Industries. The news stations began blasting the Uraraka clan for creating such a mess; some called for the government and military to step in to end the war. Others shouted protests that this was long in the coming thanks to lack of punishments against the clans. The police stations could no longer keep up despite the assistance from multiple agencies swarming the city.

Musutafu was crumbling.

While Ochaco attempted to heal from the gruesome attack, Aizawa took charge of the Uraraka clan under Kenji's direct order. That meant recalling all local members, signaling other branches for aid, managing household tensions, ensuring enough aid and weapons were being distributed. It wasn't easy; a handful of men were growing antsy about the future of the city and their families. Those given the opportunity to leave did without ties. Ochaco had already made it clear that those wanting to protect their families should. Security around the base doubled and had the property on a twenty-four hour lockdown. Camera systems were sliced from the Shield Industries servers then connected to the back-up Uraraka system Hizashi had waiting. Guards were armed with heavier rounds that had higher lethality levels, enough to blow a crater in someone. Whatever they had to do to protect Ochaco and the Uraraka mansion.

Even those recently settled on the property were not allowed to wander freely. Ojiro, despite having had free range prior, had been promptly threatened by one of the men he trained to get back inside his quarters. It was a showdown that drew the attention of Aizawa, the man in command easing the tension before sharply warning them all not to step outside unless escorted. Living within the walls of the houses wasn't constraining; they had all of their favorite things and plenty of entertainment through the long days. Yet all they could do to communicate was through monitored landlines. Despite the beautiful landscape surrounding their dwellings, it was constantly tainted with heavily armed guards patrolling and watching their front doors every five minutes.

The reality of war had really begun to sink in.

Yet three days after arriving to their new, temporary homes, a sudden knocking on each of their doors had life changing drastically. Ochaco, dressed in a black kimono with a raging silver dragon clasping a pink Sakura, motioned for them to follow back to the main house. Despite being attacked merely days prior, the heiress had recovered enough to move around and speak at nearly a normal volume with occasional rasping. The group walked tightknit as a dozen guards surrounded and escorted through one of the large gardens that led to the back porch. Not once did the brunette turn back to comfort them, focusing instead on the path forward through the halls. It was like walking into a military camp; dozens upon dozens of armed men eyeing the newcomers warily, sneering and testing their nerves by lurching forward to intimidate. Bakugo matched their energy until Ochaco shot both sides a warning look.

Guards slid open the doors to a large conference room, bowing deeply as Ochaco and her friends passed then silently shutting them and returning to monitoring the area. She motioned for her friends to take a seat in the plush, leather chairs as she made for the head position. Only once they were seated did she choose to speak, remaining standing to address them.

"Forgive me for the abrupt summoning. Things have progressed past projected forecasts, so we need to begin our counterattack," Ochaco announced hoarsely with a wheezing rasp slipping out. White bandages remained wrapped firmly against her neck. "I will not force you into my family's war; I am giving you the option to remain here on the property under strict guard until Shigaraki has been dealt with. Simultaneously, if you wish to offer your support in this war then I will not stop you. I want you to understand the severity of the situation our home is in."

"We've seen everything on TV…it's like being in a third world country," Ojiro remarked solemnly. "But despite seeing the city suffering, it won't deter us from standing our ground against Shigaraki. I told you before I've made my choice to stand by your side and so have the others. We've got your back, Ochaco; even if it means jumping into a Yakuza war to protect what we love."

"Deku mentioned a secret weapon or some shit." Bakugo interjected while leaning back heavily against his chair. "What the hell is he talking about and why don't we know about it?"

"Secret weapon?" Ochaco remarked hoarsely, glancing over at Izuku with a slightly raised eyebrow. He flushed brightly at the attention and merely meekly raised his hand, pointing at it with a quivering finger. It took a few seconds to understand his meaning. "Essentially, we're going to reach out a hand to anyone and everyone that needs it. Doesn't matter if they're civilians or Yakuza. Musutafu is a unison of various backgrounds to create the beautiful place we call home and now is the time to come together. Many will scorn and jeer at our outreached hands; that's understandable. My family's history with opposing gangs has caused the war ravaging the streets and it's time to put an end to this. Even if people do not wish to accept the extended hand, we'll offer it anyways."

"Alright! That's what I'm talking about!" Kirishima hollered and stood, fist pumping in the air. Mina and Hagakure joined in, dancing around the table. Izuku smiled at his friends while Ojiro shook his head with a chuckle. Bakugo merely sneered at the excitement. "Ochaco, we're at your disposal! What's the plan? How do we take down All for One?!"

"I—" Ochaco trailed off suddenly looking like a deer in headlights. Images of his corpse-like eyes flickered like a rolodex in her mind, spinning so fast a hand pressed against her temple to slow it down. Nightmares had plagued the brunette to the point it was safer to stay awake than sleep long enough to witness that man once more. Her throat tightened up like his hand was just barely beginning to press against it. "I…um…I-I just need…a moment…"

"Let's get you seated," Mina approached, softly guiding the panicking heiress into her chair. Grabbing a nearby pitcher and glass she poured a drink then handed it to Ochaco. "It's alright, take a moment to compose yourself. We understand how traumatizing it was to go through what you did. Let's leave that conversation for later, okay?"

"Thank you," Ochaco rasped out, swallowing hard against the tightening sensation. She didn't want their looks of pity. It was her own fault for running into an obvious trap that nearly got her killed. Especially Izuku's as the messy haired man was halfway out of his seat the moment Kirishima spoke his name, ready to help. Slowly he sat back down as the situation settled. "And I'm sorry."

"For what?" Mina asked tilting her head curiously.

"Why would you be sorry, Ochaco?" Toru seconded while scooting closer to the brunette.

"…for making you all worry about me. I acted recklessly and endangered more lives." Ochaco squeaked out, vocal cords weakening. After clearing her throat, albeit painfully, she regained a slight amount of volume. "I pursued the members of Shigaraki solely for more information. The citizens were my main priority."

"You did what any of us would've done," Bakugo responded simply, sitting up in his chair to stare at the heiress, forearms resting against the tabletop. "You try tellin' Deku not to stick his nose in others' business or Kirishima to not bulldoze a building to reach one of those bastards. I would've blown em to hell and back though one of them already appears to have made a visit."

"It's…different…" Ochaco coughed a bit as her voice gave out, leaving the brunette to breathe out in defeat before motioning for him to come closer. An eyebrow raised quizzically though he wasn't go to deny a command from the Yakuza. Rolling Hagakure out of the way Katsuki took a seat and held out his palm anticipating that was what she wanted. A petite finger began telling a story with dots and dashes, occasionally glancing up to see if he was following. Everyone crowded around to watch with interest, especially Izuku who began mouthing out the letters.

"Just because you're Yakuza doesn't make you special. Yeah, it was a fucking stupid thing to do knowing you'd be ambushed, and it even caused trauma that'll stick with you for years. But you already did your duty in protecting Melissa Shield. Civilians were first. More lives could've been lost that day had you not cleared the area." Bakugo replied to the translation. Ochaco mulled it over for a few moments, finger pulling back briefly before tapping at a slower rate. The blonde scrunched his brows slightly at the next statement. "The fuck?"

"What? What'd she say?" Mina eagerly glanced between the two seemingly speaking silently.

After a minute Katsuki closed his palm forcing Ochaco to retract her hand.

"Kaachan?"

"Dude, what'd she say?!"

"Ochaco,"

"…you sure about this?" Bakugo asked the brunette seriously earning an affirming nod in response. A hand roughed up the already spiked blonde locks as he turned to the others slipping a heavy sigh. "She says she's planning to face the Demon Lord head-on again. All or nothing battle."

"WHAT?!"

Multiple guards burst into the room at the outburst, guns raised and eyes locking onto the heiress sitting rather calmly in her chair. A fast flick of a hand sent the men slipping back out though not before shooting dirty glares at the noisy young adults. Ochaco sighed as they closed the doors once more. Everyone was on edge right now and ever since she awoke back in the mansion, the heiress knew what needed to be done despite her fears. They began debating amongst themselves on other alternatives as Mina clasped firmly onto a forearm. Weary auburn blinked slowly then turned to worried golden.

"Are you sure? Is this the right thing to do, Ochaco?"

"We can always find another way to handle this; we've still got the U.A. police alongside their partnering agencies. Maybe the government will help!" Toru added gently, resuming her spot on Ochaco's right once Bakugo moved to point a finger in Izuku's face. "I…I'm worried you're going to go too far this time and not come back to us. I don't want to lose anyone close to me…"

Ochaco chewed on the inside of her lip. By no means was it an easy choice to make…the title of Yakuza still hung heavily above like a halo. She still had to prove to the remainder of the clan she could and would ascend the throne while bringing fruition to the Uraraka name. Even if she died in battle the heavy weight of her pride remained. The brunette gave a somewhat reassuring smile, nodding lightly. She wanted to say more, encourage them that in the face of danger they could garner the strength to fight on. But no voice would come out. Only squeaks that made her sound weak, pathetic. Useless. The heiress shifted her hand to find another palm, glancing between them as they tried to figure out what she needed. Pursing pink lips lightly Ochaco thought for a moment. Pen and paper would take too long to write out what she wanted to say and only Bakugo understood morse code. But what about…

"Hey, quit bickering! I think she's trying to talk with sign language. Damn, girl, you know every way to communicate, don't you?" Mina praised as she motioned at the bickering men. Ochaco glanced at her hopefully though the pinkette shrugged sheepishly. "Sorry, hun. Sign language isn't my thing. Bakugo?"

