My Hero Academia: The Godfather of Darkness

by The Gentleman with a Mustache

While the world of superheroes and villains exist, two things will forever remain. Monsters and organized crime. Follow Lord Dracula Tepes as he expands his control of Japan in a hero filled world.

6. That's A Big Boi

My name.

Is Artaios.

I am the brother to Izuku, the protector to my new sister, and a loyal hound to my master.

When my new sister came to the house, she was scared and hurt, so I stood tall as her protector, slept in her bed, and never left her side as a loyal brother should. My master always said she must be protected and loved, so I gave her both.

It was why I would always sleep next to her, at her feet, or even let her sleep on my belly, until one night. One night, I smelled something. I smelled an intruder, something that should not be here.

Standing up from my sister's bed, I walked out of our home to the edge of the bushes-covered wall and sat down, staring into the darkness as I spoke, "You, in the darkness. I know you're in there. All of you." Looking straight into the darkness, I asked, "Why are you here?"

From the darkness, I saw two eyes peering through the bushes as it replied in a deep voice, "We're here for our prey."

I nodded my head slightly as I replied in kind, "Sorry to say, but there is no prey here."

"We've come for the prey, the girl." They replied, which caused me to now stand up, ready for a fight. "That girl you speak of is my sister, child of my Master. She is protected by me." I growled slightly to prove a point.

They were silent before finally saying, "There are many of us and only one of you."

"How many?" I asked and they told me, "Fifteen." With a sniff of the air, I stated, "Hmm. Less." I could hear the growls of the intruders in front of me.

"Ten."

"Maybe."

The growling continued before the intruder stated, "There's enough of us. We could kill you."

I nodded my head as I agreed, "You could. But it'll cost you. At least one. I promise you that. Would you sacrifice one of you to get the girl?"

I continued, "If so, might as well just pick that one now and leave."

"We are faster than you."

"Probably."

"We'll split up, then. You can't defend the girl from two attacks."

"Aye, you might be faster than me, but not while dragging the girl with ya. You won't make the trees before I catch ye." Inclining my head slightly towards my home, I spoke, "I'll make a lot of noise too. Wake up, my master, my family, and they grab their guns."

Now staring at the intruder straight into the beady eyes, I stated clearly as the sun was bright. "And ain't none of you faster than that."

The growls lessened as the intruder said, "We want the girl."

Standing my ground, I nod slightly again. "I am sorry. Honest. But you are not getting the girl."

"Now… I am almost ready to start barking. So either leave..." Taking a breath and exhaling, I stared at the intruder. "Or do what you gotta do." I watched, ready to bark before the intruder and its pack left back into the darkness. After sniffing the air, I nodded, satisfied, as I walked back into the home.

As soon as I returned to my sister's room and climbed into bed, she pushed herself as close as she could into my fur for comfort as she mumbled out, "Monsters. Coming. Don't leave me."

With a soft huff, I lay my head on her, which seemed to calm down my sister as I said "No monsters here, sister, only fools. Sleep now. I shall let no harm come over you so long as I breathe."

Whether the loyal hound knew she could understand him or not didn't matter as little Eri did go to sleep that night feeling the warmth of her protector. Ready to bark at anything that dares come from the dark to harm her.

---

Friends have always been a small category for Izuku. He had a rocky friendship with Bakugo during his younger days due to his quirklessness. However, thanks to his father interfering and getting Bakugo into therapy, he apologized, and from then on, they started to become actual friends.

Then there was Momo Yaoyorozu. A sweet girl who treated him nicely, despite having no quirk. Recently, he started to have more... Thoughts about Momo. He noticed her beauty more and how his heart fluttered every time she smiled or laughed. It's made him a bit confused and slightly scared about how his feelings would impact their friendship. He didn't want to lose her, but at the same time, he couldn't help but feel these things for his friend. Perhaps a talk with his father would help him.

His list of friends started to get bigger when he made it to U.A., Mina Ashido, the pink bubbly girl who was an infinite source of optimism. Kirishima, filled with determination and always ready to defend others. Iida, a strict but fair person who was unshakable in his belief in the rules, which always kind of helped keep others on the right track. Izuku admired that in Iida. And finally, Uraraka, a big supporter of Izuku and a friend whom he helped free from nearly being killed by a 0 Pointer. But now, right now, all he could think about was how they would view him in his current state.

Yet before such dark thoughts could cloud his mind, a small voice filled his ears, "Big brother, why do you look so sad?" Looking off to the side he couldn't help but chuckle as he watched Eri, his new littler sister, riding side saddle on top of Artaios who just seem to be happy if the tongue hanging out of his mouth was anything to go by as they both walked up to the wheelchair bound Izuku who was in the estates garden. Well, it's more like a conservatory, but whatever. Semantics.

Izuku couldn't help but allow a smile to appear on his face. "Oh, it's nothing, Eri. It's... Just a silly thought in my mind."

"Silly? Why's that?"

Izuku looked at his cybernetic arm and sighed, "Just worried about how my friends are gonna think of me now. With this thing..."

Eri tilted her head at that. "Why do you think that?"

The big brother sighed and shook his head, "I don't know... Like I said, a silly thought in my head."

Eri looked down slightly before looking back up at him. "Well, if I were your friend, I would think it was the coolest thing ever."

Izuku looked at his young sister and smiled. Such innocence, such bright eyes and smile. Izuku couldn't help it; a small tear leaked from his eye. "Yeah. I think so as well."

Artaios barked slightly as he rubbed his large head against Izuku's hand, which he returned with a pat. "Thanks, buddy." Now, collecting himself a bit, he asked, "So what are you doing today, Eri?"

This sweet child, now dressed in the best clothes that money could buy, announced with her arms in the air and a smile bright as the sun, "ADVENTURE!" Artaios barked as if to agree with her.

Izuku laughed slightly. "Oh yeah? What kind of adventure?"

"A princess fighting against the evil dragon!" Eri exclaimed.

"Well, you go get 'em, Eri," Izuku said, his voice filled with pride for her.

Eri smiled as she patted Artaios's head softly. "Onward, Arty! To adventure!" With a happy bark and wagging tail, they walked off deeper into the garden as Izuku smiled before he pushed the joystick on his wheelchair forward and returned into the house.

Of course, he did notice how the staff seemed to always be nearby in case he or Eri needed something or something happened. He understood why, but at times, it seemed like he was in the world of 1984 with how many eyes were always watching him and Eri.

Izuku sighed and looked at his cybernetic arm, the silver metal with some artificial muscle tendons sticking out between the plates. Even along his knuckles and finger joints had some neon aqua lighting. He closed his fist and then opened it, testing his arm.

Before he could do anything else, Sebastian stepped in front of Izuku. "Pardon the intrusion, Master Midoriya, but your friends have arrived. Shall I show them in?"

Izuku snapped his head up toward the butler, his eyes shining. "Oh! Yeah, go ahead!"

The ever dutiful butler nodded. "I shall show them to the parlor then, young master." Leaving right as a wild Joshua appears, adjusting his glasses, "Will you require assistance to the parlor to receive your guests, Izuku?" Izuku couldn't help but chuckle as he noticed how Joshua always called him by his first name when no one else was around or when it was just family, yet when out in public or around guests, he would call him by a proper title.

Izuku nodded as he pushed forward on his wheelchair's joystick toward the parlor. He hated the fact that he needed a wheelchair to move around, but what could he do? His body was still healing, even with the best medical treatment his father could get. But even then, he still needed to heal naturally, so wheelchair bound he was outside of the physical therapy sessions he had, of course.

Joshua and Izuku made their way down the hall, and the butler asked, "How are you fairing, Master?"

"I'm getting there. My body's still sore, but I'm doing alright." Izuku responded.

"And your arm?"

"... Getting used to it," Izuku said, glancing at his arm for a bit before looking back ahead.

Joshua nodded before they arrived at the parlor where Izuku's friends were sitting, and right as he rolled in, Momo was the first to rush forward and engulf him in a tight hug. "Oh, kami Izuku! I'm so glad you're ok."

Izuku grunted from the tight hug but still hugged her back, his face turning red from having a girl hug him. "Momo... Body... Sore."

Momo felt something metallic touch her back, but she stepped back. "Oh, I'm so sorry!"

Izuku shook his head. "It's alright. Just can't do much physical activity."

That's when his other friends walked over. Kirishima looked at Izuku's metal arm. "Midoriya! Is that a metal arm!?" That caused everyone to look at his right arm.

"Yeah, my arm was too damaged to fix, so... It had to be amputated," Izuku explained.

Kirishima just stared as he poked it before exclaiming as only he could. "THAT'S SO MANLY! Like dude, you could be like those cool cyborg knights from that one game!" He was silent for a moment as he scratched the side of his head. "What was that game again?"

Urakaka sighed as she mumbled, "Boys."

"Well, I must say, it is quite relieving that you are still active," Iida said, a smile on his face.

"How does your arm feel?" Bakugo asked, looking at it.

"It feels... A little heavier, but almost like I never lost my arm." Izuku explained.

"Does it have any gadgets or any functions?" Mina asked.

Izuku nodded. "Yeah, maybe? I don't know, I'm still learning as they get it calibrated to me. So in a way, learning how to use my new arm is also part of my recovery and physical therapy."

"Oh, imagine if it came in with a built-in taser or a net cannon! You could put down villains easily!" Kirishima said, his shark teeth on full display.

"If it indeed came with special functions, those would certainly be to your advantage," Iida commented, pushing his glasses up.

"Well, that might be fun and all, but nothing gets more results than just one punch to the temple," Bakugo said with a cross of his arms. Izuku chuckled slightly and rubbed the back of his head.

Just then, a wild FATHER appeared, which caused Mina to let out a trademark high-pitched girl scream before jumping into Iida's arms. "While yes, that would help my son in his hero work, for now, it will just be his new arm."

"Where did you come from!?" Mina shrieked out.

Dracula smirked with a glint in his red eyes. "I'm everywhere and yet nowhere, Miss Ashido."

"Dad..." Izuku said in embarrassment. Dracula merely chuckled and ruffled his green, fluffy hair.

"How're you fairing, son?" Dracula asked.

"Doing better." Izuku smiled at him, ruffling his hair.

Dracula smiled. "That's good. It warms this old heart of mine to see you surrounded by so many good friends." He was silent before he shook his head. "But right now, I'm happier that you're doing better. However, I must ask, have you seen your younger sister around?"

"She's riding Artaios, going on an adventure in the gardens," Izuku explained.

"Wait, younger sister? When did you get a younger sister?" Momo asked.

"Unfortunately, it is a long story that I do not have the time to discuss, but the short version is that she was a runaway without any parents, so I brought her here to give her a proper home," Dracula explained.

Momo couldn't help but chuckle as she said to Dracula. "You and giving lost children a home, Mister Tepes. Next thing you're gonna tell us you happen to have a secret cave below this place where you go out at night as a caped crusader of crime."

"Ah, Miss Yaoyorozu, you have caught me. Yes, I am the dangerous vigilante, Batman. I have learned the error of my ways." Dracula bowed his upper half towards the young lady with a chuckle.

That got some good hearted laughs all around from those who know, and confused looks from those who don't as Izuku added, "I know Eri will be happy to see you dad, cause before she went off on her adventure she was wearing that one dress you and mother Kaina got her riding Artaios side saddle."

"That's pleasing to hear," Dracula said with a smile before gently patting Izuku's shoulder. "Well, I must find the young Princess. Please, help yourselves to food and drinks should you require it." Dracula said, looking at Izuku's friends with a small smile before walking off toward the gardens.

Momo locked eyes with Izuku as she said, "Oh, Izuku." Her voice was sweet as she asked, with many of the girls around her locking their eyes on him, "Care to give us details of this new little sister?"

Izuku chuckled nervously at the sweet tone coming from Momo. "Well, her name's Eri, and she's the most wonderful little sister I've gotten to know. She's like a little unicorn, due to the one horn she's got on her head."

Mina and Ochaco specifically cooed, as it was the cutest thing.

"And she's riding on your big ass dog like he was a horse?" Bakugo asked, rather amused by that.

Izuku nodded, only for the room to be filled with the coos of his female friends at the image in their heads. "Oh, that is so cute! Now I gotta meet her!" Mina exclaimed.

Izuku chuckles a bit. "Well, she's still getting used to people, so… maybe not yet."

Ochaco groaned. "Izuku! You can't just drop a cute bomb like that on us and not expect us to NOT want to see your little sister."

"Look, she's still getting used to others, so just dropping new people on her will just make her shut down. So please... Be patient." Izuku said in a slightly stern voice, which surprised some of them.

Momo felt bad, so she backed off. "Of course... We're sorry for pushing it."

Izuku shook his head. "No, no... It's ok. I'll tell her about you guys, and then we'll see if she wants to meet you."

Momo smiled a bit before Mina was seen looking around the room and even checking under the furniture. "Ashido, what are you doing?" Momo asked.

Mina bent down so she was looking from between her legs. "Looking for all the hiding places for our richie rich friend's servants."

Izuku sighed. "Ok, I'll bite. Why are you looking all over for hiding places for the mansion's staff?"

Mina exclaimed, "BECAUSE THEY KEEP POPPING OUT OF THE SHADOWS! Like, did your dad hire Shinobi or something?!"

