Chapter 27 Mushroom Queen
Kinoko, Izuku, and Eri arrived at the warehouse after their eventful day. As soon as they entered, Eri dashed off toward the corner where her favorite video game console was set up, diving into her virtual world with glee. Kinoko smiled, watching her for a moment before promising to join her shortly.
In the kitchen, Izuku began prepping for dinner, the clatter of pots and pans filling the space as he heated up a pan. He was focused on his task when he felt a presence behind him. Turning around, he saw Kinoko standing there with a shy, grateful expression.
"Um, can I cook for you? It's to thank you for saving me," she whispered, her voice barely above a murmur.
Izuku smiled warmly, touched by her gesture. "You don't have to do that. I'm happy to cook for you," he replied, his tone gentle.
Kinoko shook her head, insistent. "No, you really are nice. I want to repay what you did for me." She motioned towards the living area. "Why don't you go sit down and play with Eri? I'll handle this."
Reluctantly, Izuku agreed and joined Eri in the game area, leaving the kitchen to Kinoko. She pulled an apron from her backpack, tying it around her waist with determined hands. Soon, she was busy using her quirk to conjure various types of mushrooms, her focus intense as she began to cook.
Kinoko skillfully prepared a delicious mushroom stir-fry, incorporating multiple mushroom varieties that each brought unique flavors and textures. Alongside, she cooked rice and simmered a meaty soup, filling the room with enticing aromas. As she worked, her confidence grew, her earlier timidness replaced by a proud concentration.
With everything prepared, she set the dishes out on the table and called Izuku and Eri over to eat. Eri approached the table with curiosity, her eyes scanning for meat. "Where's the meat?" she asked, a slight frown forming.
Kinoko chuckled softly, "Well, technically, mushrooms have a lot of protein, and this one here tastes like steak if you want to try it." She offered Eri a piece on her chopsticks.
"That's not meat," Eri remarked skeptically, but curiosity won over her initial hesitation.
Izuku, eager to support Kinoko's effort, picked up a piece of the 'steak' mushroom and tried it. "Oh, this one tastes pretty good," he approved with a nod.
Encouraged by Izuku's reaction, Eri picked up a piece, tasting it with a thoughtful hum. "Okay, veggies, you win this round. I'll eat you," she declared, a small smile spreading as she accepted the mushroom dish.
As they began to enjoy the meal, Kinoko leaned over to share another fact from her book, her eyes bright with enthusiasm. "Even though they're considered a plant, well technically, they're fungi, mushrooms are actually closer to animals in a way," she explained, careful not to muddle her fun fact.
As they settled into a comfortable rhythm of eating and chatting, Izuku took the opportunity to learn more about Kinoko. "So, what are you into?" he asked, genuinely curious about her interests beyond her quirk.
Kinoko's face lit up, a sparkle of excitement in her eyes. "I love playing RPGs," she shared eagerly. "Especially when I can play as a Druid commanding an army of mushrooms. It's like having my own little kingdom at my fingertips."
Just then, Eri, ever the enthusiastic gamer, hopped down from the dining table and scampered over to her gaming console. "Do you play this one?" she called out, waving Kinoko over to join her.
Kinoko's smile widened. "Yeah, I do play that one. I actually go to conventions, too. Well, sometimes," she added a bit shyly. "We could play together after dinner, right? Right, Papa?"
Izuku nodded, amused by Eri's excitement and Kinoko's willingness to dive into the game. "Yes, you can both play after dinner," he agreed.
Eri, motivated by the prospect of gaming with Kinoko, started eating her vegetables and rice more quickly than usual. Kinoko, catching the infectious enthusiasm, also turned her attention back to her meal, but the atmosphere shifted slightly when she looked over at Izuku, her expression turning serious.
"Um, why did you save me?" she asked, her voice devoid of the nervousness that usually tinged her questions.
Izuku smiled warmly, his response sincere. "I mean, I am trying to be a hero, so it makes sense for me to help anyone in danger," he explained simply.
Kinoko seemed reassured by his answer, but Izuku sensed there was more on her mind. "You seem to be someone quite timid, I don't mean that to be offensive," he hastened to add. "I'm just saying, do you have any problems going on right now?"
The question caught Kinoko off-guard, freezing her for a moment. "Um, yeah, I do, but you know, it's fine. I'm doing great," she managed, her voice faltering slightly. She quickly diverted the topic to another mushroom fact to mask her discomfort. "Did you know that some mushrooms can break down plastic and even purify pollutants? They're really incredible organisms."
After sharing her fact, Izuku stood up, his tone gentle but firm. "Hey, you're safe here. You can tell me anything," he assured her, trying to create a space of trust.
Kinoko hesitated, her words stumbling over each other as she stood. "No, no, I'm-I'm great," she insisted, although her voice betrayed her anxiety.
Determined to lighten the mood, she quickly changed the subject. "I'm gonna go play with Eri," she declared, moving to the console where Eri was waiting eagerly.
As she logged into her account and began setting up her character, a mushroom druid, Izuku watched her interact with Eri. Despite her earlier hesitance, Kinoko seemed to relax as she slipped into the familiar world of gaming, her character skillfully navigating through digital forests and commanding fungal followers with ease.