"Do I look like a personal translator!?" Katsuki squawked indignantly as he shoved a palm against Izuku's face, pushing the nerd away from him while Kirishima latched onto his arm to stop the assault. "Besides, I don't do sign language; never bothered showing up for that portion of class. But ask this fucking nerd, he studied it for weeks and made the gestures while talking."

"Of course you would know sign language, Midoriya," Ojiro remarked as Bakugo finally released his childhood rival, huffing before wandering to another section of the room to look around. Izuku readjusted the front of his sweatshirt.

"I thought it was interesting back in middle school considering it's more difficult than American sign language and isn't heavily used in Japan. Pretty sure I remember most of it,"

Izuku took Mina's offered chair, facing Ochaco and motioning for her to proceed. Ochaco's eyes brightened and for a moment he became entranced by the life returning to those beautiful auburn. He realized the feelings had formed without a second thought. Virescent widened until he shook his head lightly as Ochaco's hands began moving smoothly. Focus, Izuku, focus. You need to listen to her right now. Either she didn't notice or chose not to say anything about his odd reaction, but the heiress continued on signaling what she wanted to relay.

"Ochaco's saying that she doesn't want any of us to worry because she has a plan. Luring him into the open with an official Yakuza challenge is something he can't deny due to the old laws. While he may not abide by the non-violence regulation, any head Yakuza who denies a challenge is immediately disbarred and even blacklisted from the country. That won't stop him though," Izuku replied, pinching his lips between two fingers. Auburn briefly glanced down at the motion. "If his plan is really to wipe out the Uraraka clan and take over Musutafu, then he could strike you down in seconds. It could be another ambush—"

Ochaco quickly shook her head, fingers moving a little faster now.

"Oh. Those who interfere with an official challenge are eliminated immediately. It's apparently a sacred tradition that no clan dares to violate. Considering Shigaraki utilizes violence on a daily basis, I'd be surprised if they did honor the binds of the contract. She's saying…other branches of the clan will be converging on the main house within the next day or so…including the former Yakuza leader, her grandfather."

"Ishikawa Uraraka. A ruthless ruler who didn't tolerate traitors or his men stepping a hair out of line." Aizawa informed the group as he leaned against the doorframe. No one had noticed him enter. Ochaco began signing at him faster than Izuku could fully process, the former detective quickly breaking eye contact from her hands. It wasn't his conversation to eavesdrop on. "Lost your voice already? You were warned not to push yourself too hard yet here you are rallying the troops. I told you to leave this to me, Ochaco."

Ochaco's movements became harsher as if raising her voice to him and Shota merely tilted his head slightly to the side, eyebrow cocked. A frustrated squeak slipped out as both hands dropped in defeat, slapping against her lap. Satisfied she was done lipping off the Yakuza pushed himself to a stand. "Since you're all here, may as well inform you of what's going to happen next."

"Does it have to do with the other members of the clan converging on the main base?" Ojiro questioned.

"Something like that. There's going to be heavy activity on these grounds which means constant patrols, ID checks, and defensive attitudes. She may not have told you yet but we've been infiltrated by Shigaraki's men in the main branch. They've been squeezing their way in one at a time to the various hubs throughout Japan."

"What about Ochaco's parents? Are they somewhere safe?" Izuku asked, earning a surprised look from the heiress. Though with his back turned he never saw it while addressing the temporarily in command thug.

"They're returning as well though they're received interference on their end. Shigaraki isn't making it easy for them to leave and even if they can make it back, it may be too late. Since she's already let it slip about her plan to take the Demon Lord head-on, you need to be aware that no matter what happens; you cannot interfere with the fight."

"Because she'd be banned from Japan?" Kirishima inquired with a hand half-raised like he was addressing a teacher in school.

"Because she'd be killed on the spot." Shota said darkly. The thickening silence in the air let him know she hadn't gotten to that part of the plan. Ochaco averted a guilty gaze to the floor. She was making things more complicated than they had to be. "Zetsuen is the ultimate clan punishment if any of you were to intervene even if she wins. Ochaco would be banished from ever stepping on Uraraka territory again as she'd be arrested on site, possibly even deported. Kenji would see to it that she remained unharmed, but he's tied by tradition. Seppuku is another part to that problem; she'd have to take her life as an act of forgiveness. Yakuza don't mess around when it comes to dishonoring the name."

"She'd…never see her family again and have to take her life?" Izuku breathed out, head down. Both hands clenched into fists tightly at his side as he shook his messy locks. They were just going to let her die against that bastard if her friends intervened? "How is that fair…to send her against a villain who takes lives recklessly and who won't hesitate to go further than he already has? Why should she be punished for us trying to help, Mr. Aizawa?! The old ways are long gone; it's time to move away from the rules of the past!"

"I can't change the rules that have been around since the time of the samurai, Midoriya. When you become Yakuza the commandments are engraved in your mind, body, and soul for eternity. Kenji can oppose the ruling though ultimately it's a poll taken by the Council of Elders. If you're going to get that riled up about Ochaco's fate, you four boys go blow off some steam in the training room. Ojiro can get you set up." Shota firmly replied, a hint of venom slipping into his tone. He didn't blame Izuku for being upset; it was a little known fact that if one head Yakuza challenged another, outside interference had steep repercussions. Ochaco refused to look at him now even as he stared right at her. Damnit. "Ochaco, why don't you take the girls to your quarters for now. An official announcement is going to be made in the next hour. I'll come get you when it's time."

Ochaco barely acknowledged him, standing and motioning for the girls to follow. As she passed by Izuku her eyes darted up to his, apologetic and shimmering with remorse. Before he could process the gesture she was moving away towards the door where guards awaited. Once she was gone Shota motioned for them to get going save for Midoriya, a hand on his shoulder halting his advance as the doors slid shut. The Yakuza hesitated for nearly thirty seconds as he tried to compile his thoughts, facing away from the former subordinate.

"I understand your concern and worry for her, Midoriya; I do. I'm going to say this as not only her mentor and protector, but someone who cares for Ochaco like a daughter; she's afraid of worrying others because she treasures her friends more than anything in this world. The Yakuza life isn't what Ochaco wanted to drag those close into, especially you. You're the one person she can't stand disappointing and worrying; she trusts you with her life. She wasn't going to tell you the outcome of that fight if she loses because you'll come running to save her. I don't like to admit this…but Ochaco needs you by her side, Izuku. Yet at the same time you need to comprehend what she's doing is for the sake of her family and heritage. There are laws that can't be broken."

"Are those laws worth the life of someone so willing to change the old ways?" Izuku replied brokenly. Dark gray looked at the taller man filled with silent suffering. "Ochaco's willing to lend a hand to those in need just as I offered mine. Musutafu needs the change she's offering for a better future. That's not something she can do alone, Mr. Aizawa."

"I know," Shota whispered back, tightening his grasp before gently pushing him towards the door. Izuku sniffled against his arm then followed after the other guys. It wasn't until a solid minute passed before the scraggly-haired man settled roughly into a chair. A hand pressed over his eyes. "I know."

A single drop hit the table.

---

Mina and Toru giggled endlessly while skimming through the precariously packed closet of Ochaco Uraraka, gasping and clamoring over the luxury brands. It started with the clothes then moved to the shoes, purses, jewelry, makeup. Then they found the bathroom with a generous tub and separate shower with waterfall and sauna features. Ochaco merely sat on the plush bench nestled at the end of the king-sized bed, mind a thousand miles away. All she could think about was how upset Izuku seemed that she'd withheld the key part of her plan; death. Aizawa just had to come in and be brutally honest. Though…she supposed it was better to be upfront when it came to such things. Just not like that in front of them all…

"Ochaco! This is like living in a dream house!" Toru giggled happily, spinning around in the spacious bathroom with arms spread out. Even with Mina joining in neither hand could reach a wall. "How do you choose between everything?! The clothes, shoes, purses; it's all insane!"

The heiress hummed in response, not really paying attention to either of them.

"Wait, how long is your broadcast?" Mina abruptly peeked her head out of the bathroom to ask. Ochaco took a few seconds to respond, blinking owlishly then holding up a three and zero. "Just half an hour? Great! I've got an idea you're going to love!"

"Are you thinking what I'm thinking?" Toru slyly asked her best friend, latching onto both shoulders and giving her a mischievous look. The pinkette grinned widely then nodded. Ochaco focused a bit more on their actions, wary and growing a bit anxious at their response.

"Love without Boundaries marathon!"

