Angel: Uggggggggh...another comment about why I haven't added more romance and more OCs. This time, the person said that I should be able to implement these and that they don't understand why I have ignored it or why I haven't considered it. And that they haven't repeated it enough to be spamming/harassing or frustrating. As well as the reason why it's repeated is because I haven't applied the changes. Where-where do I even begin with this? This is only addressed to the person or people who keep bringing this up. They're persistent, I'll give 'em that much...
First off, if you are giving me the same suggestions over the span of several months that I have to keep talking about this like 8 times, that is literally bothering me. And it results in no chance of me even considering the changes to begin with. To the point where I don't care about these 2 things not being in the story that I'M writing, and not the SPAMMER. Almost 10 times I've talked about it, and you don't think that's harassment? Don't act like I haven't mentioned this before, because I have. You can literally find several notes where I even noted all my thoughts about this from previous chapters.
2nd, it is my story, not yours, so if you really want those 2 changes that bad, write the story yourself. Just don't copy my OC or any plotlines I did, otherwise it'd be worse than this issue already is for me. The reason why I keep rejecting these ideas is because I literally do not care since I've had to speak on this multiple times. If those 2 things really bothered me that I haven't implemented them, I would've already written them in OVER 100 CHAPTERS AGO. Give the fuck up on this, I'm not doing those changes ever. Like I said, after spamming something like this to me, that's it, you lose. 'Oh, but you can write this in'-stories take up time. Those changes would take up time that I don't have because I work, I'm in 2 schools, and currently I'm sharing a car with my sister, and that last part is very draining on me. Even if I wanted to put these changes in, which I don't, I'm way behind on other projects. The story is long enough as it is without those 2 things. If you don't understand why I haven't done the changes, I literally just told you.
I have said this before, I'll say it again, and I'll probably say it forever: If I don't want to implement the same ideas you suggest to me over and over again, and I keep saying no, write the story yourself. It's not hard, I've been doing it for almost 10 years now. I don't care if someone keeps complaining to me that I don't make the changes that THEY want, and not what I MYSELF want. Even if I still get this complaint, I'm still gonna repeat this just as much and continue to not do the changes. It doesn't make a difference to me at this point because I don't give a single SHIT about this topic.
1 month earlier
"From this moment, the Liberation Army recognizes Tomura Shigaraki as grand commander!" Re-Destro announced to the crowd of people.
Shigaraki removed the hand that was on his face, revealing a small smirk. "Now...we'll do what we want."
The whole crowd interrupted into cheers.
Hawks was amongst the crowd as well, putting on a smile to hide his panic. 'I'm too late! No wonder he let me come in.'
"What happened in Deika?" Hawks asked curiously shortly after the destruction of the city. "It was you guys, right?"
"If only someone had been strong enough to stop the League sooner, those poor citizens might not've died," Dabi remarked while opening up the duffel. He flinched at the contents and then gave a small smirk. Inside was...Best Jeanist himself, and he wasn't moving at all. "I'm not sold that this is actually him. But you did kill somebody. How heroic."
Hawks gritted his teeth, wondering if it was even worth it anymore. This was serious business now, and he couldn't pretend like it wasn't. 'They've got an army of soldiers united under one cause. Feel Good Inc has near ubiquitous control over communication networks' He stared at Skeptic, who was gritting his teeth over the new change. Re-Destro just kept a smile on his face. 'Detnerat is a big player in the hero industry. And there are likely other High-End Nomus around waiting to be unleashed' Dabi had a big smirk on his face, knowing that Hawks was listening. 'There's little they couldn't do' He then narrowed his eyes a bit at Shigaraki. 'This superhuman society may be overflowing with heroes, but Shigaraki has gathered so much power that it might be impossible to stop him' He then spoke with some members, acting as if nothing was wrong.
"Long live the liberation!" He waved to three people.
"Wow! It's really you!" One of them gushed up at the man.
"Hey," Dabi walked over to them. "You look happy, Number Two. Up to somethin'?"
"Nah, man," He gave a small smile. "I was just waitin' for you," The two then walked off together. 'Can't move yet. There's still a backer behind the scenes. I need to get the full picture and alert Endeavor and the others before things are too far gone. Come on, Hawks. If you're too slow, it'll be the end of Japan.' He continued to walk with Dabi in silence, knowing that from now on, he had to be really careful...
"Your Quirk blossomed in the Deika City fight," Dr. Ujiko pointed out, as Shigaraki was looking at the remaining hand that he had. "Now you can obliterate not only something you touch, but also whatever is connected to it. You have become the embodiment of destruction. So I must ask: why do you still seek more power?" He stared at Shigaraki, dressed for a surgery or an operation.
"If more strength is available, why wouldn't I take it?" He questioned back, a devious smile on his face. "It's true that I'm no longer forced to use cheap tricks. But look, my arm is ravaged," He stared at the amount of damage his arm took in the fight, as he was starting to look like Dabi, just without the staples. "This is from using my ability once. And there's a whole war coming. I won't underestimate heroes anymore. I'll use all the power I can get to destroy All Might and his legacy. Our next fight's his last. As for Izuka Midoriya...she reminds me a lot of someone I used to know," He glared at the hand, knowing that Izuka was older than Izuku. And it pissed him off how much she resembled Hana to him...sometimes he thought of them as the same person even. "So, I'll be taking great joy in killing the Symbol of Light with my own two hands..."
"Hah," Dr. Ujiko let out a small laugh. "Using your talents to make your enemy miserable. Like master like student, I suppose." And the same thing could be said about Izuka, considering how both All for One and Shigaraki wanted to ensure she wouldn't be a new symbol. "I was originally conducting his research for All for One," Dr. Ujiko stated as Shigaraki sat in a chair connected to a bunch of wires. "But you'll benefit from it quite nicely. Over the generations, Quirks have merged and formed more complex and ambiguous abilities. Many manifestations are unwieldly. Though our minds are adaptable and expansive, our hardware can't evolve fast enough to keep up with such power. I have observed this progression and I call it the Quirk Singularity," He was booting up all of the machines while Shigaraki was connecting himself to the wires. "No one took my research seriously, except All for One, of course. If our bodies can't harness memory and power, humanity will become unstable." Shigaraki leaned back in the chair. "Signs of this began showing up as early as the fourth Quirk generation. All for One recognized that the problem with capacity was a serious one which needed to be remedied."
Shigaraki gave a big grin. "How long will this take, Doc?"
"Aww," Dr. Ujiko glanced back at him in amusement. "You're like a kid waiting for Christmas morning!"
"Can you blame me?" Shigaraki wondered as he wanted his plans to come to fruition as soon as possible. "I'm overflowing with beautiful dreams."
Dr. Ujiko chuckled as he examined Shigaraki. "For the next four months, your life will be one of hellish agony. When you come out on the other side, if you survive, the world will be in the palm of your hand." It was like a cocoon breaking to form a butterfly... "Even One for All and Galaxy."
"One for All? Galaxy?" Shigaraki blinked at the doctor.
"Of the many designs your master had for this world, those powers were the only ones that didn't end up going to plan."
