Chapter 14: Healing
WITH IZUKU
Izuku opened his eyes to see that he wasn't in the hospital room like he thought he was going to be in. He wasn't in his Mindspace either. This was something different. He looked around to see an empty void with many colors of black, green, red, and many others. Izuku turned around to see energy was forming before him as three figures started to manifest.
Izuku blinked in disbelief, his eyes scanning the strange, endless void around him. The colors swirling—black, green, red, and others—seemed to pulse with an otherworldly energy, but the sensations he felt didn't match the fear or confusion he expected. Instead, there was an undeniable sense of power and connection that coursed through his veins. It was as if he had been placed in the heart of something far bigger than himself.
Before he could fully process the situation, the energy before him began to shift. It rippled and twisted as three figures slowly manifested out of the chaos, their forms beginning to take shape as they solidified in front of him.
Izuku took an instinctive step back, his heart pounding in his chest. His first thought was that he was still dreaming, that his mind was playing tricks on him as he lay in his hospital bed recovering. But as the figures became more defined, there was no denying that this wasn't a dream. This was real.
"Hello, Izuku," said the first man. He was a tall man with a blackhead with silver hair done in a ponytail.
Izuku was about to speak but the man held up a hand. "We do not have much time here so let us do the talking. I am the third user of One for All, Bruce, my quirk being Fa Jin. Next to me is Hikage Shinomori, the fourth user, his being Danger Sense. Lastly, the fifth user baldy over there is Daigoro Banjo his quirk being Blackwhip."
Izuku's eyes widened as if these were the guys that he used to create his quirks from. He wondered why they were here.
Bruce continued to speak. "We are here to tell you that what you did evolved the quirks as I am sure you know," he said clutching his side from part of him starting to fade away. "Alright, the way Fa Jin evolved was like this. Fa Jin is now able to absorb some kinetic energy from attacks thrown at you. However, it can only absorb about 20% of that energy being unleashed on you. That is why you were able to defeat the creature a bit easier."
The fourth user spoke up this time. "Danger Sense," Hikage said, his voice carrying an aura of wisdom. "It has evolved into something far more intricate now. You've always had an instinct to sense danger, but now, your Danger Sense can tap into the very environment around you. It's not just about sensing threats to your life anymore. It's about feeling the intentions and emotions of those near you. You will sense any negative emotion being directed at you. I mean the severe ones not the casual ones. More like malicious, hostile, or dangerous emotions. Your Danger Sense has evolved to detect these deeper, more intense feelings, allowing you to identify people with bad intentions or those who may pose a significant threat to you or your loved ones. You will even be able to sense the weight of the air around you—the atmosphere will shift based on the energy surrounding you, giving you a kind of emotional radar. Trust your instincts when you feel this shift, because your body will be reacting to things beyond the physical realm," he said as he faded away as well.
The fifth user stood up proud to him smiling, "Blackwhip as you have seen is now able to be spilt with itself to create multiple strands from the same strand. It can also stretch much further than before with it being able to bend much easier to what you want to shape it, and it will now respond to your emotions better than just your physical input. Just be sure not to get super pissed while using otherwise you will be in trouble."
Izuku nodded as he processes this. He watched as the three users started to fade in out. Before they faded completely, Bruce spoke once more. "We shall meet again 10th. Just continue to progress and you will be fine."
Izuku's breath hitched as the feeling of connection, the power coursing through his veins, seemed to be pulled from him all at once. The energy began to dissipate like a fading storm, and everything around him turned to darkness. The colors, the voices, the sensation of otherworldly power—all of it disappeared, leaving him in a vast nothingness.
He felt a sudden jolt, a pull at his core, and in the blink of an eye, everything came crashing back.
Thud.
Izuku gasped for air as his eyes snapped open, the harsh, sterile light of the hospital room blinding him. His body felt heavy, his head throbbing as if he'd been hit by a freight train. Slowly, he blinked, his vision clearing as he registered the familiar surroundings of the hospital bed. The beeping of machines and the faint smell of antiseptic filled his senses.
"Ugh..." he groaned, rubbing his face with one hand, still reeling from the strange experience he'd just endured. He wasn't sure what had happened, but one thing was clear—whatever it was, it had left a mark on him.
He looked down to see he was covered from head to toe in bandages. His right arm was in a cast likely from the blow he unleashed on the Nomu. He was hooked up to an IV and looked around the room and saw the sterile white walls and the steady beeping of the machines that monitored his condition. The beeping was oddly soothing, but it also reminded him of the battle that had nearly cost him everything. His mind was still foggy, trying to process the experience in the void, and now he was back, lying in a hospital bed, his body battered and bruised.
"Well, hello young man," said Recovery Girl walking over to him. Izuku looked over to her and realized how much pain his body was in right now. His entire body was either burning, hurting, or itching from the pain.
"Thank you for helping me Recovery Girl," he said trying to sit up but was stopped by Recovery Girl's cane.
Recovery Girl gave him a gentle, but firm look, her eyes sharp despite her kind demeanor. "Don't overdo it, Izuku. You've been through a lot." She placed a hand on his shoulder, urging him to stay still. "You're lucky to be alive after what you did. Your body needs time to heal. I know you're eager to get up, but trust me, rushing it won't help anyone, especially not you."
"Is everyone ok?" he asked leaning back.
Recovery Girl nodded, her eyes softening as she gave him a reassuring smile. "Everyone is fine, Izuku. They're all good to go, and you've been out for a while, so don't worry about them. You've taken the worst of the damage, but you're going to make it through," she said walking over to the other side of him kicking something on the ground.
"Toshinori wake up. Your son is awake," she said walking back to the other side of the bed.
"Wha… huh?" All Might's voice was groggy, followed by the sound of rustling fabric. Toshinori got up and looked over to his son with wide eyes.
"Oh my god your awake," he said happily.
"Y-you were here the whole time Dad?" Izuku asked, very surprised. He hadn't expected his dad to be here for him.
"Yeah, I have been. Inori was here too for a long while, but Recovery Girl sent her home to get rest," he said rubbing the sleepiness from his eyes. Izuku still has an expression of surprised on his face as his sister. Someone that tortured him for years damn near, came to see if he was ok.
Izuku was hit lightly from her cane but not enough to be hurt. "Now listen here young man. Do you know the injuries you received here today," she said pulling out a list. "You had six broken ribs, Izuku. Three of them were fractured in several places. Your right arm was broken in two spots, and both arms sustained multiple lacerations. You also suffered severe muscle tears, particularly in your shoulder area and arm. The bruising was extensive—you're lucky none of the internal damage was more severe. If you had pushed yourself any further during the battle, we might not be having this conversation."
Izuku's eyes widened as she spoke, the weight of his injuries hitting him like a ton of bricks. He had been so focused on the fight, on pushing through to protect everyone, that he hadn't even realized how badly his body had been damaged. Hearing Recovery Girl list off the details made it all too real.
"I… I didn't realize it was that bad," he muttered, trying to process the full extent of what had happened. His body had been pushed beyond its limits, but it didn't seem to matter when all he cared about was stopping the Nomu, saving his friends, and making sure they were safe.
"Yeah, you severely hurt yourself in the process," she said somewhat annoyed.
"I can tell," he said smiling slightly and winced under the pain.
Recovery Girl sighed as she backed over to him. "Listen, as hurt as you are on your upper body, your lower body is good to go. You will hurt a lot for the next twelve hours in your arms and chest area, but I will need to give you a few more treatments tomorrow before you are healed for your upper body," she said.
"Does that mean I can go back to the dorms?" he asked.
"Yes, that does, but so help me got Izuku if you do something stupid, I will beat you," she said threateningly with her cane.
Izuku chuckled weakly at her words but nodded in understanding. "Got it, ma'am. I'll try not to get into trouble." Recovery Girl huffed but seemed satisfied for now. "I'll hold you to that. Now, get some rest before you head back. I don't want to see you stumbling around the dorms like a zombie."
Toshinori stood up as he was prepared to help Izuku. "You want a ride to the dorms son," he asked.
"Yeah, that'll be nice," he said pushing through the pain and sitting up.
Toshinori moved closer, offering his arm for support. Izuku hesitated for a moment before taking it, gripping tightly as he swung his legs over the edge of the hospital bed. The sharp ache in his ribs and arms flared up instantly, making him suck in a breath, but he refused to let it show too much. He had been through worse—he could handle this.