"Well, I don't know about Shinobi, but some of the butlers and maids had some training, as far as I'm concerned," Izuku commented.

"Maybe you just need to work on your awareness," Bakugo said to Mina, which caused her to pout at him.

"Like you're one to talk! I saw you jump as well!" Mina said with a cross of her arms.

Bakugo huffed, "I did no such thing, you walking advert for Pepto Bismol."

"Bakugo! That is no way to speak to a classmate!" Iida immediately admonished him while waving his forearms up and down like a robot.

"Oh don't act like you didn't get fucking scared, Engine Legs!" Bakugo shouted back.

"And stop with the name-calling!"

Izuku watched and was amused by it all. Happy that they didn't treat him any differently due to his new crippled status. Momo shook her head. "You'd think they'd keep it calm in such a place," Momo said with a sigh while brushing some hair past her shoulder.

"Well, this is an informal visit, so they're allowed," Izuku said. "Besides, I don't mind it. But anyway, want to get something to eat? I'm rather hungry myself."

Momo nodded before, with a smirk, she brought her hands up and gave a quick clap, which caused Joshua to appear behind them. "Salutations. What can I do for you today?"

Mina screeched and jumped into Iida's arms once more. Though Bakugo wouldn't admit it, he screamed like Mina, though his voice was at the same pitch as Mina's. "WILL YOU STOP THAT!?" Mina shouted at Joshua.

Joshua bowed his head. "I will endeavor to make my presence known in the future. But my question still stands: What can I do for you?"

Izuku turned his wheelchair around to look at Joshua. "I think we require lunch."

Joshua nodded his head. "Of course, Master Midoriya. Would a menu for your friends help them decide what they wish?"

"I think that would be beneficial for us," Momo commented, prompting Joshua to nod his head.

"Very good, my lady. Now, may I take everyone to the dining room?" Joshua turned to lead the teenagers toward their destination.

Everyone, minus the two rich children, gawked and awed at the size of the dining room and even the chandeliers hanging high above. "Ok, I know I asked this before when we saw your pool, but dude. HOW RICH ARE YOU!?" Mina shouted her question.

Izuku chuckled as he rubbed the back of his head. "I mean… It's not as grand as Momos."

Momo chuckled behind a hand fan as she quickly closed it and motioned towards Izuku, "Oh, stop it, you know it's modest compared to yours."

"No, I've seen your dining room; it's way bigger than this," Izuku argued.

"Let us agree to disagree." Momo giggled.

Bakugo, Kirishima, Ochaco, and Mina watched their interactions, and Mina whispered to them, "Dude, they're totally into each other."

"Maybe, but Izuku's too much of a dumbass to realize it," Bakugo commented.

"Aw, come on, man. They just need to figure it out for themselves. What's manlier than a man realizing his feelings for himself?" Kirishima said, honestly rooting for the two.

Soon, the staff began to fill the room as each maid sat down with glasses and began to fill them with water before Joshua announced. "Before the main course, we shall allow you to dine on a nice Mediterranean salad as a start. A lovely blind of kelp, ice lettuce, Madeiran oranges from Italy, and an outsourced salad dressing straight from a Sicilian winery."

Izuku smiled as he nodded towards his butler and brother/ uncle figure. "Thank you, Joshua."

Joshua gave a small bow. "You are welcome, young master." The teens sat down in their chairs, though Izuku simply wheeled to the table and just used his wheelchair in its place. Menus were also placed down to allow the guests to see their choices of main course dishes.

"Ooh, Udon Noodles," Mina said with mild excitement.

"There are so many good choices, I can't choose. But I know I want lots of protein." Kirishima commented, scrolling through his menu.

Iida pushed up his glasses. "Hmm, I'll need something high in calcium to help with my metabolism."

Joshua walked over with a silver cup in his hand and placed it on the table in front of Izuku. "I thought you might like a latte with steamed Austrian goat's milk with sugar and chocolate shavings."

Izuku smiled at him, "You know I always love how you make lattes."

Joshua smiled and bowed his head. "You're very welcome, sir." He looked towards his friends, "May I get anyone else anything to drink?"

Many of Izuku's friends asked for either tea, water, or, in the mini body builder who can make his skin as hard as granite, an energy drink that could give you a heart attack. He was given green tea.

Izuku smiled as he drank before Momo began a new conversation. "Well, Izuku, I heard through the social grapevine that you might be getting knighted. Heard it was because of your brave actions that got you noticed by more than just Romania's nobility." Slowly, she brought her tea towards her lips and slowly drank as everyone who wasn't in the rich upper crust of Japan seemed to be shocked at this information.

"Wait, what!? You're getting knighted!? That still happens?" Mina exclaimed in shock.

Izuku chuckled nervously and rubbed the back of his head. "Yeah. My father's country still practices the ancient practices of knighthood."

"But wait, who else noticed you?" Bakugo asked, taking a sip of tea.

Izuku wasn't sure if he should reveal this information, so he asked. "Can you guys keep this a secret? At least until it becomes official?"

Iida raised his hand like a Boy Scout's salute. "Of course, Midoriya! If it is that important, then I will not tell a soul."

Izuku cleared his throat, "The Imperial Family has also talked about granting me the rank of knight within the royal family, or at least the closest thing to a Samurai."

Jaws dropped, everyone even Bakugo almost fell out of his seat at he quickly grab the table before exclaiming "FUCKING WHAT?!"

Izuku waved his hands. "Please try to keep it down!"

"What do you mean the fucking Imperial Family is knighting you as well!?" Bakugo exclaimed. "Is that even possible!?"

"So you're gonna turn into a Knight/Samurai!? That's the manliest thing ever!" Kirishima shouted in excitement.

Before any more comments could be said, the sight of a paper hitting Bokugo could be seen hitting the young man upside his head as a wild Inko appeared as she shouted, "THERE WILL BE NO CUSSING IN THIS HOUSE! There is a young child here and i will not have her hear such foul language."

"Sorry, Auntie Inko!" Bakugo exclaimed, lowering his head.

"Hey, Mom, what're you doing here?" Izuku asked.

"I just came to see how you're doing and to make sure you're not overextending yourself," Inko said, walking to her son and kissing his head. "And I was also looking for your father. Do you know where he is?"

"Well, he asked me where Eri was, so I pointed him to the gardens."

Inko smiled and ruffled his hair gently. "Thanks, sweetheart. Now, have fun, but don't exert yourself." She then looked at his friends. "The same goes to you all, and behave. Especially you, Bakugo."

Bakugo looked away a little abashedly. "Yes, Aunt."

Inko smiled as she nodded her head slightly before leaving the teenagers alone as Izuku laughed a little, looking at Bakugo. "I keep warning you about cursing in this house. Mom always knows when someone does."

"How the fff- Just how does she know!?" Bakugo exclaimed while throwing his hands up.

"Is her quirk some kind of sixth sense?" Iida asked.

"Oh no, she has Telekinesis, though it's a minor one where she can only pull things to her hands," Izuku explained.

"Oh, so like the Force!" Kirishima commented.

"That's... Huh. That's not far off." Izuku said, his head tilted as if he had never thought of it like that.

Momo taps her cheekbone with her index finger as she says in a contemplative tone of voice, "Well, it could be like how dads always know when someone messes with the thermostat. They just know."

"Man, who knew parenthood would give you extra super powers?" Ochaco said with a giggle before drinking some tea.

Izuku nods as off with his mother she walked the stone pathway of their garden coming upon a sight of Dracula sitting on one of the benches as he watched Eri laughing as she ran around with Artaios who was 'cahsing' her but also nudging his head on her small body so she doesnt fall over and get hurt.

Dracula watched with a rare smile on his face. Watching Eri giggle and laugh as Artaios rubbed his nose on her stomach, tickling her, gave Dracula a sense of... Hope.

Hope that soon, he won't have to get dirty to clean up Japan anymore. He could hand over the reins to his son, Genya, and relocate back to Romania with Kaina and Eri and watch Izuku become the hero he had always dreamed of becoming.

Inko soon made herself known as she sat down next to Dracula. "She reminds me of when Izuku was that young." Eri almost tripped if not for the fast action of Artaios, who quickly had his head where she almost fell, which caused her to laugh.

Dracula chuckled, "Young, so filled with light and hope."

Inko nodded with a smile. "She has that same smile I saw anytime Izuku watched the video of All Might's debut."

Dracula chuckled a little before a loud yelp was heard as Artaios barked slightly in distress as Inko stood up quickly and walked over to where Eri was. Now sitting on the ground Eri was sucking on her finger with small driplets of tears on the edge of her eyes as she was near the roses "Eri, sweetie what happened? Are you alright?" Asked Inko.

Eri with her free hand pointed at a rose as she said while still sucking on her finger. "Pwetty flower huwt mama."

"Oh, sweetie." Inko gently held her finger and gently kissed it. "There, it should feel better soon." Eri rubbed her eyes to get rid of the tears.

Artaios came down to Eri's level as he began to rub his large head against Eri's body to try and make her happy, which seemed to work as Dracula finally made his presence known. "That flower is called a rose, it is beautiful as it is dangerous to try and hold."

Eri looked at the bright red flower as she asked, "Why Papa?"

"Those thorns can be harmful if not gently removed," Dracula explained.

Eri looked at the flowers as Inko gently moved a rose and showed the main body, "See, sweetie, these thorns are what hurt you. But it doesn't mean that the flower meant to hurt you. It's just how it defends itself."

Dracula knelt next to Erin and plucked one of the roses from the bush, and started removing the thorns, before gently handing it to her.

Eri took the flower and smiled as she smelled it. "It smells so sweet."

Inko softly rubs Eri's head, "Just like you." This caused the young girl to giggle. Dracula picked Eri up and held her in his arms as he walked towards the bench with Artaios walking behind.

Inko sat down as Eri looked up at her two parents. "Papa, is Mama also a queen like Mommy?" Eri asked sweetly, which caused Inko to laugh a little. "Why do you think I'm a queen, Eri?" Knowing she was talking about Dracula's girlfriend and ex-hero.

"Because papa is a king, so that would make you and mommy queens, right?" Eri explained, which caused Dracula to chuckle as he smiled down at his adopted daughter.

"That would be true if your mama was married to me, but no, she is not a queen, sweety," Dracula explained, which caused Eri to tilt her head slightly, clearly confused.

"So, mommy will be queen then if you marry her, but mama won't be?" Eri asked, to which Inko nodded, "Yes, Eri, however much as I do adore Dracula for what he has done for your big brother, I do not have feelings for him in that way."

Dracula then explained more, "Your mama wants more out of life than simple marriage. She wants her child to be happy, and she wants to be able to support your big brother with her job as a lawyer. You understand what I am saying, Eri?"

Eri nodded, "It's very confusing, Papa."

Inko laughed a bit. "Our family is confusing, but it's a loving, confusing family."

Dracula smiled, "You will understand as you get older, my dear. And know this, Eri, you can always come to me, Inko, or your mother, with any questions or concerns that you have."

Eri nodded before Eri yawned as Inko smiled, "I think it's time for someone's nap."

Eri rubbed her eyes as she complained, "But I'm not tired, Mama." Artaios let out a huff as he rubbed his head on Eri, showing her that yes, she was.

"I'm sure you're not." Dracula chuckled and rubbed her hair gently before standing up, and Inko gently took her from Dracula's arms.

"I'll put her to bed," Inko said before gently walking back into the mansion. Artaios gently huffed before looking at Dracula. He smiled and rubbed the dog's head.

Artaios leaned his head into his master's hand before his body became tense and soon looked towards the door leading out of the garden as he began to growl slightly to alert his master. Dracula looked at the door with narrowed eyes. "What is it, boy?" Artiaos soon stood and began to walk to the door before going out the large dog door they installed. As he began sniffing the ground, he had smelled them before. The intruders returned.

Dracula followed the dog out through the door and found several wolves near the gate.

Artaios growled as he barked a warning to the large group of wolves present, now numbering fifteen easily. Artaios stood his ground as he barked, even scratching the ground as if showing this was his territory, but the wolves stood out as they walked back and forth, looking for an opening to attack Artaios and his master.

If Dracula could guess what was being said just by the body language, Artaios was warning them or daring them to attack. Dracula pressed a button on his watch, which caused guards to arrive at the rooftop and stone fences, aiming their rifles at the wolves.

Artaios continued to bark, but soon everything happened fast as the pack attacked, literally breaking down the back gate as four went straight for Artaios, who in turn attacked, even in a four-on-one fight, the Russian dog fought hard to try and protect his master, who was right behind him. From Dracula's point of view, he saw this large dog fighting one wolf with its neck in its jaw while the other three clawed and tried to dig their fangs into the mass of fur that was Artaios' body, all while suppressed rifles fired all around them.

Artaios managed to dig his teeth into the wolf's neck before tearing into its flesh, blood pooling into his mouth while his claws dug into the fur. Dracula frowned as he watched one wolf crouched in front of him, growling as it prepared to pounce on the King of Vampires. The wolf barked and pounced, only to get Dracula's sharp nails through its jugular. Artaios' barks could be heard and in front of Dracula he began to see something he had not seen since his time with the were folk, Artaios began to grow all while the wolves that were alive continued to bite and scratch into him with blood on their claws and fangs as it was clear they were doing damage to the Mountain Shepard.