Shigaraki let out a small gasp, his eyes going smaller.
The present
Meanwhile, at UA, a bunch of robots were deployed, the same ones from the entrance exam. "We are the Skynet of this world! Humans, you are terminated!"
A blue laser swooped in to destroy most of them, revealed to be from Yuga. "Navel Saber!" He announced while in his hero costume. His laser was now shaped like a fencing sword, something he learned over work-studies.
"A new move!" Denki gushed as the others were watching. "Lucky! I want a sword!"
Several more were approaching him. "Woohoo!" Toru cheered while running over. "Let's do this, Aoyama!" She fired her Warp Refraction, causing her light to move into a curve.
"The beam curved!" Hanta exclaimed in surprise.
"Aw, yeah, that's the stuff," Denki was getting even more excited.
"I learned to take light and bend it to my will!" Toru explained to the class.
Yuga flinched and hugged his stomach.
"Tremble before us!" More robots approached the battle ground. "This shall be known as Judgment Day!"
"Max viscosity!" Mina spun from the sky. "Acidman!" She now had a coat of acid over her body in the shape of a being. Once she touched the robots, they started to melt, causing their circuits to go haywire.
"Humans are scary."
Mina landed, her acid falling off. "And that's a wrap!" She smiled, some of her acid still on her body.
"We killed it!" Toru cheered for their quick fight.
The rest of their class clapped for them, and Toshinori was there as well with them. "Wonderful job! Your work studies paid off. It's obvious you learned a lot from Equipped Hero: Yoroi Musha," He complimented the trio, though Yuga's stomach was still hurting.
"He had lots of advice for supercharging our offense and defense, so we figured out new attacks and combos to keep up," Toru jumped up and down.
Mina giggled while spinning the acid off of her. "Wanna know a secret about Acidman?" She smiled towards Eijiro, her mask having slipped off. "I got the idea form your Unbreakable!"
He gasped in surprise to hear this and she looked up, her tongue sticking out. "Nice!" He looked very humbled to hear it.
"They have obviously improved," Toshinori smiled, hands on his hips. "Now show me what the rest of you have learned!"
"Got it!"
Rikido was up first as he smashed a robot to bits using multiple punches. We're using a flurry of attacks!
Mashirao swung around his tail quickly. And predicting enemy moves!
The two then struck a pose after their display.
Ojiro and Sato. Their work study was with Lion Hero: Shishido! Number 13 on the chart.
Up next was Kyoka and Mezo. "Our search skills improved!" She announced as both of them readied their Quirks.
Jiro and Shoji. Work study with Killer Whale Hero: Gang Orca! Number 12 on the chart. These last four were even in an HLB game a while back!
Minoru tossed multiple purple balls at the robots, and not even bleeding this time. "Taste this Grape Rush!" He shouted before letting Hanta summon a bunch of tape. Denki's shooters touched the robots to electrocute them immediately. "That's some quick and efficient teamwork!"
Mineta, Kaminari, and Sero. Work study with Mineyama Hero: Mt. Lady! A member of Team Lurkers and number 23 on the chart.
Tenya then charged in at full speed. "Recipro Extend!" He then swung his leg to smash a robot to pieces. "A looser approach!"
Ida. Work study with Normal Hero: Manual! Number 222 on the chart.
A bunch of birds came in to distract the robots. "Clearer communication!" Koji was speaking clearly and wasn't straining his voice to do so.
Koda. Work study with Laundry Hero: Wash! Number 8 on the chart.
Fumikage flew in with Dark Shadow over his body to decimate robots thanks to speed. "Overall improvement! Black Abyss: Sabbath!
Tokoyami. Work study with Wing Hero: Hawks! Number 2 on the chart. Currently absent from his agency.
Eijiro let Unbreakable mode hit the attacking robots, that were destroyed on impact. He moved down his hand to destroy an arm and ran forward. Make my opponent lose the will to fight super quick!
Kirishima. Work study with BMI Hero: Fat Gum! Number 58 on the chart.
Ochaco ran forward and then jumped, Tsuyu flinging up her tongue. Teamwork...
She then caught Ochaco's waist, flying her around. And decisiveness! She flung forward her rope, Izuku gasping in surprise. Izuka smiled in encouragement, as she had already known about it and seen it. Together, Tsuyu and Ochaco captured the robots.
Uraraka and Asui. Work study with Dragoon Hero: Ryukyu! Number 10 on the chart.
Momo flung around her arms, multiple objects surrounding her. Calculation and efficiency!
Yaoyorozu. Work study with Magic Hero: Majestic!
Katsuki then sent himself into the air with his explosions. Pushing myself to the max! He destroyed the robot with a huge explosion.
Bakugo!
Shoto readied his hand and then flung his arm on fire, the robots falling into pieces behind him. Increasing my speed!
Todoroki! Work study with Flame Hero: Endeavor! Number one on the chart!
Izuku ran forward, his energy sparking around him. One for All. Full Cowling! Toshinori himself was keeping close attention to him. Izuka pumped her fists in encouragement, giving a small smile.
"If you three wanna be top heroes, this is a solid next step!" He informed the twins and Katsuki before work-studies.
"This gift," All Might held the hair in his hands in front of Izuku. "You earned it with your own valiant efforts."
Izuku grunted as he jumped up to the sky, having destroyed a robot with pure power.
It feels like that was so long ago... He also noticed...that Izuku wasn't looking at him at all. You don't look back at me for approval anymore, do you?
Izuku raised his fist into the air, using Blackwhip to capture the robots easily. I got tons of experience He then prepared to fling the robots.
Toshinori smiled proudly up at him. That's good. You don't need to. Keep going, young man!
Izuku then used Shoot Style on the robots, falling towards the ground and looking up. "Hah!" He grinned proudly of himself, clenching a fist. He was getting much better control of Blackwhip thanks to the work-study. Toshinori smiled at the boy.
Izuka was last as she ran up, ice and rocks surrounding her. Let's go, Solar Power! Purple energy was around her, Toshinori also paying close attention. But so were Izuku and Katsuki. Izuku smiled towards the girl.
"You have a lot of heart, young lady. Although you might wanna work on your speech and volume. I can barely hear you sometimes," All Might commented to Izuka.
Izuka gave a small smirk as she threw a Comet Burst with ease, causing the robot to explode.
That also feels like it was a long time ago... He couldn't believe that the shy and quiet Izuka had grown so much since then. You don't even think about how your brother would feel about your Quirk or worry about who you'll hurt, do you?
Izuka then readied herself and spun in an arc to activate Saturn Ring, which appeared in her hands right after and around her body. I know I can do this! She then swung one ring to capture a robot.
Toshinori smiled at the girl. It's good for you too. You don't need to worry about anything. Just keep going, young lady!
Izuka then spun around into a ball, flying towards the robots and knocking into them with Saturn Ring. She looked up as they were destroyed on impact. "Yes!" She cheered as she pumped a fist, as like with Blackwhip, she was also getting closer to mastering her new ability.
After training was over, the transport bots were escorting the robot pieces away from the field.