Ochaco felt a bit of life returning as both women scooted close on either side, latching onto both arms and pressing close. Being openly hugged felt…weird. In a good way. She was still adjusting to how physically affectionate friends could be in their own way, yet it warmed an aching heart enough to radiate. But what puzzled Ochaco Uraraka the most was how the heat seemed to expand whenever she was around Izuku. Nerves weren't really a thing for the Yakuza heiress seeing as hers had hardened to steel with years of training. She wasn't afraid of him. Didn't see him as a threat. Always appreciated his company and intellectual banter, even when he went on a fact tangent. It was the most confusing thing that even had a strange reaction from Aizawa when she asked about it. The coffee he'd been drinking sprayed over his desk as he choked on a sip. Once he recovered a bit, all he advised the brunette to do was ask about it another time.

What did Aizawa know that he wasn't willing to tell her?

"Ochaco, you need to wake up now."

Auburn blinked sluggishly as she scanned her surroundings. Mina smiled softly at the brunette resting against her shoulder. One minute they were talking about movie marathons then the next Ochaco was out like a light, slumping against the pinkette exhausted. Toru had grabbed the chair from the vanity table to sit off to Mina's right side, casually scrolling through her phone. A blanket slid from her shoulders when the heiress sat up, hand wiping tiredly at her eyes. She never noticed dozing off so suddenly. Both hands raised in forgiveness to the pinkette.

"Ochaco, seriously, don't apologize for being exhausted! You've got an incredibly tiring job with more stress than a new line release day! You're entitled to take a nap even if it's on my shoulder. I'm just glad you got some sleep though I think there's someone here for you." Mina pointed towards the door that someone knocked on at that moment.

Ochaco took in a deep breath to clear her mind. Work to be done. Shifting to a stand the heiress made for the door until Toru clasped a hand lightly. "Your makeup, it's smeared. Let me fix it for you."

"And your hair has gotten a little messed up, but I think we can just tuck the strays away with a bit of spray." Mina added while tracing some fingers over the escaping strands. "Just a minute! Ochaco needs a refresher!"

"Ten minutes," Aizawa called from outside the room. Mina and Toru grinned. They could do it in less.

Guiding Ochaco to the table, both girls went to work on touching up the makeup and hair. The heiress sat silently, staring at the mirror while the women worked. Sitting still for makeup artists and hairdressers was habitual by this point; all her life she'd been pampered by the best of the best to ensure she looked her greatest. Yet watching her friends it almost seemed as if they were having fun gussying her up. In the mere blink of an eye, or a handful more, Ochaco was done and ready to handle the announcement. Everything looked perfect except the stark white bandages wrapped against her throat. A finger grazed against it softly.

"Does it still bother you?" The perky blonde asked tenderly, eyes shimmering with compassion. Though she made to shake her head no, the heiress seemingly dropped her chin down in response. Manicured nails tilted the chin back up light as a feather. "It's okay if it does. Trauma treats us each of us differently; it takes time to heal. What Ojiro always tells me is that acceptance is the first step to forgiveness. While I'm not saying to forgive the person who did this, it doesn't mean to let it hold you back. Accept that it happened. Don't let the fear of the attack prevent you from pushing through, Ochaco. You're stronger than he is because you have friends willing to support you through anything."

"Only you can make that choice, sweetie," Mina added in supportively, staring at the heiress directly through the mirror. "Whatever your choice is, no matter how insignificant, we'll support you entirely."

Ochaco avoided her own gaze in the mirror, diverting them downward to the varying arrangement of makeup products. Just looking at the deep purple marks made her feel physically sick. The small cuts and scratches from that weird girls knife were healing with minimal scarring, but the markings…they were deep, a heavy shade of purple and black. A constant reminder of how overpowered she was in an instant. Not just physically; mentally. The shield she'd nurtured over the years came crumbling down and any resolve she steeled disappeared as a bucket of freezing water crashed down. That man was an absolute demon.

Seeing what he'd done to her city, her home, fueled the desire to end him once and for all. But the trauma kept the brunette from confronting him again so soon after a mere few days. She hadn't recovered enough to put up a good fight. The effects of the concussion came and went depending on activity level, how rested she was; in other words, what laid beneath the bandages was preventing Ochaco from moving forward in the healing process. A part of her knew that. Healing wasn't just a physical aspect. Mental and emotional health factored into an overall well-being.

And right now with her city under siege, she needed to be a leader.

Trailing auburn back up to the mirror, hands raising to the tie of the bandages, Ochaco briefly hesitated before ripping the ends apart. Layer by layer they slipped away to reveal the heavy bruising underneath. Fingers were clearly outlined against porcelain skin, edging up against her jawline. Small, crescent indents spotted red lined the side of her neck, something she wasn't aware of. He'd dug in hard enough to pop blood vessels and leave days old marks? During the moment she couldn't focus on anything other than the overwhelming crushing force against her windpipe. His piercing blue eyes appeared in her mind.

Ochaco swallowed painfully. That man was the worst thing to exist in the world, his ruthless and cold-heartedness earning him the title of Demon Lord. Left and right he piled bodies in order to achieve his ultimate goal, garnering supporters who'd been dismissed or ignored by society and the Japanese government. There were tens of thousands, if not more discarded by the world. They were the ones scorned for appearances, lack of contribution to society, lawbreakers, violent offenders, thieves, assaulters. Below the radar they operated like rats in a sewer. And when the ship was flooding, all they needed was for someone to light the path out; All for One stood there at the end of the tunnel with a bright light and he wouldn't stop until all the miscreants of Japan were beneath his controlling palm.

A hand clasped her shoulder firmly causing turbulent auburn to dart towards its owner. Mina smiled reassuringly as did Toru, the two women silently supporting the heiress. Ochaco's vision watered. The blonde was the nearest so she latched onto her tightly, holding firm to convey the gratitude that couldn't be spoken. Just as hard Toru hugged back with whispers of support trickling into an ear. Once released the brunette swayed to her feet and made for the pinkette who waited with open arms. Again, every ounce of strength of used to hold her friend close. Their warmth helped the heiress calm the turbulent nerves twitching in anticipation.

"We won't keep you any longer, Ochaco. Go. Do what you need to and we'll catch up afterwards, yeah?" Toru gave a watery smile as they began separating once another set of knocks triggered on the door. A simple nod in return.

She waved goodbye to her friends while opening the door. Shota stood a few feet away, facing the hallway in a black suit with locks slicked back into another low bun. It wasn't until the door shut that he finally glanced over at her, a double-take surprising even the heiress. Aizawa never looked that surprised. Well, except for when she asked him about the warm fuzzies in her chest when she was around Izuku. Though that could've easily been a reaction of horror instead of surprise. Dark orbs darted from her neck then up to slightly glistening eyes.

"You've made up your mind then?" He asked gruffly, readjusting the collar of his suit. How he hated this fucking thing. Nothing was more suffocating than a button-up shirt and starched collar. She nodded though remained rooted to the spot, tilting her head like a curious puppy. "Something wrong?"

Ochaco signed a statement. Your eyes are red.

"Nothing's wrong with my eyes, just a lack of sleep is all." Ochaco didn't like that answer, signing the statement once more with firmer gestures. "Seriously, nothing's wrong, Ochaco. Everything's a shitshow right now. I'll be fine, don't worry about it."

Pursing freshly painted lips Ochaco cleared her throat. "Li…ar…"

A snort escaped from her mentors mouth. It sounded like a dying squeaky toy. Shaking his head Shota gently placed a hand against her temple, minding the spot that had a few stitches to close the small laceration. "What're you hoping to get out of this conversation right now?"

Honesty.

"There's honestly nothing wrong, Ochaco."

I know a crying person when I see it.

That remark had Shota partially lowering his guard, the Yakuza turning towards the heiress. Ochaco was what most considered empathetic; very aware of others' emotions and feelings. Though she herself struggled with expressing properly at times, it never failed for the young woman to notice the plights of another. Shota breathed heavily through his nose. She wasn't going to give up judging by the solid stance and awaiting expression. "You want the truth?"

Ochaco nodded eagerly.

"The truth is…I failed as your protector that day. Hizashi had seen All for One entering the building through the back before the feed cut out. Then all communications ceased due to a scrambler. I should've stopped him before you went into that building; that wasn't your fight to pick, Ochaco. You nearly died because I failed in my duty to protect you from that monster. I'm truly sorry." Shota took a few steps back, hand slipping from chestnut locks, then bowed slowly at a forty-five degree angle. A strangled wheeze slipped from the heiress moments before a hand tapped rapidly against his shoulder.

The moment he stood up Ochaco launched straight at him for a hug. Being taller than she was it ended up with her forehead resting against the front of his shoulder, slender arms barely overlapping against his back. Shota immediately held her close, hand cupping the back of her head tenderly. The trembling in her body told him her own emotions were spilling over. "It'll be alright, Ochaco. I won't let him get to you again, I promise. I'm not going anywhere."

Hizashi made some last minute adjustments to the camera as another official Uraraka clan announcement was ready. This time it had to be Shota due to the heiress losing her voice thanks to that dead-eyed fucker nearly crushing her windpipe. The last instance of his friend freaking out like that was with Oboro…what would he say to them now? He always talked about wanting to open a detective agency together yet here he and Shota were chilling with the most powerful Yakuza clan in the country. Mistakes were made after their friend's death all those years ago, ones that cost their freedom on top of an innocent life. Had they gone down another street, another alleyway, would all three have escaped unharmed? Would they have gone home for another Friday night of drinking and rough housing? Planning the future for a joint detective agency that never came to fruition? Yamada slowly stopped fiddling with the settings on the camera, simply leaning against it lost in thought. Life had changed so drastically for them…at times it almost seemed like a dream.

