Angel: Oh boy, another 'suggestion' about this story not having enough romance or OCs. Haven't heard that one in a while *blank look* Gee, if only I hadn't heard this so many times since the story started, I might've considered it! Who have guessed that having this told to me for the umpteenth time would get me to not do these ideas? Especially in season 7!
You can already guess how my feelings are towards adding more romance or OCs at this point.
On Dark Might, though, pretty sure that they didn't kill him. It's Izuku, when have you ever seen him kill a person, even if a villain? Same thing with Izuka, Katsuki, and Shoto. Granted, I don't know what happened to him and the Gollini Family because it's still vague. People have died in this anime, but never by any of the hero course students. And before people tell me that students did kill villains in the Final War, they technically did not, and I'm not trying to spoil who I'm talking about.
I am familiar with the two epilogue chapters, but I haven't spoken about them too often because I don't want new people watching the anime only to get spoiled. I don't spoil stuff unless I want to. I haven't read the manga myself, but I do know what happens.
It was nighttime in a poor-looking neighborhood. A dog was barking, and...on one of the walls from a house was some graffiti. Some of the messages were 'responsible for bringing her into the world', 'demon house', and 'die', all directed towards those who lived there. Some others were 'turn yourselves in', 'scum family,' and 'go away.' And it was notably the only house this way...not that it mattered anymore because the occupants of said house were long gone. Quiet footsteps walked in...revealing to be from Himiko Toga. She passed by more graffiti that was even inside the house that said things like 'die,' 'bloodsucking devil, and 'go away'.
"We did our best, but we obviously failed. That child...is a demon," Mrs. Toga stated, as at that point, she refused to acknowledge Himiko as her daughter or someone she gave birth to. Because despite everything they tried with Himiko...they wanted nothing to do with her after what she did to Saito. They were that ashamed of her.
She frowned while looking at the home she used to live in...looking over with a small gasp. More messages like 'blood' and 'scum' she walked past, but didn't pay them any mind. Even her height chart was destroyed in scribbles and with the word 'trash' over it.
"Stop this!" Mr. Toga scolded his daughter angrily. "No one will ever accept this disgusting side of you!"
'Trash', 'shit', 'atone'...the further and further Himiko got inside, the more messages she found. She assumed that after her parents left, that their neighbors wrote all of these things to ensure that they never returned. Not that they would in any capacity...
"You can't just do whatever you want!"
She stopped in front of the staircase, walking up towards a specific door. 'Apologize', and 'the only way to atone is to die' were newer ones...
"Himiko, why is your face so scary?" A little girl asked of her.
Himiko used a knife to cut open the tape. "Control yourself! I'm telling you this for your own good!" She could remember her father yelling at her... while someone had written 'vampire family, die to atone!' near her door. She stared towards the messages directed at her, since...she was actually standing in her bedroom. 'Murderer' and 'bloodsucking devil'...even though she had heard these before, she wasn't immune to it.
Himiko laid in her bed, her mouth open as she touched her fanged teeth out of curiosity. 'I wish I was a little birdie...chirp, chirp. Tweet, tweet. They're so cute.' While touching her teeth...she bit into her own finger. 'Or I could be like Kei. Her dimples are adorable when she smiles.' She reached out and bit her own wrist hard enough to draw blood. 'Every night, I have the same dream. A tiny red sparrow flutters into my room. And it tap-dances all over my tummy! After a while, it starts pecking at my bellybutton, and pretty soon, it's dancing inside me. I end up getting dyed red just like the little birdie. Then I get to be cute too! Finally...' Her mouth was covered in blood from her own arm... 'The dream makes me feel warm and fuzzy. I love it...'
She stood in what was left of her room, basically nothing...She gave a small smile, knowing that there wouldn't be anything left of her...her parents most likely got rid of her things. Not that she really cared. "Nothing here. They abandoned the place," She gave a small smile, and with that, the blonde left.
"I can't believe you're sentimental," Dabi spoke up, revealing that he had actually been waiting for her to come out. He was leaning against a window of another house. "Didn't think a psycho like you had actual feelings."
"I was just curious what happened to my old house!" She defended while looking over her shoulder. "That's totally normal."
"Heh," He gave her a small smirk. "Does that mean you're prepared?"
"Don't know what you mean," She feigned innocence and then skipped off.
"I mean, are you ready to end this pathetic world?" He called out as she continued to skip.
"I've always been ready," Himiko remarked without looking back, since she had felt that way ever since learning about Stain. She didn't need to question her motives.
"That's the spirit," Dabi grinned, summoning a flame from his hand. "Whether or not you spend today laughing or crying...tomorrow will come just the same. In which case...we should laugh, don't you think?" He mostly wanted to laugh at his family when he destroyed them of his own accord. He fired up his flames, pointing it at the childhood home. He then set it on fire, to the shock of Himiko. "Why live if we can't have fun?"
She looked back at him in disbelief, looking at the burning home. There was nothing she could do to stop it either... "You dummy. You're gonna get us caught," She then faltered as...she knew her comrade didn't have to do that, and yet he still did. "That was nice of you, though."