"Easy now," Toshinori said, his voice laced with concern. "No need to rush."
"I know," Izuku muttered, adjusting to the movement. He hated feeling so weak, so dependent, but he also knew there was no way he was making it back to the dorms on his own without collapsing halfway there.
As he stood, the shift in weight sent another jolt of pain through his upper body. His face twitched, but he straightened his posture. Toshinori gave him a careful once-over before nodding approvingly.
Recovery Girl watched from the side, arms crossed. "You boys take care. And Izuku," she added, pointing her cane at him one last time, "if I hear that you aggravated your injuries, I will personally drag you back here myself."
Izuku gave a weak thumbs-up. "Understood."
Toshinori and Izuku walked in silence for a while as they made their way to the vehicle with his dad opening the door for him.
Izuku carefully eased himself into the passenger seat, his sore muscles protesting every slight movement. Toshinori closed the door behind him before walking around to the driver's side and sliding in.
Toshinori kept glancing at his son with worry before speaking. "Sorry, son," he said quietly. Izuku raised a brow but let him continue.
"Sorry I wasn't there to help or defeat that Nomu thing. You had to step up to the plate for my absence. I am sorry I failed you again," he said sincerely.
"Dad…" Izuku started, his voice soft. "While I am still pissed at you for how I've been treated these past years, just know the USJ and that Nomu…creature or whatever it was is not your fault. You physically could not have known that that was going to happen in the first place. Plus, I saw that you stopped several incidents this morning meaning that you used all your time."
Toshinori's hands tightened on the steering wheel as he took in Izuku's words. "I'm still sorry, though," Toshinori murmured, his voice tinged with regret. "I should've been there, even if I couldn't have anticipated that exact situation. As a hero, I should've been able to protect you."
"I get it dad," said Izuku adjusting himself. "But that wasn't your fault. A lot of stuff is your fault but the villains, and that Nomu thing wasn't." Toshinori nodded as he looked back to his son. There was a silence between the two of them when Izuku spoke up again.
"You said Inori came to see me earlier," he asked holding onto the doorhandle as he turned the corner.
"Yeah, she did. I texted her and Ichiro and she rushed in after a few minutes I texted her. She had looked worried the whole time. Ichiro…didn't…show up though," he said quietly.
Izuku had a blank expression as he thought about it. Inori showing was a surprise while Ichiro not showing wasn't. Though he didn't express he was glad Inori stopped messing with him. Not much was said between them as Toshinori pulled up to the dorms. He got out and opened the car door for him and Izuku stepped out with some pain.
"Do you need any more help, Izuku," he asked.
"I think I'm good. I need to be quiet since it's like 3 in the morning right now and I don't want to wake anyone up," he said adjusting his cast.
"Are you sure?" he asked just wanting to make sure.
Izuku gave a small, reassuring smile, despite the exhaustion etched across his face. "I'm sure, Dad. I've got this," he said, adjusting the weight on his injured limbs.
Toshinori didn't look convinced, but he gave a reluctant nod. "Alright, son. Just be careful. If you need anything, don't hesitate to call me." His voice was thick with concern, his brow furrowed even as he tried to mask it with a smile.
Izuku stuck out his left hand with a bit of pain as he wanted to shake his hand. "Thanks, for driving me back here and staying by me."
He hesitated only for a moment before reaching out and grasping his son's hand. The grip was firm, but there was an unspoken understanding between them. "You're welcome, son," Toshinori replied quietly. "Take care of yourself."
They let go of the handshake and Izuku opened the front door quietly as he walked into the huge open area. He saw his dad drive off and sighed. He hurt like hell and wasn't sure how his legs didn't get the slightest bit damaged in that fight. Izuku did know he was freezing and when he looked down, and he sweatdropped.
"I don't have a shirt on. That explains why I am cold right now," he thought.
He looked up and saw that one of the community TVs was on and he walked over quietly seeing that a few of the girls were sleeping on the couch assuming they had watched a movie.
Izuku's steps were slow and deliberate as he made his way into the common area, trying to minimize the noise with every movement. The dim light from the community TV flickered in the quiet space, casting long shadows across the room. As he approached the couch, he saw that Jiro, Momo, Ibara, and a few of the other girls were asleep on the floor and couches. He assumed they were watching a movie, and he smiled sadly.
"I definitely worried some of them with what I did," he thought as he looked at all of them. He saw they were all not covered up with blankets.
He quietly made his way to the small storage closet near the wall, moving with the precision of someone who had been awake longer than he cared to admit. His eyes flickered over the soft blankets and extra pillows that had been carelessly tossed aside earlier. He grabbed with a grunted effort and placed the blankets on them making sure not to wake them.
He looked at Momo who he could tell was crying as her black hair lay across a pillow. He looked over to Jiro who had the same look on her face and frowned.
"Yeah, Kyoka and Momo are definitely pissed at me for hurting myself, but I had to so that everyone would stay safe," he thought to himself.
He was soon done placing the blankets and decided to was time for bed. He wouldn't wake them now. He knew they needed rest. If he had to guess, a few of the girls were worried about him and they distracted themselves with a movie night.
He slowly made his way up the stairs to his room where rest awaited him.
Izuku turned the handle to his room and stepped inside. The familiar smell of his room greeted him, and he let out a breath, glad to finally be alone. He closed the door behind him and made his way over to his bed. The moment he sat down, he winced, feeling the sharp sting of pain in his side and arms. He adjusted his cast and covered himself with his blanket. He could only hope Cell Surge would kick in and heal him somewhat.
DORMS NEXT MORNING
Jiro inhaled deeply, stretching outward as the morning light of the sun shined through the glass windows. The gentle warmth of the sun on her skin felt comforting, almost like a soft embrace after the tense night. It was a new day, but the memories of the previous one still lingered in her mind. The worry for Izuku, the fear she had felt at not seeing him and wondering if he was ok. She was confused as to why a blanket was on her now because she didn't have one last night.
Her fingers brushed over the soft fabric as realization set in. Someone had placed it over her. Someone who had been awake after she and the others had fallen asleep. She thought it was one of the girls after the movie night. She looked to the clock to see it was 7 A.M. and sighed. She was going to get up and see if she could see Izuku in the hospital.
"That damn nerd. Always wanting to protect others and not give a damn about himself. It pisses me off," she thought annoyed at him.
Slowly, Jiro pushed herself off the couch, careful not to disturb Momo, who was still curled up beneath her own blanket. She looked and smirked as Asui was ribbiting in her sleep making her chuckle. She maneuvered around the others and walked her way to the kitchen. She needed coffee…bad.
She walked in to see that someone was already in there. Izuku. Her breath hitched as she looked at him looking into the fridge. His right arm in a cast with his other arm bandaged completely as well as parts of his chest.
Izuku sighed as he pulled out a protein shake, shaking it up and turned around to see a startled Jiro standing in the doorway. He saw her start to shake and smiled at her.
"Uh…hi Kyoka," he said with a tired smile. Jiro stomped over to him; her hands clenched into fists at her sides. Izuku, despite some of his battle experience, felt a chill run down his spine as he took a step back. He then felt her wrap her arms around him in a hug in a way not to hurt him.
"You dumbass," Jiro whispered, her voice muffled against his chest. "Do you have any idea how worried we were? How worried I was?"
Izuku stood frozen, his eyes wide as he felt Jiro's arms around him. He could feel her trembling slightly, her grip tight yet careful, as if she were afraid, he'd disappear if she let go. His tired mind struggled to process the situation—Jiro wasn't usually this openly affectionate.
"I'm sorry," he said quietly. "If I didn't do anything, then Mr. Aizawa, Momo, Hagakure, and I would be…"
Jiro pulled back slightly, her hands gripping the fabric of his shirt tightly. "Yes, I know. You would be hurt or worse. You don't need to throw yourself into battle like this."
"But…Kyoka this is the first time I've ever done something like that," he replied back to her
Jiro frowned, her grip on his shirt tightening. "That's not the point, Izuku," she muttered, her voice laced with frustration. "Even if this is the first time, it doesn't change the fact that you need to be careful. Do you know how it felt not knowing if you'd make it back in one piece?"