But dreams changed the older people got. Views changed. Thoughts, emotions grew and matured. What used to feel like the greatest plan in the world now seemed childish, simple. Here they were rolled into a full-on Yakuza war with the head honcho away from the throne, leaving his only child and heir to fend off the most ruthless murderer in all of Japan. Shigaraki, alias All for One, slaughtered women and children, men, elderly; anybody that could interfere with his climb to the golden throne atop the mountain was slain. He left no stone unturned either, the Yakuza reaching deep into the earth for those willing to align with his philosophy. His corruption knew no bounds. Right now, even though that maniac had managed to hack Shield Industries, it wouldn't be enough to take them down and out.

"Everything ready?"

Hazel eyes swung up to the familiar impassive dark gray of his best friend. A few blinks behind the tinted shades then he noticed something. While Shota suffered from dry eye syndrome, thanks to years of murderous stares and intimidation tactics, the redness extended to his lower water line. It didn't take a genius to figure out what happened in their time apart; that hard exterior crafted meticulously after Oboro's death was beginning to split. Straightening up Hizashi nodded, patting the top of the camera a few times to confirm. Instead of walking way like his brooding buddy usually did, Shota let out a small grunt of acknowledgement before remaining rooted to the spot, watching as Ochaco readied herself.

"You're awfully quiet," Hizashi remarked lowly as everyone prepared for the live feed in less than two minutes.

"Not much to say right now." Shota replied simply, arms crossed over his chest. A subconscious response to stressful situations. Smoking was the other option though he hadn't touched one in more than two weeks.

"Mm. Seems your little ducklings are getting Ochaco to open up," Yamada tilted his head towards the heiress, her neck sans bandaging. "I know you had your reservations about allowing her into public, Shota, but it's done her more good than either you nor I can see. Would you have been able to pull her out of that shell?"

"No," Came the honest response. The blonde tilted his head towards his friend who suddenly seemed more sullen than before. His appearance had certainly become more ragged these past few weeks; not that he blamed him, the stress was nearly debilitating. "Ochaco needed an outside source to show her a normal life, a reality where the threat of a thousand daggers hanging above ready to drop didn't exist. Midoriya, Kirishima, Mina, Toru, and Ojiro exposed her to living. Who she is…isn't a blood-thirsty Yakuza."

"I couldn't agree more. Ochaco's meant for bigger things than remaining a damsel in distress, locked away in a luxurious mansion with no outside world exposure. I think that's what's making you so frazzled, Shota; you're afraid of her being fully exposed to how the world truly is. You're afraid Shigaraki will be her downfall…and you're terrified to lose someone close again."

"…" Shota remained silent at the remark, instead moving forward at his cue to stand by Ochaco's side. Any hint of emotion wiped from a tired expression like a feather in the wind. There'd be time for emotions after they won the war. Right now his priority was protecting Ochaco, her friends, the city…and murdering that fucking bastard in his sleep.

What were you talking about? Ochaco signed as he naturally slid into position at her right hand, facing towards the camera though watching the words form with slender fingers. It seemed serious between you and Yamada.

"Nothing important. I'll handle this one so just do your best to remain stoic. This shouldn't take more than fifteen minutes." Shota didn't bother trying to give a reassuring smile; they were far past that point in the war. A hand tugged at his sleeve so he fully turned his attention to her. Ochaco hesitated before signing. That's what she was concerned about? "I can have the broadcast restricted to external only—"

A shaking of chestnut locks killed that suggestion as her fingers began moving faster as the thirty second warning called out. I…would like them here. For support. All of them.

"Kansu," Shota barked sharply, swinging his gaze towards a heavily scarred thug waiting in the wing. Instantly he sprinted forward, sliding to a kneel before the commander. "Retrieve the guests from Ochaco's room and the dojo alongside Futa. Their presence is requested."

"Sir!" Kansu snapped to attention then ran off like flames were on his heels.

"Yamada, delay the feed by a few minutes. Don't start until we're ready."

"Aye, aye, Captain!" The blonde saluted sharply, clicking his heels together loudly. A few men snickered until a murderous look was sent their direction. He could see Ochaco chuckling behind a hand. These people were going to be the death of him…

…but he supposed that's what made them family.

It didn't take long for the group to reassemble in the background, behind the camera and diligently watched over by Yamada. Mina and Toru clasped onto one another, Bakugo stood with arms crossed yet focused, Kirishima and Ojiro standing with arms relaxed and quietly talking. Then there was Izuku. Focused one hundred percent on Ochaco with something akin to a neutral yet simmering expression. Shota noticed immediately that his eyes were locked onto the heavy bruising around her neck. There'd been a few times where his former junior slipped into the silent rage and it often involved attacks against women; though this time felt different. He was angry for another reason. He was angry because his friend was hurt. Because she was forced to live a life of violence and confront those willing to do harm against her city. Angry that All for One did such a heinous thing against Ochaco without a second thought.

Yet there was also sadness lurking in the virescent trying to rein his emotions in. Izuku felt he'd failed his friend by not stopping her from going into the trap; what he failed to realize was that single instance of trust was what Ochaco needed. She needed to know her decisions were trusted by someone who used to loathe Yakuza. Trusted by a citizen of Musutafu. Trusted by someone she cared for.

"Going live in fifteen," Hizashi called out. Shota seemed to snap to attention as Ochaco focused on the camera with practiced ease. It still impressed him how well their poker faces were. "Ten…nine…eight…seven…six…five…four…three…two…live."

"Good evening, citizens of Musutafu. I'm here to bring an update to the current situation regarding our city. As of now, the Shigaraki gang has managed to infiltrate Shield Industries on a server level; what this means is that every piece of machinery connected to their network has been corrupted by a virus, rendering it useless. That includes hospitals, banks, grocery stores, warehouses, dockyards, electrical companies, and even a few news stations. The Uraraka clan understands times are desperate and the outcome looks bleak, which is why we're opening shelters to the public that have food, medical supplies, and clothing. There are designated zones outside of city limits to those seeking shelter."

"Trying to play the hero now. How interesting to see how long that lasts."

"Shigaraki, led by the alias All for One, has decimated Musutafu into a warzone using callous and cold-blooded tactics. We of the Uraraka clan will not stand for further senseless killings and blood staining the streets. All for One; Ochaco Uraraka, heiress of the Uraraka clan and only daughter to Kenji and Fumi Uraraka, formally challenges you to a Kenjustsu match. A one-on-one match that if it were to be interrupted by treacherous or immoral tactics would result in immediate execution. You should understand the rules by now. In three days' time you two shall meet in the remnants of downtown Musutafu. Do not think we'll be sitting back idly until the challenge day arrives. The Uraraka clan will be aiding and lending a hand to anyone who requires assistance. Regardless of your background, your history; we are the protectors of this city and its civilians. We are here."

"A Kenjutsu match…my, it's been such a long time since I've had one of those. Surely my shoulder won't hinder such a momentous fight since my skirmish with Chief Yagi." All for One chuckled lowly as the Yakuza on the screen seemed to stare directly into the hollow shell of his soul. A glass of crimson swirled lazily in one hand, the other propping up a sharp jawline. "I wonder what the U.A. Special Police Force would have to say about that. What do you think, Keigo Takami? Rather, should I go by your alias of Hawks?"

A rasping laugh emitted from a nearby hunched over man chained to a blood stained chair, blonde locks drenched in sweat and heavily splattered crimson. The chains clinked loudly as piercing golden lifted to meet the soulless ice blue staring at him in mild amusement. "Wouldn't know a damn thing about that place, All for One…or do you prefer Shigaraki? Afterall, your legal birthname is Kuroi Shigaraki. Dark death…that kind of name suits you, right?"

"You manage to impress me, Keigo. Surely all those beatings would've finally knocked some sense into you, though you are known to be quite resourceful yet unbreakable."

"Is that what you called those? I figured they were just tickles of frustration as the Uraraka clan continues to flourish despite your tyranny. My mistake, never been that good at reading kicks to the head." Hawks mused, coughing then spitting a mouthful of blood towards the Yakuza leader. "Considering you caught a bullet at the junction of your shoulder, might be wise to just give up at this point. You don't know what you've gotten yourself into."

"Give up and miss seeing the life leave those infuriating auburn eyes of that child? I never knew you had such a sense of humor; though that can be changed with enough persuasion." Kuroi laughed to himself, turning away from the undercover spy caught lurking within his ranks. The official Uraraka announcement was going to end soon considering that former officer was giving instructions on how to reach the safe zones and what signs to look for. A perfect opportunity to infiltrate the shelters for even more havoc. "Something back in that room sparked just a hint of light to force her limp, nearly lifeless body to move enough to shoot me in a nearly fatal spot. I need to know what drove that girl to find the strength to fight on. Was it sheer willpower? Fight or flight response? Adrenaline? I'm going to get my answer one way or another. Then I'm going to slaughter that wench right before her father's eyes! Make that infuriating, pathetic excuse of a Yakuza learn that violence can and will always get you to the top!"