"Hey, Bakugo," Eijiro walked up to the blond with a grin. "Are you good with fighting when it's cold out now?"
"I used condensed shots!" Katsuki argued back to him. "Winter's crap!"
"Wow, Todoroki!" Toru gushed over his improvements with his powers. "You're hotter, cooler, and faster!"
"I don't know," He confessed to the invisible girl. "I'm still not able to catch up to Endeavor, though."
"Looks like you can use that dark energy stuff now," Minoru smiled up at Izuku as Hanta walked over.
"Yeah! I'm sorry it was a pain earlier," He confessed, since the shorter boy was on his team during joint training.
"It's all good," Minoru waved it off.
"Besides, I know what to expect now, so I'll be fine if it happens again," Izuka remarked, an elbow on her brother's shoulder.
"I'm sorry to you too!" He confessed while rapidly waving his hands, knowing that out of everyone, she had the worst reaction.
"Seriously, I said it's fine!" She laughed it off; though she had a feeling that he wouldn't stop apologizing for that ever. Katsuki stared at the girl, wondering if she still thought about...the family dinner. She definitely didn't seem like it, but she could've been hiding it as well.
"For real, man," Hanta grinned encouragingly at Izuku. "Get any better and you're gonna make my Quirk obsolete!"
"Mido, you've gotten even faster with your flying. And those Saturn Rings are so powerful!" Momo complimented the girl, who smiled at her friend.
"Aww, thank you! I'm still a bit slow compared to everyone else, but I'm getting there!" She pumped her fists, giggling.
"I think you're doing just great. You don't need to be like us," Ochaco encouraged while putting a hand on her shoulder. "Bet you've got a power related to every single planet now, huh?"
"No, still missing Earth, Venus, and Neptune," She murmured, a finger on her chin. "I'm sure I'll learn them eventually!"
"Well, your new power just kicked in, give it time. Besides, they're right," Hanta grinned while giving a thumbs up. "You're just as strong as everyone else."
"Yeah, remember what happened when we saved Todoroki's brother? You were so urgent and quick to act even though you were injured," Izuku held up a finger, getting her attention. "And you didn't even care about that, you were just trying to help that villain somewhat..."
"Wish I could've been there..." Minoru murmured a bit sadly and Izuka shook her head.
"Maybe don't tell that story as often around him or Kaminari."
Izuku then flinched as he realized something. "Uraraka!" He turned to the girl, who stared at him with a curious smile. He then smiled at her gratefully. "I was able to gain control of Blackwhip." He couldn't forget what she did for him when Blackwhip first appeared. "You helped me so much. Thank you!" He bowed his head to her.
She let out a giggle, smiling. "Oh, please, that's ancient history. Kay? Plus, look," She held her wrist gear. "Seeing you and Mido inspired me to have these wires put in my costume," She shot one out to demonstrate. "They're nothing compared to something like Sero and his tape. Still, I made that experience something useful. And I think all three of us are better because of it!" He stared at her wide-eyed, as did Izuka while Ochaco had her fist reached out.
Ochaco looked up and her face turned red. "True, I didn't think twice about butting in. Maybe that means I need to be calmer when fighting?"
Izuku held out his own fist. "Yeah, I agree." The two then fist-bumped while blushing and Izuka grinned happily, trying not to squeal.
"I'm right with you on that too, Ochaco! Let's keep inspiring each other," Izuka then bumped fists with Ochaco.
"What are you thinking?" Mr. Aizawa wondered as the sun was setting. Baki was eating, as the teachers were taking care of him while Izuka was still out.
"I could go for something easy to digest," Present Mic confessed to him as they were in the common room. "Udon?"
"I've been thinking," The homeroom teacher spoke up. "Given the work studies...the safety commission must know something."
"Yup," Present Mic murmured, his face in the couch.
"If we find out who's manufacturing Nomu...then what?" He then reached out his hand to the cat to let him play with it. Most likely because of Mr. Aizawa having taken care of him, he wasn't too bothered by the teacher.
"I'll have a surprise karaoke contest with them," Present Mic looked up wearily. "Then boil their guts while their eardrums bleed. And you?"
"...Well-"
"Mr. Aizawa!" Mirio interrupted before he could answer. He and Tamaki ran into the room. "Sorry to bother ya during your break."
"Eraser Head, it's about Eri," Tamaki spoke up anxiously.
He flinched, and removed his hand, Baki looking up. "What's going on?"
"You better not strain yourself too hard, Izuka," Katsuki narrowed his eyes a bit after they were done changing and walking back to their class.
"Aw, I'm fine! The mural helped me through it," Izuka waved it off and he grunted, looking away. She didn't seem to understand the double meaning behind it, but he wasn't going to say anything regarding the subject either. Then her phone buzzed, and she was surprised to see the name come up. "Mm? Mr. Aizawa's calling?" She blinked in confusion, wondering why he had her number. She then answered it, mostly out of curiosity. "Hello, sir. Uh!" She flinched in shock at what she was being told. "I'll be right there!" She then looked up at Toshinori. "Mr. All Might, I'm sorry, but it's an emergency! Can I be excused?"
Everyone stared at her in confusion as her face conveyed that it was urgent. "Well, sure, but why?" Toshinori looked at the girl, also confused about what was going on.
"Thank you, sir! Mr. Aizawa can explain it better!" She ran off without explaining anything. Katsuki narrowed his eyes a bit at this response. If she was doing something important, why wouldn't she tell him before anyone else?
Nejire was hugging Eri close just as Izuka came in. She gasped as the little girl's horn was growing, and she was crying. Mr. Aizawa followed right behind her.
"Thank goodness!" She cried out upon seeing them.
"It's my horn," Eri cried out, her horn sparking. "Why's it itch?"
"Eri, it's okay..." Izuka smiled softly, reaching out her hand. Eri sniffed while taking it, and Mr. Aizawa placed his hand on her head.
"Don't worry," He reassured her gently. "You're in excellent hands at UA."
A knock was heard on the door and then Izuka stepped in, out of breath. "Ahh, sorry that I'm late," She told the three sincerely as she stepped inside, closing the door behind her. "Did I miss anything?" She walked up to the couch, Izuku making room for her and she took a seat.
"No, we were waiting on you, actually," Toshinori revealed to the girl, folding his hands. "Everything okay?"
"Mmhm," She nodded at him, taking a deep breath. "Thank you again for understanding."
"No problem! I made you some milk tea, take a breather, Young Mido," Toshinori gestured to the cup of tea in front of her.
"Ahh, thank you..." She sighed in relief while taking the cup, sipping it slowly.
"Was it...?" Her brother asked knowingly and she nodded slowly.
"Yeah...but she's fine now. Mr. Aizawa helped Eri," Izuka confessed to the three, taking another sip.
"You could've just told us," Katsuki grunted in annoyance, the twins staring at him in shock. "What the hell were you gonna do if you got attacked on the way here?"
"Kacchan..." Izuku sighed heavily at him. "Come on, she reacted so she could help."