After their gaming session, Izuku noticed that Kinoko seemed particularly withdrawn, her usual enthusiasm dimmed by some unseen weight. Sensing her discomfort, he suggested they move to a more private space to talk. "Let's go to my room; it's quieter there," he said gently. Kinoko nodded, following him in silence.
Once in his room, Izuku offered her a seat on a small, comfortable couch, taking a seat opposite her to give her some space. The room was quiet, the only light coming from a desk lamp that cast a soft glow. It felt secluded, a world away from the pressures outside.
Izuku waited for her to start, giving her time to gather her thoughts. After a moment, he encouraged her softly, "Is there something going on? Do you wanna talk about it?"
Kinoko looked down at her hands, twisting nervously in her lap. Finally, she took a deep breath and her words came tumbling out, edged with a desperation that startled Izuku. "It's just... I sometimes think what they say about me is true. That I'm not cut out to be a hero. My quirk... it's not like yours or the others'. It's not flashy or powerful. It's just... mushrooms."
She paused, her voice quavering as she continued, "And, you know, the other students... they say things. They laughed at me once, said that all I could do was make mushrooms grow and how is that supposed to save anyone?"
Tears brimmed in her eyes as her doubts spilled out. "I've always felt this way, a bit, ever since I was little. I was bullied for it, for being different. And even now, in the hero course, I feel like maybe they were right. Maybe I don't belong here."
Izuku moved to sit closer, his expression one of concern. "Kinoko, that's not true. You've got a unique quirk that can do amazing things. You've already shown how innovative you can be. And heroism... it's not just about fighting. It's about helping people in your own way."
Kinoko shook her head, her emotions boiling over. "But what if my way isn't enough? What if I'm never going to be good enough?" Her voice broke as she struggled to hold back tears.
Izuku reached out, trying to offer comfort. "You are enough, just as you are. You don't have to prove that to anyone."
But Kinoko stood abruptly, wiping her eyes. "No, I... I can't. I'm sorry, Izuku. I shouldn't have dumped all this on you." Her voice was thick with unshed tears. "I appreciate you trying to help, but I need to figure this out on my own. I'm sorry for wasting your time."
Before Izuku could say anything more, Kinoko turned and hurried out of the room, leaving him sitting there, words of reassurance dying on his lips. He listened to the fading sound of her footsteps, feeling a profound helplessness. Despite his best efforts, she had retreated, wrapped in her self-doubt and sorrow.
He exited his room, and he hesitated at the threshold of the warehouse, watching Kinoko disappear into the dimming light of the evening. His mind raced with concern, knowing she needed space but also worried about her emotional state. As he contemplated his next steps, a sharp pain in his shin brought him back to the moment.
"Eri, what was that for?" Izuku winced, looking down at his daughter who appeared more upset than usual.
"That's for making the Mushroom Queen cry," Eri accused, her small face scrunched up in disapproval.
"I didn't make her cry, Eri. She's just going through a lot right now," he explained gently, trying to make his young daughter understand the complex situation.
"Oh, sorry, Papa," Eri muttered, her mood shifting quickly as children often do. She looked up at him with big eyes. "Why don't you just make those mean people stop? You know, the ones on the game."
Puzzled, Izuku followed Eri back to the console where she pointed out Kinoko's gaming profile, still logged in. The screen was flooded with incoming messages, each more vile than the last. Izuku's gaze hardened as he read comments like, "Why even bother playing when you suck so much?" and "Just quit, Mushroom Loser," each word stinging as he imagined how they must have hurt Kinoko.
His own experiences with Bakugo flashed through his mind, the way those harsh words, 'Deku', used to make him feel. "Stay here, Eri. I'm going to go after her," he said firmly, determination lining his features.
Eri saluted playfully, then turned her attention back to her game, allowing Izuku to focus on the task at hand.
He hurried out of the warehouse, following the path he thought Kinoko might have taken. It wasn't long before he found her in an alley not far away, her shoulders shaking as she sobbed into her hands. Nearby, the glow from her phone illuminated messages from her middle school 'friends', inviting her to karaoke, a cruel reminder of her past experiences with them. "Come out, it'll be fun to watch you try to sing!" and "Maybe you'll grow some personality along with those mushrooms."
Kinoko was replaying these messages, her heart sinking with each mocking word. These weren't friends; they were bullies who had never really seen her for who she was. At home, her mother encouraged social interactions, oblivious to the pain they caused Kinoko, believing it was just teenage drama.
Izuku approached quietly, not wanting to startle her. "Kinoko," he began softly, ensuring his presence was comforting rather than imposing.
She looked up, startled, quickly trying to wipe her tears away, embarrassed to be seen in such a vulnerable state. "Izuku, I... I'm sorry you had to see this. I should be stronger," she stammered, her voice choked with emotion.
"You don't have to apologize for feeling hurt," Izuku replied, kneeling down to her level. "You're not alone, Kinoko. Those messages... they're cruel and untrue. You don't deserve any of that."
"But what if they're right? What if I'm really not cut out for any of this?" Kinoko's voice was a whisper, each word laced with doubt.
"They're not right," Izuku insisted firmly, his eyes sincere. "Being a hero isn't about never feeling down or having doubts. It's about facing them, and you don't have to do it alone."