"I suggest you watch your tongue when talking about the young heiress. Despite her young age and inexperience with villainous bastards such as yourself, she's still leading the most powerful clan in Japan, possibly even the world. My loyalties will always lie with the Uraraka clan!" Keigo snapped angrily. The legs of the chair scrapped loudly against the concrete floor as he tried to force himself forward. Chains creaked with strain against their brackets the harder he pushed. Kuroi merely ignored him, returning his eyes to the television glowing in the darkness.

"…one final announcement prior to ending this broadcast."

Shota Aizawa reached a hand between his shirt and onyx suit jacket. Ochaco kept her gaze strongly on the camera lens, chin tilted up confidently as the markings were bared for all. There was no hiding anymore. She needed to face the world head on even if the small child inside whimpered and cried, pled, for it to stop. A white envelope with a single ruby red bird feather slipped out. Kuroi stilled the glass aiming for his lips. Surely not possible…

"Seems you've underestimated my networking intricacy. I didn't realize your hideout was nestled nearly in the heart of Musutafu; interesting, to say the least. Right about now you should be receiving a package of my own creation in collaboration with a well-known expert. Oh. I nearly forgot; you better not forget about our deal…Hawks."

"How the hell could I forget with that scary man breathing down my neck," Keigo chuckled as the Yakuza leader glowered at him. Oh, yeah. He was pissed. Cracking his neck back and forth to alleviate the growing tension from the chained positioning, the blonde took in a deep breath then blew sharply between pursed lips. A piercing whistle echoed in the empty room for a solid ten seconds before sharply dying off. All for One merely started laughing boisterously as he stood, arms thrown wide.

"A whistle? Does the little birdy want his freedom that bad? I'm afraid it's going to be the opposite, Hawks. You're too much of a threat to release back to the public, so you're stuck here with me until I get what I want." The swirling glass of red wine abruptly poured over the spies head, drenching the already stained locks. Instead of tossing the glass aside, Kuroi slammed it against the side of his face with incredible force. Shards exploded from the impact as wasted wine dripped from his fingers.

"If you haven't figured it out yet…here's a clue for you." Hawks rasped with a squinting eye, blood racing down his dirtied cheek.

Alarms began blaring in the building followed shortly by an enormous explosion. All for One let out a strained breath. It was an alert to begin the assault. Someone on the outside had been notified…or he'd also been infiltrated with more than one spy. "If you think this is enough to derail my plans then you're sorely mistaken. I suggest you sit here and think about the severity of the punishments to come, Keigo Takami."

"Let's hope your plan works, Aizawa." Hawks muttered as the villainous Yakuza slammed the door behind him, blanketing the room in darkness save for the Uraraka message looping.

---

Whispers spread amongst the officers within the U.A. Special Police Force as the large, intimidating man with fire red hair walked briskly to the withering police chief standing outside of a conference room. Toshinori had no choice but to include the man famously known as his field rival, now the number one Chief of Police of his city and even outside of his jurisdiction. Things were becoming too dire for their resources and even Detective Tsukauchi was beginning to slip from the exorbitant overload of the Yakuza war. Too many callers that ended up delaying responses by three hours at the minimum; most calls went unanswered as the force had no resources to spare. Despite announcements, televised broadcasts, even blocking off areas in the city, people were still panic calling the station for help or to report others getting injured. And to top it all off…

Melissa had gone missing after Shield Industries collapsed in America.

He'd seen it on the live broadcast from the news chopper that managed to get to the disaster area first. Blonde hair dangling over the edge of the Kinsai Gardens rooftop until she was thrown off. It seemed the Uraraka heiress had managed to save his niece from certain death, though it barely swayed his opinion of the brunette. She'd lied so heinously about her true identity; Aizawa covered it up without batting an eyelash. For twenty years…twenty years of lying to his face! Had he mentioned it from the beginning things could've turned out differently. Now he had a bounty on his head from the power-hungry man charging towards him with a fire in his eyes.

"Toshinori…it's been a while." Enji Todoroki stated with a deep voice strained with what Toshinori could only assume was arrogance mixed together with distain. The two never really got along.

"It has, Enji. Pleasantries aside we need to get to work." Toshi curtly motioned towards the open conference room. With a scoff of annoyance the burly man entered with the chief close behind. Ensuring the door was fully shut before beginning, the aged blonde took his place at the front of the room. Tsukauchi and his team, varying officers from outside agencies, and a few of his own men including those who worked on the Yakuza division. "Let's get down to it—"

"Before that, you're going to tell me what my son was doing collaborating with a Yakuza beneath your roof." Enji interrupted sharply, all eyes wide and darting to the Chief of Police. Toshi glared at him to leave it for another time yet there was no telling the entitled officer to back down. "How the hell did you allow a member of the Uraraka clan to infiltrate your precinct for two decades? Not to mention a good portion of the staff worked for them as well."

"I wasn't exactly aware of the situation,"

"Please. I can smell a low life thug from miles away yet you couldn't see the one beneath your very own eyes? It seems to me that since your skirmish all those years ago has weakened your judgement, Toshinori. Perhaps you need to step down and allow a real Chief of Police to take over. Your city is in ruins, hundreds dead, thousands injured. Not even the military is willing to get involved in a delicate turf war between clans."

"Enji—"

"And another thing. You're talking about collaborating with a bunch of murderous animals to do, what? Create peace, frolic through the fucking flowers, hold hands and sing?"

"Chief Todoroki, please save your grievances for another time." Detective Tsukauchi snapped shortly, days of sleepless nights and haunting scenes finally boiling over. A marker pointed sharply at the practically smoking head of the intimidating man. "Restrain yourself or I'll detain you myself for obstruction of justice."

"Tsk, control your guard dog." Enji bit back, leaning further in his chair that almost seemed comically small against his enormous muscles. "Get on with this already, time's wasting and so is my patience."

"Moving on. Have you heard from the last guest?" Naomasa asked his partner wearily. Just what he needed, a flaming hot head in the same room as his former rival. Toshi just barely shook his head when a knock on the door had attention diverting. Shit. He was hoping to avoid a confrontation yet Enji seemed ready for a fight. "I'll get it—"

"No…I need to do this." Toshi held up a boney hand while moving towards the door. Heart in his throat he opened the door. Shota Aizawa stood there in a black suit, slicked back hair, and a face that had seen better days. It was wrenching to see his old friend standing there for all the wrong reasons. "Shota…"

"Pardon the intrusion, got held up in some business. Are we ready to proceed?" The Yakuza asked neutrally. After a few seconds of hesitation, Toshinori stepped back and opened the door wider. Nodding his thanks Shota stepped into the room and his eyes immediately went to the intimidating man boring holes in his skull. "Enji Todoroki. Isn't this a surprise. Detective Tsukauchi, good to see you—"

"You're letting that Yakuza waltz right on in?!" Enji boomed loud enough to be heard outside of the police station. Birds scattered and a few bystanders shrieked in surprise at the sudden noise. Toshi slammed the door shut as nosey officers tried to get a look at the former detective. "Have you lost your fucking mind!?"

"The Uraraka clan has official business with the U.A. Special Police Force. Last time I checked, you weren't a part of that." Shota answered coolly even as the towering man shot to his feet ready to pounce on him. Both hands shoved deep into his pockets from habit. Dark gray shifted sharply to the blonde man struggling to regain the situation. "Chief Yagi."

"Y-yeah, I'm sorry this is so unexpected. I wasn't expecting to hear from you so fast and I ended up having to call him in for backup. We could use his support." The Chief of Police whispered loudly at his ear, warily glancing at Tsukauchi who seemed utterly defeated. "Look, if this is a dealbreaker for you we can figure something else out. The citizens are priority right now."

"Our original deal will remain the same save for minor adjustments reflecting the current situation. Shelters have been put in place outside of city limits to create a zone large enough to avoid most of the heavy conflict. Food, clothing, medicine, a warm bed. Miss Uraraka ensured their safety was priority over immediately retaliating against the Shigaraki clan. The broadcast should be going live any moment now." Shota kept his focus away from the practically flaming man fuming from his seat, torn between taking down a high-level thug or breaking his jurisdiction and risking jail from Tsukauchi. A remote clicked on the television bolted to the wall, switching to the proper channel after guidance from the Yakuza. Soon the broadcast began to replay for those in the room save for a few minor tweaks; the final announcement was cut since it was directed only at All for One who undoubtedly had Hawks in the same room.

A few detectives placed their hands over gasping mouths when the extent of Ochaco's injuries came to light on the screen. It looked even worse on camera though Hizashi did that intentionally to really drive home the extent Shigaraki was willing to go to. Toshi watched in silence, eyes focusing on the face of the young woman he'd met mere months ago. She looked so different with a harder expression, striking confident posture, and eyes that openly displayed resilience and strength. It was hard to believe it was the same young woman who ventured around Musutafu with Midoriya for three weeks. Though he had his suspicions about her origins at the hospital when it seemed like a switch flipped after denying her visitation. Cold, authoritative, unwilling to back down. It seemed Midoriya suspected something was off as well once Ojiro pushed them both out of the room in a hurry.

