AN: Rewrites are a pain, If I have any errors in these next few chapters, just let me know on discord and I'll come and fix them.
Crazy idea. Maybe I should STOP rewriting the same few chapters and just post new chapters... right?
Also ICURA said he was honored *heart*
Screw what other "writers" think. I do what I want. =)
A Young Girl's Starting Line
? ? ? ?
The suffocating darkness pressed in around me like a vice. I struggled for breath, panic clawing at my chest as I fell through the void. Then, in an instant, the weight lifted, and cool air filled my lungs. A blinding light assaulted my eyes, forcing them shut.
My senses began piecing themselves together, bringing me back to reality. I opened my eyes before shutting them again; the brightness was blinding.
"Is my baby okay?" the woman's voice trembled.
"Your baby is perfectly fine," another voice replied, "Congratulations, it's a girl."
I felt a shift as gentle hands wrapped around me.
"Hello, Tanya," she whispered.
"Ughh," I croaked.
"Such a strong little girl," she cooed. "You're going to do great things. I just know it."
I strained against the light as my eyes opened. Held tightly to the woman's chest, I quickly studied her face. Golden hair tumbled down to her shoulders, pale gray eyes harbored a depth of emotion, and a rose-tinted complexion spoke of her German heritage. She held me close, her eyes tired, but a blissful smile on her face…
An explosion shook the building, hurling me into the air amid flames and debris. Tears streamed down my face as I tumbled helplessly.
As my body flew towards the unforgiving floor or wall, I was caught in strong, furry arms. The figure that held me was a strange mix of human and animal — a towering being with the body of a bear but the unmistakable features of a human: two intelligent eyes, a wide nose, and a mouth filled with sharp teeth. My heart raced as I realized I was being held by a humanoid... bear?
Demons, people with horns, tails… were those hoses for arms…?
I was rushed around what I could barely recognize as a hospital with burning walls and flooded rooms. My vision blurred as white, soft fur enveloped me, and the scent of musk and warmth overwhelmed my senses. Despite my initial terror, my body succumbed to the cozy embrace, and I drifted off into a peaceful slumber.
Regaining consciousness, I found myself in a sterile, white room. The distant echoes of smoke and fires reminded me that I was far from the safety of wherever I had been brought to. Time blurred as humans, creatures, and robots shuffled me between them, their faces quickly fading from memory.
But amidst the chaos and confusion, my mind fixated on one thing: my mother. Images of her blonde hair cascading down her back and her pale gray eyes filled my thoughts before she was engulfed by an explosion.
I couldn't help but remember that liar saying there will be no second reincarnation before everything went black.
Being X was a pitiful tyrant, easily frustrated and arrogant beyond measure. Its supposed powers were nothing but a facade, and it would be deemed incompetent at any real agency. But as a self-employed deity, its failures only served to prove how worthless it truly was. In the end, none of that mattered. My faith would not be swayed, even in this strange new world I found myself reincarnated into. No being or entity, not even Being X itself, could sway me from my beliefs.
Still, as an infant, those thoughts were hardly the only ones that filled my undeveloped brain. Thoughts of revenge and war were only on my mind when I wasn't dealing with the unstoppable feelings of hunger, sleep, and shitting myself.
My infant years were a swirling, undifferentiated mass of thoughts and sensations. Alongside the constant pangs of hunger and fatigue, helplessness and confusion overwhelmed me as I struggled to understand this new world I had been thrust into.
Being alive gladdened me; however…. even amidst the chaos of my surroundings, one thing was clear - this was a world filled with never-ending battles. As if the violence and destruction caused by humans wasn't enough, there were also other species thrown into the mix.
The idea that diverse beings could just live in harmony was so laughable in this world as to be seen as the naive dream of a hopeless idealist.
Perhaps I should have just expected this, given Being X's twisted idea of escalation. If there were ever to be a fourth life for me, I would imagine it would probably be in a post-apocalyptic wasteland ruled by nuclear fallout and alien invaders. As always, I would probably be trapped as a helpless child, forced to scavenge for survival among mutants and zombies. No, peace was never an option in this game.
Regardless of my constant curses towards Being X, he never appeared before me during those crucial formative years, despite the overwhelming circumstances, I persisted in my upbringing at the overcrowded orphanage. Surrounded by an endless chorus of wailing children, I longed for change and a way out.
It seemed that orphanages were a staple in Being X's repertoire — a recurring theme that made me wish he had hired professional advisors to guide his twisted plans. Alas, he remained stubbornly predictable in his repetitive tactics. After all, the monster was insane, so it followed that it would try the same thing over and over, expecting different results…
It wasn't until two years had passed that my boredom urged me to display my intelligence, hoping it would catch the attention of someone who would offer me a chance at something more. After much persuasion, they finally allowed me to read some early childhood language books.
To my early delight, I found that many of the words on the pages were familiar, as this world or country uses a variation of Japanese. However, that feeling quickly turned to terror as I realized that the meanings attached to these familiar symbols were all wrong. At some point in history, the three different writing systems had merged into a single written language. The most glaring aberration of this world's language stared back at me next to a cartoon cat — labeled as a dog. My heart sank as I realized I would have to relearn yet another language.
I chose to leave behind everything I knew about Japanese kanji and treat this world's language as its own unique entity. It was a necessary step, considering how Being X would try to hinder me with misleading information. Thankfully, I avoided making any embarrassing mistakes like writing "I see dead people" when what I really meant was "I love you, caretaker". The consequences of such an error could have landed me in a psychiatric institution.
As time passed, I became increasingly curious about this unfamiliar world I found myself in. The older orphans would bring home history books, and I would sneak glances at them whenever possible. Despite my limited understanding of the written language, I slowly but surely began to decipher certain words and piece together the general idea of what I was reading.
The older kids found it amusing when a two-year-old like me "pretended" to read.
Through my makeshift research, one truth became painfully clear for the third time: all men are not created equal. In the world, your social value was determined by the family you were born into and the opportunities they provided for your education and advancement. For those who were not born into privilege, like myself, it meant working twice as hard to achieve the same level of success as those who were fortunate enough to be born into affluence.
However here in this world, that concept of inherited status was taken to an extreme. A skewed game of chance that favors incumbents while leaving new entrants with little chance for success. More than half of the population possesses extraordinary abilities known as "quirks," while the rest are deemed relatively worthless by comparison. To make matters worse, being "normal" was not celebrated but rather seen as a disadvantage.
How different this world was from the one I knew before...
Two centuries ago, in the bustling streets of China, a baby was born with an extraordinary gift. His skin glowed with an ethereal light, drawing stares and whispers from those around him. At first, the child was quarantined out of fear and suspicion until it was discovered that he possessed an extra organ that emitted bioluminescence.
As months passed, more and more children in China began to display these supernatural abilities. The nation, fearing the unknown and unable to control the Divergences, as they were called, locked itself down in a desperate attempt to contain them. Their efforts proved futile as reports from other countries surfaced of individuals with similar powers.
The world was thrown into chaos as governments struggled to understand and control this new "threat". In America, the first violent display of power came from a man who would become known only as the "Five States Maniac." Though his real name would ultimately be lost to history, he sparked a wave of fear and persecution against Divergences globally.