"Nah, the heroes don't have the numbers or time to spare on a little house fire," Dabi dismissed, since there were a lot more things going on in society than a burning house. "And don't get it twisted," He let himself fall towards the ground. "I'm only nice when it causes Endeavor more suffering!" He used his flames to give himself some air before landing, looking up at Himiko. The man walked up as the specks of fire flew past the both of them. "It would work, you know. You should use it."
She gasped knowingly, digging into her pocket and pulling out a vial full of blood. "Your power doesn't just transform your appearance," He pointed out the time when Himiko used Ochaco's Zero Gravity. "As long as you care for a person, it gives you their Quirk, too. And before Machia carried us off, I swiped the blood of someone I know you truly loved," He pointed at the blood as she had a small smile on her face. "Twice. The real one. Sad Man's Parade. Let's turn his torment into grief for our enemies. We'll make sure we keep laughing. Forever."
She looked up at him with her smile still on her face, hoping that she did Twice justice soon...
Meanwhile, back at the cave they were hiding in, Shigaraki was still groaning in pain. Spinner let out a gasp as he looked up in the distance. He slowly stepped forward as he could hear his leader still recovering. "Shigaraki?"
If Shigaraki heard him, he certainly didn't respond back. "You okay?" The heteromorph wondered, and heard some weird noises up ahead. He opened his eyes in alarm...to see a bunch of fingers coming in out of nowhere. But then they slid backwards as if they were never there. Shigaraki panted as he felt a little sick... Spinner opened his mouth, knowing that Shigaraki could never do that before...
"Do not be concerned," All for One spoke up from behind, and Spinner clamped his mouth shut. "Tomura's recovery is coming along nicely." As he said this, Shigaraki didn't look great as he held his arm, the Symbol of Evil walking over. "He's simply proving that the Quirk Doomsday Theory can be overcome."
"Are you sure...that's still Shigaraki?" Spinner murmured in doubt, because Shigaraki certainly didn't...feel like himself.
"Of course I am," All for One answered, though it did nothing to ease or convince the heteromorph.
"Spinner," Skeptic looked over his shoulder from his set-up. He was now working with them, because if he didn't, he didn't want to know what All for One would do to him. "Since you're a heteromorph...you likely know the overlap of those who're like you and the ones labeled villains. No matter how hard the government or the pros try, they can't illuminate every shadow in society. Many heteromorphs hold a grudge against the so-called 'heroes' because of this. Those of us who remain must pave the way forward. When the League of Villains first made the news, the public was exposed to your form. And while you have copied Stain's costume...many heteromorphs now wear it in reverence to you."
"I don't know why they'd idolize me," Spinner remarked as he approached, since he would think Shigaraki and All for One were bigger names in public. Therefore, heteromorphs would gravitate towards those two, and not him. He wasn't even in the League for them, it was because of Stain. His appearance had a part in it, but it was never a major sell. And while his name, along with the others, were still out there, they weren't as important in the public's eyes. "It's not like I'm fighting for some noble cause or anything. I have one goal."
"The die has already been cast," Skeptic held up something to him. "Forget about the Jailbreakers. Common rioters need to hear from you," He held out a device to Spinner. "This is your destiny. Pull the trigger in Re-Destro's place."
He stared at it in silence, knowing that he would be advocating for other heteromorphs out there...some that might be very much like him. Or gone through what he had gone through without the Stain worship. We're past the point of no return. Even if I wanted to say no, how could I?
All for One turned to him with a small grin. "Take this important step. And help your admirers find their courage."
"Everything..." Shigaraki hissed out, getting their attention. "I'll destroy it all..." He growled out, grunting as it was still hard for him to move.
It doesn't matter what I think. Shigaraki. I wanna help...for your sake With that in mind, he took the device from Skeptic.
"Yes, that's right, Iguchi," All for One smiled towards him, pleased. "In this world, everyone has the ability to become somebody else's hero." Shigaraki looked up with determined eyes, wanting to see the world crumble, and soon...
At the evacuee residential area of UA, people were moving around in silence. Robots were carrying around supplies for those who couldn't. One man in particular was taking everything in, stopping near a woman with a knit cap. "We've received orders," He said simply to her.
"What are they?" She wondered while looking up ahead.
"He figured we'd have difficulties moving freely under these circumstances. So our job is to stir up the masses and stoke the flames of discontent. UA officials are aware of the fact that Tomura Shigaraki will be back on his feet again within a week's time. Yet they haven't warned the evacuees of his imminent attack..." He reported, as everyone seemed to be relatively relaxed despite the circumstances they were all in.
"Sow chaos. Ensure that Izuku Midoriya is not welcome within their stronghold...and that Izuka Midoriya will go down with him," All for One had instructed his spies.
Those of us who joined the search for the Liberation Front and the League of Villains were able to capture a number of Jailbreakers.
Since we were volunteering this time to help out, there was no need to keep things a secret anymore with everyone.
But we weren't able to find the actual targets we were after. All for One and Shigaraki remained in hiding. Out of our reach.
Among those taking down Jailbreakers were the twins, Shoto, and Katsuki as a group.