"You seem bothered by the fact that she didn't tell you where she was going. You could've just asked her," Toshinori pointed out, the boy giving a sound of shock.
"It's not like that!" He denied immediately, looking away with a slight blush on his cheeks.
"Um..." Izuka rubbed her arm awkwardly; she hadn't felt this way since she ditched him and Best Jeanist during internships. "I'm sorry, Katsuki. You make a good point but also...I'm not the same person I was before I came to UA," She hugged herself, her eyes softening as she smiled. "So...I appreciate your concern, but I'm not going anywhere!"
"...Yeah, whatever," He mumbled after a few seconds, whipping around to her with an annoyed expression. "And I'm not worried!"
Toshinori blinked and then smiled towards the two. "Anyway, congrats on Blackwhip and Saturn Ring," He informed the twins.
"Thank you very much!" Izuku bowed his head eagerly.
"Mm, thanks," Izuka also smiled a little at the man.
"And excellent work from you too, Young Bakugo," Toshinori turned to the boy, who was to Izuka's right. "There seems to be no limit to your potential."
"Obviously," He remarked confidently, earning a sheepish chuckle from Izuku.
At least he's stopped being...whatever he was when I was making the mural Izuku thought; and Baki was nearby sipping on some water.
"Can't believe Aizawa let you keep him," Toshinori chuckled towards the cat.
She coughed awkwardly towards her pet. "Yeah, um, don't tell anyone else he's here. He only let me take Baki with me today because of the emergency, and I was late enough, so I told Ochaco to give him to Katsu so he wouldn't get mad," She rubbed the back of her neck. Sometimes when Baki was left alone for too long in her room, he'd nonstop hiss for the rest of the day until she went to bed. So far, the only people he wouldn't react negatively to were Izuka, Eri, sometimes Koji and Katsuki, and Mr. Aizawa...
"Seems like he's already pretty used to UA, huh?" Izuku smiled towards Baki, who hissed angrily. He then sweated from this reaction. "Although he does remind me a lot of someone."
"Furball's just annoyed being out of the dorms," Katsuki placed a hand on his cheek.
Gee, makes you wonder who he got it from Izuka gave a deadpanned look.
Toshinori then held up two notebooks. "I'm sorry. I couldn't figure everything out. But you have to keep moving forward," He then put down the notes he had for the twins regarding the previous successors and about his theories on Galaxy. "The next step is yours. Read closely. I collected as many details about One for All's successors and if any other Quirks were connected to them as possible. Unfortunately, I couldn't find so much as a whisper about the second or third users. Given the times that they lived through and the nature of the ability...the official records aren't going to be helpful to us. I'm also not sure what they knew about the power or Galaxy. If they realized how they worked, I assumed they'd want to help out future wielders?"
"It's possible that they didn't want the information falling into the wrong hands," Izuka stated as Baki walked over, peeking at the notebooks. He placed his paw hard on one and she sighed. He then tried to lick at her milk tea and she flinched, picking him up. The cat started to freak out a little while wiggling around and she had to pet him to calm him down.
"Who cares about a bunch of dead old heroes?" Katsuki retorted impatiently over the whole thing. "I'm tired of wasting my time waiting for you guys to figure stuff out and what it means for Izuka."
"Mm?" She turned to him in confusion as Baki let out an angry hiss.
"And I'm already getting tired of that damn cat!" He shouted, earning a small glare from the girl.
"Hey! Relax, he's just getting agitated," She retorted as she barely managed to keep him quiet.
"When it comes to Blackwhip, I can only maintain the power for about one second so far," Izuku confessed to his mentor. "I haven't mastered any capture moves like Sero or Mr. Aizawa. But as a support ability, I think it's already a useful addition to my move set."
Izuka watched as Katsuki picked up the notebook for Izuku. "And for Saturn Ring, I can only use it after I spin, so I haven't technically learned how to manifest it without that starting point," She stated while holding up Baki's arms, moving them a little. He stayed silent as it was his favorite thing from her. "Although it's pretty powerful, and great for improving my speed and movement."
"And you two haven't had any contact with the past users since last time?" Toshinori wondered to the twins.
"No. And we usually see them together, so we haven't interacted with one individually," He confessed, Izuka nodding in agreement. Izuku picked up the notebook for her, looking through it.
"The 5th user was called Lariat," Katsuki read off the information, Izuka looking over his shoulder. "Guess that makes sense. Real name: Daigoro Banjo. Quirk: Blackwhip. Thanks to the threads of energy he shot from his body, he excelled at capture and midair maneuvers. One thing is obvious. None of these people started with Quirks that were even worth mentioning. So, it's no wonder I haven't heard of these nobodies."
"Katsu," Izuka gave him a small groan. "Really?"
"Huh?" Izuku turned to him in disbelief. "What are you talking about? Their powers are amazing!"
"Yeah, cause from the perspective of a loser like you, any Quirk is amazing!" Katsuki retorted back to him.
"That's mean," Izuku murmured with a small frown. "You know how to hit me where it hurts...sis, don't you think-" He flinched as she held up Baki to her cheek, who hissed in retaliation.
"We are well past asking me whose opinion I side with, don't make me sic my cat on either of you," She warned the both of them as she was not interested in answering the question. The girl then petted the cat proudly that he helped her out.
"What Young Bakugo said isn't technically wrong," Toshinori spoke up, getting their attention. "From what we know...All for One was obsessed with this Quirk. During a time when evil had more power than you could possibly comprehend now. All for One crushed anybody who could be considered strong. That was made possible by his perseverance and wide-ranging influence. As they died, struggling, in terrible pain...the past users entrusted this power to the future, adding to its legacy. They weren't chosen ones. They were just the people who received the power...and the people who passed it on in a fight that kept repeating itself."
Izuku flinched and Katsuki did as well, but towards the book. "Might be the one who knows about Galaxy?" He murmured from the page about Daigoro.
"It's possible, since he's the one who informed them about its connection to One for All. It's most likely he had the most information about it," Toshinori explained, getting their attention. And he had a good point, Daigoro did seem like the one with the most information since he explained how it worked.
"Yeah, that tracks on both ends. No wonder they all died young and that they didn't know about Galaxy," Katsuki remarked and Izuku gasped, looking at the book. Izuka bit her lip as she felt like they were closer, but at the same time, they weren't...
"Yes. True," Toshinori responded a bit gravely, since...they didn't know when Izuku's fight would be.
"So? What Quirk or ability are you gonna make the damn nerd and Izuka learn to use next?" Katsuki asked, though whether or not because he wanted to beat Izuku or was just curious was debatable. Izuka stared at him curiously that he was eager in learning their growth.
"The next power he should manifest is Float and for Young Mido, the one relating to Earth." The twins gasped while looking up at him, the girl still holding her cat close. And it was Float chosen because of a particular user... "My master's ability."
A new ability? And from Nana Shimura. All Might's master! He felt proud to be learning hers next.
An ability that utilizes Earth? Probably one of the hardest ones to achieve because the embodiment of the planet requires me to wait for it to come to me like with Saturn Ring. But on a different scale because I have to act decisively...