Despite efforts from some to harness and study these powers for the greater good, the majority of society viewed them as a curse. Fear and prejudice spread like wildfire. Paranoia and hysteria took root everywhere. Divergences, those with unique abilities, were hunted and persecuted, forced into hiding. Government measures grew harsher by the day, fueling rebellion among the oppressed. Violent clashes and protests erupted. Communities and families were torn apart, pushing the world to the brink of civil war.
In the midst of this chaos, a beacon of hope emerged from the scientific community. Researchers made a groundbreaking discovery: the "Plus Alpha" gene responsible for these extraordinary abilities. This revelation was a game-changer. Divergences were not abominations but rather the next step in human evolution. Optimism began to spread among those who longed for harmony. Scientists worked around the clock to unlock the secrets of the Plus Alpha gene, hinting at a future where peaceful coexistence between Divergences and Non-Divergences might be possible.
However, before any significant progress could be made, society was rocked by another wave of violence and terror. Copycats of the infamous Five States Maniac emerged, replicating his destructive actions and spreading fear. These imitators thrived in the fragile state of society, causing widespread havoc and destabilizing governments. Corruption and incompetence within the authorities became glaringly obvious as they struggled to contain the chaos. Vigilantes began to rise, taking matters into their own hands. Their brutal and often indiscriminate methods only added to the anarchy. The world seemed to spiral further into violence with no end in sight.
In the midst of this turmoil, a new hope arose in Japan. A group of determined individuals recognized the failure of traditional governance and established a self-governing system known as "Heroics." These modern-day Heroes, endowed with various abilities, committed themselves to using their powers for the greater good. Tirelessly, they worked to restore order and bring balance to a world teetering on the edge of collapse. Their efforts not only stabilized Japan but also inspired hope and admiration across the globe. Their success proved that with the right leadership and unity, peaceful coexistence between Divergences and Non-Divergences was achievable. The Heroics' actions set a new precedent, encouraging other nations to reconsider their stance on those with the Plus Alpha gene and fostering a new era of potential collaboration and understanding.
To maintain order and control in society, all citizens were required to register their unique abilities, known as "quirks," in the government database. This not only helped minimize illegal usage but also aided law enforcement in locating those who broke the law. Vigilantism was strictly prohibited and considered a serious crime, as untrained individuals often caused more harm than good with their reckless actions.
Being X, as he seems to love the number three, categorized quirks into three distinct groups: emitter, transformation, and mutation. Emitter quirks allowed an individual to create or manipulate elements such as fire, ice, and water. Transformation quirks granted the power to alter one's body in various ways, such as changing size or shape or even turning into an animal. Mutation quirks involved gaining additional physical features which might also have extra quirk effects.
Despite the ubiquity of heroes and villains in this world, life had settled into a routine for me as a five-year-old girl. My intelligence was evident to everyone, but there wasn't much I could do at this age. I spent my days assisting the caretakers with tasks around the orphanage and the older children with presenting themselves to potential adoptive families. I longed to explore beyond the walls of the orphanage, but the staff forbade it. Instead I used the computer the children had to share to provide me with endless information at my fingertips.
Compared to my previous life of constant danger and war on the front lines, this bizarre world of superheroes and villains provided me with a surprising sense of normality, which was a welcome break. It almost felt like I had achieved my goal of a safe retirement – except for the highly publicized "super villain" fights that occurred once a month. Despite this, there was a sense of peace and contentment in this new life – something I had been missing for a long time. It was...nice.
The days of hiding behind the meticulously crafted façade of Degurechaff were long gone. No longer did I have to watch from behind the mask as I commanded my troops in battle, feeling the fury simmering just beneath the surface as I was forced to pray to that cursed being.
Now, I allowed myself to fully immerse in the peacefulness of my current life. It had been years since Being X had dared to meddle in my affairs, causing me to wonder if this reincarnation was simply a coincidence or if I had somehow been lost to that smug self-proclaimed god. As I grew older the weight of past lives and grudges lifted from my shoulders, replaced by a sense of freedom and contentment. The future was bright in this life.
Sadly, today I woke up with a piercing headache, and the pain just brought back all those memories I was attempting to run from.
A cacophony of echoes and reverberations blurred my vision as I sought refuge in the dimly lit corner of the orphanage's playroom. The sounds of the world echoed loudly in my head, my own breathing like sandpaper to my ears. Shoes on the ground echoed like cannon fire. Even the static of electronics sounded more like torrential rain.
Trying to silence the noise, I curled up into a tight ball, clamping my hands over my ears. I slowed my breathing, and, for a moment, the sounds faded away, replaced by an eerie quietness.
A sharp knock jolted me, my eyes catching blurs in the air as the older caretaker, Okuma, stepped into the room. Her frame filled the doorway, slender yet sturdy, and her graying curls framing her wrinkly face.
"Tanya, you should be out there with the others… What are you doing all alone here?"
I held in a sneer while wincing at even the thought of being around all that noise, "I can't Okuma. My head hurts."
The old woman nodded slowly, stepping further into the room and settling on a chair near me. For a moment I thought she would just leave me before she spoke, "I know child. But headaches come and go. Days like this, where the sun is bright– they're not always here."
Memories of the Rhine, and bloodstained rivers came to mind, "It doesn't matter. I'm too tired to go outside."
The old lady just smiled leaning back in her chair, "When I was a little girl, I thought being grown up ment that I'd never have time for little things."
Oh boy. She wasn't going to talk about the good old days, was she?
"I would tell all the older kids that I was too tired to play, trying to hide away inside and play Hero by myself, but you can't do that. You have to go out there and make friends. Trust me, your head will clear faster than you think if you get some sun and run around."
At least she means well despite her terrible advice.
I sighed, after a moment. She didn't look like she was going to accept me staying inside today. Standing up the pressure in my head shifted, the old lady just smiling as I walked out.
I spent the rest of the day attempting to play with the other children with at least some marginal success. I had to admit reluctantly later on, that the old lady was right about one thing at least. I should enjoy being young while I can.
The next day I woke up once again with my head feeling like it was splitting open. I tried to get the younger caretaker Mita to take me out on a shopping trip, to avoid dealing with the other screaming children, but was unsuccessful. Because of that, I once again tried to hide in my bedroom, managing to squeeze a few more hours of rest until my slumber was shattered by a deafening crash and an intense argument erupting just a few feet away.
If only I could find a way to convince them to channel their quirks outside instead of adding to my already mounting stress.
"Stop fighting, you two! The caretaker will be back soon, and she won't want to see the walls destro- Stop fighting."
Despite my pleas the two older kids continued their little fight using their quirks to hit one another. I couldn't handle the noise any longer. My head pounded with a splitting headache and everything seemed to be vibrating around me. And to add insult to injury, one of the boys had previously tattled on me for stealing a mug of coffee last week…
Gritting my teeth together. I watched the boy with crab claws try to attack and pinch the seagull-headed mutant in response to his sharp beak pecking at him. The other children gathered around in a circle, either cheering on their favorite or simply ignoring the destruction of the room by staying safe on their bunk beds. "If you want them to stop so badly, Tanya-chan, why don't you just stop them yourself?" The oldest, whom the Caretaker had put in charge, boredly stated from the corner of the room. "Just keep your voices down, I'm busy." Busy doing nothing but texting on your phone; honestly, how did you even afford one?
Fine, I thought bitterly. If I rough them up too badly, I'll just say it was because you instructed me to do so. Maybe a reprimand from the CEO will finally force you to take accountability.