Izuku opened his mouth to respond but found himself at a loss for words. He had always been focused on protecting others, never really stopping to think about how his actions affected those around him. He glanced down at Jiro, noticing the slight redness in her eyes—had she been crying before she woke up?
His heart clenched at the thought.
Jiro sighed, running a hand through her messy bed hair before stepping back. "Look, I get it. You feel responsible. You always do. But at the very least make sure that you stop and think about making sure you come back in one piece please."
Izuku stared at her for a long moment before nodding slowly. "I... I'll try," he said, his voice soft.
Jiro sighed, her shoulders sagging as some of her tension eased. "Good," she murmured. "Because if you pull something like that again, I swear I'll—"
"Smack some sense into me?" Izuku finished for her with a small, tired smile.
Jiro huffed but smirked. "Damn right."
She finally stepped back, giving Izuku a little breathing room. He took a sip of his protein shake, and for a moment, the two just stood there in comfortable silence. It was a rare quiet moment between them, one that neither of them wanted to ruin just yet.
The peaceful moment, however, didn't last long.
"Izuku?"
Both turned to see Momo standing in the doorway, her eyes widening in shock as she took in his injured state. "You're awake!" she gasped, rushing over to him. She wrapped him in a hug, and he winced in pain as she squeezed him tight.
"Um, Momo. You are kind of…squeezing…our friend here," said Jiro somewhat jealous.
Momo quickly pulled back, her face flushing red as she realized what she had done. "Oh! I'm so sorry, Izuku! I didn't mean to hurt you!" she exclaimed, her hands hovering over his shoulders as if she wanted to help but didn't know how.
Izuku chuckled weakly, rubbing the spot where she had squeezed him. "It's okay, Momo. Just… a little sore."
Jiro crossed her arms, raising an eyebrow at Momo. "A little sore? Your whole body looks like it's been through a meat grinder, dude," she said, unimpressed.
"But when did you come back? Why didn't you wake us up?" she asked hovering over him.
"I didn't want to wake you all up so you could sleep. I got blankets for all of you cause some of you didn't have them," he said taking a sip of his protein shake.
Jiro gave Izuku a skeptical look, clearly not buying his explanation. "You think we wouldn't have wanted to wake up and help you?" she asked, her voice a little sharper than usual.
Izuku lowered his gaze, feeling the weight of her words. "I know… but you were all already so exhausted, and I didn't want to worry anyone more than I had to." He let out a small sigh, massaging his sore shoulder. "Besides, I knew you'd all be angry if you saw how messed up, I really was."
Momo, who had been standing silently for a moment, stepped forward, her brows furrowed in concern. "Izuku, we're not angry. We're worried."
"Then why does Kyoka look like she is about to strangle me?" he asked, trying to calm her down.
Jiro's Earphone Jacks twitched in annoyance. "Because you are sitting her looking like you came out of an Egyptian coffin right now."
Izuku let out a quiet laugh, though it was quickly followed by a wince. "I'm really not that bad," he mumbled, but he could feel the burn of his sore muscles and the bruises that covered his body. His friends were right—he definitely looked worse than he felt. Cell Surge took care of him pretty decently.
Soon everyone had some downstairs to see their Class President back from the fight with Nomu and Izuku was glad for the attention but his was a bit much for him.
Izuku sat back against the couch, the noise of his classmates' chatter swirling around him. Everyone was relieved to see him awake, and while he appreciated their concern, it was overwhelming. His body ached from the battle, his muscles sore and his bruises still fresh, but it was the emotional toll that was the hardest to shake. Even with the soft hum of their voices filling the space, he felt a strange kind of loneliness. Not that anyone was being distant, quite the opposite, in fact—they were all hovering around him, asking questions, offering support.
He found out that both classes had the day off from admin to recover and he was fine with that. He still needed to be healed to 100% and he was feeling around 67% right now.
Some people in class B showed a mix of concern, happiness and some jealousy they got to miss out on a fight. Ibara saw him and went up to hug him and said he was glad he was ok.
Izuku felt his cheeks burn slightly as he watched Mineta squirm from the corner of his eye, trying to sneak a glance at some of the girls in class B who were doting on him. Ibara, on the other hand, seemed genuine in her care as she pulled him into a gentle hug. "I'm glad you're okay, Izuku," she said softly, her voice filled with sincerity.
He was taken aback, not expecting the hug but appreciating the warmth of it. "Th-thanks, Ibara," he muttered, a faint smile tugging at his lips despite the dull throb in his body.
Conversation continued though Izuku saw a few UA teachers coming up to them. He saw Recovery Girl which meant she was here for his finishing treatment. He also saw Hounddog, All Might, and what looked like a detective approach the building.
The arrival of the teachers shifted the atmosphere slightly. The lively chatter of the students quieted down, replaced by a murmur of greetings and acknowledgements. Izuku, despite the lingering ache in his body, straightened up a bit, a sense of respect and a touch of anxiety settling over him. Recovery Girl, her face etched with concern, made a beeline for him, her steps brisk and purposeful.
"Alright dear. Let's get you back to full health," Recovery Girl said, preparing a stamina shot to counteract the drain from her Quirk. She administered the shot with practiced ease, her touch gentle despite the efficiency of the process. She gave him a long kiss on his right arm, and he felt all the pain in his body leave him. He could move his arms just fine now and he felt revitalized.
The revitalizing effects of Recovery Girl's Quirk washed over Izuku, the lingering aches and pains fading into a distant memory. He flexed his arms, testing their newfound mobility, a relieved sigh escaping his lips. "Thank you, Recovery Girl," he said, a genuine smile gracing his features. "I feel much better now," he said taking off her cast.
"You're welcome, dear," Recovery Girl replied, her eyes still holding a hint of concern. "But remember, even with my Quirk, recovery takes time. Don't push yourself too hard, and make sure you get plenty of rest. Take two days of rest starting now."
"Yes ma'am," he said nodding.
All Might walked up to him smiling as always as he tapped him on the shoulder. "I am sorry young Izuku but beings you were…passed out yesterday. This detective here would like to speak with you," he said gesturing to him.
"The name is Detective Naomasa Tsukauchi," the man introduced himself, his sharp yet kind eyes studying Izuku carefully. "I work with the police and have been assigned to investigate the events that took place during the recent attack."
Izuku straightened his posture, his fingers unconsciously tightening into a loose fist. "Of course, Detective. I'll answer anything you need."
"Good then let us go to the private room," he said looking at the curious students.
Class 1-A and 1-B watch Izuku walked into the room with All Might and this detective guy they saw yesterday. "I forgot Yagi-bro fought that big bird looking dude yesterday. I heard that it was stronger than All Might."
Bakugo scoffed. "Bullshit. Izuku is nowhere near the strength of the number one hero," he said feeling a presence behind him. It was Hound Dog, and he carried an immense presence.
"Good morning, everyone. I am Hound Dog but more importantly, I am here to talk to anyone who was at the USJ yesterday. It is optional of course but I need to speak to three individuals. Ichiro Yagi, Inori Yagi, and Katsuki Bakugo," he said walking to a private room gesturing the three to go to him. The three friends didn't understand what was happening but decided to listen to the U.A teacher.
Inside the private room, Detective Tsukauchi gestured for Izuku to sit. All Might close the blinds to the room and got out of his buff form and stood beside Izuku, his usual boisterous demeanor replaced by a serious expression. The detective pulled out a small notepad and a pen, his movements precise and deliberate.
"Alright, Yagi," Tsukauchi began, his voice calm and measured, "I understand you were involved in a significant altercation yesterday at the USJ. We've received reports of…unusual activity, including the appearance of a powerful creature and the use of potentially dangerous Quirks. Can you tell me everything you remember about what happened?"
Izuku took a deep breath, trying to organize his thoughts. He recounted the events of the day, starting from the initial attack to his own confrontation with the Nomu. He talked about him saving Eraserhead from the Nomu as well as fighting it by pushing his limits. He also talked about how the villains had the agenda to kill All Might as well as the creature having the same strength as All Might.
Tsukauchi listened intently, occasionally interrupting with clarifying questions. He jotted down notes, his pen scratching against the paper. All Might remained silent, his eyes fixed on Izuku, a mixture of pride and concern etched on his face. He was proud of Izuku's bravery and quick thinking but concerned about the burden he was carrying.
Izuku cleared his throat before speaking once more. "I do have a question about the Nomu. I…didn't…kill…it…did I?" he asked worriedly.