"That's a pretty bold statement to make, Aizawa," Tsukauchi clicked the television off as the broadcast switched to a scrolling list of instructions. "A one on one fight between All for One and the heiress? Is that really even much of a fight?"

"According to tradition, when an opposing clan rises up and attempts to stake claim on rivaling territory, or they're seen as a major threat to the residing clan, an official battle must be held in the open. There are strict guidelines and if they're broken, it's an immediate execution to the liable party. All for One is fully aware of the rules; he won't turn down this fight or attempt to involve interference. Miss Uraraka may seem outmatched though I assure you her nearly two decades of training under my guidance provides enough of a challenge." Shota explained, briefly noting the wary glances from his form colleagues. Of course they don't trust a word he said. For the span of his career as a detective he'd been living a double life that very few knew of. "The problem we may run into is the Shigaraki gang attempting to level the city before that match even happens. I've gotten inside intel of their main location and it's located here, in the heart of Musutafu."

"They've been here the entire time?!" Yagi shouted in disbelief. No…that shouldn't have been possible. He ran them out years ago after his initial skirmish with All for One. Recent word of them entering the outer limits of the city was a rouse? "Shota, are you positive? How did you find out this information?"

"A sewer rat always knows to root through the trash for hidden treasures." Enji sneered. A withering look sent his way did nothing more than elicit a cocky laugh. "Street filth entering a powerful Yakuza clan makes you nothing more than desperate to escape the life you chose for yourself. At the end of the day when both clans are eradicated, you'll do nothing more than rot in a prison cell for the remainder of your days."

"I've heard of your arrogance, Enji Todoroki; might explain why your son Shoto wants to be nothing like his old man. You prioritize clamoring to the top of the charts rather than being a decent parent. Ever notice the impassive expression he carries daily or the fact that any conversation with your name suddenly gets rerouted to another topic? You may have ascended to the number one hero in your precinct and surrounding, but you did so at the sacrifice of your family. Family to us sewer rats means more than anything else in the world." Shota shot back with venom dripping. Large hands slammed on top of the wooden table, cracking it from the force as Enji threw his chair back ready to fight. The former detective remained rooted with both hands deep in pockets as Tsukauchi and Yagi attempted to regain control of the situation. "When you're done throwing a tantrum, there are more important matters to attend to."

"Look, if this isn't going to be ideal for anyone, we may need to rescind your support, Enji. Please remember this is a professional environment and we're in the midst of a Yakuza war. It could start with Musutafu and escalate across Japan, hence why you were summoned. We've already made a deal with the Uraraka clan and they're more than willing to do whatever it takes to saves lives. Put aside your personal pursuits and focus on the task at hand: taking down the Shigaraki gang." Toshinori spoke firmly. "Put our past aside. Right now my city is under siege from a ruthless murderer wanting to end everyone. If you can't respect my wishes in my jurisdiction, then there's the door. I don't have time for your behavior."

Enji begrudgingly sat back down though remained locked onto the black haired Yakuza with the hate of a thousand burnings suns. Aizawa could care less about the cocky chief as he took the closest free seat on the opposite side of the table. Those nearest scooted away a few inches. Satisfied they were done bickering for the moment, the exhausted blonde officer turned back to Tsukauchi with a gesturing hand.

"Thank you. Since there have been changes in ferocity from the Shigaraki gang, we're going to need a redirection of tactics. While we're still waiting on a few agencies to respond, these are the ones we have support from; Ryukyu agency, Toyomitsu agency, Lurker agency, and Rumi Usagiyama has been sent a request and we're awaiting her reply. She tends to be more on the solo side of detective work but will usually show up out of nowhere when there's trouble brewing. Though reckless, she's got a long list of arrests and crime ring busts. The biggest obstacle we're facing is the status of Kenji Uraraka, which you can surely shed light for us on that, Aizawa."

"Kenji is currently enroute back to Musutafu. Shigaraki managed to lure him and his wife out of town under the guise of expanding the trading division of the Uraraka clan. They've hit resistance and the closest branch out there has been infiltrated with Shigaraki men. We're estimating his arrival to be within the next twenty-four hours." Shota supplied easily. No point in lying about much right now with the entire city collapsing. He already knew the more information, the better prepared they could be. Besides…it also prepared them for the city to be completely leveled when the angry father returned. "Another complication is between now and the official challenge is the fact that Shigaraki could land a devastating blow to resources. Despite the amount of men under my command, there's no guaranteeing Shigaraki members won't sneak their way into the camps. The biggest thing we're checking for is the tattoo associated with that gang."

"You're talking about the Ouroboros tattoos, right?" One of the Yakuza detectives asked, hand raised hesitantly. Shota nodded.

"Though they can be as small as a plum, higher ranking members tend to have them wrapping around arms or legs, even as large as the entire back. It depends on their years of service and status within the clan. Generally red or black, depicting All for One's desire for violence and blood. Gold symbolizes those in the elite status; Tomura Shigaraki and his gang of misfits are that category."

"I take it you have in-depth information on them," Toshi felt his hopes deflating as Shota shook his head slowly. One step forward, three back. "Any particular reason for that?"

"No known records of any of them, not even Tomura. Wherever All for One found them they were already lost to society. But we know their 'quirks' for the most part. Dabi, pyromaniac who thrives in flames. Himiko Toga, knife wielder who seeks blood to taste. Atsuhiro Sako, seems to deal with magical tricks and utilizes small marbles that aids Dabi. Shuichi Iguchi, double-wielding blades. Jin Bubaigawara, utilizes a whip-like weapon that could be similar to a tape measure. This is the only information I've received from an inside source."

"I'll look into those names—"

"Don't bother. Already checked all hospital records in the area and Japan. These people were either wiped or never registered in the system. And with Shield Industries being hacked there's no way to retrieve the files." Shota cut off Tsukauchi yet instantly earned the focused attention of Toshinori. "And yes, Chief Yagi, your niece is safe. She's under our protective care and working to gain access to different Shield servers to regain some semblance of control."

Toshi nearly collapsed at the news, latching onto the edge of his chair for support. Thank the heavens above… "That's such a relief to hear…I've been worried sick these past few days, especially since Dave stopped answering also."

"You can thank Shigaraki for that as well. Melissa was kidnapped and missing just long enough to pull DNA to hack her credentials. It was an inside job at the main Shield server base."

"Who could've gained access to such a high-security building?" Tsukauchi asked, incredulous. "Or for that matter, who was the inside source that knew the servers inside and out to hack biometric locks?"

"…there's only one man I know that would be trusted with that kind of detailed information…Samuel Abraham. Dave's right hand. They practically raised the company together over the years, so it makes sense for him to understand the system and its bypasses. But I don't understand why he would betray his friend like that. How could he put Melissa in danger like that? What was he trying to gain from doing this?" Toshi muttered lowly as both hands clenched tightly against the chair back. What would cause Sam to turn on decades of friendship? What persuaded him to abandon everything?

"We don't have further information at this time. I understand this is difficult to digest, Toshinori, but we're racing against the clock here. I don't believe for a second that All for One will idly wait by until it's time to throw down. Tsukauchi, you have those papers I faxed?" Shota briefly considered comforting the tormented man. He didn't deserve to go through the hell of the past week even further. Yet he also couldn't waste any more time now that they'd infiltrated Shigaraki's hangout. It wouldn't take long for them to retaliate and reach the mansion.

"Sure, right here. Is this all of it?" The detective asked while handing over the thick packet of papers. Shota flicked through the pages briefly scanning each one before setting it down and nodding. "Great. Since you have the most experience with Shigaraki, I'm going to let you lead this plan against them. Sound good?"

Shota stood and shifted to the front of room casually waving the thick packet of information, battle tactics, and emergency back-up plans. He'd spent three days compiling all of the data sent by Hawks before his radio silence. It was the ultimate risk leaking intel from inside the dangerous clan, though completely necessary seeing as things had worsened. Keigo Takami was the ultimate double-spy; able to slip into clans, gain their trust, send information out, then disappearing without a trace. Normally it was a smooth operation for the experienced spy, albeit the letter pulled from his jacket indicated he'd been had. Not surprising to the Yakuza. Somehow he always managed to slip away in the blink of an eye so there was still hope, as long as he got his message.

"Sounds fucking perfect."

_B_

Ochaco watched in awe as the two girls scrambled around the room grabbing every available pillow and blanket there was then tossing them into a somehow organized pile in front of the mounted flatscreen. Instead of trying to accommodate everyone in the mansion with a thousand angry guards, Mina decided everyone should crash at her and Kirishima's temporary pad on the Uraraka property. Though despite initial protests from security, Yamada shut them up real fast by threatening to call Aizawa back from an important meeting. No one wanted to deal with the already irate Yakuza, so they let it be with the guidelines of a curfew and armed guards outside. The chefs provided a variety of snacks ranging from popcorn to hand-crafted chocolates, even hors d'oeuvres like sandwiches. Whatever desired came to fruition thanks to Ochaco's influence. Though when it seemed to become overwhelming the heiress relayed through Izuku to kindly have them stop.