Katsuki then suddenly popped in next to her with a big grin, bringing the girl out of her thoughts. "I WIN!" He shouted out loud, causing the rest of their hair to stand up in alarm. He let out a confident cackle. "I use my explosions to fly! You're gonna waste time learning something I've basically been able to do forever! And Earth? She's gonna learn how to move rocks?! While you two are crashing and burning, I'll hone my skills even more at the work study! In other words, I'll rocket ahead of you! Choke on my soke!"
"Um. Nuh-uh," Izuku gave a disappointed frown. "I'll learn it fast and catch back up to you."
"You'll probably panic, go out of control, and die!"
"Mmm," Izuka started to look really irritated.
"No, I got the hang of Blackwhip quickly, so I should be able to-"
"DIE!" Katsuki emphasized to the boy.
Izuka then hit both of their heads with her fists, causing them to be quiet. Toshinori stared in silence as she huffed, dusting herself off. "No one's dying, and you're not gonna make fun of him starting now." Baki silently rolled his eyes at their behavior.
"She's right, please stop saying that..." Izuku murmured as Toshinori smiled at the three. Despite everything that they had been through, they were all talking like things were normal. Like the twins weren't the bane of Katsuki's existence. And he hoped that it continued like this and that they'd grow closer.
"What were you guys doing?" Hanta couldn't help but wonder as the rest of Class 1-A were preparing for something. Izuka flinched as she realized something and ran for the kitchen. "The House Arrest Gang are late again!"
"Better hurry up and lend a hand," Denki held up a tray of raw meat. "Otherwise, it's no meat for you."
"Right! I'm on it!" Izuku immediately ran off to help.
"Really?" Katsuki slowly walked up to Denki, not amused. "You think you can take meat away from me, Sparky? I'll murder you!"
Hanta gave a nervous sound from his response. "He's a total villain..." Denki commented at this behavior, glancing at the cat near the doorway. "And so is that cat."
Baki let out an angry hiss, shaking angrily from the corner. He then laid his head on the carpet.
"The more you help, the sooner you eat!" Eijiro grinned at Katsuki.
"We can put whatever we like in the pot?" Momo blushed happily, holding up a bag of tea leaves. "What a delightful dish!"
"You might wanna think twice about tea leaves," Ochaco tried to calm her down.
"Oh, please don't do it," Izuka gave her friends a sheepish smile as she walked over with fresh ingredients.
Katsuki held up a string of chives that were not cut. "What fool cut the chives?!" He demanded angrily from the chop job.
"I did," Shoto answered, looking over his shoulder.
"You've shamed your sister!" He then looked up at Izuka. "HEY! Izuka..." He waved his knife forward, beckoning her over and looking terrifying. "Get over here..."
"AAAH, IT'S THE GRIM REAPER!" She shouted in utter fear at his expression, and no, the knife did not make the context better...
Nevertheless, she joined his side as he chopped the chives, and she had her own to chop. He demonstrated how to chop them and she stared, following his example. "Damn it!" Katsuki snarled in slight annoyance that he had to do this. At the same time, he was glad to be cooking with the girl.
"You're good," Shoto noted of Katsuki's cooking skills.
"No, you're just really bad at it, idiot! Even Izuka's better."
"I don't cook that often..." She murmured in protest and continued to chop, sighing a bit. "Anyway, I can see it's not your thing either, Shoto. Don't worry, not everyone can pull it off."
"But you're learning pretty fast from him," He pointed out and she blinked, coughing.
"Well, that just goes to show the experience levels..." The girl laughed a little awkwardly.
"Who wants orange juice and who wants oolong tea?" Mina asked as the hot pot party continued.
"Now, friends!" Tenya announced with a smile, holding up his cup. "The long-waited Work Study exchange and starting the term off with a bang hot pot party is ready to begin! Let's eat up!" Most of them then cheered with him.
"The hot cocoa is ready!" Izuka walked over while holding a tray. There were three steaming pots, along with 21 cups, 4 of them stacked into columns of five.
"You made cocoa?" Momo blinked at her in surprise.
"Well, it's still really cold out," She explained with a small smile. "And I used to make it at home on chilly nights. Izuku would get it all over his face."
"Hey...!" Izuku blushed in embarrassment, Ochaco giving him a small smile.
Izuka let out a small giggle, closing her eyes. "You think I can't tease too? Anyway-"
"Let me get it, dumbass," Katsuki walked over to her to take the tray. "You need to have some fun too, you know."
"I am!" She reassured with a giggle as she took her seat next to Ochaco.
"No, no, not so fast, that's a little raw," Toru warned Mashirao before he could grab his portion.
"Hiding the best bites, huh?" He glanced up at her.
Eijiro immediately dug into his bowl, smiling with tears in his eyes. "Nothing like a hot pot when it's cold outside!"
"By the time it warms up again, we'll be starting off our second year," Kyoka gave a small smile.
"Time sure does fly," Tsuyu commented while Ochaco, Mina, and Izuka all enjoyed their own bowls.
"What a crazy buncha months!" The brunette remarked while enjoying her noodles.
"Just think, we'll be upperclassmen!" Mina gushed at the thought.
"We won't see much of the newbies, though," Rikido pointed out to her. "Hero students can't join clubs."
"We'll get some promising heroes-to-be!" Toru exclaimed in excitement, remembering when they started out. "Cutie first years!"
"Calm down!" Tenya exclaimed from across the group. "We still have about three months to go! And don't forget that finals are just over the horizon."
"Stop talking, Ida!" Minoru snapped towards him. "You're ruining the food and Mido's cocoa!"
"Words can't change the taste," Shoto stared down at the boy.
"YOU!" Minoru felt insulted as he looked up wide-eyed. "How is someone so dense so popular with the ladies?"
"He is not dense," Izuka rolled her eyes at his reaction. "And you're one to talk, you used to creep out the ladies."
"I do not!" Minoru whined towards the girl.
"Oh man, Mineta," Kyoka spoke up while stirring a pot. "Sounds to me like you're concerned you won't pass."
"Ugh, shut up!" He retorted back to her.
"Don't sweat it, I'm kinda worried too, Mineta," Denki grinned widely while Dark Shadow and Izuku laughed at him. "Although Mido's changed so much since the first year, huh?"
"Hey yeah, you used to be a shy cutie, and now you're an ultra-bad hottie with sex appeal!" Minoru pointed accusingly at her. Baki snarled angrily and before he or Katsuki could react, a Jupiter Wind was flung at Minoru's face to silence him.
"That's for bringing back the sex appeal thing," She narrowed her eyes in annoyance while he tried to free his mouth.
"Well, you've certainly started to take things in your own hands!" Momo chuckled a little awkwardly.
"Yes, and we all support your growth if it's important to you!" Tenya agreed with the girl.
Izuku just chuckled again, looking around to all his classmates and his sister.
Sometimes, I'm suddenly overwhelmed with reality. And I can't believe how my life has changed.
There's been too many things to count, honestly. Things we'll remember, and things that might not be as well-regarded, but still an experience let's say.