Tsukauchi paused, his pen hovering over his notepad. He exchanged a brief glance with All Might before turning back to Izuku. "No, Izuku, you did not kill the Nomu. It was…apprehended. It's currently in secure custody. Not to mention the fact that Nomu isn't human. So, you have nothing to worry about."
Izuku exhaled deeply. "Good. I didn't think about it tell this morning and it made me worried."
Tsukauchi nodded. "That is alright. This thing is not human, and you defended your peers and teachers. You did the right thing," he said closing his notepad and standing up. "Well kid I think that is all I have for you. Coming from the police force. Thank you for helping and stopping that abomination," he said sticking out to shake his hand.
Izuku hesitated for a moment before firmly grasping Tsukauchi's hand, shaking it with a determined grip. "I just did what I had to do," he said, his voice steady. "I couldn't stand by and let my friends get hurt."
Tsukauchi gave him a small, approving nod before glancing at All Might. "Well, that concludes my questioning for now. If I need any further information, I'll reach out to U.A."
"Sounds good," said Izuku as they made their way out of the room.
"Ah perfect timing," said Hound Dog approaching them. "I need to speak with you Yagi. Follow me," he said.
Izuku blinked in surprise but nodded, following Hound Dog as the pro hero led him down the hall to another private room. All Might and Tsukauchi exchanged glances before All Might gave him a reassuring nod.
As the door closed behind them, Hound Dog gestured for Izuku to take a seat. The pro hero's usual growl-like tone softened slightly, but the serious expression remained. "I won't take too much of your time, but after speaking with Detective Tsukauchi and hearing the accounts of your classmates, I have a few things to go over with you."
Izuku straightened in his chair. "Of course, sir."
Hound Dog crossed his arms. "Let's start with the obvious. The way you fought the Nomu wasn't something a regular student should have been capable of. I know you pushed yourself beyond your limits, and I also know that kind of exertion comes with consequences." His sharp eyes locked onto Izuku's. "How are you holding up, really?"
Izuku hesitated before answering. "I… I feel fine now. Recovery Girl's Quirk helped a lot. I know I pushed myself too hard, but at the time, I didn't see another choice."
"Good. But I have something for us to do while we talk," he said pulling out chess.
"You want to play chess while we talk?" asked Izuku confused.
Izuku looked at the chessboard, still slightly confused. Hound Dog's intense demeanor made it hard to imagine him sitting down for a game of strategy, but he wasn't about to question it. He nodded, sitting up straighter as Hound Dog began setting up the pieces.
"Yes," Hound Dog confirmed, his tone unwavering. "Chess is a game of strategy, patience, and adaptation. You displayed all of those traits yesterday, but I need to see how you think when you're not under life-or-death pressure. Plus, it helps keep the conversation flowing." He finished arranging the pieces and gestured for Izuku to make the first move.
Izuku studied the board for a moment before pushing his pawn forward. "Alright… I'll do my best."
Hound Dog made his move quickly, his eyes never leaving Izuku. "So, I had meetings with your siblings and Bakugo," he said moving a pawn forward.
"How did that go? I'd know you can't say what happened because of confidentiality reasons but how was it?" asked Izuku curiously as he moved one of his pawns.
"Interesting to say the least," he said thinking back to each other their meetings.
FLASHBACK (Bakugo's Appointment)
The door to the room slammed open with a loud bang, and Bakugo stormed inside, his usual scowl fixed firmly on his face. His hands were bawled into fists, his posture rigid with irritation, but his eyes—those fiery, sharp eyes—betrayed a mix of frustration and confusion. Hound Dog didn't even flinch at the noise. He simply glanced up from his desk, his expression calm and unflinching, though his sharp gaze never wavered.
"Sit down, Bakugo," Hound Dog said, his voice low but firm. There was no room for argument in his tone.
Bakugo huffed and practically threw himself into the chair, his shoulders hunched as if every inch of his being was already preparing for an argument. His usual air of defiance was thick in the room, and Hound Dog was aware that this conversation would not be easy.
"So, what the hell do you want?" Bakugo growled, not even bothering to look at the pro hero.
Hound Dog leaned back in his chair, his claws tapping idly against the desk. "I want to talk about the USJ incident. You were there."
"Yeah, I saw," Bakugo snapped, his eyes flashing with irritation. "All I know is that damn Deku went in and hurt himself. It was pathetic and weak."
Hound Dog's eyes narrowed slightly, his voice calm but sharp as ever. "You think Izuku is weak?"
Bakugo's face twisted in contempt. "Yeah, I do. He doesn't belong in this school, let alone in the damn hero program. He's a liability. Always has been."
Hound Dog leaned forward slightly; his gaze steady. "That thing he fought. The Nomu. It was as strong as All Might. You can't honestly tell me you think that was weak. That wasn't luck, Bakugo."
"Like hell it was. Deku is someone that is going to die because he is an idiot and throwing himself into danger," he said crossing his arms.
Hound Dog narrowed his eyes for a moment. "Why do you call him Deku? I have heard you and Izuku's brother call him that?"
Bakugo scoffed, leaning back in his chair as if the question annoyed him. "Because that's what he is," he said, his voice laced with venom. "A useless loser who should've never even thought about being a hero."
Hound Dog's eyes remained steady. "That's not what I asked. I asked why you call him that."
Bakugo's jaw tightened. His fingers tapped against his arm in irritation. "It doesn't matter."
Hound Dog tilted his head slightly. "It does. Words have power, Bakugo. The way you speak about Izuku—the way you speak to him—it's not just random insults. There's something behind it."
Bakugo's scowl deepened. "Tch. It started as a joke, alright? When we were kids, he always clung to me and his siblings, trying to keep up. It pissed me off. He was weak, always crying, always looking to me like I was some kind of damn hero. He should've known his place. I called him 'Deku' because that's all he'd ever be—useless."
Hound Dog observed him carefully. "And yet, you're the one storming in here, frustrated about what he did."
"That's not the point! He is supposed to be weak! I refused to believe that he will ever be strong as or stronger than All Might!" he yelled out.
Hound Dog remained unfazed; his sharp eyes locked onto Bakugo's trembling fists. "You refuse to believe it, or you're afraid to?"
Bakugo's body tensed as if struck by an invisible force. "I ain't afraid of that damn nerd!" he shouted, but the usual confidence in his voice wavered, just for a second.
Hound Dog leaned forward, his elbows resting on the desk. "You just admitted that Izuku fought something as strong as All Might. That he threw himself into danger, knowing he could die, and still managed to hold his ground. That doesn't sound like someone weak to me. That sounds like someone willing to go beyond his limits."
Bakugo clenched his jaw so tight it hurt. "He was reckless. He doesn't think. He just jumps in like an idiot and gets himself hurt. That's not strength. That's desperation."
Hound Dog hummed thoughtfully. "And yet, you're the one sitting here, fists clenched, voice raised. If he were truly as useless as you claim, would you be this worked up about it?"
Bakugo's eyes burned with frustration. "I—" He gritted his teeth, shaking his head. "That's not—" He forced himself to stand up, his chair scraping against the floor. "I don't need to listen to this crap. Can we be done?"
Hound Dog exhaled slowly, his expression unreadable as he watched Bakugo stand there, rigid with frustration. He could see the conflict boiling under the surface—the emotions the boy refused to acknowledge.
"Fine. We can be done," he said setting down his pen. "You will be returning here next week for another session."
Bakugo's face twisted in irritation. "The hell I will! I ain't coming back here to listen to this crap again!"
Hound Dog remained calm, his unwavering gaze locking onto Bakugo's fiery eyes. "It's not optional."
Bakugo clenched his fists, sparks crackling between his fingers. "You can't make me!"
Hound Dog leaned forward slightly, his sharp teeth just barely visible as he spoke in a firm, almost growling voice. "You're not the only one affected by the USJ incident, Bakugo. Your teachers, your classmates, even All Might himself—everyone saw what happened. Everyone saw Izuku Yagi put himself on the line."
Bakugo flinched.
Hound Dog noticed but didn't comment on it. "You may leave."
Bakugo didn't hesitate to storm out of the office, slamming the door behind him with a loud bang. His breathing was heavy, his fists still clenched tightly at his sides as he walked down the hallway.