Either All for One was being really cautious like with Lady Nagant...or they were biding their time. Of course it wouldn't be too easy...
After they had returned from the search, Denki immediately fell to the ground after he entered the common room of Heights Alliance. "Someone. Carry me..." He murmured weakly from the floor.
"There's still so much ground we've gotta cover," Eijiro grunted out as he and Tsuyu left him behind.
"And with fewer heroes available, we have to pick up the slack," Mashirao pointed out, the rest of the class just as exhausted as Denki.
"I'm beat," Rikido confessed to him while no one seemed to be helping Denki.
"We should go to bed promptly," Tenya advised as he walked over, his helmet lifting up. "Our youthful resilience is our strength, so we must ensure that we're taking care of our minds and our bodies."
"I don't think a nap's the same thing as training," Katsuki remarked as he walked by with Izuka in tow, holding her hand.
"You know how he is if we don't take care of ourselves," She remarked with a small smile. "You're the same way to me, actually."
"I am not!" He grunted out, blushing in embarrassment. "...When you're ready for bed, you're sleeping in my room tonight. It gets cold when you're not around." He looked away, not accepting no for an answer. She blinked and then giggled a little to herself. The girl had a feeling her boyfriend just liked cuddling with her, considering how he was a heater with his Quirk.
"And brush your teeth," Tenya called out, giving a thumbs up. "Dental hygiene is no joke!"
"We don't even have enough spare time to trade dirty stories!" Minoru complained while walking over to Izuku. "Like about Bakugo and Mido's alone time! He gets her all to himself, and he won't even budge..."
"Uh, yeah, I guess not," Izuku looked a bit annoyed that Minoru was trying to get details. "I do agree we don't have enough down time," He looked towards Mina and Ochaco. Meanwhile, Katsuki was being held back by Izuka so that he didn't attack Minoru like he used to in the past.
"Mm, I'm gonna take the world's hottest bath," Mina held her shoulder, her horns wiggling a little.
"Sounds nice," Ochaco smiled in encouragement, hoping to get some relief herself.
We've hardly said a word to each other... Izuku couldn't even remember the last time he talked to her one-to-one ever since...
"WE BEG YOU!" The girls screamed into the megaphones. "LET UA...CONTINUE TO BE HIS HERO ACADEMY!" Izuku clutched at his heart while crying...
I haven't even gotten to thank her for what she did. I would thank my sister, but I have to focus on earning her trust again. And I don't know how she'd respond to it... He decided to go up to her so that they could talk. "Urara-"
The doors slammed open, sending Denki flying. The newcomers were Toshinori, Naomasa, and Principal Nezu on the latter's shoulder. "I am here again! Entering in a totally chill way!" Toshinori announced to the entire class.
"What's up?" Kyoka looked at him in bewilderment. "You sound energetic."
"Is it that obvious?" He pumped his fists, sounding a little too happy. Even Principal Nezu himself had a big smile on his face.
"That's kind of adorable," Izuka smiled in amusement towards their teacher. He hadn't been like this in a while, so it was nice to see that he was doing alright after Izuku had returned to UA.
"Detective Tsukauchi?" Rikido murmured upon seeing the two. "And the principal too?"
"Have you come with news about Aoyama?" Momo wondered and Naomasa only held up a finger.
"I need you all to listen closely," Toshinori instructed all of them. "For now, we're only telling select people what I'm about to share. It's time we discuss the future of our world. The final battle plan." They all looked up at him attentively, waiting to hear what they had in store.
The next morning
"Attention all evacuees currently sheltering on UA's campus," Principal Nezu announced through a speaker. "The heroes and police have combined forces in their investigations. What they've found is that Tomura Shigaraki of the League of Villains, the man who single-handedly caused unprecedented disaster, will be active again in four days. As such, UA will enter under martial law at that time as we do our best to ensure the safety of everyone here. Rest assured that all defensive measures will be increased to maximum levels." Among the evacuees were Kota, the heteromorph woman, as well as Inko Midoriya and Mitsuki Bakugo. "When the evacuation system kicks in, you will no longer be able to freely walk about the campus." Inko glanced up at her friend in worry. All for One's spy listened to the message, shocked that the thing he said wasn't going to happen...was happening before him. "We apologize for the inconvenience, and we thank you for your understanding. We will persevere."
And so, all of the hero course students would be leaving campus. "Everyone!" Tenya started off, him and Izuku bowing.
"We're grateful for all your support!" Most of them said in unison.
"Wait!" Kota stepped up, Eri frowning a little. "You're leaving, Mr. Deku?"
"And you too, Mido?" Eri asked a little sadly.
"Yes," Izuku gave a small nod, wearing his backpack. The others had their own bags as well. "I got some rest and cleaned myself up. Now it's time for me to continue the fight."
"Don't worry, Eri," Izuka bent down a little with a small smile on her face. "This is to keep you safe. We'll be back as soon as the fight's over."
"Your safety is our chief concern, so keep your eyes peeled," Snipe warned the group. "Don't forget. The evacuation system could activate at any time. You have to be prepared for anything."