That's when something... Spectacular happened. The Caucasian Mountain Shepherd began to grow in size. The wolves began to bite and scratch at his legs. Artaios was now the size of a horse, and his jaws were around the wolf's neck before biting down, decapitating the canine.

Soon, the fight was over as Artaios, now seemingly calm, began to shrink back to his normal size and start to limp back towards his master, only to collapse to the ground as he began to whine. Scars were clear on his face, and blood was now seeping from the wounds on his legs and body. His fur was matted down by not just his wounds but the blood of the intruders. Looking up, he could see his master moving towards him as he let out a pained whine towards his master. Dracula knelt in front of Artaios, shushing him gently before picking him up and walking back towards the mansion. He went through the door and found Izuku and his friends in the entrance hall. Izuku's eyes widened as he saw Artaios all injured and bleeding. "Artaios!? Oh Kami, what happened!?" Momo gasped and put her hands to her mouth at the state of the dog.

"I'll tell you when we've gotten him stable. Joshua! Prep the medical table!" Dracula ordered his butler. Joshua nodded and walked ahead of Dracula.

Artaios looked at his brother in the eyes and couldn't help but whine slightly before the darkness started to take him, all while watching his brother's pleading eyes.

All while thinking, 'I protected you, brother and sister. I protected you.'

Dracula growled as he walked faster while Izuku wheeled in behind his father, looking extremely worried for his dog. "Please be ok, Artaios..." He whispered. Momo walked beside him, keeping pace as did his friends.

Soon, they arrive at the mansion's own hospital wing as the servants stop them from going further. "I'm sorry, young master, but you and your friends must stay here."

Izuku looked hurt as he exclaimed softly. "But that is my brother in there! I demand to be present!"

"Midoriya!" A firm woman's voice was heard as Izuku turned to see his stepmother walking towards him.

"Let them do what they need to do." She walked to him before crouching down to him, and spoke in a softer voice. "You can see him when he's stable. I promise you."

Izuku just nodded as he looked at the door before Iida walked up, laying a hand on his friend's shoulder. "I am sure Artaios will be ok." Izuku just nodded as Momo looked towards Joshua as she asked. "What happened?"

Joshua adjusted his glasses as he answered. "A pack of wild wolves broke into the manor grounds, and Artaios attempted to remove them. I can assure you that such a thing will not happen again in the future."

"Wild wolves? Out here?" Izuku asked, bewildered at that.

"Like I said, it will never happen again," Joshua responded. "Now, may I interest anyone in some tea to calm themselves down?"

Kaina looked at Joshua and nodded, "Yes. Tea will do us well." Joshua bowed his head before walking off to make some tea.

Bakugo just looked at the door as he said to Izuku. "Your dog was brave to take on a bunch of wolves, let alone a pack." He patted Izuku's shoulder. "He'll pull through."

Mina, however, looked around confused. "Hold up, I'm sorry about what happened to Artaios, but... What would a pack of wild animals be doing this close? I mean, I know the news talked about animals moving closer to the city and all the causes of construction, but...THIS close?"

"We'll investigate it, but right now, all that matters is Artaios," Kaina said, gently rubbing Izuku's hair and kissing his head to give him some comfort.

Momo gently placed her hand on his shoulder, to which he placed his robotic hand over hers. It was a gesture that he very much valued. "He's gonna be ok, Izuku. He'll make it. He's a strong dog." She whispered, gently snaking her hand around his collarbone to give him a hug.

Izuku just remained silent as his eyes never left the door. What felt like hours passed before the door opened and his father walked out, removing bloody gloves from his hands.

Upon seeing his son as well as everyone else, minus Eri and Inko, thanking whoever above, he gave a small smile. "He's ok. The attacks from the wolves never hit anything vital, thankfully but…" he was silent as he breathed. "But he will need to rest."

"Can I see him?" Izuku asked, to which Dracula nodded.

"Yes, you can. But do not touch him. You can be by his side, but I do not want him disturbed, understood?" His father asked with one finger raised. Izuku nodded in understanding. Dracula moved to the side to allow his son to enter with his friends behind him.

What Izuku saw broke his heart as Artaios lay on a medical bed with his legs, snout, and even parts of his midsection covered in bandages as he was sedated, "Oh, Artaios." Izuku whispered.

Mina, Ochaco, and Momo had their hands to their heads in shock at the sight. Tears threatened to leak from Izuku's eyes at the sight of Artaios.

"God..." Bakugo said, his fists clenching at the sight of a dog being hurt like this.

Dracula laid a hand on Izuku's shoulder as he asked. "Do you remember what your Aunt Striga told you when you first welcomed Artaios into our family?"

Izuku nodded as he said. "That he would be my battle brother." He was silent for a moment as tears fell freely from his eyes. "But he is my brother's father, he is Eri's brother. He's… He's a good boy."

"He is. And he will pull through. After all, would a mere pack of wolves be able to defeat a canine that could take on bears?" Dracula asked.

Izuku laughed a little before more tears left his eyes as Dracula pulled his son into a comforting hug as that day Artaios cemented himself in the family's mind of being their protector, more so to his master, brother, and sister.

---

Days turned to weeks, and in that time, both Izuku and Artaios shared their physical therapy sessions, both growing together as they healed, brothers in everything but the same species, both growing stronger as they healed as they both fought to protect those they loved. And once both were fully healed, Artaios returned to his duty of being the family protector, much to a very happy Eri.

But for Izuku, it was a special day, as today was the day he would be inducted into an old and sacred order of his family and clan, of which he was adopted into.

Izuku was now standing outside a pair of wooden doors adorned in attire that only those of initiates wore, which was a pair of dark maroon pants and shirt with the sash of an initiate placed over his body, which was of a lighter color to show his status in the ranks of the knighthood of Tepes.

The doors opened, and a large circular chamber was seen with men and women in black cloaks, but they all bore the mark of Tepes. A red dragon curled around a sword. Izuku stepped forward, toward the circular platform that was in the middle of the room. In front of Izuku was Dracula, in regal black and red armor with scales embedded in the shoulder and chest plate. Scales that were those of a great dragon.

"Today, we bear witness to the ascension of an initiate whose actions went above and beyond that of our code, for which this order has abided by for generations." Dracula addressed those present before his gaze landed on Izuku as his voice echoed in the room, "Initiate. Do you believe you are ready to be inducted into this knightly order as a full knight?"

Izuku had a stone face as he responded with a voice filled with confidence. "I am ready!"

Dracula removed his great sword from his scabbard and held it with both hands in front of his face. "Kneel."

Izuku knelt on one knee, a fist on his chest, and his head bowed. Dracula placed the blade on his left shoulder, "Do you, Izuku Midoriya-Tepes, swear to abide by the code of Knight Tepes? To aid the sick, to defend the meek, to strike down the wicked, and uphold our code with honor?" Dracula asked.

Izuku nodded, "I do, Knight Commander."

Dracula nodded as he called out, "Do any challenge this! Do you believe he is not worthy to be among our ranks? Speak now or forever hold your tongue!"

One large figure stepped forward as a thick female Slavic accent spoke up. "We of the Eastern clans recognize his bravery and warrior spirit. We do not challenge this."

Soon, another smaller figure stepped forward, and it was yet another woman's voice. "We of the Celts recognize his will to defend the weak. We do not challenge this."

Dracula nodded and placed the sword on his right shoulder. "By the order of Knight Commander, witnessed by all within the order, I promote thee to Full Knight of the Tepes Order!" Dracula removed his sword from Izuku's shoulder before embedding it into the stone floor in front of Izuku. "Rise, my son," Dracula said, gently.

Izuku stood up from his kneeling position to look at his father. "Welcome to the Order," Dracula said before hugging his son. This caused everyone to applaud and cheer for Izuku.

Izuku's sash was removed and burned, this symbolized that the old him burned away as a new blood red sash was placed upon him. "Thank you, Father."

The large figure from before removed their hood, and there was Striga with a bright smile and donning her armor, which was black as night. "I knew you could do it, nephew! I am so proud of you!" She patted his back as she laughed.

While the smaller figure removed their hood and showed Lenore, who was smiling as well. "Congratulations, young man. Welcome to the Order."

Izuku smiled brightly as he hugged both Lenore and Striga before Dracula spoke up, "Let the celebration begin!"

Like those stories Izuku and Eri were told of old, all were brought to the main dining room where many were present in their uniforms, Striga being the most extravagant due to the medals on her chest. Lenore was more English in nature as she wore black slacks with calf-length black boots and a red dress coat with her medals present.

But for Izuku's father, his uniform was of a Romanian Service uniform with his medals present as he announced. "Today, my son is a man in our respective cultures!"

That got cheers as Lenore spoke up. "And because of that, I have prepared a present for him." Izuku was surprised and looked at Lenore, who smirked mischievously and winked at him. A moment later, a servant produced an ornate wooden box, taking the box she presented to Izuku. "I heard what happened to your last sword, and well, a knight is not a knight without his sword."

He looked at Lenore, then at the box before opening it, and gasped at the blade. Forged in Damascus stee,l which gave it a beautiful grey line swirl and intricate patterns of Medieval art depicting dragons, the sword had a guard of dragon heads with emeralds embedded in the eyes. As well as an emerald on the pommel of the sword. The grip was made with fine black leather that was wrapped neatly.

"It's so beautiful..." Izuku said, breathless at the sight of the sword. He picked up the sword and gripped it tightly with both hands. It was light, but was certain to carry a bite like a crocodile.

"Every good blade needs a name, especially if it is wielded by a knight," Dracula told his son, prompting him to name his new blade.

"竜の噛みつき." Izuku said.

Dracula smiled and nodded. "Dragon's Bite. A perfect name."

Izuku smiled at his aunt, who presented him with a wooden sheath wrapped in leather with the symbol of the Tepes Clan on its main body. "Be sure to take care of this blade. We wouldn't want a repeat of your last one now, do we?" She smirked as she gave her nephew a wink, which caused him to chuckle nervously.

"Thank you, Aunt Lenore. I will use this sword with honor and gratitude." Izuku said before bowing his upper half low, before sheathing his sword.

Lenore chuckled as she waved her hand. "Oh, enough of that, you're among fellow knights, we are all equal. Well, minus your father, but he is the Knight Commander."

Dracula chuckled and patted his son's shoulder. Striga also came over and spoke with a more solemn tone. "I heard young Artaios was wounded in battle. Tell me, how does he fare?"

Izuku looked up to his aunt. "He's recovering well, should be back to 100% soon."

Striga nodded, looking relieved. "Good. It seems I made the right choice in giving him to you."

Dracula chuckled, "Not just that, but it seems he is special. He had a power of his own."

Striga looked at her King with intrigue, "Oh?"

"He has a Quirk of his own!" Izuku said, shocking many of the knights.

"Your dog has a Quirk? How is that possible?" Lenore questioned with surprise.

Striga, however, was excited. "Tell your mighty Aunt what his power is?"

Izuku smiled. "He can grow in size. Right now he is about the size of a quarter-horse, but because he's still young, the doctors and my dad believe that when he's fully grown, he can become as big as a stallion." This caused Striga to let out a hearty laugh.

"A fierce dog for you to ride into battle! Ahahaha! Fate smiles upon you, dear nephew!" Striga laughed.

Lenore was rather impressed as well. "That is quite impressive. One of these days, I'll have to come to Japan to see Artaios and his power for myself."

Striga agreed. "Da! I must see this!"

Izuku chuckled, "Well, right now, he's my little sister's protector."

Striga was in front of Izuku's face faster than he had ever seen a woman do. "Little sister? You have a little sister?"

Dracula spoke up, "It is a long story, and I would prefer it be explained in private."

Striga looked at Dracula before standing up straight and straightening out her suit. "Of course, my Lord."

She then added, "But I wish to meet a new child."

Lenore and even Izuku had their own reaction, "ABSOLUTELY NOT!/ Maybe when she's used to people, Auntie Striga."

Striga had a little pout, and Dracula had to explain. "She is not used to many people, and you will exacerbate things if you come at her with excitement. I will tell you when she is ready to meet new people. Am I clear?"

Striga bowed her head, "Of course, my lord. Forgive me for being forward."

Izuku sighed while Lenore looked at Dracula. "In that case, I would like to put forward my services as her nanny," Lenore smirked as Striga's face of betrayal considering that one, Lenore had many PhDs in child psychology, which she worked very hard for, and two. In terms of personalities, she was much better to have than Striga around a small child.

Dracula hummed, "I will consider it, Lenore."

The redhead bowed her head, "I await your response."

Izuku sighed as he enjoyed the party, as his father left him with the knighthood while he and the other two walked to a more private room to talk, to which Lenore started. "With all due respect, I ask this not as your ally or confidant but as a licensed medical professional. What's wrong with this new daughter of yours?" The tone of voice she used showed she wasn't going to take no for an answer.

Dracula sighed as he sat down in a chair and revealed, "She had been tortured and experimented on by the Yakuza." Lenore and Striga's eyes widened at the revelation. Before any of them could say anything, Dracula continued. "Her Quirk allows her to reverse the state of any person she touches. The Yakuza were extracting her blood to create a bullet that would nullify a hero's powers for some time. When we learned about this child, we set up an ambush and took her. When we ran a background check on her, there was nothing. No parents, no date of birth, no certificate. She was a complete specter to the world."