Kinoko looked at him, the moonlight casting shadows across her tear-stained face. "I don't know if I can," she admitted, her voice barely audible.
"You don't have to know right now," he told her, his tone gentle. "Just know that I'm here, and I believe in you. We all do."
Despite his words, Kinoko shook her head, standing up abruptly. "I'm sorry for wasting your time," she said, a hollow laugh escaping her lips as she turned to leave.
Before Kinoko could take another step, Izuku reached out and gently grasped her arm, pulling her into a comforting embrace. She resisted at first, but as her defenses faltered, she buried her face into his shoulder, her tears soaking through his shirt. Between sobs, she kept muttering apologies for her perceived weakness.
"Give me your phone," Izuku said softly, his voice steady amidst her turmoil. Hesitantly, Kinoko handed it over, watching through blurred vision as Izuku took an unexpected action. His fingers moved quickly over the screen, and before she could process what was happening, he had replied to the malicious text: "Sure, I'll be there," and hit send.
Confusion etched across her face, Kinoko looked at him, bewildered and alarmed. "Why? What—"
"I think we can go and have some fun at karaoke," Izuku interrupted, his decision firm. "We'll show those people who you really are."
Kinoko's hands flew to her mouth, her eyes wide with fear. "No, no, no, this is bad, they're going to—they're going to…"
Izuku placed a calming hand on her head. "I am here, and you're not going to face them alone. I'm going to give them a piece of my damn mind," he declared, his voice tinged with a rare edge of anger.
She shook her head, tears still streaming down her cheeks. "Why? Why? Tell me why, damn it! I get it, you're super nice, but this doesn't involve you. What if they start saying things to you? What if—"
Izuku's finger pressed gently against her lips, silencing her frantic worries. "Because I've been in the same situation before. Before I became strong and confident, I was picked on a lot by my classmates and my former best friend," he confessed, his voice lowering as he shared his own vulnerabilities. "What I wanted most was for it all to stop—the pain, the negativity, the hatred. I still have nightmares about it sometimes."
He paused, letting his words sink in. "They treated me like I was less than human because I didn't have a quirk. You have a great quirk, and they still treat you like this because they're jealous. They want to tear you down because that's what makes them feel better about themselves. And you know what? Tomorrow, we're going to show them the truth. They can't pick on you anymore. You're going to stand up to them."
Kinoko looked up at him, seeing someone who truly understood her pain. Here was Izuku, someone who had been in the same dark place as her, and now stood as one of the most formidable students at U.A. His past struggles, his current strength—it all resonated with her deeply.
As she gazed into his determined eyes, a myriad of emotions washed over her, but the strongest was relief, a profound sense that everything would be alright. In his eyes, she saw the determination she yearned to possess, and it ignited a spark of hope within her.
"Thank you, Izuku," she whispered, her voice barely audible over the hum of the city around them. "For understanding, for being here."
Izuku smiled, his own eyes reflecting a deep-seated resolve. "Together, we'll change things. You're not alone anymore."
And in that moment, surrounded by the night's cool embrace, Kinoko felt a weight lift off her shoulders.
Next day karaoke bar
As Izuku stood outside the karaoke bar, he was dressed sharply in his white Yakuza-styled outfit, looking distinctly out of place yet striking. Kinoko arrived shortly after, wearing a dress that embraced her unique style—brown with patterns of little X's, mimicking sliced mushrooms, and adorned with mushroom-shaped badges. When Izuku saw her, he couldn't help but whisper, "Beautiful," before realizing he had said it out loud. Kinoko blushed slightly and smiled, thanking him.
Their brief moment of camaraderie was interrupted when three girls and a boy approached them. The boy, wearing a UA uniform ostentatiously as if to flaunt his affiliation, immediately sneered at Kinoko in an attempt to intimidate her. But Izuku stepped forward, his presence alone challenging the boy's aggression.
The boy was tall and muscular, with a sharply defined chin and pointed hair, exuding an air of arrogance. He gave Izuku a condescending smile. "Oh, I see you're one of the support course students. That's where I recognize you from," he said, introducing himself as Tsutsutaka Agoyamato, claiming to be a student from Class 1A at UA.
Izuku knew he was lying but maintained his composure, choosing to not call out the falsehood directly. "Why are you getting defensive, green hair?" Tsutsutaka taunted, looking at Izuku with disdain.
With a calm yet defiant smile, Izuku replied, "I'm just a little worried because you're staring at my girl with that ugly mug of yours." His words were deliberate, marking his protective stance over Kinoko.
The girls accompanying Tsutsutaka gasped, then sneered. "Wait, you're her boyfriend?" one of them said, disbelief and mockery lacing her tone. They began hurling insults:
"Yeah, right, like she would date a bottom-tier hero wannabe!"
"You two are a perfect match, Mushroom Freak and Broccoli Boy," another jeered, their laughter sharp and cutting.
The veins on Tsutsutaka's forehead bulged as anger took over, his fists clenching. "You've got a mouth on you, don't you?" he hissed, gritting his teeth. "Let's head over there," he gestured to a more secluded area of the venue, "and I'll show you a lesson."