Honest to a fault... The spy was in the back, listening in. Now he was victorious because them leaving meant that All for One could get to them easier... If the twins had just stayed here, the big man would have had a hell of a time getting to 'em. We didn't have to lift a finger to make sure our orders were completed. That's a relief. Now our future is guaranteed.
The twins said goodbye to their mother one at a time, and not a group hug. Something that was weird to them, but given the rift between the twins...it would've just felt awkward. Shoto said goodbye to his family as well, promising them silently to stop Dabi. Kyoka and Ochaco bid their parents farewell...while Katsuki got hit by his mom to his annoyance. Izuka looked on with a sheepish smile. Although, both her and Katsuki agreed to not inform their parents of their relationship until after they returned. They didn't feel that with the world in its state, that it was a proper time to tell them. Especially since Izuka and Katsuki...had a lot of history. Mezo shook the hand of the heteromorph woman. Principal Nezu helped Recovery Girl walk. Present Mic looked over to Eri, both her and Kota saying goodbye to the twins. All of the citizens looked on hopefully towards the students as they walked away. Izuku gave them a wave, smiling.
After we left UA...we moved into a makeshift headquarters located 30 kilometers from the school. A newly built fortress they were calling Troy.
It felt a lot like the dorms, just with a different design and system. And...for the next four days, this would be our temporary home.
"Thanks to Cementoss, Power Loader, and Ectoplasm, we were able to get this puppy functional pretty dang quick," Snipe explained to the students. "It's nowhere near as strong as UA, but it'll do. Why don't you take your bags inside and find your rooms?"
"This was definitely inspired by our dorms!" Toru exclaimed to Kyoka, placing an invisible hand on her shoulder.
"Wow. Yeah," Kyoka could definitely see the influence.
"Nice of them to build a fancy coffin for us," Hanta remarked, wondering why even bother.
"Dude," Rikido deadpanned towards him in disapproval.
Shoto stepped forward in silence with his boxes. Eijiro, Katsuki, and Tenya specifically stared at him leaving, knowing that a lot was on his mind...
After settling in, Izuka was sitting in front of a cherry blossom tree. It was similar to the ones that they would have at school...probably something for them to look at while the four days passed by to give them some sense of hope despite everything. The girl was sketching, looking towards a particular branch that had a robin sitting on it. The bird was unaware of her presence as she kept a close eye on it...and then it flew away a few seconds later.
"Ohh..." The girl complained while looking at her sketchbook. She had been there for a few hours now trying to draw one, but she'd end up about halfway before they left. She grabbed her page and ripped it out, tossing it to the ground. It fell into a pile of discarded paper near her. "They never wanna sit still long enough for me to sketch..."
Katsuki was walking by a hallway when he looked out the window to see Izuka there. "Hm?" He glanced up towards the robin specifically as it got further away.
Izuku stepped towards the window, looking out to see Ochaco standing on the edge of the cliff. She had her pink sweater on as it was a little chilly out. And she was alone too...
Izuku jumped down from his window to greet her. "Uraraka!" He called out, getting her attention.
"Oh, hi, Deku!" She greeted back as he ran up to the brunette.
"Are you done unpacking?" He wondered while joining her side.
"Yeah. I didn't bring much, so it didn't take too long," She confessed; partly due because of the fact that she didn't have much in her dorm room to begin with.
"Same. Just spare clothes," Izuku told her and she turned back to the view. Both of them stood in silence for a few seconds. Compared to everything else going on, it was...peaceful. Even if for only a short amount of time. "Hey, listen. I wanted to say thank you. For that speech you and Izuka gave back at UA? I really appreciate it."
"Aw, there's no need," She ran her fingers through her hair bashfully. "That was nothing. But it's nice to hear you still obsess over every little detail."
"I hope I'm not interrupting you," He stared at her in confusion.
"Not really," She moved her hands down, frowning a little. "I was just...looking out over the city. Too bad I didn't bring a camera, Mido would love to paint this someday," She placed her hands behind her back...knowing that she could trust him with what she was about to say. "You know, Deku...I think I'm probably pretty weird."
"No! You're not!" The green-haired boy immediately protested at his friend. "You're strong, and brave, and that hairstyle looks great on you, and you're kind, and cool, and nice to everybody. Plus you were the first real friend my sister made, and I'll always be grateful to you for that!"
"Yeah," She blushed as she was definitely flattered, but also gave him the wrong idea. "That's not what I meant," She opened her eyes, looking back out to the view. "When I had the megaphone, I was yelling down at everyone from the roof, when...all of a sudden...I started thinking about Himiko Toga. When we fought one-on-one, during Gigantomachia's rampage...I said some stuff that seemed like common sense to me. And she looked really sad to hear it. I was kind of surprised by her reaction, and then equally as surprised that she reached out to Izuka about it." Izuku gave a small gasp from her confession...wondering just like Ochaco what was really going in Himiko's mind. "She's a villain. And partly to blame for the city's current state, as well as someone I consider...well, a little sister. She's killed and stolen joy from countless people. Forgiving her isn't an option anymore. I know that. But still...I have no idea what Toga knows about being human. What's obvious to her. The kinds of things she might mistakenly think are true," She looked over to him with a small forced smile. "Anyway, that's the reason I came out here. So I don't forget the horrible scenes from that day. And I can stay focused on what really matters."