I never imagined All Might would one day be my teacher, or that Izuka would use her power. Or that I'd be able to talk, um, I guess sorta normally with Kacchan!
I never thought Izuku would get a Quirk for his own, or that I'd grow into the person that I am today. And...part of it is because of Katsuki, and I never thought I'd be able to be...well, very close to him.
Although Katsuki would argue that she had become someone very important to him. Katsuki gave the girl some pork and the girl bounced up and down happily in her seat. Although he still didn't get that smile he wanted, which slightly irritated him.
Wow Izuku smiled fondly both towards them and how things had changed.
"Midoriya," Fumikage spoke up next to him. "Pass the ponzu, please."
"I can't believe I'm so lucky," He confessed, causing his classmate to look up.
"Midoriya?" He didn't register it because he was hungry. "The ponzu."
"Oh, sorry! Here!"
"My thanks."
Toshinori was outside the teacher's dorm building, sitting on the bench. "There you are." He turned to see Mr. Aizawa in the doorway. "What are you doing? It's freezing out here."
"Oh, not much," He murmured, knowing that the class was busy. "You need me? What's up?"
"Yes. I have a message from Tsukauchi. He wants to postpone your meeting with Stain for now," He closed the door behind him.
"Got it. By the way...how's Young Eri? I heard from Young Mido what happened."
"Sleeping like a baby. My plan is to start her formal training this week," Mr. Aizawa informed and Toshinori turned away.
"I'll help you," He let out a cold breath of air.
"That'd be nice," Mr. Aizawa reached out to warm his hands. He then watched Toshinori take a deep breath. "Something wrong?"
"...I decided...to keep on living," He stated while looking up ahead, getting his coworker's attention. "Thing is...how do I put this? I...I feel so powerless. Like nothing I try really matters. Every time I see our students improve, I'm tortured by the fact that I can't do more to prepare them for the future..." And he was the most concerned about the twins, since he couldn't get much information to help them out with their powers...
"It would seem that you're still a workaholic," Mr. Aizawa commented after stepping down the staircase.
"What?" Toshinori looked up at him in confusion.
"You defended us almost on your own for decades. So, yeah. I'm sure it's hard to come down from that high. Especially when you got one of our own students involved in your last fight," He remarked, hugging himself.
"That's a little harsh," Toshinori murmured, though he knew he couldn't escape from the Kamino Incident thing...
"But you are still able to help them."
"Huh?" The blond looked up in shock.
"By being at their side. Your presence is enough to inspire greatness. That's the truth," Mr. Aizawa informed, remembering what happened to Sir Nighteye...and how even though the two weren't on speaking terms at that point...Sir Nighteye still looked up to Toshinori, and inspired him in his ideals. Toshinori then bowed his head, trying not to cry. He let out a sniff as he felt like he couldn't respond...but he was grateful for that. Especially since he knew Mr. Aizawa used to not have a high opinion of him. "You should sit back and put your feet up. Don't apologize for being alive."
"Thanks," He confessed tearfully to his coworker.
The Paranormal Liberation Front Hawks thought while near the window, dreading what was to come. And Shigaraki still has a backer behind the scenes. Something to do with...a hospital.
"My, this is unusual," A nurse from Jaku Hospital noted as someone walked up. "A pleasure to see you here, Doctor."
"Heh. Good morning," He remarked, hands behind his back.
"I hope your research is proving fruitful," She smiled brightly at him.
"Yes. All that's left...is to wait for the finishing touches." Of course...he was being vague as it was Dr. Ujiko talking, and Shigaraki was being electrocuted.
Hawks walked up to a pair of double doors. I must be sure of when they'll attack. Hopefully, the young heroes will have time to mature He opened up the door, revealing Twice and Spinner. The former looked up as Hawks waved with a small smile. Until then, I'll gather intel. And learn everything about the Liberation War Mr. Compress and Himiko were there as well, staring at him. X-Day...will be here soon!
"Mido," Everyone turned around to Mr. Aizawa stepping in. "You have a visitor."
"Huh?" She looked up, gasping sharply to see Fuyumi there as she waved. "F-Fuyumi?!"
"You didn't tell me that you were coming," Shoto stood up in surprise.
"That's his sister?!" Denki and Minoru whispered in unison, blushing.
"That's because I have something to show your friend. Can I steal you away a bit?" She asked the girl, and the other classmates were very confused. Izuka had yet to tell even her best friends about the whole...situation.
"I'm coming too," Katsuki stormed up to them.
"It's fine, you don't need to do that," Izuka waved a rapid hand, knowing why he offered.
"Wait up for me!" Izuku jumped up in alarm.
"I'll join too," Shoto responded as he stood up.
"Guys, really, it's okay…" Izuka tried to calm them down. Fuyumi blinked and then smiled at the boys. Baki got onto his feet and silently walked outside. Fuyumi escorted the four out into the forest a bit deep in, Izuku looking around silently.
"Why are we going behind our dorm?" He then looked up ahead, gasping. "Uh."
All of them stopped in surprise to see a rather large…studio space. Fuyumi turned around to Izuka with a small smile, her hand on the doorknob. "I just thought you'd like to see your new art studio, Mido!"
"Ah, right," She blinked as she had almost forgotten about it. "Oh, go ahead and open it," She bit her lip, trying really hard to not let her bias show. Fuyumi smiled and then opened the door, all of them awed. The studio was insulated and had a big desk for brainstorming, with a huge shelf of paints in the corner. There was a section for her supplies, and easels were everywhere. The walls were pure white, probably for her to paint on. And she also had a rooftop window as well as a furnace for her glasswork, and a shelf to dry them.
"Whoa, this looks amazing!" Izuku gushed at the space, chuckling.
"He really went all out," Shoto murmured as he looked around. Katsuki stared at Izuka specifically, who touched one of the shelves gently. Seeing the studio fully...it wasn't an entirely positive feeling, and she didn't want Fuyumi to feel bad. But...it wasn't entirely helping her forget things, which she didn't blame on Shoto or his sister.
"Fuyumi." She turned around to Izuka. "It hasn't fixed anything, but…tell him thanks."
Katsuki narrowed his eyes from her reaction. All this Endeavor shit is getting carried away…they can't even tell that it's just another reminder of what he did.
"Izuka."
"Hm?" She glanced over her shoulder and yelped in fear as he looked pissed. "Katsu, what the hell?! You look like you might kill somebody!"
"Shut up and listen. You're getting carried away lately by just letting him do shit like this. Since when did you get so much attention, huh?!" He shouted at her.
"Ah! I'm sorry!" Fuyumi then realized the problem. "I didn't mean to cause this!"
"What?" She stared at him in bewilderment. "Okay, pause. I don't know what you're thinking about, but—"
"Don't interrupt me!" Katsuki snapped and she blinked slowly. He gestured to her to follow outside, and she did. Once they were outside alone, he whipped around to the girl, pointing down at her. "You're forgetting about the roles that we have around here! So, we're meeting at the train station at noon next Saturday to get it straight! If you're late, you're dead!"
"Huh…?" She stared after him in confusion as he stormed off. "What just happened?"