"That damn bastard. That damn nerd. That damn Deku. I can't let him get better than me. I need to train." he thought as he walked away to work on his quirk.
FLASHBACK (Ichiro's Appointment)
"Alright Ichiro Yagi. Would you like to tell me anything to start this conversation out?" asked Hound Dog.
"Not really. Why am I here?" Ichiro asked shuffling around.
"We are here just to talk. Talk about anything really," said Hound Dog leaning back in his chair. "Your brother fought in the USJ against that creature everyone is talking about? How do you feel about that? He seems quite strong.
"Tch. Deku isn't that strong," he said grumbling.
"Oh? That's interesting," Hound Dog mused, tapping a clawed finger against the desk. "From what I've gathered, he held his own against the Nomu—a creature designed to take down All Might. That takes a level of strength most people don't have."
Ichiro scoffed, crossing his arms. "He just got lucky. If it weren't for that healing lady, he'd be in a hospital bed right now. He's reckless, not strong."
Hound Dog hummed thoughtfully. "Reckless, perhaps. But strength isn't just about brute force—it's about determination, quick thinking, and endurance. From what I've seen, Izuku has all three."
Ichiro's jaw clenched slightly, but he didn't respond. Hound Dog let the silence settle between them before changing the subject. "What about you, Ichiro? How do you feel about what happened? About Izuku putting himself in danger?"
Ichiro scoffed again, looking away. "I don't care. He does what he wants. It's not my problem. If he wants to do that then he can go right ahead."
Hound Dog studied him for a moment before making a note in his book. "Alright. If that's all you have to say, you're free to go. Here is another time for out session next week."
"What, I have to come back?" asked Ichiro annoyed.
"Yeah, you do, not negotiable," he said watching the teen huff out of the room.
FLASHBACK (Inori's Appointment)
Inori sat across from Hound Dog, her arms crossed tightly over her chest. Her expression was something like she was being scolded, and she had etched worry on her face
"So, what's this about?" she asked.
Hound Dog rested his elbows on the desk, his claws steepled together. "I just want to talk. Your brother was involved in the USJ attack, and I want to hear your thoughts on it."
"Well…I mean I am glad his fine. I went to see him yesterday and he was hurt badly. I'm glad he's ok now though," she said looking up at him.
Hound Dog nodded, his keen eyes observing Inori's body language. "It's good that you're relieved he's alright. But let's dig a little deeper—how did you feel when you first heard about the attack?"
Inori bit her lip, her fingers gripping the fabric of her sleeve. "Honestly? I was scared," she admitted. "I mean sometimes villain attacks are no joke and when I saw how much he was bandaged up…it made me pretty worried."
Hound Dog nodded; his gaze steady as he observed her reaction. "That's a reasonable response. But let's talk about that worry and something else. Would you say you have a strong relationship with Izuku?"
Inori frowned. "No…no I don't. I mean it's my fault for that but still." Hound Dog tilted his head slightly, his sharp eyes studying her. "Why do you think it's your fault?"
Inori gripped her knees with her frown deepening. "Because I know it is. I…well…how do I put this. I used to bully Izuku. A lot. Ichiro and Kacchan did too…I mean Bakugo!" she said, forgetting to use his real name.
Hound Dog remained quiet for a moment, processing her words. His sharp gaze softened just slightly, recognizing the weight of her confession. "You used to bully him?" he asked gently, his voice not judgmental but probing.
Inori nodded, her eyes avoiding his. "Yeah. I… I didn't always treat him well. It got bad for a while. I will admit…I hurt him emotionally and physically. A lot. I stopped doing that about nine or ten months ago now. Still though…I doubt our relationship is ever go to mend or heal," she said starting to get teary eyed.
She wiped her eyes for a second before speaking, "I know he'll likely never forgive me, and I don't hold it against him if he did. I really am messed up. I…hurt him in more ways than one."
"Inori," Hound Dog began softly, "what you did in the past, that's something you'll have to live with. However, what you are doing now is something that is the first step to doing the right thing. You are acknowledging what you did. Now I will get into specifics of what you did to Izuku now because I think that I've asked enough for today. But know that it will be a long road from here on out."
"I understand," she said quietly, her voice shaky as she wiped away another tear. "I know it's not going to be easy, and I don't expect things to just magically get better. I just... I just wish I could take back what I did. But I know I can't."
Hound Dog nodded, his eyes never leaving hers. "Regret and acknowledgment are important, Inori. But you have to understand—what you did to Izuku hurt him in ways that won't simply fade with an apology. It's going to take time, patience, and effort on your part. Your words are the beginning, but your actions will show whether you're truly willing to change. I think that is all I have if you would like to leave," he said gesturing to the door.
"Right…thank you sir," she said walking out of the door making sure she had no tears in her eyes. "We can do another of these sessions right?"
"Of course," he said smiling at her.
FLASHBACK END
Hound Dog moved his knight and sighed. "Like you said I can't tell you much because of the confidentiality you talked about, but I will say one thing. In this profession, you never get bored of the people because of personalities and how they function."
"I guess that makes sense," Izuku said, watching as Hound Dog studied the board, his sharp claws hovering over a piece before finally moving a pawn forward. "Everyone has their own way of thinking, and sometimes it's… complicated."
Hound Dog nodded. "Complicated is an understatement, but yes. People have layers, Izuku. They aren't just 'good' or 'bad.' Sometimes, people act out of fear. Other times, out of guilt. And sometimes… they don't even understand their own emotions."
Izuku frowned slightly, considering his next move. "You're talking about Bakugo, aren't you?" he asked as he slid his rook into position.
Hound Dog's ears twitched, but he neither confirmed nor denied the assumption. "I'm talking about more than just him," he said simply, countering with his knight. "Your siblings, your classmates—hell, even pro heroes. Everyone has moments where they struggle with their emotions and how they express them."
Izuku exhaled, staring at the board but not really seeing it. "I just don't get it," he admitted. "Why do they still see me like I'm weak? After everything?"
Hound Dog tapped a claw against the side of the board. "Because change isn't something people accept easily, especially when it disrupts how they view the world. If you were always 'weak' in their eyes, then seeing you strong forces them to reconsider everything they thought they knew. That's not easy for some people. Check."
Izuku frowned, deep in thought. "I understand what you're saying. But sometimes, it just feels like no matter how much I change or improve, they still see me as the same old Izuku—the one who couldn't even stand up for himself before." He moved his knight, attempting to take a more defensive position on the board.
Hound Dog's expression softened, but only slightly. "That's the thing about people. They hold onto old perceptions, especially if those perceptions align with their comfort zone. It's easier to keep you in that box where they know how to deal with you. When you change, when you push against that, it's uncomfortable. And when people are uncomfortable, they either resist or react in ways that seem harsh. Checkmate."
"Damn it," said Izuku.
"Not bad for you first time playing with me," said Hound Dog.
"I get what you mean. I get people can change. I now some refuse to change but this whole situation with my family is a big pile of papers that just keeps getting bigger and getting more and more unsorted," said Izuku.
"Yeah. It's understandable. But that pile will stop piling up and it will be organized soon. I can assure you that, Izuku. That and keep up the good work with schooling and heroics and all that. Just be sure not to throw yourself in and make up a plan on a whim like you did fighting that Nomu," said Hound Dog.
"You don't have to remind me of that one," Izuku said with a sheepish grin, rubbing the back of his neck. "That was a bit much, I guess. I was just trying to do what I thought was right. But I can't afford to make mistakes like that again."
"That's ok. You make mistakes to learn from them. That is why you are here attending this school," he said click his pen. "Do you have any more questions before you go?" he asked.
"No sir. Thank you for your help," said Izuku standing up.
Izuku stood up, stretching his arms slightly after the long conversation. He had learned a lot from his time with Hound Dog, both about himself and the people around him. There was a lot of truth in what the older man had said. The weight of people's perceptions, the complexity of their emotions, and the challenges that came with changing how others viewed you—it was all a lot to process. But hearing it from someone who had experience in understanding people's minds made it easier to accept. Izuku still had a lot to figure out, but now he felt a little less lost.
Hound Dog set the chessboard aside, his gaze softening as he watched Izuku. "You're welcome, Izuku. Just remember, this isn't about getting everything right all at once. It's about growth. Every mistake, every wrong move, is part of that growth. And just like with the game, you'll get better the more you play."