The girls cheered him on, spurring his arrogance. "Yeah, let's go show this wannabe loser what a real hero course student can do!"
As the girls' taunts filled the air, spurring Tsutsutaka's arrogance to new heights, Kinoko took a hesitant step forward, her hands outstretched in a plea for peace. "We can't do this. You'll get in trouble, and besides, I don't want you to beat him to a bloody pulp," she implored, her voice shaking with the strain of the confrontation.
Tsutsutaka laughed derisively, his confidence unshaken by her words. "The little broccoli boy couldn't hold a candle to me, but I guess his girlfriend doesn't want to see her boyfriend get beat up," he sneered. Turning to Kinoko with a contemptuous smirk, he commanded, "Get on your knees and apologize."
Kinoko's face paled, her fear evident. Yet, in that moment of vulnerability, she tried to assert some semblance of control. "Look, he's not just some support course dude," she said, her voice quivering as she pointed at Izuku. "He's part of the hero course."
The girls burst into laughter, dismissing her claim as ludicrous. "She must be delusional to come up with such a lie," one of them mocked.
Tsutsutaka nodded in agreement, his tone dripping with disdain. "I've never seen broccoli idiots in the hero course before. So, you're clearly lying, trying to save your own skin. What a pathetic woman, what a waste of space, maybe yo—"
His insult was abruptly cut off as Izuku's fist slammed into his chest with a thud, knocking the wind out of him. Tsutsutaka staggered back, gasping for air, his facade of superiority crumbling under the unexpected assault.
Izuku's expression remained cold and controlled, a stark contrast to his usual demeanor. He grabbed Tsutsutaka by the hair, his grip firm and uncompromising. "We're going to the alley," he stated flatly, dragging the stunned boy away from the crowd.
As Tsutsutaka struggled violently, throwing punches and kicks in a desperate attempt to regain his pride, Izuku maneuvered with practiced ease. None of Tsutsutaka's attacks even grazed him. With a swift motion, Izuku tosses the boy effortlessly into a dumpster at the entrance of the alley. The thud of his landing echoed off the narrow walls, a clear demonstration of Izuku's control and strength.
The girls who had followed, egging on the confrontation, were bewildered. "How is it possible that a support course student is this strong?" one of them muttered in confusion, their voices tinged with disbelief.
Kinoko, her expression fraught with concern, hurried after Izuku. Reaching him, she tugged at his arm, pleading for restraint. "Please stop, I don't want you to put Tsutsutaka in the hospital," she implored.
Izuku turned to her, his face softening as he placed a comforting hand on her head. "You have a kind heart, Kinoko, and I appreciate that," he acknowledged, his voice calm yet firm. "But I really can't tolerate this man disrespecting you, especially since you've worked so hard to get into the hero course."
Meanwhile, Tsutsutaka clambered out of the dumpster, landing on his feet with a grunt. Fueled by humiliation and rage, he stripped off his UA jacket, revealing a heavily stretched shirt that outlined his muscular frame. "I'll show you what a hero course student can really do," he growled, his voice thick with anger.
Izuku couldn't help but burst out laughing at the sheer absurdity of the situation. His laughter was cut short as he noticed three boys approaching from behind the girls, these were the same ones who had been bullying Kinoko the other day. With a knowing smile, Izuku faced them. "Oh, I see now. You're trying to bully Kinoko into quitting the hero course so your friend here can get in," he pointed at Tsutsutaka, piecing together their motives. "I take it you all went to the same middle school?"
Tsutsutaka, his face twisted with fury, snarled at Izuku to shut up. In a blind rage, he pulled his fist back and threw it with full force at Izuku's face. The punch connected with a loud crack that reverberated through the alley. However, it wasn't Izuku who was hurt. Tsutsutaka recoiled in agony, clutching his hand as his knuckles exploded from the impact, blood dripping and fingers bent grotesquely.
As they stood amid the shocked silence of the onlookers, Izuku placed his arm protectively around Kinoko's waist. The group of tormentors parted, their expressions a mix of fear and confusion, allowing them passage. Izuku's voice was calm but carried an iron-hard resolve as he addressed them. "I'm going to say this once. I know where all of you live. If any of you pick on her ever again, I will find you, and I will make you regret it. And you," he turned his steely gaze to the faux hero course student, "if you pretend to be a hero course student again, I will make sure you learn your lesson the hard way."
His use of the Overwhelming Presence skill sent a palpable wave of pressure through the air, causing the bullies to shake and step back in fear.
With the threat effectively delivered, Kinoko tentatively suggested, "Let's have some fun at karaoke." She looked up at Izuku, searching for some normalcy after the intense confrontation. Nodding, he led her away, the group behind them dissolving as the boy with the broken hand began to cry from the pain and fear.
As Izuku and Kinoko settled into a booth at the karaoke bar, he ordered them some drinks, trying to create a lighter, more enjoyable atmosphere. Kinoko sat quietly, the weight of the evening's events pressing down on her. She was relieved yet conflicted, feeling as though she had somehow failed again.
Sensing her discomfort, Izuku gently pulled her head onto his shoulder. "Don't think about it," he soothed. "Honestly, if I left you to your own devices, I think you could have handled them. But I just couldn't stand that smug wannabe face." His words were meant to comfort, to reassure her that she wasn't alone.