Izuka isn't going to marry that bastard just because his old man is trying to apologize. And after next week, she'll remember who she needs to focus on!
"What was that about?" Izuku walked up to her.
"I guess he wants another training session all of a sudden?" She shrugged cluelessly at him. "He wanted me to meet him next Saturday at the train station…"
Izuku froze as he realized immediately what was going on. He asked Izuka to go out…alone?! I'll ask Uraraka and Yaoyorozu to help… He blinked and looked at his sister, who looked exhausted, and a bit upset. But I think I get it…this is because of what happened at Todoroki's house…
"Ugh," Mina complained while walking to school, the cherry blossoms in bloom. "It's spring break, but we can't even enjoy it because our work studies are still going. Boo!"
"So much for having time to relax," Denki remarked as Class 1-A were all walking together.
"It says we have an expeditionary operation," Ochaco looked down at her phone.
"So, like a work field trip?" Tsuyu murmured, as it was kind of the same as the Hassaikai Raid.
"Hold on, for real?" Denki looked over his shoulder. "That's weird. Same for us."
"Our agency too," Izuku looked up at them curiously. "I wonder why."
"Huh," Ochaco turned to him in thought. "What could that mean?"
"Whoa, ditto here," Kyoka noticed it from her own phone.
"Same," Mezo spoke up next to the girl.
Izuku looked up, wondering what was happening...
And on Saturday, at the train station, Katsuki was nearby waiting for Izuka. He looked a little annoyed as he had gotten there a full half hour before noon. Now he just looked weird standing there alone. And because he was wearing a blazer, plain t-shirt underneath, nice pants, and shoes. I got here earlier than I needed to. All because of her…she better be on time.
"Katsu?"
He flinched from hearing her voice. It's her!
She was standing a few feet away, tilting her head in surprise. "It's only 11:45, wow…you're so early. Although I still don't get why we're here…"
"Don't question it. Hah?" He blinked at her attire. Izuka's hair was in a high ponytail behind her head, her forelocks straight and touching her shoulders. She had on star earrings that dangled from her ears. Her clothes were a pink long-sleeved blouse, a black circle skirt that stopped above her knees, black leggings, and pink flats. She also had her school bag in her hands.
"You've never worn that get-up before," He murmured as he took in her appearance.
"Momo and Ochaco recommended it. I don't wear pink too often, but I guess if that's what works…" She looked at her blouse. "But I thought this was training, wasn't…it?" She faltered as she looked up to see him seething, sweating awkwardly.
"Are you that stupid? Why the hell are you still questioning me?! If we were doing that, we'd meet up earlier and you'd be dead by the end of it!" He yelled at her, her hair flying.
"Okay, okay!" She patted her hair down. "What is with you lately?"
"Nothing," He huffed as she dusted herself off and he stared.
"For some reason, Momo and Ochaco didn't explain why I had to wear this. And yet you're not even bothered by it either…"
Isn't it obvious? Katsuki was seething by how she still didn't get it. After meeting, she's supposed to be excited and then ask where we're going! Isn't this how it works? Is she really that idiotic that she doesn't even realize it?! This is a date, dammit!
Izuka blinked at his expression and shook her head silently. "Did you eat anything yet? Is that why you're mad?"
He stared at her in silence and clicked his teeth, turning around. "No. But let's go."
"Go where?" She wondered as she watched him leave, but he left her question unanswered. The girl yelped and ran after him.
After a block or two, there was a specific building nearby. "Where are we…?" Izuka murmured and then looked up in alarm. Nearby the two was a big art museum. She gasped sharply towards it. "Eep! The new Igarashi painting is being revealed today! With everything happening lately, I forgot…! I've been so busy with work studies and training that I had no time to check." She then noticed the sign that advertised the first 100 people who got tickets would even get an autograph from Megumi Igarashi herself. "Ah, even if I had remembered, I probably wouldn't get the autograph."
"You mean this?" Katsuki tossed a bag that held a small self-portrait of herself signed by Igarashi. Izuka stared at it with wide eyes. "The autograph. You can have mine too," He placed a sketchbook that was also autographed on the first page into her hands. Then he pulled out the special edition 100th tickets for those first 100 people that he already bought on his own weeks ago.
"Wh…" She stared at him in disbelief that he was just giving these to her. And that he already bought admission inside. He then walked off without another word. "What the heck?!" She shouted after him, but he didn't stop walking. "B-but…you got tickets? I'll pay you back! Can I really just have these?! What about you?"
"Will you shut up?" He remarked and she faltered, staring at his back. "I don't need or want those. They're worthless to me."
He looked over her shoulder to see her staring at the objects. "…Thank you…" She murmured in a bit of awe that he did this, even though it wasn't beneficial to him at all. He was a bit annoyed that she wasn't excited though and continued storming off. Why does he look mad? Was it because I said thank you? He doesn't like me saying that, but he didn't even comment on it this time…
The two walked inside as people were talking excitedly around the museum. The new painting was in the center, covered by a curtain. The two looked up at a painting of a cherry blossom field. "Just look at the colors! Katsu, have you seen these before?"
"No."
"Huh?" She looked at him wide-eyed. "You didn't even know this is her exhibit? Then you probably aren't familiar with any of her work. I thought you would've seen at least one."
"Ahh, just knock it off."
She furrowed her eyebrows at his response. "I really don't get it. Why plan on coming here if you don't know what her work is?"
He glanced at her in silence before the lights dimmed. She gasped as she looked up ahead, and everyone else went silent. "It's about to be revealed!"
Does she really not understand after so long? She should've at least learned about this kind of stuff by now Katsuki looked away in exasperation. Ah, I'm getting hungry… He then looked down to see her shaking with a tear in her eye. And she's getting emotional… He turned away from her in thought, remembering that time when he picked up her paintbrush for her. Sometimes, we held hands…why did she pull away? Why has she gotten stronger while I just watch? Why…have I been the only one who sees what she's been through?
He glanced over at her hand, slowly reaching out to it. His heart was beating hard against his chest as his cheeks were flushed. She looked up at him and he quickly moved his hand away. Izuka flinched as little explosions came from his hand as he was sweating a lot.
"Katsu," She whispered as he was shaking a little angrily from the looks he was getting from the crowd. "What's wrong? You're sweating and you look a little pale!"
"I'm fine," He muttered as he looked at the painting reveal. They were lifting up the curtain. "Just keep watching."
"I can't just leave you like this!" To his surprise, she grabbed his hand, and they ran out to the back door. "We're getting out of here!"
I get it now…she's too focused on making others happy instead of focusing on her own state…
He gritted his teeth at his realization as they stepped out into an empty hallway. "Get off!" He snatched his hand away and she looked back in disbelief.
"Katsu, haven't you seen yourself? We—"
"The hell did you do that for?! You missed the reveal!"
"What?" She shook her head rapidly. "Why is that—"
"I said nothing was wrong! I was fine! You should've just kept watching!" She looked at him in silence for his reaction as he clenched his fists. "Stop looking down on me!"