My hand seized the Seagull headed boy, Musaro's, shoulder, and with a scream of frustration, I drove my fist into his arrogant expression. The crunch of his broken nose empowered me as he hurtled against the wall. The sound of splintering wood and shattering glass echoed through my pounding head.
He crumpled to the ground, blood pooling down his nose, as I stood there, feeling numb. My hand was now coated in saliva, I could feel the wetness falling off my arm slowly.
A wave of disgust washed over me as I attempted to wipe my hand on my shirt. But to my horror, I couldn't feel my arm respond. I looked down toward my arm finally registering the-
ᵖrͣeͥᶰd.
Nedzu, Principal of U.A.
The definition of evil is a complex and highly individualized concept, varying greatly from person to person. Some may perceive it as the deliberate infliction of harm onto others, while others view it as a necessary deterrent against harmful behavior. However, those who adhere to the belief in objective morality reject this notion, instead upholding the idea that there are universal benchmarks for good and evil, unaffected by personal interpretation. These standards are viewed as immutable and unchanging, impervious to individual biases or contextual factors.
Miracle at Kamino Hospital
Seventy-five injured, no deaths.
With a heavy exhale, I reread the report in front of me. The words on the page seemed to taunt me, challenging my beliefs and morals. Objectively, there was no such thing as evil, but then how could one explain the actions described here? Blowing up a hospital, lying to the public about accurate statistics. These were not acts of goodness. In his eyes, perhaps they held some twisted justification. In mine, they were undeniably wrong. As I continued reading and processing the information, I couldn't help but wonder if these actions were done for the greater good... or for something else entirely.
The newspaper report in front of me morphed as my mind recalled the truth of that day.
The Kamino Hospital Massacre
As I exhaled heavily, my mind raced as I read through the report in front of me. The words on the page seemed to challenge my beliefs and morals, taunting me with their insidious nature. Objectively, there was no such thing as pure evil, yet how could one explain the heinous acts described here? Blowing up a hospital, manipulating crucial statistics for personal gain...these were not actions driven by goodness or righteousness. In the eyes of the perpetrator, perhaps they held some twisted justification. But in mine, they were undeniably wrong.
But as I continued processing the horrific information before me, a nagging thought crept into my mind - were these actions done for the greater good? Or was there something more sinister at play?
The scene depicted in my memory was nothing short of a nightmare. The once sterile and peaceful hospital had been transformed into a blood-soaked battleground, with innocent victims strewn about like discarded toys. My heart ached as I remember the forty infants who had lost their lives before even having a chance to experience it fully. Seventy-six children, seeking simple medical care, now dead. And fifteen teenagers, with endless dreams and aspirations, were now fighting for their lives in comas. Not to mention the eighty-five patients on life support that had been brutally murdered when the power shut off.
For years I tried to make sense of this tragedy. Was it truly for the greater good? Did it even need to happen? The villain that we claim was ultimately responsible for this senseless act of violence had eluded captur-
The shrill whistle of the tea kettle pierced through my thoughts, prompting me to reflect on the long and tumultuous history of humanity. Countless conflicts and acts of violence over petty disputes plagued our past, making me question the worth of my calculated schemes.
Years had passed since our successful defeat of All For One, once considered the most formidable threat to society. And yet, as soon as one villain was brought down, another rose up to fill the void. The downfall of All For One had created a power vacuum that various groups vied for control over. As they say, nature abhors a vacuum.
In the chaotic aftermath, the yakuza aggressively solidified their hold on the lucrative drug trade, defending their remaining stronghold in the Japanese underworld with fierce determination. The former radicals who had pledged allegiance to All For One now scattered into their own extremist factions. And even the HPSC was forced to deal with their own hidden assassin, no longer able to hide her behind the shadow of All For One's looming presence.
Amid the swirling currents of our local criminal underworld, foreign powers began to make their moves. The German mob, known for their merciless tactics, relentlessly vied for control on our island. And not far behind them were the Russian cartels, determined to expand their influence at any cost.
As a mastermind, it was my duty to stay ahead of these power shifts and machinations. But even with all my knowledge and foresight, I knew that I was not infallible. I could not predict every outcome. Yet still, my intelligence remained my most formidable weapon in shaping and guiding society towards my ultimate vision. And so, despite the risks, I persevered with my plans.
I had not become a hero out of noble intentions, but out of a burning desire for revenge against those who had once held me captive. In my pride and arrogance, I let my cleverness and schemes consume me. I believed myself to be untouchable, superior to mere mortals. In reality, I was just as vulnerable and easily manipulated as anyone else.
That is why I keep this framed report from five years ago - a constant reminder of my mistakes and ultimate downfall.
I have shed my manipulative ways and turned towards a brighter future with resolute determination. As I delicately sip my tea, I push aside thoughts of lost opportunities and instead focus on redeeming myself. There are undoubtedly countless others out there, selfless and pure-hearted heroes who deserve recognition more than I ever did. And I am determined to make up for my past failures, to become the hero that this world truly needs. With each passing day, I strive towards becoming a better person, knowing that time and dedication will ultimately lead me towards redemption. Despite the haunting golden eyes that linger in my memory, I refuse to be consumed by regret and instead look towards the future with renewed hope and purpose.
Yes, I may have made grave errors in the past, but I know that I can make amends. All it takes is time and dedication to become a hero that this world truly needs.
Mita Mano, the Former Sidekick 'Joyful Fist'
How did I end up in this mess?
Once upon a time, I was just a lowly secretary at the Purple Revolution Agency. But don't get me wrong, I wasn't your average pencil-pusher. I also fought crime alongside the agency's top heroes. With my business degree and unique quirk, I thought I had it all figured out. But then His Royal Highness took notice of me and offered me a fancy position.
I may not have made the cut for the Hero course in high school, but I dove headfirst into my new role with excitement and determination. Every day was filled with thrilling missions and intense training sessions. Surrounded by my fellow heroes, I felt like part of a team, effortlessly navigating our challenges and celebrating our victories.
But now, as I sit here thinking about how I got to this point, a deep sigh escapes my lips. My once powerful quirk, Joy, proved to be useless in the face of constant bad days. And when our esteemed leader ended up in the hospital, it was up to us sidekicks to take charge. But try as I might, I couldn't muster up enough happiness to effectively use my quirk during the chaos and destruction of the Kamino Hospital disaster. The explosions from the attacking villains overwhelmed me, leaving me drained and unable to focus. In the end, it cost me dearly.
An expensive medical procedure saved my life, but left me disabled. My agency gave me a walking stick, but I threw it away. Once upon a time, I was a hotshot Sidekick with potential to become a Pro Hero. But after the incident, I was let go from the agency for being unable to perform my duties. It was lucky I didn't die, but that didn't matter to them. My limited abilities meant they couldn't keep me on their team. Despite my best efforts and favors owed, no prestigious hero agencies would hire me. So now, I have to settle for low-paying jobs just to survive. The thought of being stuck in a boring office job makes me want to scream. All I ever wanted was to help people, and now I can barely do that.
I was stuck. Small, cheap agencies couldn't afford me and big, rich ones saw my disability as a problem. Cutthroat competition made it impossible for someone like me, without fancy credentials or a flashy quirk. The HPSC claimed experience and high school education were enough, but I knew they weren't. My hero license felt like trash.