Lenore, now in full doctor mode, began to pace slightly. "She will be suffering from PTSD, I can already assume from what Izuku said, she's very attached to Artaios, correct?"

With Dracula's nod, she continued. "Then it's clear that she will need her dog to be similar to Izuku's. That way her mental health can handle the idea of Artaios having to leave her side if Izuku wishes for Artaios to stay at his side when he's conducting hero work."

Dracula looked down in thought, "A smaller dog, one she can grow alongside with."

"Would it not be safer to get her a guard dog, much like Artaios?" Striga asked.

Lenore was about to retort before she became deep in thought as she asked Dracula. "How is the child around Artaios?"

Dracula leaned back as he smiled. "She adores him, she will sleep on him due to his fur, and even ride the side saddle on his back."

Striga laughed gently, "Her very own steed."

Lenore hummed as she tapped her finger to her lips. "Perhaps another Mountain Shepherd, or a similar breed, will be good for her. My only hope is that she can become just as attached to this one as she did to Artaios."

"She has been very understanding, so I believe she may understand that Artaios must stay with Izuku." Dracula explained.

Striga straightened her shoulders. "I will find a pup for her within the week."

Lenore soon turned to Striga. "It has to be the exact breed, from the exact place you found Artaios. Children can tell when something is not right or when it is different." Striga just nodded before Lenore turned her head towards Dracula. "On this, I will not take no for an answer. I will help your Daughter heal. I respect you, my lord, but I fear that our medical knowledge of the minds is much different and greater in grasp. As such, I am invoking my right as a medical professional to treat your child with her mental trauma and any other mental-related issues she may have."

Dracula couldn't help but smirk at how this small redhead was talking to him; if anyone else, he would have them punished or killed on the spot. However, when it came to those in the medical field, he respected them and the spine they had when it came to talking to him in such a manner. Dracula chuckled and brought his hands together. "As you wish, Lenore. At the end of the day, all I care about is Eri's health."

Striga spoke up, "I will find a pup soon, from the same place. I just hope your daughter will be able to bond with this one as she has with Artaios."

"I will be truthful to her, and I will explain it to her. I have faith that she will understand." Dracula explained his plan.

Lenore smiled as she clapped, "Perfect! Now, if you will excuse me, I shall inform Izuku of this development." Turning around, she walks out as Striga pulls out her phone and begins quickly hounding her assistant to find the place where they found Artaios.

Dracula stood up from the chair and began thinking about how he was going to explain this new development to Eri. He walked back to the main room to see the festivities still going strong as knights and squires alike drank and feasted.

Dracula smiled as he watched his son laugh and talk among the many others as he regaled them with his tale of bravery, and as they returned home.

---

Lenore had joined them as she was bringing with her a rather large box with a bow wrapped around the top, a present for a very special girl. Said Eri was there with servants and Artaios waiting as they walked through the door with an excited yell, "PAPA! BIG BWOTHER!" Running as fast as her little legs could take her towards the two with the largest smiles she could muster.

Dracula chuckled and knelt before picking her up. "Oh, you missed us, didn't you, Eri?" He asked as she wrapped her little arms around his neck in a hug. Izuku watched with a smile before Eri reached out to hug her big brother. He took her from his father's arms and hugged her back as well. "I missed you," Eri said, muffled into his shoulder. Izuku smiled as he replied, "I missed you too, Eri."

Eri looked at her brother with a smile before seeing Lenore, which caused her to bury her head slightly shy as Lenore smiled, "Hello. I'm Lenore, your auntie, and I bring gifts." That got Eri to look up slightly, "Gift?" Lenore nodded as Izuku knelt and set his sister down on her feet, as Lenore came down so she was eye level with the child. "Yes indeed, in fact, I heard you were a very brave little princess who was rescued from some very bad people." Eri nodded as Lenore continued, "And I hear how much you love Artaios." This got Eri to nod more as she smiled while the protector barked with his tail wagging.

"Well, your father and I had a discussion. You see, Artaios was Izuku's gift for his 15th birthday. And he was meant to be his partner when he became a hero. Now, I know how much you love Artaios, and I know nothing will ever be able to replace him, but we decided to give you your very own pup." Lenore set the box down in front of Eri so that she could open the gift herself.

Eri looked curiously as she walked forward and slowly opened the box and soon the head of a puppy popped up and yipped which caused Eri to jump slightly before she came forward and started petting the puppy who rubbed into her hand and all but comes into her body fully as Artaios came up and began sniffing on the puppy then began licking it showing they are welcomed as a new member of the family. "What's their name, Auntie?"

Lenore smiled, "This puppy is a she and much like your brother, it is up to you to name her, for like Artaios, she will be your sister and your protector from all those bad men and monsters just like Artaios."

Eri giggled at the little pup licking her hand before proudly proclaiming, "Anya!" The pup yipped. It seems she liked that name very much. Inko and Kaina couldn't help but coo at how adorable the name was.

Lenore smiled. "Then Anya she shall be." Izuku smiled as he petted Artaios. "Say hello to your new little sister, Artaios." In a way, he did as he rubbed his snout on the puppy who put her paws on his and yipped happily with her small tail wagging, and from then on Eri had a new protector and sister who stayed by her side as she learn from her brother Artaios how to keep Eri happy and safe. But much like Eri, she was full of energy and joy as she always played with Eri or slept with her during her naps or when she went to bed curled up next to her, much like Artaios to protect the small child.

Dracula watched Eri and Anya bond with Kaina by his side. She smiled and kissed his cheek. "You're too sweet for your good, you know that, dear?" Kaina asked.

The King chuckled before saying seriously, "If she asked for it, I would give her the entire world." She smiled and rested her head on his shoulder.

Eri slept soundly as her small arm lay on Anya, who moved closer to her sister, all while Artaios' body was wrapped around them in a way that protected them from any monsters who dared come to try and harm the child. Soon, the two parents softly closed the door as they let Eri have her nap before walking down the hall as Kaina spoke towards Dracula, "How is Izuku doing? I know he's been going into his training harder than before now with his aunt residing in our home."

He hummed, "He has been making up for the time he has lost due to being bedridden. Along with making up for any school work he has missed."

"Do you think it's a good idea for him to do it?" Kaina asked.

"Yes, and no. As long as he is sleeping and eating properly, I will let it happen."

"What of All Might? I'm surprised he hasn't come to see him." Kaina commented, to which Dracula sighed. "It would seem the attack has left him a little shaken, but I will not ask him to see Izuku. He will see him when he returns to U.A. next week." Dracula explained.

Kaina nodded as they reached the inner courtyard of the manor, where Izuku was seen with his Aunt Lenore, who had a wooden sword in hand, facing Izuku. "Remember, young nephew, you are a knight now, which means that you now represent not only the order but also your father."

Izuku nodded, "Yes, Auntie."

Lenore smiled, "Good." With a quick strike, Izuku blocked three of her attacks in quick work before they separated again and began to circle each other. "Your form is good, your strength workable, but you lack one thing that needs serious work."

"What's that, Auntie?" He goes to strike only for Lenore to block, lock her sword with his, which is ripped from his hand, and with a quick swipe of his feet, he's on his back with the wooden blade at his neck. "Your footwork is sloppy."

Izuku groaned at the collision with the floor on his back. Lenore removed the wooden sword from his neck and held her hand to him. He grabbed it and was hauled to his feet with ease due to her superior strength. "Again," Lenore said before getting into a combat stance, as did Izuku.

Izuku continued his practice, but instead of the front, Lenore was able to disarm him from behind and now was sitting on his back as she clicked her tongue slightly while shaking her head, "You have heart, a lot of heart, and a soul of an honest and pure warrior." Izuku smiled slightly before she smacked him on the head lightly. "But the footwork of a blind donkey who was on a binder in Doblin."

"Ow..." Izuku rubbed his head. "Now, I'm sure you're wondering what proper footwork has to do with being in battle," Lenore commented before standing up from his back. "It's to show control. That you are in complete control of your body. That your enemies cannot find a single weakness in your body that they can exploit. Are you understanding my words, Knight?"

Izuku now standing at attention, he slammed a balled fist to his heart as he said, "Yes, Instructor!" A chuckle could be heard as Dracula made himself known, "She is not wrong, young knight."

Lenore smiled a bit. "Ah, Knight Commander Tepes, how long have you been there?" Her voice was innocent but laced with something Izuku didn't know as he stayed at attention, knowing that right now he wasn't being addressed as a son but as a fresh knight being trained by his instructor with his knight commander in observation.

"Merely a few minutes, Instructor. I wanted to see how he is faring with his new title. At ease, son." Dracula said, letting Izuku slouch slightly. Lenore hummed, "Well, he has taken his training seriously, but still has much to be desired in terms of his footwork."

Dracula nodded, he soon took off his suit top and began to roll up his shleves before picking a training sword that suited him which with a hum of approval he address his son "young knight i want you to watch as i and your instructor proved you with an example of what proper foot work looks like." Izuku nodded as he gave a firm, "Yes, sir Knight Commander!" Before leaving the sparing area while Lenore brought her sword up with a smile, "Well then, it has been a tick since last we spared, when was it? London in 99? Or perhaps the highlands in '87?"

"It was most definitely London in '99," Dracula said as he twirled his training sword in his hand before getting into position with both of his hands on the sword and his feet spread out evenly.

Izuku watched intently as his brain began to do what it does best, study everything, as Lenore never looking away from Dracula, asked, "Shall we do this at normal speed then, aye? Wouldn't be good teaching if we look like blurs to the poor lad."

"Agreed," Dracula said, keeping his stance locked in, ready to adapt to whatever Lenore would do.

Lenore smiled as the two stared at each other before she made the first move with a faint as she attempted to attack from the front and above, only to come at the side as Dracula quickly brought his sword down, blocking her attack.

Dracula pushed her back and went in for a side swipe, but it was blocked by Lenore, who then brought it over head and to the other side. She then went in for a jab, but Dracula parried it and side-stepped to exploit Lenore's open side and back.

The attack was blocked as they seemed to pause as Izuku had his iconic notebook out, taking notes as fast as his hand could write, "Do make a note, young knight." Dracula added, "That when attacking or being attacked, the back is always a weakness, so be aware of your surroundings." Lenore drops as she attempts to sweep Dracula's feet, only to jump before their wooden blades lock again, "Such as your feet."

That's when Dracula also bashed his head against Lenore's, causing her to back up and groan as she placed a hand on her forehead in pain. "And when you see an opening, never hesitate to use unconventional means to gain the upper hand. However, only use this in real combat. Never in a duel of honor." Dracula said.

Izuku nods again as he continues to write down in his notes, as Lenore said, "Aye, the Knight Commander is right. In a real fight, including hero work the ideals of honor are pure shite unless they are honorable sorts." Raising her sword again, she addressed Dracula. "To think you'd headbutt a woman, how uncultured." Dracula let out a small snorting chuckle.

"Oh, please, you're my opponent, therefore I'm taking you seriously," Dracula responded before attacking once more with swipes and blocked attacks.

Izuku watched as both his aunt and father seemingly danced, honestly danced as their swords either bounced or locked with each other, and soon both broke off as Lenore smirked, "Well, it seems having children has not caused your skills to dull, Knight Commander."

Dracula smirked back, "Never allow your skills to dull. Even when you have been given wondrous things in life." Lenore and Dracula circled each other, doing quick strikes. "Do not stay in one spot for too long. Stay on your toes."

Lenore continues from his father, "Most of all, be quick." She slashed as his father blocked, "Have a plan." She continued her attacks before, in one moment, both their swords seemed to fly in the air before both landed in Dracula's hands as he finished with, "But most of all, be professional."

Izuku's jaw was hanging wide open as he nodded while Lenore and Dracula laughed as she spoke towards her lord, "I dare say that was a good spare." Only to jump a bit at the sound of small clapping as she turns around and sees Eri on the back of Artaios with Anya in front of her riding atop the larger dog, "THAT WAS AMAZING, PAPA! AUNTY!"

Dracula and Lenore had a small but heartfelt laugh before they hung their wooden swords. Dracula cleared his throat and addressed his son as Knight Commander. "I trust you will take these lessons to heart, and you will work on your footwork."

Izuku snapped to attention and pounded his fist to his chest. "Yes, Knight Commander!" Dracula nodded and patted his son's shoulder. "Good. Now, let us get something to eat. I'm in the mood for a good pasta."

Izuku nods with a smile as he hangs up his training equipment, while Lenore couldn't help but coo at Eri. "Oh, look at you and Anya, so adorable you both riding your brother the way you are." Lenore avoided unnecessary physical contact unless Eri started it first.

Artaios barked and panted with his tongue hanging out. Eri giggled and hugged her little dog, Anya. "Arty is going to train Anya how to be like him!"

Lenore giggled, "And she will be just as good as her brother." Lenore softly pet both dogs' heads before she stood up. "Now come, dear, let's go have lunch with your father and brother." Eri nodded as they rode off into the manor. Yes, this was Izuku's life now. Family, training, catching up on school work, until finally the day came when he was allowed to return to UA. Granted, he had his brother with him with a specialized vest on his rather large body that not only showed he was his 'service dog' but also to protect him in case of another… well, 'incident' involving wild animals or kami forbid people.