For example...the hero that she saw quit.
"Look, I get it," Izuku glanced down at the girl. "I swear." She looked up at him in surprise. "Shigaraki has done terrible, unspeakable things, especially to Izuka. But I saw a little boy crying inside of him. Even though we're about to go to war...I don't think I can ignore what's hiding deep inside his heart."
She looked at him in shock and then had a fond smile on her face. She didn't think that he'd be able to relate to her... "Well then, I guess we're both kinda weird." She then paused as she thought about something. "...Are...you and Mido on good terms?" Ochaco wondered, glancing up at him. "I haven't had the chance to talk to her about it. I didn't want either of you to feel like I was butting into your business."
"Oh..." He gave a wistful smile towards her, knowing that she was worried deep down. "No, you could never do that, and I know she'd agree with me. As for us...she wanted to forgive me, but I refused." Ochaco blinked at him in shock for both actions. "I put her through a lot, and...I can't have it all just thrown away like that. Not when she had to find out the truth from you guys, and then most likely wear herself out...like I did. So...when I earn her forgiveness...I need it to mean something. That's why I still have to uphold my promise to her that I will do my best."
Ochaco slowly gave him a small smile. "If you want...I could tell her that you wanted to thank her too."
"...Yeah, I'd appreciate it," Izuku confessed with a small smile of his own. He wanted to give Izuka some hope on his end what his mindset was towards forgiveness. "Thank you, Uraraka."
"I'm sorry if I made you guys worry," Shoto stated to Eijiro, Katsuki, and Tenya in his room. "I'm fine now."
"I have an older brother too, you know. And the Midoriya twins are our friends," Tenya gave him a small frown, knowing that he could sympathize.
"Sure, but I don't think we can compare our families," Shoto had a weak smile on his face, though he did feel better talking about it. He couldn't help but feel...a little jealous that the twins got along so well—usually. He kinda wished that Toya was like Izuka growing up so that he could at least get to know the real Toya...a chance that missed him thanks to his...family issues. "It's strange. I have no idea what kind of stuff Toya likes." A fact that hit harder because...well, the twins knew everything about each other.
"Definitely udon," Katsuki called out from the bed. "The kind that burns your mouth."
Shoto gave a fond chuckle, looking away. "In that case...maybe I'll have to eat some with him and Mido. You know, since she loves ramen."
"Don't push your luck," The blond scoffed, looking away while closing his eyes.
"It could be a friendly date," Eijiro grinned a little towards him. "It won't be romantic. You could even go with them."
"Tch, hell no," The blond muttered at the thought. "She can go. He won't do anything weird..."
Shoto blinked and then smiled a little for how much Katsuki was trusting him to be around Izuka. "...Thanks, Bakugo."
"Whatever. Just don't forget that she's exclusive to me," He remarked, opening an eye. Eijiro silently shook his head.
"Bakugo! Let's not forget that Mido isn't property," Tenya warned while waving a hand.
"I didn't say she was!" Katsuki grunted in a bit of annoyance.
Izuku and Ochaco continued to stare out to the buildings that couldn't stand up anymore, in front of the ones that could, but were empty. "We will stop them," Both of them declared in unison together.
Izuka was still sketching, sighing heavily as once again, the bird flew away from the tree. She placed a fist to her chin, wondering if it was even worth it anymore. She had been there long enough and would probably have to settle for a picture at this rate...unfortunately, her cameras got smashed too from her studio, and her phone was in her room. By the time she got back, another bird would come and go...
"Yo, kitten."
She blinked and glanced back curiously as Katsuki walked up to the girl. "Oh, hey Katsu," She greeted as he came to a stop behind her. "I thought you'd be training."
"Yeah, but if I don't check on my girlfriend, that makes me the asshole. Why are you trying to draw birds right now?" He furrowed his eyebrows down at her, since they had...a lot coming up to deal with. The boy then sat down behind her, hugging her waist.
She hummed and then turned back to the tree, the wind blowing in her hair. Katsuki blinked and looked towards it as well, wondering if it was that important to her... "I know that big things are coming up...so I wanted to have this be my last one. Or I guess I should say technically my first," She confessed softly, giving a sad smile as she looked down at her sketchbook. "My other art may be gone, but I can still make this at least. I have a lot to catch up on anyway after this is all over..."
He could tell from that she really wanted to paint again, but lately, it was too much to create a peaceful sense of mind for her. He knew that despite the fact that she did wanna be a hero...she still loved art, and it was something she could never let go of. And with Yuga having destroyed everything All for One instructed him to, even her sketchbooks...she had to start that all over again. At least the sketchbook of their love story was intact, because he had held onto it when Yuga destroyed everything.
"Mm...it's not much...but I can get them to stay in that stupid tree," He dug into his pocket, confusing her as she looked up. He pulled out a small brown object with two holes.
"Huh? What is that thing?" She tilted her head in confusion.