Days turned into weeks of hopeless job interviews and returning to my tiny apartment. Desperation gnawed at me. All I wanted was a job in the hero world.
Then one day, I saw a job ad that caught my eye. It wasn't exactly what I wanted, but the pay was decent. The HPSC-funded orphanage needed another caregiver with experience raising kids who could also train them in quirks. Taking care of a group of little brats sounded tough, but I could handle it. After all, I had plenty of practice looking after my pesky siblings and picked up some quirk training tips from high school. It may not have been my dream hero job, but it was something.
The orphanage was tucked away on the edge of the busy city, hidden in a tranquil bubble. As I stepped onto the property, I felt a sense of purpose stirring inside me. Helping these orphans gave me a temporary fix for my restless soul.
I tried to convince myself that this was just a pit stop, until I could get back on my feet. But life had other plans for me.
The orphanage embraced me with open arms, grateful for any assistance after recent disasters hit Kamino and bombings occurred at the Naruhata wards. With my experience as a former hero and knowledge of quirks, they hired me without much fuss and even gave me a caretaking license.
It almost seemed too good to be true, but I didn't question my luck.
And the pay... It was more than I ever imagined. The job listing must have been outdated. For me, it was like a dream come true. No more endless battles against villains and dealing with society's trash; now my days were spent cooking and tending to children with unique quirks. Of course, there were tough moments like changing diapers and calming tantrums, but I adapted quickly.
But then came Tanya.
When I first saw her, something felt off. She was too well-behaved for a baby, always communicating perfectly and never crying without reason. And her movements and expressions were too precise. It was like she had been rehearsing them. But I brushed it off as just another baby with an active quirk.
What I couldn't ignore were her vacant stares when left alone for too long. It was like she had checked out of her body. And worst of all, the way she looked at me reminded me of how older Heroes would size up new sidekicks or Villains would search for their next pawn. It gave me the creeps.
Could there be some unknown force at play here? Was her intelligence a type of mind control that hadn't been documented yet? It seemed possible, especially with so many children in this orphanage who had been through traumatic experiences with villains. I couldn't just do nothing if that was the case. So, I called in a favor from my former intern at the Purple Revolution Agency. Late at night, while the kids were sleeping, he used his quirk to nullify whatever was affecting them.
He grumbled and called me crazy before heading out on patrol, but I didn't care. I just wanted him to come back more often. As he left, still mumbling about how his quirk doesn't work that way and how I was wasting his time, I couldn't help but smile. Maybe he was finally moving on from what happened before.
The next day, when I picked up Tanya, I realized my intern might have been right. The baby still had the same bored expression on her face that seemed to suck the life out of me. Just being around her made me feel...something. My boss, Okuma Yuki, who also ran the orphanage, would always tell me how we should cherish the quiet ones because eventually, the loud kids would start imitating them and we could finally get some sleep.
I tried not to worry about Tanya's boredom, but something about it still bugged me. I couldn't shake the stories I heard about emotionally stunted children becoming villains. It consumed me and I was convinced that she was destined for a dark path.
Even though Tanya seemed chill now, I couldn't stop imagining her turning into a villain one day and causing chaos. So I took precautions, using my quirk to keep the kids in line and talking to them individually to make sure they'd let me know if anything "weird" was going on with Tanya. Okuma warned me about sending a bad message about quirk use, but I didn't care. It was worth it to prevent any potential harm.
Months went by without incident and I started thinking Mophead was right all along. But my fears wouldn't go away. I lived in constant anxiety, going back and forth between feeling calm and panicking. And then something strange happened — Tanya's behavior started getting better. She started copying the other kids, trying their yoga moves and even mouthing words during my quirk training sessions. And when she gestured towards the computer, indicating she wanted to use it, I was shocked. Was little Tanya interested in surfing the web? It was only when she said her first words — "Mama's strong" — and it was like a floodgate had opened.
I watched Tanya play with the other children in our orphanage, conflicted. She was a bright and curious child who radiated innocence and wonder. As she grew older, her questions became more probing and observant. I noticed her discreetly studying every adult and child who entered our home, murmuring their names to herself as if committing them to memory. It was both endearing and unsettling, knowing that she was trying to understand and make sense of the world around her.
Tanya grumbled about the silly name "Death Arms", making me snicker. Despite her past evil tendencies, she seemed like a normal kid in that moment. I noticed a change in her attitude too — she was now curious and engaged in her surroundings. My worries about raising a supervillain vanished as I saw potential for a top hero. So I eagerly taught her everything she wanted to know, watching her soak it all up with enthusiasm.
After talking with Okuma, we both agreed to document Tanya's growth and share it with the HPSC. I didn't fully understand their arrangement, but it seemed like a good way to get more resources for Tanya when her powers eventually manifested.
From then on, I took a hands-off approach and just offered encouragement whenever needed. It was strange to teach and guide such a young child, almost a toddler. Some might call it unconventional, but Tanya had an unquenchable thirst for knowledge and learning, far beyond what most children her age are interested in. She spent all her time watching and mimicking the adults around her, like a little version of us.
I didn't have the heart to limit her screen time or make her play with other kids outside. Despite being so young, Tanya was full of smarts and energy whenever she sat on the computer, a stark contrast from just months ago when she seemed dull and uninterested.
Raising Tanya was new territory for me. I had never raised a child before coming here, but seeing her potential and drive, I decided to let things be. A well-behaved and heroic child was definitely better than a troublemaker looking for trouble.
The other kids were a handful, always running around and curious about everything. I would often ask Okuma to use her quirk "Time out" on them to get them to settle down. But Tanya was different. She was always eager to help, sometimes even doing chores without being asked. It was sweet to see her struggle with reading and get mad at her imaginary friend, Ex, when she mispronounced a word. Even though she was so young, Tanya showed promise and reminded me of my own childhood when I looked up to Pro Heroes and dreamed of becoming one myself.
Okuma, my boss, had been making a lot of trips to city hall lately. There were more Villain attacks happening after some big Villain group got shut down. I couldn't remember the name. Villain something? Whatever. Okuma was trying to get more patrols in the outskirts of town. Maybe it would make people feel safer.
I knew that violent quirk awakenings were pretty rare. Like really, really rare. Only one out of like twenty thousand people with quirks actually hurt others when they used their powers. And even then, their body could resist it or whatever.
So when Tanya had her intense quirk awakening, everyone at the orphanage was totally shocked.
As I got ready to go to the store that day, Tanya came up to me all serious-like. She was only five but she was super smart - probably part of her quirk.
Despite facing numerous obstacles, she was determined to become great. She knew her quirk wasn't flashy enough for the spotlight, but if The Principal could overcome his challenges, then surely she could too. And let's be real, she was way cuter than him.
Although Tanya was smart and mature for her age, she still looked like a little girl. Today, she insisted on coming with me to the market to help pick out groceries. I politely declined, reminding her of her headache and how the busy market would only make it worse. Lately, she had been complaining of seeing double and it amazed me how she could still function with such a feverish face.
I suggested that she hang out with the other kids instead, if she felt up to it. It was something I often had to remind her of. Her eagerness to always be helpful and use her genius mind sometimes made her feel isolated from her peers. Even though she was physically present during meals and study time, emotionally she seemed distant and aloof. As someone who wanted to be a hero one day, it was important for her to learn how to connect with others on an emotional level too - not just intellectually.