Izuku nodded, offering a small smile. "Yeah, I understand. Thanks again," he said leaving.
As Izuku stepped out into the hallway, the quiet hum of the dormitory filled the air. He let out a slow breath, running a hand through his messy green hair as he processed everything Hound Dog had said. Growth wasn't something that happened overnight, nor was it something he could force others to recognize. He had to be patient. But patience wasn't always his strongest suit—especially when it came to proving himself.
His feet moved on their own as he walked down the corridor, his mind still swirling with thoughts. The idea that people held onto old perceptions of him, that they resisted seeing him as anything but weak, gnawed at him. He knew Hound Dog was right, but that didn't make it any less frustrating.
Before he realized it, he was outside, the cool night air brushing against his skin. The UA campus was quiet at this hour, most students having settled into their dorms or training privately. He found himself staring up at the sky, the stars twinkling against the vast darkness.
"You look like you're thinking too hard again."
Izuku saw Todoroki eating soba with a blank look on his face. "Uh…Todoroki? What's up?"
"The sky," he said with the same blank expression.
Izuku smiled at the joke, shaking his head. "Didn't take you for the type to crack jokes, Todoroki."
Todoroki shrugged, slurping up another bite of his soba. "I've been working on it. Fuyumi says I should try being more social."
"Fuyumi?" asked Izuku confused. "Oh, she is my sister. I am considered the baby of the family. You have Toya the eldest and is Frostflare. I recognized you from the sludge villain incident. Then there is Fuyumi, my elder sister. Next is my brother Natsuo and then there is me," he said pointing to himself with his chopsticks.
"That a pretty big family," said Izuku as he walked alongside him.
"Yeah, we manage," he said eating a bit more of his soba.
"I bet it's a lot of weight on your shoulders having your brother and father being big heroes. With Frostflare being 39th and Endeavor being 2nd on the hero charts," said Izuku trying to get another convo started.
Todoroki paused, his chopsticks hovering over his bowl as he considered Izuku's words. There was a moment of silence before he responded, his voice quieter than usual. "It does feel like a lot, sometimes," he said, his gaze dropping to the soba in his bowl. "I never asked for this life. But it's the one I was given. People expect a lot from me because of my father and my brother. Sometimes it feels like they forget about me, or that I'm just... living in their shadows."
"Yeah, well. I heard you did pretty well when going to get some backup when the USJ happened," Izuku said.
"I wasn't bad, but I still felt weird trying to leave when I felt I could help," he said setting his bowl down.
Izuku nodded, understanding where Todoroki was coming from. "Sometimes, you just have to make a choice, even if it feels like you're abandoning someone in the process."
Todoroki sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Yeah. I didn't want to be like everyone else, just standing on the sidelines while others got hurt. But at the same time, I couldn't risk making the situation worse by rushing in without a plan."
"I mean, you did make the right call in the end. Sometimes it's not about being the hero everyone expects, but being smart about it," Izuku added, trying to offer some reassurance.
Todoroki looked up at him, his expression softening. "Thanks. It's hard to balance what everyone expects of me with what I feel is the right thing to do."
"No problem. But I am going to go chill out for a bit," said Izuku as he waved him off.
"See you around Yagi," he said waving back. Izuku sighed as he went to and plumped himself on his bed. He would chill out for a bit because these past 24 hours were crazy for him. He took a two-hour nap before he started to design ideas for a new hero costume. It was pulverized in that fight with Nomu, and he needed something better.
He heard a knock on his door, but he continued to draw as he called out to the person. "Come in."
Ochaco, Mina, and Reiko peaked around the corner to see Izuku was hard at work. "It's time for dinner," said Ochaco.
"Alright thanks guys. I'll be down in a minute," he said not looking at them.
Ochaco sighed as she walked behind him and pulled on him. "You were injured yesterday, and you have barely eaten today. Let's get going," she said tugging on him.
"Uraraka, please just give me a minute," said Izuku whining.
Ochaco frowned, determined not to back down. "Nope."
Reiko frowned as she used her telekinesis to pull his sketch away. "Hey, Yanagi, come on."
"Come and have dinner and you can get it back," she said calmly. Mina and Ochaco were pulling on Izuku, but he was not budging. "Jokes on you guys. I have a backup sketch," he said smirking.
Mina gasped dramatically. "Oh no, he's got a backup!" She exchanged a mischievous grin with Ochaco and Reiko.
"Plan B, then," Ochaco declared with determination, she activated her quirk making him float as Reiko use her own to drag him out of the room.
"Guys, you have got to be kidding me," said Izuku as the girls held him as he floated down the stairs.
Izuku flailed slightly, his arms crossed in defiance as he hovered helplessly above the ground. He could have used Blackwhip but with Recovery Girl saying he couldn't use his quirks for a bit meant no fighting back. "You know, this is technically kidnapping!" he protested, though the slight smile tugging at the corner of his mouth betrayed his amusement.
"Yeah, well, it's for your own good!" Mina shot back with a grin, walking beside him as if this was the most normal thing in the world.
Reiko, maintaining her calm demeanor, simply said, "You're eating dinner. No arguments."
"Alright fine. You can put me down," he said sighing as they got to the kitchen.
The dining was bustling with students from Class 1-A and 1-B, the air filled with chatter and the clinking of dishes. The delicious aroma of curry, rice, and miso soup wafted through the room, making Izuku's stomach betray him with a loud growl.
Mina and Ochaco burst into laughter. "Ah-ha! Your stomach agrees with us," Ochaco teased, sticking her tongue out playfully.
Izuku grumbled under his breath but grabbed a tray, piling it with food just to prove a point—or so he told himself. In reality, his appetite had returned the moment the food's scent hit him.
They found a spot near the windows, the warm orange hues of the setting sun casting a cozy glow over their table. Kirishima and Kaminari were already seated, engaged in an animated debate about who would win in a fight: Mount Lady or a literal mountain.
"I mean, it's literally in her name," Kaminari argued, waving his chopsticks for emphasis.
"But a mountain doesn't have feelings. It wouldn't care if it got punched!" Kirishima shot back, grinning.
Reiko sighed, shaking her head as she sat down. "Why do I always end up at the weirdest tables?"
"Because you secretly love us," Mina replied with a wink.
Izuku chuckled, finally digging into his food. The first bite of warm, savory curry was like a burst of comfort after a long, exhausting day. He didn't even realize how hungry he was until he'd devoured half his plate.
Todoroki joined them a few minutes later, his usual bowl of soba in hand. He slid into the seat next to Izuku without a word, his stoic presence oddly comforting amidst the chaos.
"Oh look, it's the soba king," Mina teased, nudging him with her elbow.
Todoroki blinked slowly. "I like soba."
"Truly a man of many words," Kaminari said with a grin.
Izuku smirked as he felt something next to his head. Something whispered in his ear saying, "What's cooking good looking?" Izuku jumped as he saw the floating head of Setsuna.
Izuku put his hands over his face as he sighed. "Please stop doing that," he said as she reattached her head.
Setsuna's head floated mischievously before her body reappeared, still grinning. "Aw, come on, Izuku. You're always so much fun to mess with. Besides, it's just a harmless little greeting."
"Harmless? You nearly gave me a heart attack!" Izuku grumbled, still holding his face in his hands.
"Don't be so dramatic," Setsuna teased, crossing her arms as she took a seat next to Reiko. "You should be flattered, you know? I only do it to the people I like."
Kaminari snorted. "I think she just likes making people freak out."
Conversation flowed after that and Izuku smiled at the comradery. Not long after Izuku was done eating and everyone else went their separate ways. Reiko walked up to him with his sketch and handed it to him.
Reiko approached Izuku with a small, knowing smile, holding out his sketchbook. "Here," she said, her voice calm and steady as always. "I forget to give you this in the dining hall."
Izuku blinked, surprised. "Oh, right! I didn't even realize. Thanks, Yanagi." She nodded at him and walked away leaving him to head to his dorm. He opened the door to his dorm and sighed as he lay on his bed. He wanted and needed sleep so he would get some. As he fell into the land of dreams, he appreciated the fact of how much his friends cared about him.
THE NEXT DAY
The teachers of U.A. sat around the conference table in the staff room, their expressions grim as Detective Tsukauchi began his briefing. The mood was heavy, the events of the USJ attack still fresh in everyone's minds. The room was silent except for the soft murmur of Tsukauchi's voice as he spoke, his tone steady but filled with the weight of what had happened.