"Just watch, stupid," He retorted back to the girl.
"Mmm..." Izuka gave him a pout for that, looking a bit annoyed. Nevertheless, she kept her eyes focused on him as he blew into the object, a sound coming out of it. She heard something a few seconds later and then looked up, letting out a sharp gasp. Dozens of robins flew past them to land in the tree and she looked up ahead, her eyes tearing up. "Wow..." She murmured at the sight as she wasn't expecting something like this.
"It's a bird whistle," Katsuki revealed, causing her to look up in bewilderment. He was still looking at the tree, holding her close. "I asked Ponytail to make it. That way you can draw all you want after we win. And...I'll even help you get caught up." He had seen her website of art Denki helped her put up, so he knew her artistic style at this point.
"Katsu..." She murmured while beaming towards the sight. "That's so amazing! Thank you..."
"You don't need to thank me for anything," He clicked his teeth a little, turning towards the girl. "I don't understand how you do it...but your art is something else. Something to you. So no matter what happens to me or to us...don't forget that I..." He turned away from her, a light blush on his cheeks. "Have affection for you. And I promise that I'm not going anywhere." Because of what happened...he didn't want her to think that All for One would do something to him to get to her. He wanted to reassure her that she could at least hold onto what they had.
She smiled happily, taking his hands as he looked back down at her. "We'll win, Katsuki! And we'll come back here together." She wasn't going to pressure him into saying that he loved her. Romance was never something he excelled in anyway.
One of the birds landed on her knee and she looked down at it. She held out her hands as it landed on them and she smiled, gently petting it. Katsuki stared at her in silence before gently putting his hands over hers. She blinked and glanced back at him as his face conveyed he was thinking about something.
"Maybe when we get back…we should come back here someday. It's nice here," He murmured, as...he found this time refreshing.
She gave him a small smile and looked back down at the bird hopefully. "Yeah…we'll do that."
Together, they released the bird back out into the sky as a promise to return to the tree once the war was over. Katsuki hugged her close as they silently watched the bird fly overhead. There was something else he wanted to tell her...that was long overdue.
"Look…Izuka, you gave me gratitude, even when I never wanted it," He gently held her hands, getting her attention. She could see him still staring up ahead at the tree. "I don't want this getting around, but…I want to thank you this time."
"Thank me? I don't remember doing anything that would warrant it," She smiled in a bit of amusement. "You wanna fill me in?"
"I'm getting to it," He scoffed, staring into her eyes. "For…everything, I guess. For…showing your Quirk against a villain for the first time, trying to win against it because I was there. For standing up for me when I was fighting Uraraka. For telling Denim Face that he couldn't change me. All that and more. But most importantly…for showing me that having a powerful Quirk…doesn't make you stronger. Acknowledging your weakness does. I wouldn't have realized that if it wasn't for you."
"Uh," Izuka blinked and then blushed, looking away shyly. She didn't really think he needed to do this, he already swore himself to be better for her. And it felt kind of unfair to her since she knew that romance was never a priority to him. "You…don't really need to thank me for anything—"
"No, don't insult me by trying to act like it's nothing," He then reached out and gently took her hand in his. "And this is one way I can thank you, so just shut up and open your mouth."
He pulled her close and before she could protest, he gently pushed her head up to connect their lips together. She tensed up a little, but gently interlocked her fingers with his. He smiled as he felt her easing into the kiss, and gentleness was gone within seconds. He inserted his tongue and went full force, and she hopelessly tried to catch up. She didn't pull away just yet though as they made out. It wasn't until he bit her lower lip that it was starting to get a bit overwhelming.
"Alright, alright," Izuka pulled away, letting out a shaky breath as her entire face was flushed. "That's enough."
"Good. That way you never forget that I wasn't kidding," He then smirked as he wiped his mouth with his arm. He reached out and cupped her chin, noticing how red her face was. "Hah…even your face is making it hard to stop myself from thanking you more."
"Katsu!" She protested in embarrassment, covering her face. "I got the message, stop teasing me…"
He laughed as she tried to calm down, a small smile on his face. I wish we had some more downtime too, but...it'll have to wait for now. We've still got some training to do. At least I can spend the next four days with her, even if we can't go on more dates.
After drawing and spending time with her boyfriend, Izuka walked down the hallway of Troy to her room, which was the fourth floor on the left side. Just like back in Heights Alliance...She looked up, blinking in surprise to see Ochaco sitting in front of her door. The brunette looked up with a small smile upon seeing her friend.
"Mido. Hey," She gave a small wave.
"Ochaco," Izuka greeted back with a small smile, walking over to her door. Ochaco got onto her feet as she watched her unlock her door. "Hi. Sorry we haven't talked much..."
"That's okay. I'd want you to use your time to get stronger, anyway," Ochaco hummed as they stepped inside. Because they weren't staying long, Izuka only had basic furniture and spare clothes. "You didn't bring much either, huh?"
"Less distracting that way, if that makes sense," Izuka hummed as she closed the door. Baki wasn't again wasn't with her, and was staying with Eri. "You wanted to talk to me?" She sat on her bed and Ochaco took a seating spot next to her.