When I got back to the quiet house after a few hours, something felt off. I called out but no one answered. As a former (almost) pro hero, my instincts kicked in and I quickly searched the rooms, heart racing. I finally found the kids huddled together in the living room, all scared and freaked out. They were relieved when they saw me, some even blurting out "It wasn't me!" or "Is she okay?" After calming them down and promising that everything would be fine, I turned to Shibata, the oldest one there. Getting the full story was like pulling teeth, but my experience in handling tough situations helped me get what I needed. Shibata explained that Tanya had used her quirk during a fight and it caused her whole arm to blow up. They had rushed her to the hospital along with other kids who had bleeding ears from Tanya's screams. The police had come and taken Okuma away when she got back while I was gone.
I wanted to make sure it was really Tanya they were talking about, so I kept asking questions. Turns out this was her first real fight and she didn't have an intelligence quirk. Shibata showed me the room where it all went down, still stained with Tanya's blood on the floor.
That night at the hospital, I learned that Tanya was sedated because of her intense pain and tendency to break things when she woke up. She had surgery to save her arm and fix her broken bones before they healed wrong. There's hope for a full recovery, but she'll probably have scars. During the surgery, a doctor's quirk revealed that Tanya has a second set of vocal cords and an extra organ connecting them to her voice box, there seemed to be some sort of energy that radiated out of it in a form of light, but then he started giving some details that just went over my head… Bottom line is we didn't know how powerful her quirk could be, so now she'll have to learn how to control it.
The Doctor gave her medicine to numb her throat as she recovered, keeping her muted when she awoke. Every time she woke up, fear flooded through her body at the inability to speak. But with simple explanations and reassuring words, she eventually came to terms with what was happening. It was a waiting game until a quirk trainer could help her, and I could sense her frustration and sadness whenever she drifted back to sleep. The faint golden light that radiated from her throat when the medicine started to wear off was both frightening and mesmerizing...
I always made sure to be by her side when she woke up, offering comfort and assistance. Okuma would use her quirk to put Tanya back to sleep if she got too agitated. Thankfully, after some begging and bargaining, Okuma managed to get help from a special branch of the HPSC that dealt with children with difficult quirks.
A trainer was assigned to work with Tanya, and within just one week of intense sessions in a soundproof room, she showed immense improvement in controlling her quirk. As she gained more control, the need for nullifiers decreased. We all felt relieved and proud as we watched Tanya master her vocal cords.
Her second set of vocal cords gave her an incredible range, far beyond what any normal person could achieve with their own voice. She even claimed to be able to see sound waves, though testing proved it was unreliable. I couldn't begin to understand how it worked, but I made sure to note it in her file.
Tanya's voice was a force to be reckoned with. She had learned to sing with the guidance of an agent, and could belt out tunes instead of just hitting notes. The kids at the orphanage loved her karaoke skills, making it a regular activity alongside board game nights. It was no secret that Tanya stole the show every time.
Her vocal range was unmatched - she could go from sounding like Deep Bassman to Lilikachu in seconds. And not only that, she could harmonize and do duets like nobody's business (although those moments were rare).
But on the last day with her agent, something seemed off. Tanya's eyes lacked their usual sparkle, and there was a tense silence between them that I couldn't quite wrap my head around.
After that, he ghosted us all and wouldn't even pick up any of our following weeks were a total bummer. Tanya went from being bubbly and open to closed off and distant. The spark in her eyes flickered out, leaving behind a cold void. No more school books or listening intently to my (totally not exaggerated) tales of heroism for the kiddos. Instead, she spent hours on her computer, reading crazy conspiracy theories about "Shadow governments" and "Hero Assassins."
I had to step in and put some restrictions on her screen time before it completely fried her brain. Every time I saw her blank stare and sunken eyes, I felt like a terrible parent. Even our weekly karaoke nights, once full of fun and laughter, couldn't bring back that twinkle in her eye.
She would argue about needing to study or wanting to chill with a book instead of hanging out with the other kids. Desperate to see any glimpse of her old self, I had to resort to trickery by convincing her that our outings were actually Quirk Training sessions. It felt sneaky, but it was the only way I could coax her out of her shell.
Years flew by, and kids came and left our foster home. Some got adopted and bounced, while others disappeared when they hit a certain age. But Tanya stuck around ready to lend a hand even when she felt like her own dreams were slipping away. To everyone else, she seemed content playing background support.
I noticed the weight that hung over Tanya whenever heroes were mentioned. Every kid here dreams of using their powers for good and being praised for it, but not Tanya. She shrank at the thought of being in the spotlight, avoiding conflict whenever possible. Ever since her HPSC trainer ditched her, she avoided attention at all costs - even from potential adoptive parents. She played busy or uninterested whenever couples came to meet the kids. I tried to push her to show them how amazing she really is, but she refused, saying there were other kids who needed parents more than she did.
I finally gave up when Tanya told me that she didn't want another parent. Okuma gave me this knowing look when I talked to her about it later, and I couldn't help but feel guilty for my obvious favoritism.
Time kept moving and soon it was time to talk to the kids about their future goals. I passed out papers for the little ones to draw or write what they wanted to be when they grew up. As expected, most of them shouted with excitement that they wanted to be heroes. But the older teens had more realistic dreams. Some still clung on to the hope of becoming a hero despite the odds stacked against them
I saw the same old bored look in Tanya's eyes as she sat in the middle of a bunch of screaming kids, their papers flailing all over the place. I leaned in and stared deep into her silver eyes, searching for any signs of excitement. "What about you, Tanya?" I asked, trying to sound concerned but ending up sounding nosy instead. With a sigh, she gave me a halfhearted answer. "I'm okay with my job prospects," she mumbled, like she was keeping some big secret from me.
The room got tense when Musaro pounded his fist against the wall in anger, totally not like his usual cool self. It was weird and made me think something was going on between them. But hey, maybe it was just some drama.
"You better get into U.A.!" he yelled at Tanya. "You better have studied those stupid guides!"
"I won't let you down, Musaro," Tanya said with fake confidence. "I'll try to get into U.A... maybe just the easy courses or something." The other kids started to give each other looks while Musaro lost focus. Tanya quickly changed the subject and flashed a fake smile at everyone. "But Sando is also trying out for U.A., guys!" The kids were shocked that Tanya even knew about Sando's plans and wanted to know more. Taking advantage of the distraction, Tanya sneaked away unnoticed by the rest of the kids.
I grimaced as I watched the door close behind her. She was always holding back her Quirk and junk because she thought she was too dangerous to be a hero. Like, come on girl, chase your dreams!
Despite being young, Tanya took care of everything around the house with no complaints. And she was always there for peeps who needed advice or someone to vent to, and she never got mad when they pranked her, but she also made sure they didn't do it again.
Tanya would light up whenever I asked her about villains and stuff, and she totally had that hero mindset. Like, "Yo, that grocery store guy only did it cuz he had no other choice. If he had a job, none of this would've happened." And with the fires downtown, she was all about prioritizing human life over material things. Real talk.
I knew Tanya was meant to be a hero, so when she asked me to submit her app to U.A., I couldn't help but check off "Hero" instead of "Management." When I made sure a former intern would keep an eye out for her application and make sure it passed through the censors...
I knew I could never tell anyone of course.
But like any other mother, I would do anything for my children.