---

The moment he entered Class 1-A, he got bombarded by his friends. "MIDORIYA!" Several of them shouted as they all hugged him.

"It's so good to see you walking around again!" Mina said.

"It's wonderful to see you back at 100%, Midoriya," Iida said with a grateful smile on his face.

"How're you feeling, Midoriya?" Ochaco asked.

Izuku smiled at his friends, "It's good to be back with you all. And I'm feeling good, all things considered."

That's when Momo noticed Artaios and knelt. "I see you've brought Artaios with you."

"You brought a dog to school?" Kaminari asked out of confusion.

"He's a service dog. Helps keep me calm and... Well, hopefully it doesn't come to it, but he'll also help defend me from another attack." Izuku explained. "A wise choice. There is no greater partner to have than man's best friend." Shoji commented through one of his mouth tendrils.

"Took down a pack of wolves, and now he's been promoted to Hero-In-Training," Bakugo said with a smirk. "I'm loving this school."

"Right, what the hell is a dog gonna do against villains?" Mineta asked in a snotty manner.

"Clearly, you do not understand just how important a dog can be." Momo said, frowning at the grape-haired student.

Mineta huffed, "Please, as if a dog can do anything, I mean, look at him! He looks like a walking pillow!"

Izuku raised an eyebrow before he shouted towards his battle brother, "Artaios! Atac!" Which, in that moment, all the little purple pervert saw was a wall of fur and very large teeth as Artaios barked at the little grape who dared insult him! Only his sister may call him a walking pillow, for he brings comfort to her!

Artaios had a paw on Mineta's chest as he growled at him. Mineta immediately started crying and screamed out, "OK OK! I'M SORRY! I'M SORRY!" Izuku then whistled, which brought Artaios back to his side. The female students all applauded at the display, happy to see Mineta crying like a baby.

"Everyone, be quiet and take your seats." Aizawa's voice stopped everything as he walked in with a couple of bandages on his face and arms. The students all got to their desks as Aizawa walked to his podium. That's when the Homeroom Teacher noticed Artaios by his side and asked in a dull tone, "Midoriya, why do you have a dog at your desk?"

"Because he's my service dog," Izuku answered.

"Did you get him approved?" Eraserhead asked.

That's when the intercom turned on, and Nezu's face spoke through the speaker. "All the necessary paperwork has been filed, Eraserhead. Besides, you might be interested in this one." Nezu said, a hint of intrigue and mischief in his voice that immediately put Aizawa on high alert.

"Dare I ask?" Aizawa asked.

Izuku just shrugged his shoulders as he said, as if it's normal, "He can grow to the size of a quarter-horse."

This made the students exclaim and even shout in unison, "HE HAS A QUIRK!?"

"Quiet!" Aizawa barked out, to which everyone did. That's when he looked at Izuku and asked, "If I'm understanding correctly, your service dog has a Quirk, and you're bringing him along to turn him into a hero, like you?"

"That was the general idea, sir," Izuku said with a smile that immediately made Aizawa groan.

"And like that, you have just made my job a lot harder... And it had to be a dog." Aizawa said before rubbing his eyes. "Ok, whatever. But you are solely responsible for him. You clean up after him, and if I see any bite marks on any students, I'm throwing him out and expelling you, understood?"

"Understood, sir," Izuku responded while Artaios lay at his feet.

Soon, the class went on as normal before their teacher announced, "Now, one last thing, the UA sports festival is coming up. So expect all of you to perform at your best." This got the shock you'd expect "WHAT!? But sensai are they really going to just do this after what happened with the USJ? I mean, yes, they were taken care of, but… but really, sir?" Asked Momo at the end as she tried to understand the reasoning.

"The higher-ups see it as proving that we are stronger than ever. If they see the students who were attacked performing at the festival, it will be a message to all." Aizawa explained.

"Well, bring it on, I'm more than happy to show those freaks they couldn't break us," Bakugo said with a smirk. Izuku sighed as he looked at Momo as both see it for what it is, a dog and pony show.

"Now, you have approximately two weeks to train and prepare yourselves for the Festival. So I suggest you use that time wisely." Aizawa spoke up. "Push yourselves, and improve."

"Yes, sensei." Everyone said in unison.

He just nods as the bell rings, allowing everyone to break for lunch as Izuku sits with Artaios, eating a bowl of clearly raw meat, which was mostly steak, livers, and even a heart, if one could see it. Yes, Artaios can eat regular dog food, but his diet is mostly meat, so yes, it was an interesting sight for some to see a rather large bear cub-sized dog just ripping into a steak like it was just freshly caught prey.

"Damn, he is hungry," Bakugo said in an impressed tone. Kirishima agreed as he ate some meat as well.

"A true predator, in such fluffy fur," Tokoyami commented as he watched the dog tear the meat apart with barely any trouble.

"You have got to show us your dog's quirk!" Mina said, excited to see him at his tallest.

"I'm sure we can make a day for all of us to train together, and you can see his quirk in action," Izuku said, getting his circle of friends excited.

"So, how is your arm feeling?" Momo asked, to which Izuku looked at his robotic arm.

"Feels good. It is strange, though, the synthetic muscles in it seem to increase the more I use it. I don't know how they did it, but it's like an actual muscle." Izuku explained, flexing his arm.

"That's rather incredible!" Iida said in surprise. "And where did your father acquire such advanced technology?"

"I-Island, apparently," Izuku revealed.

That got some impressed whistles as everyone continued to eat while Momo asked, "So… the sports festival." That got everyone to pause.

"I honestly think they should have held off on it honestly but...I guess I can see why I mean, my father is one of the sponsors, so I can see why they wouldn't hold off on it." Izuku commented as Momo nodded in agreement, considering her family also sponsors the event.

"Why do you guys think they should've held off?" Mina asked.

"Because it's a pony show. It's pretty much a giant spotlight on us and all these other guys to show off our quirks. Everyone will be watching." Bakugo explained.

"Well, isn't that a good thing?" Kirishima asked, not fully understanding.

"When he means everyone, he means everyone. Heroes, citizens, villains, and even the government." Izuku explained. "It will show who is powerful and who isn't." Momo added.

"Well then, you probably should not let your service dog be a part of the Festival," Mina commented. Izuku nodded, "You're right, I won't. I'd rather not have him be known. At least, not until we're heroes, or at least able to do field work."

"Good idea," Kirishima said, taking a bite of his food. Artaios licked his chops as he finished his meal.

Izuku nodded all while feeling that someone was staring at him, almost boring their eyes into his soul, and with a quick look, he didn't see anyone, which creeped him out slightly cause he knew none of the staff from the manor are here at the school or on the schools staff… he hoped.

He frowned but then turned back to his lunch and kept eating.

---

Back in class, they had just finished a lesson with Midnight, and when the students went to leave the classroom, they were stopped by a bunch of students. "Uh, excuse me, you're blocking our path," Iida spoke up.

"What's all this?" Kaminari asked.

"They're here to see the Class 1-A students who survived a villain's attack. They're trying to scope us out, see if we're as good as they think we might be." Bakugo explained.

"Look, everyone, we're trying to get to our next period, so if you could please make space for us." Ochaco spoke to the students.

"Well, well, Class 1-A. I gotta say, I expected more impressive-looking people." A boy with unruly purple hair and eyes that looked just like their homeroom teacher. Tired beyond all reason, and ready to close at any moment. "I'm Shinso Hitoshi, of General Studies. We're all from General Studies, and we wanted to see which one of you we'll be taking the seat from."

"I beg your pardon?" Momo asked.

"Haven't you heard the rules? If someone from Class 1-A or 1-B fails or falls behind in the Festival, they're removed from the class, put into General Studies, and one of us gets their seat. So I'm calling you arrogant dicks out." Hitoshi said, glaring at the whole class.

Izuku wanted to retort but kept his mouth shut and a hand on Artaios, who was ready to protect his brother. Momo huffed, "Well, good, you see us. Now, please move so that we may at least continue our educational careers even if we don't have a hero one. Ego will not stop us from at least getting an education." She was using her high society voice, which Izuku has only ever seen her use during social events put on by his family.

Hitoshi scoffed, "Great, rich kids. Let me guess, your family bribed the school to give you an automatic placement into the hero course. I bet you don't even have that good of a Quirk."

Momo attempted not to flinch, but then Izuku spoke up, "Hey, back off! Momo is the best of us all! She's the smartest and most creative student in this entire school!"

"Aw, how cute, the rich girl's pet is defending her," Hitoshi said in a sarcastic, cute tone. Momo glared at him, but then Bakugo stood and walked over to him.

"Hey, why don't you just back off, asshole! My friend got his fucking arm broke to the point it had to be amputated just to take down the worst villain we had to face! What the fuck have you done, huh? All I've seen so far is you bitch and whine! Let me guess, you got a shit quirk and it doesn't work for you combat wise?" Hitoshi opened his mouth, but Bakugo continued, "No, shut up! You don't get to say that shit and not expect any back talk. My friend nearly died trying to protect us! God, no wonder Class 1-A didn't take you, or 1-B, and they allowed this little squeaky piece of shit in."

Bakugo pointed to Mineta. "Hey!"

Bakugo continued, "I mean, so far, I can tell you are a ridiculous, immature child. Man, I have never met a sadder, more attention-starved, jabbering little prick in my entire life. And that says a lot, cuz I had two people enable my bullshit back when I was 5 fucking years old. And I'll tell you this, the way you fucking act, you will never. Be. A hero! You didn't even think of helping your classmates during the entrance exam, did you?" Hitoshi's eyes widened, as if he didn't even think about that. "And motherfucker, I wish I could say you never should've applied here, but you know what, it's one of God's best jokes that you're even here! EXCEPT THAT'S ON ALL OF US!" Bakugo shouted at him.

He breathed heavily as he was starting to calm down from his outburst. At Hitoshi and the rest of his classmates' silence he goaded them, "What you got nothing to say, asshole!?" There was a powerful silence before all of the general studies started to look behind Bakugo, as a deep growl could be heard. Slowly, he turned only to look in shock at Artaios, now grown to the size of a grizzly, growling at those who dared make his brother upset.

"Holy shit... That's a big boi!" Mina Ashido exclaimed, looking at Artaios as he barked loudly at the General students. The bark made them all back away, some even fleeing in fear.

Izuku was quick to act as he grabbed the vest around his body and barked out, "ARTAIOS! TOC! TOC! TOC!" Quickly telling him to heel in Romanian, which caused the dog to slowly shrink but still growl defensively as he put his body in front of Izuku to defend him, while Izuku just petted him, trying to calm down his battle brother.

"Hey, hey, hey, it's ok buddy." Izuku gently shushed, rubbing Artaios' neck.

Bakugo turned back towards Hitoshi and his classmates, "Scram. Right now." This caused everyone to disperse, leaving the class alone. Bakugo took a deep breath as he calmed down.

Kirishima walked up to him, "Hey dude, you good?"

Bakugo nodded, "Yeah, yeah. Just... Bad reminder of who I used to be."

"Well, hey, I'm proud of you, bro." Kirishima shook his shoulder gently.

"While I would scold you for the use of that foul language, I would be lying if I said I did not find it... Cathartic." Iida commented, with Momo agreeing with him.

Bakugo turned and looked at the now calm dog before he said with a smirk, "Good boy." Before walking away as the others followed behind, before they were now training as Artaios stood attentive, watching his brother practice.

"You have grown, brother. As I have grown. Together we shall protect our family and master." Artaios said, knowing his brother may not understand him, but he knows that they have a bond that each understands.

Izuku rubbed his cheeks before kissing his forehead, "I'm glad to have you, buddy. Come on, let's get going." Izuku said, grabbing his leash.

That's when Momo spoke up, "Izuku." He turned towards her and received a shock as she kissed his cheek. She smiled at him, filled with appreciation, "Thank you for defending me." Izuku's face turned red as a tomato from the kiss and her smile.

Artaios barked, wagging his tail, "She is a good mate." Again, Izuku didn't know what he said, but he couldn't help but laugh a little as they walked down the hallways to the changing room. "Wait out here, boy." Artaios just sat and stood guard.

Artaios looked around, making sure none dared to intrude on his brother, before he sniffed the air. He smelled small prey. Sniffing around, he finally looked down to see small prey dressed like master and brother, tilting his head, he was slightly confused. It was prey yet dressed like those who walked on two legs.

"Who are you?" Artaios questioned the strange furry creature in a suit much like his master wore.

"Ah, the Caucasian Mountain Shepherd with a quirk. I am Principal Nezu. I am responsible for making sure your brother gets his education." Nezu explained with a smile.

Artaios sniffed the small prey. "You smell of prey, yet you are like two legs."

"Well, that's because I'm like you. I'm an animal that got a quirk." Nezu explained.

Artaios just stared at Nezu, still somewhat confused. "You are strange prey."

Nezu laughed, "While I've never been called prey before, I have been called strange many times."

Artaios then asked, "Do you plan to hurt my brother? If so, then I shall have to defend him."

Nezu giggled, "I have no intention of hurting your brother. All that matters to me is his education and his goal of becoming a hero."

Artaios just nodded slowly, "Good, because if you did." He growled lowly, baring his teeth towards Nezu, "I would have to hurt you."

"Of that, I have no doubt, Artaios." Nezu giggled, not feeling very threatened by the dog.