"It's about Deku...he wanted me to tell you thank you for what you did for him when he returned to UA...I know I might be meddling, but...no matter what he said, he does still miss you, you know," Ochaco confessed, causing Izuka to look up wide-eyed. "You two had always been so close...so I hope that whatever he needs to do...you guys can work it out. You're both so important to me, you know?" She looked up with a small teary-eyed smile.
"...Yeah," Izuka murmured, leaning in to hug her friend. Both of them had weak smiles on their faces, hoping that things would work out. Not only for the sake of both of the twins...but for their friends as well. "I know...thank you for coming and telling me, Ochaco. Even though he didn't need to thank me..."
She was so grateful that she had Ochaco as a friend...especially since Ochaco was the one who reached out to her when they first started UA. Izuka back then would've never done that on her own...
Ochaco smiled while hugging her back. "When we win...let's have a girls day, okay? We could paint together. Let's make all of your destroyed art back!" Izuka blinked and then teared up gratefully that Ochaco would even offer to help her since it was a lot of work. "Huh? Are you okay?"
"I'm fine...it's nothing," Izuka sniffed happily, wiping at her eyes with her wrist. "That sounds great, actually..."
3 days later
Lies do not work on me. I can tell if someone has the slightest bit of deceit in their minds. What was the name of that ability? I took it in the early days of Quirk appearances. I combined it with something else, but I can't quite remember what. I do recall its original owner was a rather dull man. All for One sat on his throne, looking towards his phone. His descendants are more interesting, though. A twist of fate brought one of them to work with All Might. Together, they drove me into a corner. But now...the lie-detecting Quirk will help to ensure my victory. He scrolled through all of his contacts, a big grin on his face as he couldn't wait for the future he was building towards. There is no greater joy than seeing a seed you planted bear fruit.
"We're doing quite well, here," Mrs. Aoyama informed him once he contacted her.
"I've been craving a drink. A 40-year Macallan would be nice," He suggested, wanting to have some fine wine before things took action.
"I can have my son bring you a bottle that was aged 16 years," She offered the villain, sounding very calm.
"That would do instead. Be a good dear and give me his contact information. We'll sort out the delivery," He responded gleefully to her.
"Thanks for looking out for him, Uncle. You never know what the future holds," She was only calling him Uncle in case anyone overheard their conversation. Both her and her husband were out of holding from the police.
"Yes. Strange days," He stared at the phone, analyzing the woman's tone and gratitude. No lies or ill will. She' s clear. Even if she's interrogated later for some reason, she'll pose no problem for me. This will be the last time we have to use these idiotic codes. He tapped his foot, knowing that people would turn against her, not him if her involvement did get public.
"Perhaps tomorrow?" The woman suggested, though her expression wasn't changed.
"Indeed. Tomorrow it is," And with that...he hung up. See you soon... He could see Izuku's location, as well as the location of everyone at Troy...
Izuku looked up ahead in shock as he was in a new hero's costume, which had thankfully gotten to him before the mission. However...on the roof of an abandoned building, he could see someone. He turned around...revealing to be Yuga himself. The green-haired boy then approached quietly.
"I appreciate you coming," Yuga greeted, putting his phone away. He knew that it was a bit...awkward calling out Izuku here ever since the last time they saw each other.
"Aoyama...why are you here?" Izuku couldn't help but wonder, looking at him wide-eyed. "I thought you were at the police station!"
"My parents' lawyer got me released for the moment," He confessed, though he did look like he hadn't gotten any sleep lately.
Izuku flinched and looked at him in surprise. "I'll go tell the others! You can join one of our search parties."
"Wait!" Yuga stopped him, holding out a hand. "I think we should talk alone first." Izuku only stared, not saying a word. Considering the situation...he was curious as to what his classmate had to tell him. The blond then closed his eyes. "It's kind of funny," He started off, knowing that the world around them was still very broken. "The courts are still in session...even though everything's crumbling. Maybe people are clinging to the old ways as long as they can before this way of life ends."
"What are you saying?" Izuku murmured, not knowing where this was going at all.
"Would you like for me to tell you All for One's true goal? Our country is in a terrible place, which has caused problems for the rest of the world," He watched as Izuku fully turned to him. "The value of the yen suddenly tanked." Day by day, the yen exchange rate dropped quicker and quicker. "Many Japanese companies are declaring bankruptcy. Meanwhile, villains everywhere are getting more bold. Whole nations are collapsing. Humanity is in a panic like it was in the Great Depression, or when Quirks first appeared. Unemployment's climbing worldwide. Currency is worth nothing. Panic reigns."
Izuku's eyes were shaking...as he thought Yuga would be more hopeful, not reminding him of their situation. Almost like...a villain would. "I don't get why you're telling me this right now, Aoyama."