Tanya Yamada, Middle Schooler
I let out a sigh and gently rubbed my eyes, feeling the weight of stress and disappointment building up.
Why did I have to take this test again?It felt like life was playing cruel tricks on me.
I recalled when I first submitted my application to the orphanage's Caretaker, hoping for a better future. However, there was a "mixup," as she called it, and by the time it was discovered, it was too late for me to reapply for the general education course. Thankfully, after some searching online, I found out that I could potentially transfer into the prestigious hero course if accepted. Though transfers were allowed in the first year at U.A., the chances of being accepted into the hero course were slim.
Slim might be an understatement. The hero course at U.A. had an acceptance rate of less than one percent, with students from all over Japan competing for limited spots. Even the general course I had initially applied for had a low admittance rate of only five percent. At least I had put effort into studying for that material.
From what little information I could gather through forums and blogs, the tests for the hero course heavily favored destructive and flashy quirks. My own quirk may fulfill the "flashy" requirement, but it definitely falls short in terms of destructive potential. Not to mention, I haven't exercised beyond the minimum required for physical therapy. The thought of intense training and competing against others with undoubtedly more powerful quirks made me groan inwardly.
Why did everything have to be so complicated?
I spent years diligently perfecting my quirk, constantly practicing its effects during breaks from studying and performances at the orphanage. Through careful observation and determination, I discovered the precise rhythm needed to control my power, allowing me to lift objects much heavier than expected for someone my size. All those hours spent watching Mita wield her strength effortlessly, like lifting bunk beds with one hand to clean underneath them, had paid off. Despite having this power at my disposal, the mere thought of engaging in physical confrontations with criminals made me shiver - it felt like I was once again becoming Degurechaff. My true calling was not on the front lines of heroism, but rather behind the scenes, creating and promoting their image to the world.
I can only hope - no, I am confident that I will pass this test and transfer into general education as planned.
Curse Being X for putting me in this position.
Nedzu, Principle of U.A.
"Are you really going to allow her to take the physical exam?" Recovery Girl spoke, stabbing her finger to the manilla folder.
It has been years since something like this has slipped through the cracks of the administration, though Midnight wasn't as sly as she thought she was, and honestly, the situation at U.A. is getting to be a bit of a bit of a trainwreck that he can't look away from.
Despite his best efforts in steering more of the older Heroes into raising the next generation of Heroes, they stubbornly refused- too secure in their ivory towers to notice the vultures circling overhead.
He didn't even bother asking Endeavor or All Might to join, so he was surprised when All Might approached him holding that job application and provisional teaching license…
A few years back, there was a significant staff turnover as many left to return to hero work or retired for personal reasons. I barely needed to look at the dates to learn why they were leaving. After all, it fell to him to fill in the gaps with competent teachers.
I leaned back into my chair at my desk and took a moment to glance over the two teachers in front of me. Shaggy hair, unkept beard, baggy eyes. Aizawa once again skipped sleep in favor of an extra patrol on the outskirts. He had sharp eyes, despite missing sleep, adrenaline keeping him invested in the topic. Chiyo's tone of voice is slightly uninterested. So Aizawa likely brought her here to argue with her as a witness or for her medical input.
Interesting.
"This is the height of irrationality. The girl shouldn't have passed the approving board, let alone the" Ah. That's the reason. I interrupted the man, "But she did, and she applied to the course regardless of her medical history."
Aizawa took a moment to gather his thoughts, hopelessly thinking he could change my mind here. He was already on the thinnest of ice with me regarding last year's expulsions, and his useful quirk was the only thing protecting him from being outright fired and served to the masses. The HPSC and school board did everything they could to save U.A.'s image and fought to keep the few rightfully angry parents and students who didn't decide to return to the school from going to the media with their stories. His quirk being what it was is the only reason I haven't blocked the HPSC's political maneuvering to cover for him.
"Then she is irrational and a danger to herself and others. We need to deny her application and reject her." There was something there- the way his voice pitched. This was more personal to him for some reason.
Interesting, but not overly so.
I let the silence in the room grow. The downsides to having already thought through the conversations with humans are that trying to get to the end of the debate takes time…
I let my gaze move over the two with an audible hum, confirming that they are both in agreement to deny her application. A suitable amount of time has passed to continue.
"Well then. Let me remind you both that your advice has always been heard and, in most cases, even followed. We will not be blocking Yamada's test." Before the two could talk back, I held up my finger, "The U.A. testing grounds are top of the line in safety and security. And we have you, Recovery Girl, on hand for any injuries that may happen, as well as plenty of other certified staff. The girl in question applied for the Hero course. Despite, and perhaps because of, knowing what her quirk can do to her body."
For a Hero school, sometimes these two really pushed the boundaries of 'Safety.' I chuckled at the thought and sipped his tea before continuing, "That's very Plus Ultra of herself. If she doesn't succeed then this may be just what she needs to be realistic regarding her health… but something tells me that she may just surprise you two, and even if she didn't I don't need to remind you of the current situation we have for ourselves this year."
All the teachers were given a stern talking to two years ago about the teachers' rather loose teaching styles and disciplinary actions. How the public will view the school and the impact such practices will have on the hero industry.
Then the talk became private last year between myself, Aizawa, and Vlad King.
Too late, perhaps. The students of 2-A banding together in a show of teamwork almost unheard of in such a large group of humans.
Sadly it was behind a lawsuit, not Hero work.
Oh well. If anything happens during the test, that is just one more incident to throw onto my pile to take to the school board. I might be able to change the damn school entrance exam into something that exemplifies pure heroics rather than punching society's problems away. The secondary scoring barely passed their notice when the exam was approved. Only human laziness has kept them from challenging it yet. Despite knowing my plans, at least to some degree, Aizawa, in all his 'rationality,' has been consistently shooting himself and this school in the foot.
Thankfully in terms of Yamada's entrance exam, I was able to glean from the HPSC's servers notes about young Yamada's potential and her 'mitigation' training.
Those were the only things that protected Midnight from being brought here to answer for herself.
While I rummaged over my thoughts, the two chastised teachers left my room. I waited a moment before setting down the application folder Aizawa left behind.
Tanya Yamada, Quirk: Fantasmic, emits frequencies of sound and light from her body with various minor effects depending on the color. The frequencies are controlled by her vocal cords. User is not protected from the impact, helpful or otherwise.
It's slightly off-putting that her face was familiar despite the common name. He didn't meet many non-heroes during his short-lived Heroics career and only met students sparingly as The Principal… Something to look into in the future if she becomes a student here.
Now, where is that blonde buffoon? He should have been here two hours ago…
Tanya Yamada, Hero Course Applicant
My instincts were spot on. I knew I wouldn't pass this test.
As the clock chimed two, my mind was already fatigued from hours of intense testing. The individual sections covered four broad subjects: math, literacy (both English and Japanese), science, and heroics.
The literacy portion was a breeze for me, having lived three lives and becoming proficient in Anglish (English in this life). It was yet another example of Being X's negligence. While others may have found the writing portions daunting, my experience writing war documents and reports made it easy.
Math and science were also manageable, as years spent in the sky performing magic calculations had prepared me well. Even when the questions reached college-level difficulty, I tackled them with ease.
But then came the heroics section, which I struggled with due to my lack of preparation. While I could handle basic first aid and mass casualty response questions thanks to my second life experiences, when it came to dealing with villains and apprehension tactics, my mind went blank.