Artaios just stared at Nezu before he heard his brother coming and went back to sitting as if he didn't just threaten the small prey right as Izuku walked out, now back in his uniform, clearly shocked to see Nezu. "Oh! Principal Nezu, I wasn't expecting you to be here. Is everything ok?"

"Oh yes, everything is quite fine. I'm pleased to see my student at 100%. Though I am afraid I must apologize on behalf of the entire school for what was done to you, and what you had to endure to keep your classmates safe." Nezu said, a melancholic look on his face as he bowed his head.

"Principal, there's nothing to be sorry about. I did what I swore to do by my father's order. To protect those close to me, and to strike down the wicked." Izuku said.

"Well, that is quite the code, Mr. Midoriya-Tepes. No doubt you upheld it, and beyond. Even at the cost of your arm." Nezu said, looking at Izuku's replaced arm.

Izuku nodded as he looked down at his fake arm before balling up his hand into a fist. "Yes, but it just reminds me what price I'm willing to pay to keep those I love and the innocent safe." Looking back on his small principle, he smiled, "Just as a true knight and hero should."

Nezu was stroking his chin slightly as he mused aloud. "A knight hero or hero knight, perhaps. Rather interesting idea for your hero persona, wouldn't you say?"

Izuku chuckled and rubbed the back of his head, "Yeah, I'm still working on it."

Nezu smiled, "Well, keep at it, my young student." He begins to walk before waving a paw without even looking back. "I also look forward to your performance at the sports festival!"

"Oh, Principal Nezu, I have something to ask you," Izuku called out, to which the Principal looked at him. "I recently received a new sword since my Initiate sword was destroyed."

"Are you asking if I may allow your sword to be entered into the festival as your equipment?" Nezu asked. Izuku was surprised at how quickly he deduced his question. "Um. Yes, sir."

"Permission granted," Nezu said.

"Wait, what?" Izuku asked in surprise.

"Funnily enough, you were not the first student to enter their sword as support," Nezu commented before walking away.

Izuku was slightly confused but looked to Artaios, who just tilted his head as Izuku shrugged before he walked off, wondering who that student could have been. Yet that was not important as he put all his energy not just into his study but also his training for the sports festival, for when he wasn't eating, sleeping, doing homework, or even being a big brother, he could be seen training with all his might.

Izuku clenched his fists, allowing his quirk to spread all over his body. Izuku grunted and strained at how much pressure he was sustaining.

Izuku roared as he swung his sword as a practice dummy he decapitated it before finally breathing as he starts to shake slightly, slowly sheathing his sword as he finally allows his body to rest for a moment.

All-Might, in his skeletal form, watched, impressed by Izuku's handling of One-For-All. "Well, young Midoriya, you're doing great! Not a broken bone in sight." He said with a single clap.

Izuku panted heavily but smiled as he looked at his teacher. "Yeah, well, it took my dad to realize I was using it wrong. Instead of concentrating it on one spot on my body, I needed to spread it through."

All-Might laughed and walked over to him and gently patted his back. "You even managed to make your sword a part of it. I'm impressed. Well, you've certainly been outperforming yourself, young Midoriya."

Izuku nods as his aunt's voice fills the area, "Aye, that he does, his footwork has gotten better as well. Still a bit slow on the tick, but you're doing better lad, much better." Her accent was present even when speaking Japanese, which confused Izuku at how His aunt was able to do that.

"Aunt Lenore, how are you speaking Japanese while having an accent?" Izuku asked.

Lenore chuckled, "Does it matter, boy?"

Izuku shrugged his shoulders and replied. "No, I suppose it doesn't."

Izuku, however, was thinking 'How does she do that though?' Before he walked over and got some water, "However, I am ready as I'll ever be for the sports festival."

Lenore nodded, "Aye, that's good lad, but I'm here not as your trainer but as a messenger. I and those of your father's closets will be attending the festival to watch you, so ya know. No pressure." This only caused Izuku to spit out his water and begin coughing.

All-Might patted his back as Izuku coughed more before looking at Lenore. "You're going to watch me!? You're going to be at the Festival!?"

"Of course. Did you think we wouldn't be there to witness one of the most important days of your career as a student hero?" Lenore questioned with a tilt of her head.

Izuku asked, "Including aunt Striga, Aunt Morana?"

Lenore nodded again with a small smile on her face. Izuku just slowly looks to the sky as he whispers out, "Oh kami… Give me strength."

"Oh, don't give me that, Knight of Tepes. You stood up against a great monster in an ambush. Surely a little televised event won't kill you." Lenore chuckled, patting his shoulder. Izuku took another drink of water and sighed. While he didn't necessarily agree with it, he supposed they were going to watch regardless. So he stood up straight, "Yes, Instructor."
Lenore smiled as she patted his back, "Right, off ya trot then. Nuff for today before you throw out your back like someone tryin to toss a log then." Izuku nodded as he grabbed a towel and started drying up the sweat as he prepared mentally for the festival, hoping things wouldn't be too crazy.

---

'CURSE YOU MURHPY AND WHATEVER HELL YOU RESIDE IN!' Exclaimed Izuku in his mind as today was the day of the UA sports Festival, and while Lenore was right that his family was in their section of the stands guarded by their security detail, with his aunts all present alongside his family. The biggest shock was who had decided to come to the event personally to watch him, or in this case, the festival.

The future Empress of Japan, Toga Himiko. It was a media firestorm as news networks everywhere reported the story. It left the entire school and everyone competing now a little more than nervous because royalty was going to be watching them. "Oh man, this is big... Do I look fine? Is my hair alright? Do I look fabulous enough for her royal Empress?" Aoyama, the French-Japanese student, asked, getting a little anxious as he patted himself in his gym jumpsuit.

Mina grabbed him as she shouted, "GET A HOLD OF YOURSELF!" She smacked him, which he said was calmer. "Que, thank you."

Momo, however, breathed as she leaned over to Izuku and whispered, "You holding up alright?"

"Hm?" He looked up at her before answering, "Oh yeah. Yeah, I'm ok..." He sighed and rubbed his eyes. "I mean, I'm barely holding it together, but I'm trying to keep it together like my Knight Commander and instructor have taught me."

Momo placed a hand on his shoulder as she whispered, "This is most certainly bigger than I thought it would be."

Izuku chuckled as he stood up from his chair to look at her. "Hey, you're gonna do good. Probably better than me, Momo." Momo looked at him with surprise before Izuku continued, "Hey Momo, how about this? When this is over, want to go out for a bite to eat?"

The Class Vice President's eyes widened at Izuku's question. "Izuku, are you..."

"Yeah. I'm asking you out."

Momo smiled as she kissed his cheek. "I'd be honored, Sir Midoriya-Tepes." With a wink, she returns to her spot as Izuku blushes. 'SHE SAID YES!' He yells inside his mind, happy as can be.

He smiled. That's when he looked behind Momo to see Shoto Todoroki, the second student who came in through a recommendation, walking towards the two of them. "Izuku Midoriya-Tepes." He called out to him.

Momo frowned and stood at his side as Izuku asked, "How can I help you, Todoroki?"

Shoto glared at him as he spoke, "I'm declaring war on you and your family and clan. Your father caused my family great dishonor. While I am grateful for my father's downfall, it has brought the rest of my family down. Therefore, I want you to make your way to the final challenge."

Izuku just stood there as others looked a little shocked or weirded out by his declaration, but Izuku stood his ground and declared, "We shall see." Shoto just gives a curt nod before he walks back to his spot as horns played and Class 1A marched out. Up in the stands, Dracula, along with his family, watched as the students walked out into the open with a smile on his face, "Look at him standing proud, little one." Commented Striga, who was near Er,i pointing with her large arm towards Izuku as Eri held Anya in her lap.

"Big brother!" Eri exclaimed. Striga chuckled and bounced her on his shoulder.

"WHAT UP, CITIZENS, STUDENTS, TEACHERS, AND HEROES! WELCOME TO THE ANNUAL U.A. SPORTS FESTIVAL!" Present Mic announced, to which the entire audience cheered. "MAN, WHAT AN AMAZING SPORTS FESTIVAL THIS'LL BE! WE'VE GOT SOME AMAZING PEOPLE WATCHING THIS FESTIVAL, INCLUDING VLAD TEPES OF DRAGON SHIPPING, GENYA ARIKADO, LEADER OF JAPAN FIRST!"

That's when another voice spoke up from the microphone, "Can you please stop talking so loudly?" The other voice turned out to be Eraserhead.

"Sorry, man! I am just so pumped! This is the biggest event because of who's watching it!" Present Mic replied. "However, the biggest name here is Japan's very own Future Empress!"

Toga stood from her stand and waved gracefully to everyone present as more than a few students and even spectators threw their hands in the air as they shouted with all their hearts, "BANZAI! BANZAI! BANZAI!" Which resulted in her bowing respectfully to the crowd.

Genya, Alucard, couldn't help but chuckle a bit as he whispered to his father, "The respect of the imperial throne is stronger than before. Who knew?"

Dracula chuckled and nodded, "Indeed. It's good that I taught her well." By Genya's side was Miruko, the 7th rank hero, who was officially a known affiliate of his government party.

Unofficially, however, they were very good lovers, though they were not a couple yet. "And now, let's introduce our contestants! Starting us off is Class 1-A! The amazing and brave students who fended off a surprise villain attack!" Cheers went all around the students, some giving waves, or trying to make themselves look small. Izuku stood up straight, his chest puffed up as he looked around for his father and brother, and little sister. "Next up, Class 1-B! While thankfully having not suffered an attack, they are just as capable as Class 1-A and have the chance to take the spotlight!"

Morana sighed, "Dios mio, this is just like a horse show back home, present your best horses for the highest bidder."

Striga huffed with her arms crossed, "Da. But in this case, it is for civilian heroes to take the pick of the litter." She sideglanced towards the dark skinned bunny hero, "No offense meant, of course."

Miriko just munched on a carrot like it was a cigar as she doesn't respond, but a twitch of her eyebrow showed some emotion.

"Unfortunately, you are not wrong, Defense Minister. And while I'd rather not see my little brother displayed like a farm animal, all we can do is watch and support him." Genya said with a sigh.

After Present Mic did a minor introduction of every other class, that's when he announced the next step of the festival. "Now! To handle the entire festival as our official Umpire, it's the lovely Midnight!" Midnight stood in her official hero outfit, which made several of the students uncomfortable or incredibly aroused. One of them was a three-foot-tall student with grapes for hair. "Welcome to the Sports Festival, students! Now, to give the opening speech, it will be the student who scored number one on the Entrance exam! Izuku Midoriya-Tepes!"

Izuku looked a little shocked before he breathed and walked forward towards Midnight, who gave him an encouraging smile and nod as she handed him the microphone. Looking around, his eyes land on his family, who gave him many signs of support, from smiles, waves, and even a couple of thumbs up to show their support.

Izuku took a deep breath and spoke, "I trained and studied for this event, but I will admit I slacked off on my speech-making skills." This got a good-hearted chuckle from everyone. "But I don't wear the badge of number one on the entrance exam because I was trying to outperform everyone. I was simply doing my best, and that included helping my fellow examinees. Being a hero isn't about smashing up robots or trying to score the highest score on a test. I'll tell you this... It's four or five moments."

The students looked on with intrigue at what he meant. "Ever since I was 3 to 4 years old, I had been obsessed with heroes. I love being able to look at their powers, their costumes, their personalities, and everything. And this is what I've come to learn ever since then, being a hero isn't a full-time job." This made the heroes in the audience look on questioningly. "Wake up a hero, brush your teeth a hero, go to work a hero. Well, that's just not true. I've learned that over a lifetime, there are only four or five moments that matter. To make a sacrifice, conquer a flaw, to save your neighbor's cat, or even spare a villain's life. In those moments, everything else falls away. The way the world looks at you. Why am I telling you this? Because I don't want to just be a hero. I want to be a knight. Because a knight held themselves to those moments, and they were the heroes of old. While I would pledge that we do our best, or that everyone is capable of being a hero, I make this pledge to become beyond a hero!" The students looked at him as Izuku declared, "I invite anyone to challenge me, and I will show the world just what I'm capable of as a knight! So push yourselves to the top! Because I will be there waiting for you!"

There was a powerful silence before Striga stood from her seat and shouted, "UUUURRRAAA! From Mother Russia with love, young knight!"

This caused many others to cheer for the amazing speech, and this actually seemed to motivate the students as they shouted how they were gonna knock him down from the spot. Bakugo looked at him with a smirk, "Oh, you've done it now, Izuku. I'm coming for ya." Momo had an impressed look on her face at the bold speech he made.

Of course, none were more touched by his speech than his family. Eri was clapping happily at her brother while Dracula's first son leaned over and whispered, "I guess there is a future in politics if being a hero doesn't work out for him." He joked at his father.

Dracula chuckled, "Possibly. We'll have to see how this country goes, in order for us to know for sure."

"Of course, Father." Arikado said before leaning back in place.

Miruko took another bite of her carrot but had a rare smirk on her face, "Not bad, kid. Not a bad speech for a newbie."

As the events went on, Toga, who was being attended to by her assistants, who were a part of Dracula's people, of course, commented towards one of her servants as she asked. "That is the one whose application to become a kazoku within our courts?"

"Yes, Empress. Izuku Midoriya-Tepes, who bravely fought off what the police called a Nomu." Her assistant said.

