Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“One more photo!”

“Dad, you already took at least two dozen!” Izuku protests. “And besides, I don’t want to be late!”

“School doesn’t start for another hour,” Hisashi mutters, but he reluctantly lowers his camera. He's only taken thirty photos (nowhere near enough to mark such a momentous occasion), but Izuku is leveling with a look that is... rather reminiscent of Inko. “Just… I’m so, so proud of you, Izuku.”

Izuku sniffs and hugs him, and Hisashi savours the feeling. Izuku… His little boy isn’t so little anymore. He’s a teenager, ready to leave and make his mark on the world, and Hisashi just can’t quite believe it.

“When did you get so tall?” he asks as they separate, and he can’t help himself, he adjusts his son’s tie for what is probably the tenth time that morning. “Oh, Izuku, your mother would be so proud.”

The sadness he feels is familiar by now. He doesn’t think he’ll ever stop missing Inko, and a part of him feels guilty as he looks down at their son. She deserves to be here far more that him; he can picture her now, sobbing her eyes out. But she would be smiling, too; she would be absolutely beaming, so incredibly proud of their brave, kind, intelligent son…

“I know, dad,” Izuku sniffs and Attracts a box of tissues from the coffee table.

Hisashi isn’t ashamed to admit the action brings tears to his own eyes. Because Inko might be dead, but she’s not gone; she is probably watching them both, proud of her son and, hopefully, her husband. (Or maybe not, he admits to himself. She probably isn’t too pleased by the fact that her only son has chosen a career that is… not the safest. Although at least the mortality rate for heroes significantly decreased for some mysterious reason Hisashi knows absolutely nothing about approximately a decade ago.)

Thinking about Inko reminds Hisashi of his brother, and he can't help but wonder what Yoshito would say. He would probably be proud of Izuku, yes, but... It irritates that old wound deep in Hisashi's soul to imagine his brother smiling down at Izuku, and then turning to Hisashi with that same old smile, that twinkle in his eye...

Then Hisashi's thoughts drift to far pleasanter matters and he has to smother a rather villainous cackle. If the dead holders of One For All are watching him, he's fairly certain they're in shock; hell, he's probably caused at least one heart-attack.

He hopes it was Daigoro; he really liked that suit...

“Right,” he clears his throat as he quickly turns his thoughts back to more socially acceptable matters. He isn’t entirely sure why he’s so emotional; Izuku is only going to school for a few hours, and will be back for dinner. It’s not like he’s leaving the country, or going off to war. “…You should probably go. Don’t want to be late on your first day.”

“Yeah,” Izuku sniffs and then hugs him again. “Kurogiri!”

“Here you go,” their resident mode of transportation emerges from the kitchen, carrying a plastic box. “Now, when you're done, text me, and…”

“…I can get lunch at the cafeteria…”

“I thought you might want to share some cookies with your classmates,” Kurogiri shrugs. “Of course, if you’d rather…”

“You’re wonderful and I love you!” Izuku snatches the box before the warper can change his mind. “Oh, and I love you too, dad…”

“I know, Izuku,” Hisashi smiles. “I love you too. And… We’re all so proud of you.”

Izuku grins. Then he glances up the stairs, takes a deep breath and calls out, “Bye, Machia!”

A loud, not quite human wail answers him, and Hisashi sighs. Gigantomachia’s devotion to Izuku is unquestionable, and something he encouraged, but… Unfortunately, their resident bodyguard never quite accepted that Izuku going to school means he has to stay home. True, it probably wasn’t helped by that time Izuku got abducted in primary school, but still…

“He’ll get over it,” Hisashi assures Izuku even as he pulls him into one last, final hug.

“I know, dad,” Izuku sighs. “Just… be good…”

Hisashi rolls his eyes as his son steps through a Warp Gate. He isn’t entirely sure what Izuku thinks he can do in the few hours he’s going to have; taking over Japan is not something that can be accomplished in an afternoon, and certainly not if he has to also cover his tracks. There is absolutely no way he is risking hugs for something as inconsequential as world domination.