Sitting on the couch with legs tucked up tightly to her side the heiress followed the blurs of pink and blonde as they finished building their pillow palace, the guys merely standing back and allowing it to happen. She hadn't had a movie night quite like this. Her parents never really allowed the brunette to sit within the same radius of a television due to tutors, lessons, training, and occasionally errands outside of the palace walls. Fun wasn't really in her memories as a child. Sure, her parents did their best to take her to parks or do fun things, it just became a hassle when business boomed or a threat against the clan prevented things from happening.

"There! Now it's perfect," Mina sighed dramatically after nestling the last pillow perfectly into place, hand wiping across her dewy brow. "Alright, Ochaco, have at it!"

Ochaco tilted her head curiously. Have at it how…? Izuku noticed the confused look and she quickly looked over at him, fingers already moving.

What am I supposed to do?

"Ashido is telling you to jump into the pile. Like this," The former detective made a diving motion with his hands.

"Like this, Ochaco! Geronimo!" Toru squealed with a lunge, disappearing into the pillow fort. The brunette furrowed her brows until the blonde popped her head out in a makeshift window. "Come on, it's great in here! No boys allowed!"

"You've never done this before, right? Here, take my hand and I'll help you in." Mina offered immediately after clambering over the scattered moat of pillows.

Ochaco felt conflicted while hesitantly eyeing the hand. It wasn't proper for a lady of the house to engage in such childish mannerisms, especially with men present. Yet she didn't want to be rude and ruin their hard work. Looking back at Izuku she signed.

"Oh, I didn't realize. I'm sorry. Ochaco said it's not proper for a lady of the house to engage in this behavior with men around."

"Then for one night, Ochaco, just be you. Not an heiress. Not a Yakuza. Just a young woman spending time with her besties pigging out in a pillow fort and watching a sappy love drama." Mina clasped onto the closest hand comfortingly. "Look…with everything going on right now, we may not get the chance to do something like this again. You're going off into battle in three days, Ochaco; for one night just do what you want to do. Even if it means breaking protocol."

"…pardon the intrusion…" Ochaco rasped, shifting to a stand and straightening her yukata. She suddenly launched at Mina while latching onto her waist, then they both collapsed into the mountain of pillows as Toru screeched for mercy beneath her fort. The two slipped into a crevice of the fort to join the blonde. Kirishima and Ojiro started cackling, gasping for air and holding onto one another. Izuku laughed. Bakugo merely rolled his eyes at the gesture, popping the top from his beer and taking a swig.

"Ochaco…you're heavy! Crushing me…" Toru wheezed as the heiress released Mina, shifting to tackle the blonde. "Mina…my bestie…avenge me!"

"You're on your own girl, I'm not fighting her! She could eat me for breakfast!" Mina replied, aghast at the suggestion. "Do you see those moves?! I'd rather not be minced meat! But some snacks sound good! What do you want to eat while we reassemble the house?"

Ochaco squeaked out an answer. Mina and Toru shared a glance as the heiress looked crestfallen. Only Izuku and Bakugo could understand what she was trying to say. A light bulb went off above pink tendrils. Crawling over to the nearest 'window', she urgently waved someone over. Izuku quickly appeared by crouching down on the moat, sinking in slightly. They whispered back and forth for a minute until the man nodded. Now confused about what was happening, Ochaco tapped against Toru's arm for attention. Yet the blonde merely scurried from the tent giggling like crazy. Mina followed suit shortly after and left the brunette alone in the sea of pillows. The left side of the fort began disassembling pillow by pillow. Once the hole was big enough, Izuku mouthed his apology and crawled in. While there was enough space between them to remain comfortable, it sent Ochaco's heart into overdrive as the wall began rebuilding.

"Since Midoriya is the only one who can really understand you right now, it only makes sense to have your translator right beside you. We'll get some snacks and be back in a few minutes!" Mina trilled a good few feet away, snickering with Toru.

They planned this.

"Yeah, it would seem so. As long as you don't mind the company I'm fine with it. I haven't sat in a pillow fort in years." Izuku replied with an embarrassed laugh, rubbing at the back of his neck.

Your company is always welcome.

"Right back at you," He smiled softly. Heat flourished across her face so she focused on something else. Anything else that didn't involve that tender expression on his face. "There's…something I want to ask, if it's alright with you. It may be on the more personal side…"

What is it? Ochaco's fingers lightly twisted while awaiting his answer. Nervous. He was afraid to ask the question. Once his eyes darted over to just below her face she instantly knew what it was about. A hand grazed over the markings light as a feather. You want to know what happened.

"I'm sorry! It's really insensitive to ask something like that, especially when it bothered you earlier. Don't worry about it—" Izuku back-pedaled quickly, shaking both hands frantically. A delicate touch stopped the flailing appendages. She seemed a bit perturbed by his response as the crease between chestnut brows furrowed. With a finger against her lips she signaled to keep it down.

I'll answer whatever questions you have, just keep quiet. If they become too much I will let you know.

"Are you sure? I don't want to be a bother…it's just…I can't comprehend how he could take you down so quickly. I don't underestimate your skills, Ochaco. I acknowledge he's a monster." Izuku spoke softly as the sound of chatter grew around them. Dishes clinked, laughter filled the air, Bakugo chewed out Kirishima for trying to take more than his share of chips. The heiress let out a heavy sigh and pulled her legs to chest, wrapping both arms around for comfort. After a minute Ochaco shifted to face him better.

He caught me off-guard by switching to a demonic side after insulting my family. I attempted to regain authority but he shot me down instantly. It…was like a heavy freeze washed over and I could not move. Even as my mind screamed to get away…I couldn't. Then he grabbed me by the throat, dangling me like nothing. He swore the Uraraka clan would fall before the first of the year.

"I should've been there for you, Ochaco. I'm sorry. I failed you as a friend." Ochaco glanced up to see the normally jovial man tearing up, throat thick with emotion. A wheezing rasp slipped out as he furiously swiped at his face with a sleeve. Her rapidly beating heart slowly began hardening into stone to sink downward. "You're suffering so much. Maybe I could've stopped you from chasing after Shigaraki's gang."

I made that judgement call; that is my burden alone to carry. The pyromaniac blocked me in from escaping back through the window once I realized all communications had ceased. There was no other choice but to move forward.

"How…did you use the gun to get away from him?" Ochaco nodded slowly. "Was he fatally hit?"

I blacked out after hitting the ground, but he was shot. If Bakugo hadn't returned the gun then I wouldn't be here right now. It saved me…yet so did all of you.

"Us?" Izuku asked, puzzled at how they'd managed to do the opposite of what really happened. The brunette nodded and suddenly looked a bit flushed.

Your words…Ojiro's, Mina's, Aizawa's. The biggest factor was that you said you trusted my decision. You understood that was something I needed to do as the future heir to the Uraraka clan. But you also trusted me as a friend. So…thank you. Truly.

"Move aside, Midoriya, snack train coming through!" Mina abruptly announced as the top blanket flew off to reveal the two girls holding an armful each of snacks. Ochaco shifted her legs out of the way, tucking them under as the tent became more crowded. Izuku scooted himself closer to the wall of pillows as both settled on their own carefully selected pillows. Toru quickly set about adjusting the top of the canopy for a better view of the TV while the pinkette handed out snacks. Ochaco stuck with just mochi as it was one of the easier things to get down still. Izuku took a bowl of assorted nuts. Mina had a large bowl of popcorn with multiple baggies worth of mixed candies. "Alright! What episode did you watch last, Ochaco? Or do you want to start from the beginning?"

"Episode two though she doesn't quite remember the storyline anymore." Izuku relayed. He could nearly see the sparkles in her eyes at the answer. Apparently that was what she wanted to hear just to start the series over. "You have to keep in mind of the curfew in four hours."

"Yeah, yeah, curfew-schmerfew. Let the drama begin!"

Everyone else settled around the pillow fort as the show began, living room lights dimming to just barely see those around save for the glowing electronic. Ochaco felt herself become glued to the series, auburn never leaving the screen. Not that she cared for the characters and their looks, but more so the storyline was what drew her in. Opposite worlds colliding, secrets kept hidden; it was all too familiar. Especially when the detective had to escort the heiress around town for a break from Yakuza life. A light tapping against her arm drew focused attention left. Izuku slowly signed something barely visible in the light as the scene changed.

Seems familiar, doesn't it?

A little bit. I believe it went a little differently.

That's true. Not like the show is about our lives.

Not about their lives, huh? A speck of curiosity appeared. From that moment on she began paying closer attention to the details; the mansion, the police station, streets, restaurants, even the people close to the main characters. Nothing really appeared out of the ordinary, just a screenwriters vision of a forbidden romance. Even the credits seemed exactly the same after every episode. In the blink of an eye they'd made it to just shy of the finale with only one more episode to go. So far, the main characters had gallivanted around town as the head Yakuza managed the household and keeping the city safe. Instances of street skirmishes began unravelling the thread of intricately weaved secrets, becoming dangerously close to revealing who the heiress was. Yet somehow the gruff private detective had softened towards who she was despite the hidden, indicative markings inked into milky skin.

A bit ironic.

The heiress soon found a heavy wave of drowsiness washing over, eyelids becoming too heavy to force open as the finale began. A few head nods here and there in between bouts of brief sleep. Even her breathing began to deepen as a soft melody played on the screen, a romantic scene unfolding between the Yakuza's daughter and the private investigator.