Izuka faltered after hearing this, looking away. "…If I made it seem like that, then I'm not sorry about it. But I can't help but think why'd you do all this to begin with." He flinched from her pointing this out to him. "Coming here…the autographs from one of my favorite artists," She looked down at the objects a bit forlornly. "You say it's worthless, but it's not to me. You don't even know her work…but I was following her since I got into art, so I was anticipating it. So why? Why come here when it's something you've never been that invested in? Why did you ask me to come here? Why is it that you're mad at me when you asked me to go with you?"
He stared at her in silence, blinking as tears fell onto the sketchbook and she looked up. Tears ran down her face.
"Even though I was so happy to be here?! Why…"
What…? Why the hell is she crying? Now I'm the one with questions. That's not what I want.
Katsuki took her hand and she looked up, only for him to kiss her. She flinched from his sudden action as she didn't move, and he pulled away seconds later. She was blushing, but it didn't satisfy him. "God damn it," He sighed in irritation, grabbing her cheeks and pulling them away to make her mouth open. "Aren't you always smiling when you're at the dorms?"
"Huh…?" She murmured in confusion and then watched as he growled and turned away.
"Ahhh! Can't you understand what I'm trying to say?!" He turned and pointed at her angrily. "Even though you're an idiot, the questions are mine! You really need me to spell it out for you?! Because you wanted to see it, I came here with you to see something I don't give a damn about! It's not about whether or not I'm fine! Because it's about you!"
She was getting flushed as her mouth wouldn't close from hearing all this. He placed a hand on her cheek, gritting his teeth. "Because you've gone through some bullshit, this is what has to be done!"
"…Katsuki…" She murmured softly, having no idea that he did all this for her sake...
What else is there to make her smile? Fuck…but she's never looked like that before.
She was clutching her heart as she looked very…flustered. She didn't even know what to say...
Because they left the room with their belongings inside, they had to wait until the private showing was over. The two sat outside the doors.
"…I can't believe you went through all that trouble," She murmured quietly, glancing up at him. "I'll pay you back—"
"Hell no. I didn't do all this shit for you to owe me anything. So stop filling your head with that crap," He grunted and she clamped her mouth shut. She turned away, knowing that after what he said…it was a side of him she had never seen before.
All this time, he just wanted me to not have to worry about anything…probably because of Endeavor. He didn't tell me to come with him until after I saw my new studio. Is…this what normal people would do? Katsu himself wouldn't have even bothered back then…
"Izuka, quiz me on her later."
"Um…" She blinked as she looked at him.
"You know everything about this artist, right?" He glanced up at her, hands in his pockets.
"Yeah, but…you're really going to look at her artwork?" She stared at the boy in bewilderment.
"Yeah. I'm going to, then we're going back here someday and see that painting properly," He remarked while staring up ahead, knowing that he had to try harder for her interests. Because she needed to focus on him...nothing else besides that...probably.
She blushed a little and then looked at the autographs. To her, it didn't feel right to keep them when he spent a lot of time and patience just to see her happy like she used to be. Patience that she definitely broke a few times unknowingly… "…Then I think I should give these back," She gave the drawing and sketchbook back to him.
"Huh? Why? Didn't you want them?" He stared at her in confusion.
"I'll be okay. Besides, I have enough sketchbooks. I feel like I should properly get them on my own!" She smiled softly at him, looking really happy. The happiest she had been since work studies began.
So, this makes her happy. Knowing that she's able to help me. Idiot…
His stomach growled and she turned to him in alarm, realizing that neither of them ate anything. "Ah! Our stuff is still inside, so after the showing, we can go and get lunch?"
"Whatever," He muttered while holding his stomach. He then placed the autographs back into her lap. "And you're keeping those, end of story."
"…Thank you. I understand why you did this now. I hope all my baggage isn't being a nuisance," She rubbed her neck a bit awkwardly.
"If I thought that it was, I wouldn't be here. And you don't have to tell me anything. I can already see it."
Izuka blinked and gave a small smile, resting her head on his arm. He flinched but looked away while blushing. The boy then slid his body down a bit, pushing her head gently on his shoulder.
"This and what happened today gets kept as a secret, alright?"
"Yeah, I get it," She closed her eyes happily. "But I really did mean what I said. Thank you for today. I won't forget it…"
He glanced over at her and blushed, casually putting his arm around her neck. "Whatever, you're…welcome. Tch," He stared up ahead at the wall, knowing that he was way past denying it at this point. His feelings…he couldn't just push them away.
Izuku looked out the window to his room while Izuka and Katsuki enjoyed their lunch together. This time, she did keep the autographs because they were gifts from him.
I think Kacchan and my sister can make something amazing out of their relationship…if they were honest to each other and themselves.
He scarfed down his meal while she laughed, sipping her juice.
Then later after lunch, it started to pour, and he immediately placed her onto his back piggy-back style. She held his jacket over them since she knew he hated the rain. He looked slightly pissed, but not as much as he could've been as he walked them home.
Izuka turned away with a small frown, as she had a semblance of what today was, but she was kind of scared to ask... Was this...what I think it was...?
"If you've got something to say, then say it," Katsuki interjected, and she blinked before taking a deep breath.
"Katsu...was this...a date?" She blushed a little and he stopped walking immediately. She stared at the back of his head and flinched. She immediately waved a rapid hand. "You know what, just forget I even asked-"
"Maybe it was." She froze at his answer, staring at him silently. He was looking away, blushing as he continued walking. "Got a problem with that?"
Izuka then slowly smiled at him, as she could tell that he wasn't trying to do anything big yet, because they were in the rain. But that simple answer gave her hope that the time would come. And she wasn't ready either on her part.
"No." She would make a comment about how he was the one who said to not get distracted, but she wouldn't.
"Good," He muttered, silently glad she wasn't expecting a big grand confession, because that kind of stuff he wasn't good at. And he didn't want to half-ass it by telling her now. The boy then felt something and looked down at his shoes, seeing them getting soaked. Izuka blinked and then summoned a flying star to surround his feet. He stared down while watching the projectile fly around before his shoes were covered in a yellow substance. The rain hit the shoes, but the protective layer kept them from getting wet. The boy huffed but didn't protest as he continued walking down towards the subway, the girl enjoying herself nevertheless as she was smiling. She then snuggled into his back in content.
"I had a great time. You should carry me like this more often, haha!"
"Don't get greedy." He glanced back up at her and looked up ahead with a small smile himself. He may still hate the rain...
But at least Izuka made it less troublesome to deal with.
The cherry blossoms fell on the All Might statue. "Dai, you ready to do your best in 1st grade?" His mother smiled down at him in front of the statue.
He looked up silently while hugging his Endeavor figure close to him. He then nodded in determination.
"There are heroes at the foot of the mountain!" Burnin announced while looking out to the city. "But we'll be evacuating residents from our position in the back."
All the hero course students and heroes were looking out to the distance from a mountain.
The League of Villains—no. The Paranormal Liberation Front was plotting.
Meanwhile, we were training hard to confront them again.
And the harrowing incident that would shake superhuman society...was about to begin.