She blushed at his closeness, feeling the warmth of his body next to hers. "Now what? I have no friends," she murmured, her voice small.
Izuku looked at her thoughtfully. "You know, I didn't have any friends either, just bullies. It took me a while to find the difference. But you? You're at UA now. Class 1B has an abundance of good people who are willing to be your friend. You just need to put yourself out there."
Kinoko panicked slightly at the thought. "No, no, no, I can't do that. It's just... what if..." Her voice trailed off, lost in a sea of insecurities.
Placing a calming hand on her head, Izuku reassured her, "Don't worry. You won't do this alone. Himiko can help you; she's great at making friends."
Izuku's assurance seemed to breathe new life into Kinoko, lifting the weight that had been pressing down on her. As they scrolled through the karaoke playlist, Kinoko's eyes lit up with excitement, a stark contrast to her demeanor just moments ago. They picked a few upbeat, poppy songs, and soon, the dimly lit room was filled with their laughter and off-key singing. With each song, Kinoko's confidence grew, and so did her smiles.
Between songs, they sipped on soft drinks, the light-hearted atmosphere helping to restore a sense of normalcy. After a particularly spirited rendition of a popular hero-themed song, Izuku noticed Kinoko's energy seemed boundless. Seizing the moment, he leaned closer, his voice tinged with excitement. "Let's go to an amusement park next time!"
Kinoko paused, her expression thoughtful, then responded in a soft, earnest voice that made Izuku lean in to catch every word. "Can we actually go somewhere I really want to go?"
He smiled, intrigued by her request, and nodded encouragingly. "Of course. Where do you want to go?"
Her eyes shimmered with a mix of nervousness and anticipation. "There's a botanical garden that specializes in fungi. I've always wanted to go there, but I never had anyone to go with."
Izuku's smile widened, touched by her trust in sharing something so personal. "That sounds amazing. We'll go," he affirmed, his voice warm.
Encouraged by his enthusiasm, Kinoko began to open up more about her interests. "It's not just a garden," she explained, her voice gaining strength. "It's like a sanctuary where they preserve different species of fungi from all over the world. They even have educational tours that explain their ecological roles and benefits."
Izuku listened intently, fascinated. "That sounds incredibly interesting. You'll have to be my guide there," he said, playfully nudging her shoulder.
Kinoko laughed, the sound light and genuine. "I'd love that. I could tell you all about mycorrhizal networks and how fungi can communicate and help plants grow."
"Okay, let's go then!" he declared, energized by the prospect of learning more about something so important to her.
As they arrived at the botanical garden dedicated to fungi, the lush greenery enveloped them, a stark contrast to the urban environment they had just left. The garden was serene, with pathways winding through exhibitions of both common and exotic fungi, each display meticulously cared for and presented with informative plaques.
As they walked, Kinoko led the way, her excitement palpable. She pointed out different fungi, explaining their unique characteristics. "This one here is part of the mycorrhizal networks I was talking about," she said, gesturing towards a network of fine white threads connecting several plants. "They actually help plants absorb nutrients and water from the soil, and in exchange, the plants provide the fungi with carbohydrates formed from photosynthesis."
Izuku listened, fascinated. "That's incredible," he replied, genuinely impressed. "It's like they form their own little community, helping each other to thrive."
"Yes, exactly!" Kinoko beamed, thrilled by his interest. "And over here," she continued, leading him to another section, "are some of the edible fungi which I use to make protein shakes. Most people are skeptical because they're made from mushrooms, but they're really nutritious."
Izuku chuckled, his curiosity mixed with amusement. "I'd try one of your mushroom shakes. It sounds like an adventure in a cup."
Her eyes gleamed with happiness, her usual timidity washed away by the shared joy of the moment. "Really? That would be awesome! I've never had anyone actually willing to try them before."
As they continued their tour, Kinoko shared more about her passion for fungi, discussing their ecological roles and the potential uses in medicine and sustainability. Izuku shared his own experiences and aspirations in return, talking about his dreams of being a hero who not only saves people but also contributes to a better understanding of the environment.
"It's like being a hero isn't just about fighting villains," he mused. "It's about making the world a safer, healthier place in whatever way we can."
Kinoko nodded vigorously. "Exactly! And learning about these systems, like fungi, shows just how interconnected everything is."
They spent hours at the garden, Kinoko's enthusiasm infectious, making Izuku appreciate the natural world in ways he had never considered before. As the day wound down, Kinoko turned to him with a wide smile. "I've never had this much fun in my life," she confessed, her voice soft yet filled with emotion. "Thank you for today, Izuku. It means a lot to me."
Izuku smiled back, feeling a deep satisfaction in sharing this day with her. "I had a great time too, Kinoko. I'm glad we could share this experience. Let's do it again soon."
Their day at the botanical garden not only deepened their friendship but also opened up new avenues of mutual respect and understanding. As they left the garden, the setting sun cast long shadows on the path ahead, symbolizing the growth of their newly strengthened bond.