"I know everyone here is familiar with the incident," Tsukauchi began, adjusting his glasses and spreading out a series of photographs across the table. "But we've gathered some additional intelligence on the villains involved. The situation was more complex than we initially thought."
Aizawa leaned forward, his tired eyes narrowing. "What do we know about the villains?"
Tsukauchi placed his hand over the photos, each one depicting various members of the villainous group who had attacked the students at the USJ. "The group's leader, Tomura Shigaraki, is connected to a larger organization. We believe they're the League of Villains, a dangerous network of individuals with quirks far beyond the norm."
"Shigaraki..." All Might muttered, a deep frown pulling at his face.
Tsukauchi continued. "Shigaraki is a dangerous individual. His quirk, Decay, allows him to disintegrate anything he touches. But what's more concerning is his ability to recruit others with equally dangerous quirks. We know he was behind the USJ attack, and we've found connections to several high-profile villains. Then there is Kurogiri who keeps to the shadows, a master of manipulation and deception. His quirk, Warp Gate, allows him to open portals and travel vast distances instantly. This makes him not only a formidable ally but also a dangerous escape artist. His ability to facilitate rapid getaways and the seamless transportation of other villains has made him an invaluable member of the League."
"Anything about their origins?" Aizawa asked, his voice sharp. "Where do these people come from?"
Tsukauchi shook his head. "So far, we don't have concrete information about their backgrounds, but we've been able to identify some of their quirks as I said for Kurogiri and Shigaraki."
"This is truly something indeed," said Nezu taking a sip of his tea.
"They must've gotten in with that situation with the media," said Midnight sitting up more.
Snipe nodded, "I agree. That is the only way they could've gotten in. But I think we got a bigger problem now."
Aizawa turned his attention to Snipe. "What do you mean?"
"Izuku Yagi. Defeated that thing called Nomu that was comparable to All Might. Meaning that the League has him on his radar now. That either means they will be wary of him, or they will go after him," he said turning his attention to Toshinori who nodded.
"I was thinking that same thing," he said worriedly.
Tsukauchi nodded. "That's exactly my concern. Based on what we know about Shigaraki, he's impulsive, but he holds grudges. The fact that Izuku defeated the Nomu—something designed specifically to challenge All Might—means Shigaraki won't forget him anytime soon."
All Might's expression darkened, his usual lighthearted demeanor nowhere to be seen. "This isn't just about protecting Izuku. If they target him, they'll endanger his classmates as well. The League doesn't care about collateral damage."
Nezu steepled his fingers thoughtfully. "Then we'll increase security measures around the campus and the dormitories. Not just for Izuku, but for all students. We can't risk the League exploiting any weaknesses."
Toshinori nodded, "I agree but doesn't anyone else find it weird at how bold the attack was on the USJ was. Like based on the reports of Izuku and Aizawa. Shigaraki seemed like a toddler throwing a tantrum who wasn't getting his way. They were doing this as an attention grab," he said.
"I agree. But I will work on security measures and get other things sorted out. As of now we will remain vigilant and be wary, but we can't stress too much about it," said Nezu. "Is that all Detective?" asked Nezu.
"Yes, sir, that is," Tsukauchi said, bowing slightly before gathering his documents. The room remained tense even as he stepped back, the gravity of the situation lingering like an unspoken weight among the teachers.
"When then. Everyone may return to their normal duties," said Nezu as the teachers started to leave.
CLASS 1-A
Class 1-A sat waiting patiently for their teacher to show up. Izuku was glad to know that Mr. Aizawa wasn't going to look like a mummy as he only hurt his arm from the man using his Decay quirk.
"Good morning," Mr. Aizawa greeted, his tired eyes scanning the room as he stepped inside. His arm was in a simple sling, the only indication of his injury. Despite his usual disheveled appearance, he still carried an air of authority as he walked to the front of the room.
"We'll I have something very important to talk about that will change all of your lives," he said making everyone tense.
Aizawa's tired gaze swept over them, and his usual disheveled state seemed to add weight to his words. He adjusted his sling, then folded his arms across his chest. "This is something you've all been waiting for," he said, letting the suspense build. "The Sports Festival."
Everyone cheered as this is what everyone has either seen or has wanted to perform in for years.
"The festival is not just about winning or showing off," Aizawa continued, his voice steady but firm. "It's an opportunity to demonstrate everything you've learned. You will be tested physically, mentally, and emotionally. Everything you've trained for up to this point will be put to the test. So don't go in thinking this will be just another school event. This is something that could shape your future as heroes. I can't give every little detail, but I will say that it is in two weeks. So, make sure that you all balance your studies and training well."
The room erupted into excited chatter as soon as Aizawa finished his statement. Two weeks. That was all they had before the Sports Festival, a huge event that could shape their future as heroes. Everyone was talking over each other, some excited, some nervous, and some unsure of what to expect. The energy in the room was electric, but Aizawa's stern voice cut through it all, silencing the room again.
"I know you're all excited," Aizawa said, his tone unchanged. "But don't let that excitement cloud your judgment. The Sports Festival isn't just about speed or strength. It's about strategy, teamwork, and how well you can think under pressure. Each of you will face challenges that will push you beyond your limits, and only those who adapt quickly will succeed."
"Wait a second. Should we really be doing this if just had that villain attack that happened at the USJ?" asked Kirishima.
"Yeah, that a good point," said Kaminari.
Mr. Aizawa nodded at the question, "Yes that is true but what you need to realize is we are going to show people that the attack didn't affect us, and we can keep going. Plus, we all need to learn to bounce back when stuff like this happens. Not to mention we are double if not tripling security this year," he said adjusting his cast.
The room fell silent again as Mr. Aizawa's words sunk in. Despite the lingering fear from the recent attack at the USJ, his response carried a reassuring weight to it. It was a reminder that as future heroes, they had to be resilient, not just physically but emotionally as well. The weight of the responsibility was evident in his voice, yet he conveyed a sense of confidence that made the students believe it.
"Though the incident at the USJ was serious," Aizawa continued, "we can't let fear dictate our actions. Heroes don't stop fighting because of a setback. We learn, we grow, and we adapt. This Sports Festival will test not just your physical abilities, but your mental and emotional ones too."
Izuku pondered something for a moment before speaking. "Not to mention Class 1-A will be looked at more than other years this year. Aside from the third years," Izuku said getting everyone's attention.
Izuku's words hung in the air for a moment, and everyone turned to look at him. He wasn't one to speak up so directly in a situation like this, but the weight of the situation was heavy, and his observation was clear.
"Yeah, he's right," Reiko said, her usual calm voice cutting through the silence. "With the attack at the USJ and the way things have been, all eyes are on us this year. They want to see if we have what it takes and show them the quirks we used to deal with the attack."
Mr. Aizawa cleared his throat to get everyone's attention, "Regardless, that is true. You all will have the chance to show what you have. Make it worth your while. You only have three times to do it, this being one, so make it worth your while."
LUNCHTIME
Izuku walking down the hall with Ochaco and Iida. Jiro and Momo had run ahead to save a seat in the cafeteria.
"I still can't believe the Sports Festival is happening so soon after everything," Izuku muttered, adjusting his bag over his shoulder.
"It makes sense, though," Iida replied, his hand chopping the air with his usual intensity. "As Aizawa-sensei said, we must show that U.A. remains strong. It's also a crucial event for us to demonstrate our potential to pro heroes and agencies."
Ochaco nodded thoughtfully. "Yeah, and it's kind of exciting, you know? Even with everything that happened… it's like we get to prove something—not just to others but to ourselves."
"Say, Uraraka. Why do you want to be a hero?" asked Izuku curiously.
Ochaco blinked, a bit surprised by the question. She tilted her head slightly, her eyes thoughtful. "Why do I want to be a hero?" she repeated, as if turning the words over in her mind. She smiled softly, with a hint of shyness in her expression. "I guess… it started with my parents."