Toga nodded slightly as she drank her daily need of blood from an elegant glass, via a silly straw, before she continued. "I see, I see." Soon her gaze landed on the hero boxes, only to raise an eyebrow as she asked, "I did not know that the Head of the Todoroki Clan would be attending today." She motioned towards the part of the stands where Endevor was sitting cross-armed next to the head of his family and clan.

The attendant spoke, "The son of the Todoroki family declared war on Midoriya-Tepes to regain the honor his father had undone."

Toga hummed, looking a little interested. "Then we are in for the duel of the century, it seems. I propose an idea."

"Yes, your Majesty?"

"Whoever wins in this deal will become a kazoku in my court." Toga proposed.
The attendant bowed. "A most wonderful idea, my Empress."

Toga smiled. "Course! I came up with it." Her grin was wide as she continued to sip on her silly straw while the Attendant couldn't help but sweat a little at Toga's… less than mature nature at times.

Of course, many interested parties watch the festival as Dracula couldn't help but voice his concerns, "Land mines? That little!" He stopped himself as he glanced at his daughter before he thought of the right words to say, "An irresponsible principal is using landmines as obstacles. It's positively mad."

"Oh, look at that! They found the landmines!" Present Mic announced.

Aizawa then asked, "Why did we plant landmines out there? Someone walks their dog out there." Nezu, of course, was cackling like a madman.

"Well, anyway! Midoriya-Tepes is still in the lead with Bakugo and Todoroki fighting for second place!" Present Mic announced. "Will he be able to keep his place, or will he end up biting the dust?"

Dracula and his family all watched with anticipation as Izuku got closer to the finish line. "Come on, come on, COME ON!" chanted Striga

That's when Izuku used his quirk, with green electricity sparking around him as he suddenly gained a burst of speed and went through the finish line. "Izuku Midoriya-Tepes takes first place in the first challenge of the Festival!" Present Mic announced excitedly with Bakugo in second, Todoroki in third.

Striga yelled out a cheer as did Eri and Anya, barking happily with her tail wagging, "HE DID IT!" Dracula and Arikado clapped with a smile, obviously happy that he won first place. However, it was only the first event. Izuku still had a long way to go.

---

Then came the next event, which Toga enjoyed as she was now eating chips out of a bowl of gold and jewels. "Well, well, well, he is a smart one, isn't he? Then again, he is the son of Mr. Tepes, so that's a given." She went to reach for another chip, only to see her bowl empty as she groaned, "Can I have some more, please?" She held out the bowl.

The attendant opened another bag of chips and poured them into the bowl. "Thank you." She ate another chip. Midnight showed off the list of the final 42 students, and all of Class 1-A and B were there, along with some Engineering students, and even a couple of General Studies students made it to the second round.

And much like the last event, Izuku brought victory again, much to the joy of his family. "Ha! That is my nephew!" Declared Striga with joy.

The students took a good hour lunch break, and before Izuku could even go with his friends, Shoto Todoroki showed up. "Midoriya-Tepes, may I speak to you? Privately?"

Izuku nodded slowly as he walked with Shoto to somewhere private. "What did you want to talk about?"

Shoto leaned against the wall and looked at Izuku. "I want you to understand something. During the second event, you made me use my fire. You're actively pushing me, and I want you to understand why I will never use fire." Izuku kept silent, wanting to see where this would go. Shoto then asked, "Tell me, have you heard of Quirk Marriages?"

Izuku nodded as he remembered his father and stepmother talking about them.

"My mother was once a hero who used ice powers, and Endeavor, as you know, uses fire. And using his powerful status, he bought my mother from her parents, married her, and began to have children. Just so he could create a perfect child between the two of them." Shoto revealed.

Izuku's eyes widened at this news. "But... Quirk Marriages were outlawed a long time ago!"

Shoto scoffed, "When you're rich, you can get away with breaking the law. I was the perfect child, amongst my three... Well, two siblings."

"What happened?"

"My oldest brother... He burned up to ashes because of his fire quirk..." Shoto explained.

Izuku was silent as he thought before he asked, "What you said before… this has to do with the trial your father was on, isn't it?"

"Somewhat, but I'm not doing this for the bastard. After all, he locked my mother away in a psychiatric facility when she... When she poured boiling water on my face." Shoto said, his hand hovering over his eye, which had red scarring around it.

Izuku's eyes widened, "What!?" It was barely a whisper, but the horror in that whisper was enough.

"Putting ice over a hot surface just makes it worse... When she realized what she did, she tried to cool my face, but ended up making a permanent reminder. Every day, I look in the mirror, and all I see is what my bastard of a father did to my mother, to my brothers and sister. That's why I can't lose... That's why I challenged you, Izuku Midoriya-Tepes. Because I need to regain the honor my family lost from his carelessness during that damned trial. It ruined us, put us in debt, and my father has been living off my mother's savings."

Izuku was silent as he nodded as he remembered his teachings, "If it is on the principle of honor, then it shall be a duel of honor. Know now that I, Izuku Midoriya-tepes of Clan Tepes and the Tepes Knights Order, shall accept your challenge should you issue it."

"Then, I, Shoto Todoroki of Clan Todoroki, issue the duel. Do not disappoint me and lose before I have the chance to fight you." Todoroki glared at him before beginning to walk away.

Izuku stayed silent before he pulled out his phone and was about to call his father, but stopped. He stopped because this was his fight and his fight alone to face. He breathed as he took a moment to mentally prepare himself before he looked at his phone and decided to call another number. Waiting, he heard the phone pick up as he said in a serious voice, "Joshua. Prepare my armor and long sword." Before hanging up, and starts walking towards the locker room.

What Izuku didn't know was that Joshua was with his family after he hung up. He walked to Dracula and whispered into his ear what Izuku had just requested, which seemed to shock Dracula slightly. "Father? Is something the matter?" Asked his firstborn.

Dracula revealed, "It seems your brother has brought his armor and sword to the finals. This means he is planning to duel someone."

Eyes seemed to widen as he looked out at the arena being made. "Do you believe it is connected to why the head of the Todoroki clan is here in person?"

"I believe so. Shoto Todoroki has challenged Izuku to a duel of honor." Dracula said, his fingers interconnected.

The family was now on edge as Eri asked, "What is that, Papa?" Dracula looked towards his daughter and smiled.

"Essentially, it is a fair fight between two different families. One family has the chance to regain the honor they lost by fighting." Dracula gently explained.

Eri nodded, "Like in the books you read to me? The duels between noble houses?"

"That's right, Eri. And we're going to see that in this competition." Dracula nodded with a smile.

Eri put on as tough a face as possible, which was adorable, as she declared, "Big brother will win! He is a brave knight like Papa!"

Miruko looked at the little girl and her heart began to race fast, as if she was about to have a heart attack from how freaking cute Eri was. "So... Freaking... Cute!" She whispered, trying to keep herself calm.

---

Soon, the finales began, and while many did win and lose, what everyone was waiting for was the fight between Izuku and Shoto that had, for some reason, by request of their respective heads, been held back as their fight. "Now the fight you all have been waiting for! Midoriya-tepes VS! TODOROKI!" There was, of course, fanfare that suddenly died down as they all saw both Izuku and Shoto walking out in full armor. For Izuku, it was his knight armor with the flag of the Tepes clan being held in one hand, while for Shoto, it was his clan's colors, which were being carried as both marched towards the arena. Present Mic shocked covered the mic as he quickly whispered to Aizawa, "Dude, what's going on? You know anything about this?"

Before Aizawa could explain, the attendant by Toga's side stepped into the booth. "Excuse me, this is the-" Aizawa said before being handed a letter by the attendant.

"Courtesy of her Majesty, the Empress." The attendant said before exiting the booth.

Aizawa and Present Mic looked at the note before Present Mic spoke into the microphone. "Uh, ladies and gentlemen! It appears we have a duel of honor on our hands! This duel has been sanctioned by the royal Empress herself! Oh, and she also says that whoever wins this duel will be given the honor of becoming Kazoku within her court!?" This caused everyone to gasp, and even the stone-faced Shoto had wide eyes and a gaping mouth.

Soon, both looked at Toga as she was handed a mic and spoke with a more regal tone of voice, "It has been brought to my attention that there is to be a duel of honor. I ask who is issuing this duel and why."

Shoto stood ridged as he bowed before shouting, "I ISSUE THIS CHALLENGE EMPRESS!" Before standing back up as he continues, his voice carried through the arena. "I challenge Midoriya-Tepes to a duel of honor to regain the honor of my family's clan!"

Toga nodded as she looked at Izuku. "Midoriya-Tepes, you have been challenged. Do you accept this, or will you ignore it and bring dishonor upon your family and clan of Tepes?"

"Upon my family's honor and by the honor of my clan, I accept this challenge!" Izuku shouted, his fist to his chest.

Toga nodded as she looked towards the respected boxes of the stands, as she asked, "Clan heads, do you sanction this duel of honor? Is there a reason this duel should not happen?"

Dracula was the first to stand as he announced, "No, your Highness, I head of Clan Tepes do sanction this duel and see no reason why it should not happen."

That's when the head of Todoroki's clan stood up, revealing himself to be the 4th ranked hero of Japan. Edgeshot. "No, your Highness. I sanction this duel as well." He spoke with a bow of his upper half.

Toga nodded as she looked towards the two young men. "Then it is official. Now, I know this is not a duel to the death. Only when one yields does the duel end."

Izuku slammed his fist to his chest plate while Shoto bowed to Toga before both began walking towards the respective corners as Toga addressed Midnight, "Miss Midnight."

Jumping slightly, the R-rated hero quickly turned and addressed Toga, "Yes, Highness!"

Toga ordered, "You shall mediate this duel, but should it begin to show signs of fetal actions, you may break up the fight, but at no time will you declare a winner until one has declared defeat. Is this understood?"

Midnight bowed as she shouted, "YES, HIGHNESS!"

Midnight turned again as she watched as Izuku plants the flag of his clan into the ground, as Shoto did the same before both glaring at each other, slowly don their helmets before both returning to the center of the arena. Both staring each other down as the people of Japan watched for the first time a knight facing off against a samurai in an honest to Kami Duel of honor. And present mic was eating it up as he commented at a controlled level voice, "Little listeners, this is something that only UA can bring you. East vs West. Knight vs Samurai. Who will win? Long sword or the traditional katana?"

Midnight raised her nine-tailed whip before snapping it down, causing the whip to crack. "Begin!" She shouted. Izuku and Shoto yelled at each other while charging towards one another. The two collided with each other, their swords locked together as they glared at each other. "I will never yield to you! I will never yield to the son of the man that ruined our family!" Shoto growled through gritted teeth.

"And I will not let you be weighed down by such impossible standards your father had set upon you!" Izuku growled before pushing Shoto back to give himself some space.

Shoto growled as he pushed forward with a faint, which Izuku went to block, only to be attacked from the side, which thankfully his armor protected him from the blade. Yet it was still a hit so with a quick motion he put space between him and Shoto as each held their blades in their respective ready positions with Izukus directly infront of him while Shoto's was pointing straight up and off to the right with the grip in line with his head as each slowly circled the other.

"And a strong start off the bat with Todoroki getting a solid hit in!" Declared Present Mic, who was on the edge of his seat, while his co-host was staring intently.

"Neither one is using their quirks." Aizawa informed, which shocked Present Mic, "What!? Really!?"

"This is a test of skill, and both of them know that their quirks would give others an unfair advantage," Aizawa explained. Izuku glared at Shoto, holding his sword with both hands before rushing towards him once more.

Shoto was quick as he blocked the downward strike before quickly deflecting and hitting Izuku once more in the mid-region of his armor as he spun around with his katana ready for any counter or attack that may come or that he may send towards the young knight. "Man, two to one! I guess knights aren't as great as they are in those stories, am I right?" He jokes towards Aizawa, whose face was serious, and his gaze never left the arena.

Izuku growled, looking at his armored midsection, which had a singular scratched line across. He looked back up at Shoto, who charged, prepared to get one more hit. Izuku stood still with his sword in hand, waiting. Waiting until Shoto was right up in front of him. That's when Izuku parried his katana and spun around to his back, slicing up his back armor.

There were cheers throughout the Arena as Dracula watched intently. "He was letting his anger get the better of him."

Lenore nodded as she added, "He's back in control, hopefully. But that was three to his two."

Striga chuckled. "The fight has only just begun, son of Dracul shall not fall to such the likes of flaming disgrace."

Shoto spun around, swiping his katana with Izuku ducking down to avoid the blade. Izuku then slashed diagonally at Shoto's chest plate before resting the blade at his neck. "Yield." Izuku said, staring down Shoto.

Shoto stared at Izuku through his mask before a quick motion caused Izuku's eyes to wide as he had to quickly block the Katana from below before looking up intime to see Shoto's helmet come to his in a strong headbutt which caused him to stumble back before having to quickly recover as he was now on the back foot from a series of thrusts, slashes, and even over head strikes. Present Mic was now out of his seat. "HE'S GOING ALL OUT, FOLKS! He is not letting the knight have any breathing room whatsoever for a counterattack!"