"When states lose the ability to enforce law and policies, people struggle to survive. War and poverty run rampant. Soon, countries everywhere will abandon each other because they need to prioritize their own safety." America was already the first to go because of Star and Stripe's death, followed by Salaam's. So it was very evident that no country official would ever change their mind. "Imagine if a forsaken country was ravaged by drought, and someone appeared who had a Quirk that could create drinking water. Or electricity, or gas, or raw power. As the Earth slips further into anarchy, the stage is prepared for one unrivalled opportunist to take initiative and assume control over...all that exists." And by opportunist...he was referring to All for One. He could just see the Symbol of Evil holding the world in his hands now... "He will be crowned the demon lord. A single, terrible event is all it will take. Our world will fall off balance."
"It sounds bad," Izuku did acknowledge that kind of power would be devastating to those around them... "But you're wrong! People wouldn't allow that to happen. And besides...we're still here defending Japan."
"I know," Yuga gave a regretful smile. "That's why you're here. This can't be allowed to keep going. I'm sorry..." His eyes were shaking as he was sweating immensely...wishing he could take it back a little. "But I had no choice. I want to protect Papa and Maman!"
Floating right behind him...was All for One himself, mask and all. Izuku flinched in horror as he realized what was going on. "No. You didn't!"
"Excellent job, my conniving little star," All for One applauded his pawn. Yuga couldn't say anything else, tears in his eyes. "I imagine you were scared to betray your friends. It can be so distressing to have someone put their faith in you, non?" Izuku powered up his body, his green energy sparking around him. "Your fortitude is impressive. And the speech about my ultimate goal was admirable. If not entirely accurate. Did your mommy and daddy explain that?"
Yuga couldn't even look at him, tears streaming down his face. "They...said things would be better. You promised we'd have happy lives in your new world."
Izuku gritted his teeth at the boy angrily for the betrayal. "I trusted you!" He shouted furiously that his words, or anyone's didn't reach Yuga. And that he was not going to try and continue to be a hero, even though all his friends stood by him. Even Izuka herself, despite her fury towards him.
"Distressing? You can't imagine, dear Uncle," Yuga squeezed his teary eyes shut. He then turned around to fire his Navel Laser towards All for One on his own. "I won't betray my friends!"
All for One held up a smoking wrist, as the laser only affected part of his sleeve. "You ungrateful worm..."
"Your acting was crazy realistic, Aoyama!" Izuku complimented, as their entire conversation was actually part of their plan all along.
"I had to make sure it was believable, or we'd never get him to come!" Yuga admitted, standing by Izuku's side. He was still shaking like a leaf, and not because he just used his laser. "But you? That was a tour-de-force!"
"No, I was just following your lead," Izuku confessed to the boy. "Your tears really pushed it over the edge."
"Well...to be honest, that's not all. I may have wet myself too!" Yuga stated, because he was still shaking and crying out of fear. Considering his parents had to lie over the phone, he didn't want the plan to fail if All for One had managed to tell he was lying in person.
"You did great! Thank you!" Izuku reassured him, looking over his shoulder.
"...For Papa and Maman's safety," Yuga dropped his hands, shedding fresh tears. "And for the sake of everyone else, me included!" He then looked up in determination towards his enemy, his tears flying away from his face. "I will stand up and fight All for One!"
"How disappointing," All for One remarked, and already something was tipping him off about all this. Something is amiss.
"I can get him alone. Just tell me when," Yuga said over the phone to All for One, before he was about to summon Izuku.
"In our conversation earlier...and when talking with his parents, I could detect no malice. How did they hide from me? No. It matters not He then ripped off his jacket, Izuku and in turn One for All in his sights. However annoying this may be, One for All is in front of me now.
"The Search Quirk can tell me the location and weaknesses of whoever I've seen," All for One explained as a bunch of black gunk surrounded him. "The heroes Tomura fought in previous battles are scattered across the country right now." Himiko's head started to move from one of his portals. "They won't be able to help you with any expediency. You're alone." Dabi popped up next with a big grin on his face, and wearing a new outfit. "They haven't even noticed that I've brought so many of my friends along with me." One portal revealed a roaring Near High-End Nomu. "I'm afraid it's already too late for you." The rest of the League, and the escapees from the Paranormal Liberation Front surrounded him...
"That's what you think!" Yuga glared up at him, as of course they knew he'd bring them. Kurogiri's portal of all things appeared right behind the boys as soon as he said this.
Kurogiri. How can they use his power? Well, this will save me the trouble of finding him. He was confused to see someone he didn't recognize, Neito Monoma himself.
"Papa and Maman told me this too," Yuga spoke up as Endeavor appeared next, then Edgeshot. "They said there's something you would hate more than anything, and that's the world finding out that Japan isn't finished yet!" Mirko was summoned next as she smirked. Fat Gum was fired up as well. "To show them we haven't stopped twinkling." Tamaki and Nejire appeared as well. "Inspiring the world to unite and rage against you! That's why today...is the day you're defeated!"
Izuka landed between Yuga and her brother, slowly standing up to face All for One.
"This is your doing?" All for One turned to Izuka curiously, since she had Black Holes.
"Heh! Wrong," She looked up with a smirk. "I wish I had learned it though. Would've been nice to rub it in your faces that you didn't know something I had. He is right," She placed her hands on her hips, the three surrounded by heroes and students from UA. "That same inspiration...is why these heroes and the Symbol of Light will rise against you!"