Then Hisashi glances up the stairs himself and winces. He isn’t entirely sure Gigantomachia has quite grasped that Izuku is going to be taught by heroes. And Hisashi suspects… Well, it would probably not go over well if Gigantomachia killed one of Izuku’s teachers, even if it’s an accident.

“Kurogiri,” he turns to the warper. “Open a Gate to… Somewhere in the countryside. Uninhabited. As far from other people as possible.”

Gigantomachia will need to get this out of his system.

Izuku takes a deep breath as he stares at the door to his classroom.

This… This is his first step towards becoming a hero.

(It does not count that he has technically been saving the world since he was a toddler. He was not aware at the time his father was once the fearsome villain All For One, and he’s pretty sure if he ever claimed to have saved Japan by way of pillow forts and bedtime stories, he’d get laughed out of the room.)

Izuku adjusts his bag, takes another deep breath and opens the door.

“…Insist you show the appropriate respect to this noble institution!”

Izuku almost slams the door closed again.

He doesn’t, because he is going to be a hero. And also because, terrifying or not, Tenya is his best friend. So he takes another deep breath (he’s starting to get slightly dizzy), plasters on a smile and enters the battlefield, ready to save his fellow classmates from the worst of Tenya’s well-meaning nagging.

“Hi Tenya!” he greets his best friend.

“Izuku!” the taller boy spins around, a wide smile on his face. “How responsible of you to arrive so early! I was slightly concerned, since you were not responding to my messages, and I was unsure whether Kurogiri would be allowed…”

“He dropped me off just outside the gates,” Izuku interrupts his friend. “And I turned my phone off last night, just in case someone decided to wake me up way too early. Again.”

“I was concerned you might oversleep!...”

“Tenya, I live with Kurogiri,” Izuku points out as he drops his stuff off at his desk. “I really don’t need to wake up at four in the morning.”

“I suppose…”

“Now come on, I’ve got cookies to share,” Izuku grins as he opens the box. “Bribery is the perfect start to a meaningful relationship!”

“Momo Yaoyorozu,” the girl sitting behind him introduces herself. “Thank you so much.”

“I’m Izuku Midoriya, and the cyborg here is Tenya Iida,” Izuku gently nudges his best friend. “I know he can be a bit… intense, but he means well.”

“Don’t mention it!” a voice booms, and Izuku turns to find himself face to… well, chest, with perhaps the largest teenager he has ever met. (Tenya included.) “It’s great to see someone with so much passion!”

“Please keep your voice at an acceptable volume!”

“Tenya, be nice,” Izuku hisses once he has recovered from his shock. (Seriously, is this guy related to Machia?... Oh, god, Izuku should not have thought that, now he has to try and not imagine Machia having sex...) “Here, have a cookie. And you too, ah…”

“Inasa Yoarashi!” the big guy grins as he takes a cookie. “I’m so stocked to meet everyone!”

“…Right,” Izuku slowly nods; then he spots a familiar teenager behind Yoarashi and decides this is the perfect opportunity to escape. “Oh, hey, Bakugo! Want a cookie?”

“Whatever,” Bakugo growls, grabs one and bites into it angrily. (Izuku never knew it was possible to bite a cookie angrily.) “Fuck, this is good.”

“Please do not use such vulgar language!”

“Fuck you, Four-eyes!”

Izuku sighs, makes a mental note to interrogate Shoto on the subject of Katsuki Bakugo, and then drags Tenya off to stand by the front door. They manage to greet about three people; then Yoarashi starts getting excited and Tenya rushes off to reprimand him.

Izuku closes his eyes and prays Shoto will arrive soon.

“Hey, are you alright?” someone asks him.

“Quite alright,” he assures the girl and then realizes she’s invisible. “Oh, want a cookie?”