Distinguishing insurance fraud from unregistered quirk use? It was like guessing blindly with my answers.
But ultimately, I hoped I had done well enough to pass. Though I wasn't about to start praying to Being X over it. If by some miracle I did manage to pass that test, it was probably because of the abundance of questions on mass casualty response and large-scale villain fights - something that my past life had given me plenty of experience in.
I retrieved my lunch from my bag and eagerly savored each bite, grateful for the improved taste thanks to our lieutenant's efforts. Despite the unpleasant surroundings near the garbage, it was a small price to pay compared to the war-torn trenches of the Rhine. This secluded spot provided a moment of peace amidst the chaotic scene of hungry teenagers clamoring for food.
If I didn't pass and get into U.A., I would have to settle for online classes and financial struggles. But I deserved more - at least the opportunity to attend Japan's most prestigious school. In my retirement, anything less than first place would not suffice. With this mindset, I focused on envisioning success rather than dwelling on negative thoughts. However, I wouldn't receive any further information until after lunch.
Uncertainty lingered as I finished my meal and received a pamphlet outlining the upcoming physical tests. Nervous yet determined, I entered a large auditorium where assigned seating awaited me.
Studying the pamphlet, I carefully reviewed the rules multiple times, attempting to calm my racing thoughts while awaiting the Pro Hero's instructions. But even as they spoke, my mind couldn't help but question the simplicity of it all.
Disabling robots. Varying points for each type. It seemed almost too effortless, almost insignificant. Some robots were mere obstacles with no value in the overall scoring. It was almost demeaning to think that anyone with a powerful quirk and endurance could excel in these exams. Of course, this also assumed that the robots were intentionally designed to be weak or had obvious vulnerabilities to exploit.
But what did this have to do with being a hero? Just because one can disable robots doesn't necessarily mean they possess heroic qualities. Based on information I had gathered from online forums about previous exams, there was always a hidden test within the practical portion.
Wait...heroism is about more than just physical strength and destruction - that was the answer!
Nemuri, Pro Hero Midnight, Heroic Arts Teacher
The observation deck was buzzing with excitement as the faculty gathered to witness the students' practical exam. On the screens, we could see the young heroes-in-training battling it out against robotic opponents. Some were showing off their skills while others struggled to keep up.
"This group is very lively. Some are pulling out tricks and doing very well," one professor remarked, while others switched from screen to screen, closely monitoring each student's progress.
I always dreaded this part of the year. I couldn't help but feel a mix of nerves and amusement as I watched these young hopefuls fight for their future. As someone whose quirk wasn't fit for combat, I understood the pressure they were under. But hey, with some training and support items, I had proven myself in last year's sports festival.
But let's be real, not everyone here is cut out for hand-to-hand combat. Most of these kids probably didn't even think about using support items to enhance their quirks. It may not be fair, but as they say, 'life isn't always fair.'
My eyes roamed eagerly over the various screens displaying the students' battles, but something inexplicably drew my attention. A petite blonde girl, far smaller and thinner than her peers, strutted confidently through the streets without breaking a sweat. She effortlessly weaved past other students battling robots as if she owned the place.
"Ooh, who's this little firecracker?" I grabbed a remote from the nearby table and focused the camera on her. Nedzu's voice snapped me out of my trance.
"I see you've noticed Yamada too," he said with his trademark smirk.
Befuddled and slightly flustered by his words, all I could think was what was she doing in this exam? I specifically recommended her for the less intense recommended exams.
Nedzu grinned even wider, leaning in to whisper, "You know connections can get you anywhere, even into a recommended exam. But it seems that little Yamada here wants to prove herself in the General Practical."
I cringed at the realization that he must have known my secret recommendation.
My heart skipped a beat as the camera suddenly went dark, then flickered back on to reveal Tanya with her arm buried deep in a robot, successfully disabling it. Despite her small stature and innocent appearance, Yamada was undoubtedly a fierce competitor to be reckoned with.
"Great. She's doing it."
Aizawa remarked with a hint of exhaustion, his eyes fixated on the monitor as a green-haired beauty sprinted through the city. Yagi tore his gaze away from his own screen to follow her every move, while Nezu watched with a wide grin. The monitors automatically activated shaded filters as she passed by robots, leaving them headless in her wake. Some students stumbled and clutched their ears as she ran past them, prompting Yagi to ask with concern, "What is she up to-"
As I turned to him, Aizawa's reply dripped with open hostility. "She is hurting herself and the other examinees."
I raised an eyebrow in surprise at his words. While he always prioritized the safety of his students, accidents were bound to happen during training and this girl wasn't even part of our class yet.
Concerned, Yagi asked, "What is her quirk?"
Nezu hummed thoughtfully before answering in a flirtatious tone, "Examinee number 3141, Tanya Yamada. Her quirk is called Fantasmic, it allows her to use sounds to project various effects on people who hear her… and it seems she's not actually harming anyone." He tapped a few buttons on the control panel and the monitors switched to show the students she had run by standing up and dusting themselves off before continuing on. "In fact," Nezu continued with a playful smirk, "it looks like she's energizing them. Though her blast of light and sound may have caused some temporary discomfort."
"So… she's singing at them?" Yagi mused with interest.
Aizawa let out a low hum of confirmation. "Based on her reports, I would have expected her arm to have blown off by now..."
My heart skipped a beat. How did he already know about that? Did Mita spill the beans to him too?
Meanwhile, across the room, Yagi coughed up a mouthful of blood in surprise. "What?!"
His sudden outburst caught everyone off guard, causing Nedzu to let out a growl and the other teachers to look towards him. "As Aizawa seems determined to create a bias for one of our examinees," he began, his beady eyes glancing towards me briefly, "it seems I must inform you all that our usual background checks missed a student this year."
Darn it all. This will be the last time she does a favor for that woman, even if it means giving up her connections.
"The girl in question had a history of losing control of her quirk, resulting in hospitalization. However, it was now supposedly under control and with Recovery Girl on standby, allowing the exam to proceed seemed like a low-risk decision. And now she is accumulating a nice amount of villain points." Nedzu sighed as he addressed the rest of the staff, waiting for them to return to their monitors before turning back to Aizawa. "If she passes, she'll be in your class. And because of your bias, any recommendation for expulsion this year will have to go through my approval first."
Aizawa let out a grunt before turning back to his computer screen, a slight pout forming on his lips. It was going to be a whole year without his beloved expulsions - an unprecedented but not entirely unwanted change. I adored the man, but his quick trigger finger for kicking students out had caused some hiccups in the past.
Nedzu popped on his headphones and used a nearby drone with a fancy microphone to zoom in on Yamada's quirk. Without hesitation, I synced my screen with his and listened intently.
"-will tomorrow ever come? Will I make it-"
Looks like we have a 'Bad Apple' on our hands.
Heh.
But at least she has good taste in music.
If this goes well, maybe I'll give Mita a second chance after all.
Tanya Yamada, Hero Course Applicant
Through the lens of physics, sound encompasses not only audible waves but also vibrations that can travel through various mediums such as air, water, and ground. It possesses immense power to both harm and benefit living organisms. Low frequencies have the potential to cause internal damage and even fatalities, while high frequencies remain beyond human hearing and are utilized for sonar-like purposes.