Shoto yelled in anger as each thrust, slash, and strike was blocked. That's when Izuku parried one attack, and swiped his legs out from under him, quickly kicked his katana away, and held his sword directly over his chest. Shoto was about to stand if not for the armored boot firmly planted on his armored chest as Izuku, with a powerful commanding shout, "YIELD!" Shoto was silent as he stared at Izuku, and a tense silence fell over the arena as even the teachers were on edge as they all waited to see what would happen.

Izuku stared into Shoto's eyes, and all he could see... Was that scared little boy who suffered under his father's thumb. A boy who would stop at nothing to raise his family from the ashes, as his father did. Izuku then whispered the same command. "Yield."

Shoto soon sighed before he said, "I yield." Midnight was slightly shocked as he now yelled out, "I YIELD!"

Midnight jumped back slightly as she announced, "W-Winner is Midoriya-Tepes!"

There was a brief silence before the roars of cheers began to spread throughout the arena as people clapped and cheered. Even Toga clapped with a graceful smile on her lips, "Well done! Well done! Stand honorable warriors." Izuku helped Shoto stand up as they now gazed at Toga.

Toga spoke through the microphone. "This duel was quite entertaining, and I am happy to say you've all given us a splendid display. Izuku Midoriya-Tepes, you have won, and that means you will be promoted to Kazoku. The ceremony will be held at the end of the festival."

Izuku bowed his upper half low, as Toga then turned her attention to Shoto. "Shoto Todoroki, while you did not win, you still fought bravely. You fought with honor. I believe that deserves a reward all on its own." Shoto's eyes widened as he looked up at Toga in shock. The crowd was also surprised at this, and they awaited what would be said next. "Tell me, Todoroki, what reward would best suit you? Be warned, I cannot make you Kazoku, but I will gift you anything else." Toga informed him.

Shoto bowed towards Toga as he said, "I thank you, my Empress! But I fought to restore my family's honor!"

Toga smiled, "Then know that in the eyes of the imperial house, your clan's honor has been restored. You fought without a quirk, which showed you have honor the same as Midoriya-Tepes."

Shoto looked at Toga before he dropped to his knees and leaned his head to the floor. "Thank you, my Empress!" Izuku could see tears dripping from his cheeks. Izuku had a smile on his face, happy that he still managed to achieve what he wanted.

Toga raised her hand. "Raise your head. While you did indeed regain your clan's honor, it still does not tell me what it is you wish? What is it you want?" Shoto stood up as he seemed to contemplate what he really wanted, yet he could not think of what he wanted.

"With respect, my Empress, all I wanted was to regain my clan's honor. To regain what my father ruined with his carelessness as a hero. I have no desire for anything else, my Empress." Shoto explained.

Toga hummed, "Then perhaps we shall save it for later, a rain check, as I believe they call it in business."

Shoto bowed his head, "That is most agreeable with me, my Empress."

Toga smiled as the two returned towards their respective families, as Shoto was met at the entrance of the tunnel by Edgeshot, who nodded as he placed a hand on Shoto's shoulder, "You have done well today. Today, our clan's honor has been restored."

Shoto bowed his head to his mentor. "Thank you, sensei."

Edgeshot nodded as he and Shoto walked back with their heads held high while Izuku was almost pushed back by a pink blur as his sister ran into his armored legs with a shout, "YOU WON! YOU WON!"

Izuku stumbled slightly but smiled as he hugged his little sister. Dracula, Genya, Miruko, and the former Council of Sisters walked towards him. "Now that was a true battle of honor! You have served your clan with pride!" Striga said with a proud look on her face as she patted his back. Not too hard this time.

Lenore nodded in agreement, "Indeed, your footwork gave you victory." Dracula, however, walked up as he laid a hand on his son's shoulder with a proud smile, "You performed outstanding, my son. I couldn't be anymore prouder of you than I am right now after such a display."

Izuku smiled, tears threatening to leak from his eyes from the praise he was receiving. "Thank you, Father. Thank you all."

Dracula nodded as his brother spoke next, "To become Japan's equivalent of a duke. My brother, you are truly something else." He patted Izuku on the head as he laughed a little. "Well, should you require a dukedom or lands of your own, know that I am here to do so."

Izuku looked at his brother in shock as he exclaimed, "Brother! I don't think I'm ready for such a thing yet. I have a hero career to think about."

Genya chuckled, "Yes, of course, little brother. But the offer will always be on the table."

Izuku was silent for a moment before he chuckled and started to laugh a little as he picked up Eri into his arms. "You're a knight, big brother! A real knight!" She exclaimed as she wrapped her little arms around his neck while his helmet rested under his right arm.

Izuku smiled as he nodded, "You know it, Eri." As he and his family walked away from the tunnel entrance.

Back in the arena, Bakugo and Kirishima were fighting with the explosive student, using his explosions to break down Kirishima's hardened rock body.

Their fight was watched with great excitement, but the star of the hour was Izuku, who was now being surrounded by more than a few high-ranking society types, even Miriko couldn't help but spoil the young knight a bit for his impressive display. Yet as Dracula was about to join his son, a hand was laid softly on his shoulder as Sebastian his ever loyal butler with Joshua as his second spoke softly towards his master "i am terribly sorry to disturb you but there is a rather interesting person on the phone for you by the name of M. James who wishes to speak with you."

Dracula had a small frown but nodded, "Very well." Sebastian pulled out the phone and handed it to the King, who saw it was on hold, so he walked a bit away from Izuku. Once he was away, he answered the phone, "Vlad Tepes speaking."

A voice spoke through the phone with a clear northern London accent, "I must say your son did not disappoint, a duel of honor, and to win said duel? My oh my, young Sir Midoriya-Tepes has just made himself a hot item." Dracula's eyes narrowed as he slowly gazed towards his son, who was already talking with Miriko, yet was also talking with his oldest as well before shifting his gaze towards the other spectator boxes as he used his vampiric vision to see many heroes already talking about Midoriya.

"Indeed, and I'm assuming you are one of the spectators who wants to get their hands on that hot item?" Dracula asked as he kept searching, trying to see if he could potentially find the one that is on a phone. "Oh, that remains to be seen, sir. After all, many will be wanting to take him on as a sidekick. I wonder who will come out on top." James said, a grin could be heard through the phone.

Dracula was silent before 'James' continued, "But it's just not the heroes who will want him, will it? Consider who your family is connected to. Your oldest political party is ahead in the polls." Dracula turned back towards his firstborn as he laughed with Izuku. "Imagine it, the politicians chomping at the bit to have Izuku, your son, the brother of your firstborn born showing support for their cause. Can you imagine it?" Dracula's eyes seemed to narrow more before James spoke lowly, but the grin was ever present, "Mister Holmes."

Slowly, Dracula's eyes widened as he spoke low but even as to not portray his emotions. "You."

James replied in kind, "Me."

"I was wondering when you would show your hand, Yoichi Shigaraki," Dracula growled.

"I had considered standing back just to see how Japan would do with you at war with the Hero Commission, but alas, it appears I have been dragged into this conflict due to my former protege."

"Indeed. Don't think for a second that I'm not able to fight on two fronts." Dracula warned him to which All-For-One or James laughed slightly. "Oh, Mr. Tepes, I wouldn't dream of underestimating you. After all, outside of the Principal, I'm the only one that can challenge you intellectually, spiritually, and physically."

Dracula chuckled humorlessly. "So are you calling me to threaten me through my son? Abit plebian of you."

'James' sighed, "Oh, how lowly you think of me, I might be a villain by society's standards, but I do have standards. However, I did have a purpose for this call."

Dracula's eyebrow arches slightly. "Do go on."

'James' went on, "The yakuza are colluding with some elements of the HSPC as a means to not only hurt your power base but also as a means to 'regain' their stolen property. Which simply won't do as you and I are destined to duel."

"Oh, so you are helping me?" Dracula asked.

'James' laughed. "Of course! Though this is merely a professional courtesy, Mr. Tepes. Our conflict cannot be interrupted by outside forces such as the HSPC or the Stout."

"I would thank you, Shigaraki, but I have grown blunt. So let me make this clear. I can forgive much, but through your little pawn, you hurt my son. And that is something I will never forgive, and I will find you, and I will kill you." Dracula sneered, his eyes beginning to bleed.

James' tone then changed to seriousness as he only spoke two words. "Good luck." Before the line went dead.

Yet the warning still rang in his mind, for while yes, if they did try something on his oldest and survived it would be a blow to his image. Then there's Midoriya. He was fresh blood in the water with sharks circling, and he didn't even know it.

Dracula's red eyes faded to their normal color as he looked at his youngest son, and knew he had to do something soon. The same was said for Eri. If what All-For-One said is true, then security would have to be doubled. It seems the game was afoot once more.

Before anyone knew it, the Festival was over, and the top three contenders were as follows: Izuku Midoriya-Tepes, Katsuki Bakugo, and Shoto Todoroki. The three stood at their pedestals before watching as Empress Toga walked towards them with the three medals in hand. At her hip was a katana, along with four bodyguards who walked in a square formation around her.

As soon as she gave Bakugo his medal, she walked towards Shoto, who bowed before her and, upon coming back up, she spoke softly, "You brought great honor upon your clan and family name Todoroki, I do hope you do not bring great shame upon it again in the future."

"By my honor, it will not happen." Shoto proudly proclaimed with his head bowed towards her.

Toga nods before she moves to Izuku, who stood tall as he saluted her with a balled fist over his heart. "Izuku Midoriya-Tepes, when your name came into my court, we grew curious. Yet after today's display, we now know for certain that you are indeed worthy of being a part of our court."

Izuku stood straight and at attention as Toga removed her katana from its sheath. This prompted Izuku to kneel and lower his head. "By the power vested in me, and by Kami, I now promote you, Sir Izuku Midoriya-Tepes, to Kazoku Izuku Midoriya-Tepes." Toga proclaimed while resting the blade on his shoulders.

Izuku bowed his head before the sword was removed as he stood taller with a proud smile on his face. "You have shown Japan what you can do, young knight. Many eyes will be upon you with great interest. Including my own."

Izukus bowed slightly, "I shall not let down your expectations of me, Empress."

"I know you won't," Toga said with a smile before sliding it back into its sheath and looked at the audience. "This Festival has been an exciting one, and I, for one, very much look forward to everyone in their future as heroes! I applaud these three in particular, and I applaud all who have come to show the students your support!" Toga smiled at the three and clapped her hands for them three.

Not just claps and cheers filled the arena, but because Toga was there, the chants came again "BANZAI! BANZAI! BANZAI!" Toga smiled as she was escorted away by her security while Izuku was engulfed in hugs from his family.

One hug gave him extra warmth, and he smiled brightly as he looked at the black hair that could only belong to one woman. Momo Yaoyorozu. He hugged her tightly as he whispered, "So, where to?"

Momo had a tiny blush on her face, but smiled as she replied, "Once we get out of here, I'll figure that out."

Izuku smiled at her, which did not go unnoticed by Dracula and Kaina, and Inko. Bakugo also saw the smile and had a proud smirk of his own at his friend. Dracula looked at Shoto Todoroki, who began to walk off towards the exit. The King then spoke up, "Excuse me, Mr. Todoroki."

The student stopped and turned to look at him with slight surprise. "Yes, Mr. Tepes?" Shoto asked. Dracula did something that Shoto expected. He bowed his head towards the young man, "I fear I must apologize for my part in the dishonor on your family and clan. I ruined your family when I only meant to go after your father. Forgive me for my part in your family's dishonor."

Shoto was shocked by the King of Vampires bowing and apologizing to him specifically. Shoto cleared his throat and spoke, "I... I accept your apology. You were right to punish my father, and while it did lead to my family's fall, all that matters now is that I do better than my old man."

Dracula stood up straight and looked at the young man. "Well, I believe we both know that won't be very hard to do." Shoto couldn't help but allow a smirk to appear on his face before beginning to walk away.
Inko smiled before she turned back towards her son. "I do hope Izuku and Momo become a couple, I feel as if I'm going to be old and grey before they bless us with grandchildren."

Kaina couldn't help but let out a giggle before commenting, "Well, I'd rather they not get into it right away."

Genya shook his head, "I'm glad I'm not being asked this."

This got Miruko to look at him with a smirk and arch her eyebrow before whispering into his ear. "Oh, so you don't wanna pump me full of baby batter?" That got Mirikos' man to almost choke on his drink before he started coughing slightly, which got the bunny hero to laugh as she pats his back.

Dracula however couldnt help but let his smile fall slightly as he looked at his oldest, thinking back to the warning he was given, already an image of his first born giving a speech or riding in the back of an open roof car, or even just talking among the people before a hidden assassin attempts to take his life.

Dracula had to have a meeting, and soon. But for today... Today was Izuku's day. Especially for him and Yaoyorozu. He'd hold a meeting in the next few days. He spoke up to Izuku, "Come along, son, let's go celebrate your victory."

Izuku smiled and nodded as he held Momo's hand, and also held Eri's hand with his cybernetic arm. Izuku looked at Bakugo and called out, "Hey Kaachan! Wanna come with?"

Bakugo shook his head, "Nah, I'm gonna celebrate with my parents, but hey, we can celebrate another time." The two shared a fist bump before Bakugo walked off to go find his parents. It seems things were picking up for young Izuku Midoriya-Tepes. How long could it last before the rest of the world could reveal its ugly truth to the young Hero-In-Training?

That would be a tale for another time.