Izuku tried not to flush as the detective opened himself up to the Yakuza daughter, gently taking her hands and revealing vulnerabilities. Romantic stuff wasn't really his cup of tea as work became a main priority, so it always had him flustered when witnessing such moments. Not that he hadn't daydreamed of such a life, currently it wasn't realistic nor a priority.

"I don't live an easy life, Shirai. There's always a target on my back, always eyes watching to see if I'll mess up. You shouldn't get involved with a person like me."

"Detective Shinkchiski, you live the life of someone who thrives helping those in need of a helping hand. I am no different. You have shown me how beautiful the world is outside of my prison cell; for that I am forever grateful. You were the one who opened a whole new path for me. If not for you…"

"Yet I've also put you in danger! The city is crawling with Yakuza out for blood, it makes you an easy target! Why do you think I'm always looking over my shoulder to see if the coast is clear? I'm sorry, whatever this is cannot be. Our worlds are too different, Shirai."

"Don't do that to her," Izuku whispered, fully entranced in the scene. "Don't push her away, not after she's opened up to you."

The private investigator stood abruptly which caused their hands to separate. Shirai reached a hand out as he stepped away, internally tormented at the situation. The music inconspicuously switched to a tensing tone with harsher, louder notes in the elaborate garden with a sun setting just above the walls.

"Please, though our worlds may be different, they can coincide harmoniously—"

"Harmoniously? You are nothing more than the daughter of a politician; I'm a private investigator who digs deep into Yakuza gangs searching for murderers! Do you know how much blood stains these hands? How many bodies I've seen lying in the gutter or ripped to shreds by gunfire in a vehicle? You don't understand!"

"I understand more than you think!" Shirai shouted angrily with a sweep to her feet. He merely scoffed in disbelief. Rolling up his sleeve it revealed a heavily scarred area, the skin shiny and barely a shade pink.

"Really? Do you understand the sacrifices I've made to protect the streets? How I've lost people along the way, how I've failed to save someone like yourself? I nearly got killed attempting to save a young woman from a monstrous Yakuza who wanted nothing more than to burn the world! Why do you think I've isolated myself for so many years?! Nothing you say can top what I'm going through!"

Shirai's breath hitched at the severity of the wound, fingers pressing against delicately painted lips. "That wound…"

"Yeah, it's ugly as hell, right? Disgusts you? Makes you think I'm a freak of nature? This is what I deal with on a daily basis. This is why you shouldn't get involved in my life, Shirai! I'm trying to protect you, why can't you see that?"

"Because…I care for the person you are beneath the surface, Detective Shinkchiski. I can see past your scars, your self-hatred, your sacrifices for the greater good. For you are nothing more than a human beneath a title…as am I. Despite our physical obstacles we still continue to exist, breathe, push forward for the future we desire. And I desire one with you, Yakumo!"

Tears welled in Izuku's eyes at the beautiful moment. Despite his hatred towards Yakuza she was still willing to fight for what they felt. A hand had just raised to swiped at the vision blurring tears when something weighted tapped against his shoulder, nearly sending him jumping from his skin. Alert virescent slowly shifted over to see what was touching him. Ochaco's head was leaning against his shoulder with the rest of her body slumping against the back of the couch. For a moment he thought she was also caught up in the scene yet a few deep, even breaths told him otherwise. She'd fallen sleep.

"What do you guys think of this so far?" Toru turned around and asked as the episode paused for a break. Azure widened as Izuku placed a finger against his lips and pointed at the sleeping brunette slumping against his shoulder. She slapped a hand over her mouth, whacking Mina gently before doing the same motion. Mina looked back with a smile growing on her face.

"She trusts you enough to fall asleep, Midoriya. Earlier she took a power nap on my shoulder out of nowhere. It seems she's not sleeping well at night right now."

"Can you blame her?" Bakugo responded after ripping the roof off the pillow fort, tossing it to the side and sitting back against the couch. "Guarantee every time she starts to truly sleep his face appears. If she's going to fight him again then Ochaco's going to have to get some actual fucking sleep."

"Well, she's already taken the first step which is acceptance," Ojiro pointed out by aiming a finger at his own neck. "The fact that only a few days after being attacked she's removing the bandages is a huge step. Ochaco may not be one hundred percent ready, but that's where we step in. To make sure she's in the best shape physically, mentally, and emotionally to fight for Musutafu."

"We'll make sure that murderer goes down once and for all," Kirishima gave a small fist pump into the air, confidence radiating. "If we're going to make a plan then the others will have to get involved. With all of us together, there's no way to lose."

"All for One was already send a little gift from Aizawa. Hope he likes it," Bakugo grinned deviously as confused eyes turned to him. Both hands made an explosion motion, mouth making a silent combustion noise.

"Wait, you sent him a bomb?" Izuku asked in alarm, twisting to look at his frenemy better. The movement caused a sharp breath intake from Ochaco so he quickly returned to his former position, ensuring her head was still secured against his shoulder. She didn't seem to be bothered much and instead nestled closer to his side. "How did you even find his location?!"

"Don't know, not my business. I was asked to help make an explosive big enough to weaken steel beams and create long-lasting fires. Wasn't going to ask her guard dog why."

"It's best not to question how Aizawa works…" Ojiro added. Everyone nodded in agreement. "So…should we just leave her be until curfew? That's still an hour and a half out. I don't want to wake her but the guards won't be too happy if she goes over. Not even the guys I trained; everyone's so on edge that they're seeing me as a threat despite the hours we spent in the dojo."

"Let her sleep. I don't mind sitting here until she wakes up. The trauma must be draining," Izuku replied softly, briefly glancing down at the heiress who slumbered away without a care. "I'll talk with Mr. Aizawa if anyone questions it. Could you please get her a blanket?"

"Here," Toru quickly grabbed the warmest one before draping it over the brunette and carefully tucking her in. Fingers deftly swept back the stray strands of chestnut that managed to slip out. "Sweet dreams, Ochaco."

-B-

Shota felt extremely drained by the time the police meeting ended. Enji Todoroki kept watching his every move like a hawk stalking prey, yet at least he kept the snide remarks to himself until they exited the building. But seeing as the Yakuza didn't have the time nor patience to deal with an ignoramus, power-hungry officer, he merely got into his awaiting car, rolled down the window just enough for his face to be visible…then flipped the fucker off. It was almost satisfying to see the belligerent expression taking over as words began flying. His one moment of humor in bleak times. Now as he walked towards Ashido and Kirishima's dwelling right at the point of curfew, his mood seemed to sway a bit. Damn annoying kids as they were, Ochaco treasured them and in return all six gave everything to support the healing heiress. She'd need them over the next three days to get her back into fighting spirits.

Knuckles rapped against the framing of the front door. Footsteps quickly tapped against the floor and the door swung open to reveal most of the group standing around the kitchen with all eyes on him. Mina motioned for him to come in but be quiet, something that caused a brow to raise. Strange. He didn't see the two trouble children right away. Stepping through after motioning for the guards to dismiss, Shota followed the pinkette into the living room where a giant castle of pillows stood. They still did this at their age?

"Ochaco fell asleep over an hour ago on Midoriya, then he fell asleep not long after that. We didn't want to wake them up so soon," Mina explained softly as the two finally came into view for the Yakuza.

Ochaco was slumped against Izuku who in turn fell asleep with his head resting against hers. Both seemed to be completely knocked out and unaware of the man staring at them. A hand scratched at the stubble attached to a tired expression. If she was finally sleeping after not for the past few nights, he didn't want to wake her just to get her back into the house. He also couldn't leave her unattended in the temporarily outfitted dwellings without heavier security. But…

For once, Ochaco didn't have stress lines as she slept.

"We can move Midoriya to the couch if you need to move Ochaco. I don't mind if Mina stays with me for the night, if that's alright," Toru brought up when the Yakuza didn't move, seemingly debating what to do. Dark gray studied her for a few seconds before ultimately nodding. "Kirishima, Ojiro?"

"On it." Both replied as Mina began disassembling the pillow palace. Once it was clear enough for Aizawa to move in and scoop the heiress up, he shifted to her side quietly. A hand gently shifted her body away from Midoriya after removing the blanket, cradling her neck until it rested against his shoulder. The other arm swooped underneath both legs and up she went without so much as a skipped breath. Midoriya was quickly situated on the couch with a pillow and blanket tossed over.

"I'll collect you in the morning before Ishikawa Uraraka arrives. Formal wear." Aizawa ordered once he reached the doorway, pausing before turning back to address them all with a softened expression. "Thank you…for everything you've done for her. It means more than you'll ever know."

"It's our pleasure," Ojiro smiled warmly. "Ochaco's done so much for us; it's only fair to repay the generosity."

"Bakugo,"

"What?" The explosives expert grumble as all attention turned to him.

"Your help did its job. Good work."

"Tch, of course it did," The blonde tsked while turning his head away, arms crossed against his chest.

"Have a good night, Mr. Aizawa."

The kids waved goodbye as he left with the heiress.

A small ticking of his lips was concealed beneath the darkness of the night.