Later that day
As the three boys and their ringleader, Tsutsutaka, received the ominous text, they reluctantly agreed to meet at the park. The threat of their group chat being leaked—with all its evidence of bullying Kinoko—forced their hand. They arrived at the secluded park under the cloak of night, each wearing a worried look that spoke volumes of their anxiety.
Tsutsutaka was particularly furious, his carefully laid plans unraveling due to the interference of the "green-haired broccoli boy," as he derogatorily referred to Izuku. The shadows of the trees danced in the dim light as Izuku stepped out from behind them, a cold smile playing on his lips.
"See, I know you guys are going to leave her alone, but I feel like I need to motivate you guys just in case," Izuku said, his voice low and menacing, a stark contrast to his usual calm demeanor.
The boys stiffened, their fear palpable as Izuku approached. The air was thick with tension, the only sounds the rustling of leaves and the distant call of night creatures. The park, usually a place of leisure and laughter, had turned into an arena of impending violence.
Izuku's stance was a picture of icy determination as he faced down the bullies. The park was silent except for the harsh breaths of the frightened boys in front of him. "This ends tonight," he repeated, his voice a low growl that carried a weight of finality.
The first attacker, fueled by desperation, charged at Izuku with a poorly aimed punch. Izuku's response was swift and brutal. He sidestepped the blow effortlessly, grabbed the boy's extended arm, and twisted sharply. There was a sickening snap as the elbow joint gave way, followed by a high-pitched scream of agony that cut through the night air.
As the first boy collapsed, clutching his broken arm, the second one lunged forward, aiming a kick at Izuku's midsection. Izuku caught the leg in one fluid motion, his grip iron-tight. With a vicious twist, he snapped the ankle with a crunch that echoed ominously. The boy fell, howling in pain, his face contorted in a grimace of shock and hurt.
Tsutsutaka, fueled by rage and fear, attacked next. He threw a series of rapid punches, but Izuku was a blur, dodging each with precise, agile movements that belied his usually calm demeanor. With a sudden, fierce motion, Izuku drove his fist into Tsutsutaka's stomach, knocking the wind out of him, then followed up with an uppercut that sent several teeth flying from Tsutsutaka's mouth, blood spraying in a grotesque arc.
The last bully, witnessing the quick and brutal incapacitation of his friends, hesitated, his courage faltering. But driven by peer pressure and a misguided sense of loyalty, he made a feeble attempt to tackle Izuku. It was a mistake. Izuku sidestepped, grabbed the boy by the hair, and delivered a knee to his face. The sound of a breaking nose filled the air, accompanied by the sickening sight of blood and tears mixing on the boy's face.
With all four attackers incapacitated, lying broken and bleeding on the ground, Izuku stood over them, his breathing heavy but controlled. His eyes, usually warm and understanding, were cold and hard as he looked down at the result of his wrath.
"Remember this pain," Izuku said coldly, each word dripping with disdain. "If you ever think about harming anyone again, know that I can be much worse. Let this be a lesson in humility and the consequences of your cruelty."
After ensuring that his stern message had been thoroughly understood, Izuku quickly and methodically knocked each of the bullies unconscious with a sharp, precise punch. Despite the violence that had just occurred, he used his healing skill to subtly mend their most critical injuries, making it appear as if nothing drastic had happened, aside from the telltale signs of a scuffle like blood stains and disheveled clothes. He left them there, a silent testament to the night's events, and made his way back to the warehouse to unwind.
Once back at the warehouse, Izuku found comfort in the presence of his girlfriends Himiko and Mei, who were already deep in discussion over some gadget laid out on the table. Himiko, with her vibrant pink hair, looked up as he entered, a knowing smile playing on her lips.
"Thanks for the intel earlier," Izuku said to Mei, grateful for the information she had provided which helped him protect Kinoko. "And thank you Himiko for willing to help out Kinoko tomorrow."
"It's nothing," Mei waved him off with a chuckle, then her eyes twinkled mischievously. "So, getting cozy with a new girl, huh?"
Izuku's cheeks tinted slightly as Himiko joined in the teasing, her voice laced with mock surprise, "Oh, getting close with another girl? Do tell!"
He quickly waved his hands dismissively, "It's nothing like that. She's just a friend."
Their laughter filled the room as Himiko playfully nudged Mei. "Just friends, huh? Heard that one before," she teased, glancing back at Izuku.
"Yeah, just like we were 'just friends' too," Mei joined in, her laughter light and teasing.
Izuku's face turned a deeper shade of red, and he stammered, trying to clarify, but the more he spoke, the redder he became. Observing his flustered state, Himiko chuckled, "I didn't know broccoli could turn into a tomato."
Mei laughed heartily at the comment, slapping her knee. "Look at him go! Broccoli Boy's all red now!"
Izuku managed a weak smile, trying to deflect their teasing. "Alright, alright, that's enough. Seriously, Kinoko is going through a tough time. I'm just trying to be there for her, like a good friend."
Himiko softened, patting Izuku on the shoulder. "We know, Izuku. You're a good guy. Just pulling your leg. But hey, if you ever need help, you know we've got your back."
Mei nodded in agreement, her tone turning more sincere. "Yeah, and it's great you're helping her. Everyone needs a friend like you."