Iida and Izuku slowed down, the words pulling their focus as they walked alongside her. Ochaco glanced down at the floor for a moment, her fingers tightening around the strap of her bag. "My parents run a construction company. They're hardworking and always putting in extra hours to make ends meet. They work so hard to build things for other people, but sometimes… I wish I could help them more, but they told me to find a different profession." She looked up at Izuku then, meeting his gaze with a soft but determined look. "I want to be a hero, someone who can make a real difference, not just in the world, but for the people I care about. I want to do something for others—especially for my parents."
"That's pretty thoughtful of you," said Izuku making her blush.
Ochaco smiled sheepishly at Izuku's words, her cheeks turning a little pink as she glanced away, feeling slightly embarrassed. "I guess it sounds a little cheesy when I say it out loud, huh?"
"No, it's not cheesy at all," Izuku said quickly, shaking his head. "I think it's really admirable. Wanting to help the people you care about; that's a really strong reason to want to be a hero."
Her blush deepened, but she couldn't help the small smile tugging at her lips. "Thanks, Yagi. That means a lot." She glanced down at the floor for a second before looking back up at him, her eyes bright with a touch of determination. "I guess… part of it is that I don't want to see them struggle so much anymore. They've done everything they can for me, and now I want to give back, you know?"
Iida, who had been quietly listening to their exchange, couldn't help but add his own perspective. "I respect your sentiment, Uraraka," he said, his usual energy back in full force. "Helping others is the foundation of what it means to be a hero. Your resolve is truly commendable."
Ochaco gave him a small, appreciative nod, but her thoughts were still fixed on her parents and what she wanted to accomplish. "Yeah, I think a lot about how I could use my quirk in ways that can help more people. Even if I don't have the flashiest ability, I know there are ways to make a real difference. I've been practicing, and… I'll keep pushing myself until I can do that. Thanks again for the compliment Deku!" she said not knowing the implications of that word.
"Did…you call me…Deku?" he said sweating a bit.
Ochaco blinked at Izuku's reaction, tilting her head in confusion. "Huh? Yeah, I did. Why? Is something wrong?"
Izuku rubbed the back of his head nervously, feeling a familiar knot form in his stomach. "Uh, well… it's just that 'Deku' was kind of a nickname people used to, um… make fun of me." He let out a small, awkward chuckle, hoping to downplay his discomfort.
Ochaco's eyes widened in realization. "Oh no! I'm so sorry, Yagi! I didn't mean it like that at all! I heard Bakugo call you that several times so I thought that it meant something like, 'you can do it!" She waved her hands frantically, her expression filled with guilt.
He scratched the back of his neck, his face-tinged pink. "W-Well… when you put it that way, I guess it doesn't sound so bad."
Ochaco's face lit up with relief, her worried frown quickly replaced by a bright smile. "Really? You don't mind if I call you that, then? It kinda suits you!"
When she put it like that maybe Deku would be a good term to use. Maybe he could turn it from something of torment or something of good.
"Y-Yeah," he stammered, feeling the warmth creep up his neck and settle on his cheeks. "I think I like it…"
Ochaco's grin grew wider, her eyes sparkling with genuine warmth. "Awesome! Then it's settled. Deku it is!"
Izuku smiled at a new chance to have the damnable name become something better. The group of three were interrupted when they heard a loud booming voice down the hallway.
"AHAHAHA! Young Izuku! Is here!" yelled out All Might as he pointed at him. Izuku just stared at his father wondering what the hell he was doing to stop him in the hallway.
"All Might?" he asked confusedly.
"Lunch!" he said holding up some food. "You want to eat with me," he asked cutely.
Ochaco was gushing behind him as Izuku was trying to put two and two together. "If he wants to speak with me like this. It has to be incredibly important. Maybe I should follow him," he thought as he looked at him warily.
"Go on, Yagi. It might be important," said Iida gesturing for him to go.
"I'll catch you guys later," Izuku mumbled to Ochaco and Iida, who both gave encouraging smiles. Ochaco's gaze lingered a little longer, her soft smile giving him a surprising boost of confidence.
Ochaco and Iida made their way to lunchroom seeing Jiro and Momo in line. "Hey guys," said Ochaco running up to them.
Jiro turned her head slightly, her usual cool demeanor intact as she gave a small wave. "Oh, hey, Uraraka. Iida. Where's Izuku?"
"He is with All Might right now," replied Iida.
Jiro raised an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued. "With All Might? That sounds serious. I mean, it's not every day the Symbol of Peace calls someone out like that."
Momo nodded thoughtfully, adjusting the tray in her hands. "Considering how intense the USJ attack was, it wouldn't surprise me if All Might wanted to personally acknowledge Izuku's efforts. He did perform exceptionally well under pressure."
"He has a pretty strong liking to him," said Ochaco catching the attention of dual quirk user in front of them. Todoroki showed interest as the group walked away wondering about the relationship between All Might and Izuku.
TEACHER'S LOUNGE
All Might opened the door to the teachers' lounge to show Inori and Ichiro waiting there as well.
"You've got to be kidding me," Izuku thought as he took a seat the furthest away from his siblings.
All Might transformed to his skinny form and sighed as he sat down in front of all three of them. Ichiro sent a glare at Izuku who paid no mind to him, but Inori hit Ichiro to set him straight after the slightest bit of satisfaction with Izuku.
"Alright you three. I needed to say this to you all so that you are made aware, but according to some recent tests. I have about two hours and forty minutes left on my transformation," he said informing them.
Izuku's eyes widened ever so slightly as he looked at his father. His time was shrinking less and less and soon. The number one hero of All Might would be no more.
Ichiro looked a bit more worried than usual. "But you need to be the Symbol of Peace."
Inori, always the more level-headed of the two siblings, shifted her gaze to All Might, her brows furrowed with genuine concern. "Is there anything we can do to help? Or… is this related to your injury?"
All Might gave her a weak smile, his gaunt face shadowed with fatigue. "Sharp as always, Inori. Yes, it's due to the injury I sustained years ago. The damage is irreversible, and my time as the Symbol of Peace is limited. That's why I brought you three here." His gaze drifted to Izuku, softening slightly.
"Why us," asked Inori curiously as she moves some blonde strands of hair out of the way.
"Truth be told, with my time slowly starting to decrease there will need to be someone or rather multiple someone's to take over as the Symbol of Peace for when that time comes," he said pointing at the three of them.
The room fell into a heavy silence, All Might's words settling like an invisible weight on the shoulders of his three children. Izuku's heart pounded in his chest, his thoughts racing. "Multiple Symbols of Peace?"
Ichiro's face twisted with a mixture of confusion and frustration. "Wait. You're saying we have to replace you?" His tone was sharp, tinged with disbelief. "That's impossible. No one can replace All Might. But why is Izuku here anyway. He isn't exactly strong."
He received a smack on the head from Inori. "Just keep your mouth shut you idiot."
Ichiro winced, rubbing the back of his head as he shot a glare at Inori. "Hey, I'm just saying what everyone else is thinking," he muttered under his breath.
Inori's expression didn't change, her cool demeanor unshaken. "Yeah, well, not everyone else is in this room. So, you'll keep quiet unless you've got something useful to say."
Izuku was actually surprised that Inori stood up for him but decided to ignore it for now and focus.
"Anyway, the point that I am making is you three have the Sports Festival to show off and shine to the people that you are here," he said walking to the window. "Agencies and the people of the world will be watching you and seeing what you have to offer."
"Like I said why is Izuku here then?" asked Ichiro.
Toshinori sighed as he looked to his eldest. "Ichiro shut up," he said getting annoyed with him. "I am trying to make it up to my son for being a shitty father but including him with stuff I never had before. The least you could do as a brother is to be happy for him."
"Dad don't worry about it's fine I'm used to it," said Izuku was silenced.
"No, it's not fine. These past years for you are not fine and I am making it up to you so stop saying it is fine," he said looking at the three of them again.
"Regardless. The point that I am making is you three are the heroes of the future. You three will show the world I am here!" he said proudly, transforming back into All Might.
Ichiro scoffed as he stood up from his seat adjusting his blonde hair as he got up from his seat. "Yeah, I already know I am. You didn't have to get this meeting together to say it," he said putting his hands in his jacket as he walked out of the door. Toshinori sighed at his eldest as Inori and Izuku looked at each other.
Izuku felt…weird…that he was included in this. In a good kind of weird. He looked to Inori and his father who had been trying and making an effort. He could see that. But there was a part of him that knew they had a long way to go because he didn't feel anything. Not yet anyway.