Sound is a subtle yet potent force - a hidden weapon and a versatile tool.
As someone with a mutation granting me the ability to create all sound frequencies and the ability to see sound waves, I understand the potential dangers it holds. My vocal cords and eyes have been altered by my quirk, allowing me to produce sounds at will and witness their effects. However, this also means that if im not careful then even something as simple as breathing can weaken my bones and lead to fractures.
Fibromyalgia induced by my quirk at the age of five - thanks X, you-
With the help of an organization under the HPSC, I underwent counseling and training to manage my quirk and handle its challenges. It was during this process that I realized I have a secondary set of vocal cords that can transform sound into visible light - a unique ability that works in reverse to converting electricity into sound.
I compared the effects to how I used Magic in my second life. I found a specific frequency that gave the effect of adrenaline, strengthening my muscles and letting me move faster, almost as if I had Mita's quirk as my own. Meanwhile, a specific slower frequency gave the effect of cooling down, calming me down, but made it a struggle to move. Sounding like the owner of the orphanage, Okuma's Time Out quirk. I also found with my testing that the light that shined also had an effect on all those around me.
In this battle against robots, I used this specific part of my quirk to my advantage. By singing loudly and creating bright flashes of light, I not only blinded the robots but also boosted the adrenaline levels of those around me. It was a calculated move of course - Showboating, and drawing the media's attention is the number one key aspect of modern Heroism, after all.
But with every loud note and blinding light came physical consequences for myself - a bleeding throat and growing bruises on my arm. Focusing on controlling the direction and intensity of my abilities, I pushed through the pain and continued on with my plan.
And as I sang and made noise, I couldn't help but think about how similar this was to using magic in my past life. Just like then, I had to be careful not to harm myself or those around me with my powerful quirk.
Focusing back on the test I continued the song I enjoyed the most from last week's karaoke.
"with nothing but my pain and a para-"
—-
The exam ended abruptly, with the sudden appearance of a massive robot, the Zero Pointer. Its mechanical movements were intimidating and the students scattered in fear towards the exit, momentarily forgetting their exhaustion from the intense test.
As I made my way towards the entrance, completely drained of energy, I couldn't help but feel weighed down by the mistakes I had made in the last fifteen minutes. My throat burned and begged for relief from my constant coughing. I could only hope that all my attempts to show off during the exam had been worth it.
At the entrance, an elderly nurse greeted me with understanding and used her quirk to heal my aching throat. She also offered me some gummies to replenish my energy. Exhausted, I collapsed onto a nearby bench, struggling to catch my breath and fight off fatigue. The fear of failing due to exhaustion consumed me.
Despite my efforts, sleep eventually overtook me and I woke up in the infirmary with other students who had also endured the brutal exam. One student had even broken multiple bones during the test, a reminder of its grueling nature. I couldn't imagine they would pass with such injuries.
Feeling defeated and depleted, thoughts of my own chances at passing plagued me. I departed from the infirmary and reflected on my performance during the train ride home. It became clear that showboating may have been expected, but it only highlighted my weaknesses rather than showcasing my strengths.
As I walked back to the orphanage, I couldn't shake the feeling of disappointment and frustration. I needed to start sending out applications to other schools, even though it was a shame because U.A. would have been a prestigious addition to my job applications.
But every time I tried to bring this up to Mita, she dismissed it and told me to wait for the test results first. It was as if she already knew that I had passed.
While her confidence in me was appreciated, my efforts to appear perfect in front of her were now working against me.
How did things end up like this?
After a week of internal stress and looming deadlines, I was surprised when Mita congratulated me and gave me a letter along with a small metal projector. She gathered all the children around us as Sando opened her letter, revealing the metal disk as a projection created by the support course teacher. We learned that Sando had been accepted into U.A.'s support course.
Amidst the cheers and exclamations of my peers, I placed my own projector on the table. Mentally groaning, I prepared myself for the impromptu huddle that formed around me as everyone recognized the imposing figure of All Might projected before us.
With a flourish, All Might struck a powerful pose, his muscles visibly rippling under his suit. "I am here as a projection!" he announced. "Congratulations, Tanya Yamada! You have displayed great knowledge and courage during your two exams!"
His voice was strong and commanding, like a skilled public speaker capturing the attention of all those around him. "You scored exceptionally well on the written exam, with a perfect score in first aid. And during the practical, you showed remarkable focus, bravery, and self-sacrifice- all qualities of a true hero!"
The screen shifted to show me navigating through the test course and defeating robots. Despite my own embarrassment at my poor performance, the other children gathered around me exclaimed in awe and admiration.
All Might's smile widened as he gestured towards an empty spot next to him on the screen. "You have accumulated thirty-eight villain points," he announced. "While a commendable score, it was insufficient in order to pass." The display now showed my results with a bold red X next to a score of 38/40.
A feeling of disappointment washed over me as I realized what this meant.
I had not passed.
I started to feel my eye twitched involuntarily as I contemplated the unraveling of all my carefully thought out plans. The deadline for the other school was tonight - if I hurried, there may still be a chance...
All Might's powerful voice boomed, snapped me out of my thoughts. "Do not be discouraged, young Yamada! We were not solely assessing your combat abilities," he declared. "There were also rescue points available, given by a panel of judges based on your actions. And let me tell you, you earned an impressive twenty additional points for your uplifting musical performance which aided those in need!"
I let out a small groan as I heard my own voice begin to play through the speaker. Although I knew I was on key, the distortion from my quirk made it difficult to listen to. But my groans quickly turned into amazement as my name appeared on the screen, listed as ninth place overall.
Ninth place? Out of so many applicants? It was hard to believe, but seeing it written out made it real. A sense of pride and accomplishment filled me.
All Might stood with his back straight, his muscles bulging and flexing with a show of strength. His voice boomed through the speaker, "This is your Hero Academia! As for why I'm here!? You are looking at U.A. Academy's newest teacher!" All Might turned, towards the screen which had my application and photo, seeming to address me directly, "And Young Tanya, I look forward to having you in my class!" With a nod and a wave, he announced, "Well, that went well. I'm off to take a break- I've still got how many left?" And with that, the larger-than-life hero disappeared, leaving me in a state of shock that slowly twisted into horror as all the children clapped and cheered me on.
I had achieved what every aspiring hero dreamed of: entrance into the prestigious U.A. Academy in Japan. I should be overjoyed, right? But the problem was that I couldn't transfer out of the hero course as I had planned. Snubbing the number one pro hero would be disastrous for any career I applied to. Not to mention, everyone here would sooner crucify me than accept my decision. All Might held a level of popularity akin to that of The Emperor.
It was blatantly obvious that this was just another convoluted scheme concocted by Being X. Only that moronic failure could create such an utterly foolish plan!
AN 2: I should have called this story "RE: Of Heroes and Tyrants: The Infinite Convergence of Willpower and Wrath in a World Reforged– REWRITTEN WITH A VENGEANCE—A My Hero Academia and Saga of Tanya the Evil Chronicle" with the amount of times I've rewritten this story… or "Yeet-o to Hero"
Special thanks to Lorelei, and Drkshadow for assisting me in edit's and giving me the kick in the jewels I needed to keep going.
My main inspiration has, is, and continues to always be, "Tanya the Holy" by Icura. https/s/13374429/1/The-Chronicles-of-Tanya-the-Holy
I'll eventually get to new content...