Grateful for their support despite the teasing, Izuku relaxed, joining them at the table to discuss more about tomorrow's plans with Kinoko and perhaps even share a laugh or two about his new, unexpected title as 'Broccoli Tomato'. The night at the warehouse, surrounded by friends, was exactly what he needed to wind down after the intense showdown.
Ua class in the morning
As Himiko guided Kinoko through the bustling corridors of UA, the air was filled with the usual cacophony of student chatter, a typical day, yet a profound one for Kinoko. Today, she was stepping out of her comfort zone, armed with mushroom smoothies and a newfound resolve, thanks to the encouragement of her friends.
Himiko led Kinoko towards Pony Tsunotori and Itsuka Kendo, who were deep in conversation near the common area. Pony, with her unique horn and bubbly demeanor, and Itsuka, known for her leadership skills and martial arts prowess, were both influential in Class 1B.
"Hey, Pony, Itsuka!" Himiko called out cheerfully, waving as they approached. The two girls turned, their expressions curious but welcoming.
"Hi Himiko! Who's this with you?" Itsuka asked, her tone friendly, as she noted Kinoko's slightly nervous stance.
"This is Kinoko," Himiko introduced with a warm smile. "She's really awesome with her fungi-based quirk, and she's brought something special for you guys to try."
Kinoko stepped forward, mustering her courage as she held out two bottles filled with a thick, greenish concoction. "Hi, I'm Kinoko. I made these mushroom smoothies. They're high in protein," she explained, her voice steady but revealing a hint of nervousness. "I thought it might be a nice ice-breaker."
Pony, ever the enthusiast, clapped her hands in excitement. "Wow, that's so cool! I've never had a mushroom smoothie before," she exclaimed, taking a bottle and inspecting it with genuine interest.
Itsuka smiled encouragingly, accepting her bottle. "Thank you, Kinoko. It's nice to meet you. This is really thoughtful of you," she said, popping open the lid and taking a cautious sip. "Mmm, it's actually pretty good! You made this yourself?"
"Yes, I like to experiment with different recipes. Mushrooms can be quite versatile," Kinoko replied, visibly relaxing as the conversation flowed more naturally.
Izuku, watching from a short distance, gave Kinoko a thumbs up, signaling his support. He felt a surge of pride seeing her interact so openly, her confidence blossoming.
Himiko leaned in, whispering with a mischievous grin, "See, they love it! You're doing great, Kinoko."
Encouraged by the positive reception, Kinoko's smile broadened. "Thank you! I'm glad you like them. I have plenty more recipes, like mushroom jerky and even a kind of mushroom tea."
Itsuka, intrigued, leaned forward. "That sounds fascinating. You'll have to tell us more about your quirk and how you come up with these ideas."
"Yeah," Pony chimed in, her enthusiasm undimmed. "And maybe you can show us how you make them sometime! It could be like a cooking class!"
Kinoko nodded, her initial anxiety replaced by excitement at the prospect of sharing her passion. "I'd love that! It would be really fun to cook together
Izuku's smile broadened as he watched Kinoko laughing and chatting with her new friends. It reminded him of his own journey, from loneliness to finding friendship with Mei. Such relationships had transformed his life, making every new friendship he witnessed among others especially meaningful.
As he turned to head back to his desk, he found an unexpected envelope lying there. Curious and a bit wary, he opened it to find a challenge letter, summoning him to the school rooftop during lunch. The letter was oddly formal, lacking any signature that might hint at the sender. Izuku furrowed his brows, puzzled over who he might have inadvertently angered.
With a deep breath to steady his nerves, Izuku went about his morning classes, the letter burning a hole in his pocket. When lunchtime finally arrived, he excused himself, mentioning to Himiko that he needed to handle something. She gave him a quick, supportive kiss, wishing him luck, though her eyes were tinged with concern.
Reaching the rooftop, Izuku was greeted by the sight of Ibara Shiozaki, a girl from Class 1-B known for her devout personality and vine-like hair. She stood with an air of righteous indignation, her green tendrils swaying slightly in the breeze. Her face was flushed with a mix of embarrassment and resolve as she pointed at him dramatically.
"I challenge you, and I will vanquish your temptation, you... incubus," she declared, her words ringing with a mixture of accusation.
Izuku blinked, taken aback. "You do know there are rules against fighting at school, right?" he responded, trying to bring some sense to the situation with a mild tone.
Ibara's face turned an even deeper shade of red, realizing her initial oversight. "Well, I mean after school we'll fight," she corrected herself quickly, though it was clear she was not used to such confrontations.
"Okay... but why do you want to fight me?" Izuku asked, genuinely confused. He had always strived to be kind and supportive to everyone at U.A.
Ibara looked at him with a mixture of frustration and conviction. "I know what you are. You are a womanizer, tempting young maidens, playing with the hearts of young ladies. It's disgraceful," she accused, her voice trembling slightly with the intensity of her emotions.
Izuku sighed, realizing there had been some serious misunderstandings. "Ibara, I think there's been a mix-up. I'm not sure what you've heard, but I assure you, I respect all of my classmates and have no intention of hurting anyone," he explained calmly, hoping to defuse the tension.
"But your actions suggest otherwise! How can you explain your behavior with Himiko and now Kinoko?" Ibara pressed, her eyes searching for deception.
"Himiko and Kinoko are my friends. Just like you have friends. Nothing I do with them is different from what any friend would do for another," Izuku clarified, maintaining a gentle tone. He knew Ibara was driven by her values, and he respected that, even if it led to this awkward confrontation.
Izuku's situation escalated quickly as Ibara listed off his supposed transgressions, her voice filled with indignant fervor. "Oh friends, you say? You made out with the fox girl during your entrance exam. You have also kissed that pink-haired scientist and the rabbit girl. So, what, are they all fine with you going around kissing other girls?" She paused for emphasis, her green vines twitching with every accusation. "And I've noted that you've been sinking your claws into two others, Kinoko Komori and Kyoka Jiro. I found pictures of you and them on social media. Taking them out to a concert showing them the Devil's music, and the other to a garden, which is very scientific so that one's more fine with me, but still, womanizer."
Izuku's mouth opened and closed, struggling for a moment to find the right words in the deluge of accusations. "Ibara, you've got it all wrong. Those were just friendly outings. And the—"
"And don't forget about me," Ibara cut in, her expression suddenly turning more intense.
Izuku blinked, genuinely confused. "What do you mean about you? I didn't do anything to you."
Her face reddened as she seemed to recall a particularly embarrassing incident. "Did you forget the godly sight I gave you?"
That comment threw Izuku off for a moment, his mind racing to connect the dots, until he remembered the accident during a training session. His face turned crimson as the memory came back. "That, that was an accident," he stammered, trying to defend himself.
Ibara's eyes began to well up, a mix of frustration and embarrassment evident. "An accident, you say? That's how it starts. You saw everything, my bare soul, and yet you have not offered to take responsibility!"
Izuku's eyes widened in shock, his brain scrambling. "Responsibility? I didn't do anything wrong, oh my gosh, you can't think that I—"
Ibara was nearly in tears now, her dramatic flair peaking. "You dare play dumb? You saw them, didn't you? Your nose bled from your lechery. How can I ever get married now?" she lamented, her voice thick with melodrama.
Izuku, now as red as a tomato, tried to gather his wits. This was spiraling far beyond a simple misunderstanding. "Ibara, please, let's think this through logically. Nosebleeds don't mean what you think they mean, it's a common misconception in manga and anime!"
But Ibara was on a roll, not quite listening, her own narrative spun out of control. "I must protect others from your wild heartbreaker ways!"
"Wild heartbreaker, wait, Ibara, listen to me," Izuku pleaded, trying to interject some reason into the conversation. "All these things you're saying, they aren't true. I respect all my friends and classmates. You're mistaking friendship for something else."
Ibara pointed accusingly at him, her conviction unyielding. "I don't believe you," she declared vehemently. "Izuku, you are the enemy to all women. I will protect my classmates from the claws of the perverted broccoli boy."
His patience thinning, Izuku pinched the bridge of his nose, a headache brewing from the absurdity of the conversation. "Fine, fine," he sighed, attempting to quell the rising drama. "But if I win—"
Her reaction was immediate and over the top. "Oh my god, you pervert!" she gasped, clutching her chest as if to protect herself from his words. "You think you can have my body as your reward!"
Izuku's face flushed with embarrassment and frustration. "No, that's not what I meant," he hurriedly explained, shaking his head to dispel the misunderstanding. "How about this—if I win, I'll take you out and show you that I'm not a bad guy. Okay? We'll go on a one-on-one day. I'll show you that I'm fine, I'm not a womanizer. I treat women with respect. I'm a good guy."
But Ibara was already spiraling further into her fantasy. "Oh my god, you're planning to take my innocence! I see how it is. Your plan is, if you defeat me, you'll use me, manipulate me with that charm of yours. You truly are a devil in human clothing!"
Izuku exhaled sharply, realizing that no amount of rational discussion would sway her now. "Okay, I'm just gonna go. I'll meet you there," he said, starting to back away from the escalating situation.
"I'll send you another letter with the location for our duel to the end. I will save the women of UA," Ibara proclaimed dramatically, her vines waving about as if to underscore her heroic declaration. She then paused, closing her eyes and whispering a quick prayer to her god, asking for strength to win since she had righteousness on her side.
Izuku walked away, shaking his head, his mind swirling with the bizarre turn of events. He couldn't help but let out a small chuckle; the situation was so outlandish it bordered on comedic.
Author's Notes:
Hello, wonderful readers!
First and foremost, thank you all so much for your continued support and patience. I owe you an apology for the delay in getting this latest chapter out. I had initially thought it would only take a few days, but as life would have it, work and personal matters piled up unexpectedly. On top of that, there was a family birthday and some things I needed to help my dad with, oh my goodness, it's been hectic!
I'm truly sorry for making you wait. Thankfully, I've managed to secure some days off, and I'm hoping to use this time to bust out a few more chapters for you all. Your enthusiasm and encouragement mean the world to me, and I'm eager to dive back into the stories we love.
Next up, we'll be tackling the "prayer girl" chapter, which I'm really excited about! I think it's going to add a fascinating layer to our ongoing narrative.
Again, thank you all for your understanding and for sticking with me through this whirlwind. Here's to more adventures and less delay!