“Thanks! I’m Toru Hagakure, by the way!”

“Izuku Midoriya.”

“So, like, did you bake these yourself?” a well-built guy with rather odd lips asks.

“Actually, I…” Izuku tries to think of a way to describe Kurogiri that won’t make him sound posh (the word butler is officially out) or rather odd (which is probably even more difficult; butler is a lot less awkward a descriptor than minor-criminal-my-dad-recruited while-he-was-still-trying-to-destroy-society-as-we-know-it); then he spots a teenager hurrying in their direction with a very… distinctive hairstyle.

For just a second he stares, astonished; then he laughs, and shoves the box in the direction of Hagakure’s clothes.

“Sorry, but – I have to go. Could you watch these? Thanks! Tenya! Tenya, Shoto’s here!”

“Thank goodness for that!” Tenya exclaims as he hurries over. “I was beginning to grow concerned something may have happened! It is most irresponsible of him to arrive so…”

He trails off as he catches sight of their friend.

“Sorry I’m late,” Shoto gasps as he comes to a stop. “Touya insisted on seeing me off, only he got caught up in an incident… I had to stop by the station on the way, and then he wanted photos, and… What? What is it?”

“Your hair,” Izuku breathes.

“Oh,” Shoto flushes. He glances over his friends’ shoulders to where several of their classmates are staring at them, and winces. “…Could we maybe talk about this somewhere else?”

“Of course!” Tenya recovers quickly. “Our apologies, Shoto! It is only to be expected you would not wish to discuss personal matters in such a public place…”

“…Which is why we are moving to the loos right now!” Izuku interrupts his friend. “Hagakure, could you take over giving cookies to the new arrivals?”

“Sure!” the invisible girl agrees easily. “And your friend’s hair is awesome, by the way!”

With his responsibilities appropriately discharged, Izuku grabs Shoto and drags him off in the direction of the nearest bathroom, Tenya close behind.

“Alright, let’s get this over with,” Shoto sighs just outside the door. “I want my cookie.”

“I must apologize profusely!” Tenya immediately bows. “I have often criticised your excessive use of hair dye, and whilst I meant well, I can now see why your actions were entirely justified! I can only assure you that my criticisms, whilst misguided, came from a place of genuine concern for your wellbeing!”

“Apology accepted,” Shoto sighs, but there’s a faint smile on his face. “So, cookies?”

“…So you’re not going to dye your hair anymore?” Izuku asks. He feels almost… sad. He’s gotten used to Shoto’s ever-changing hair colour, although… Well, considering his real hair colour is even more unique than he imagined, he understands why it was necessary. “…Aren’t you afraid…”

“I…” Shoto takes a deep breath. “…I think I’ll always be a bit scared. But… Now that I’m going to be a hero, I don’t… I don’t want to hide from Endeavor anymore.”

“That is incredibly courageous of you!” Tenya nods. “And, should you or your family require assistance, you need only ask!”

“Exactly!” Izuku smiles. “We’re a team, the three of us!”

Shoto laughs and relaxes just the slightest bit. But he’s still tense, and as Izuku glances back towards the classroom, he can see several teenagers staring shamelessly in their direction. Shoto has never been the most outgoing of their trio, and so Izuku decides a few more minutes won’t exactly hurt.

“So, who do you think will be our homeroom teacher?” Izuku asks. He’s been racking his brain for weeks and has at least a dozen theories (some of which are rather ridiculous or outright impossible). And besides, it’s a subject his friends will probably be interested in, unlike speculating about the mechanics of Hagakure’s invisibility.

(Not for the first time, Izuku feels a warm glow as he imagines how delighted his dad will be at the prospect of analysing all these new Quirks. There’s always something special about those late-night Quirk Analysis sessions, even if Tenya'll no doubt be outraged the next morning.)

“It will most likely Present Mic or Eraserhead,” Tenya shrugs.

“What? Why?” Izuku frowns. He considered them, of course, but ended up deciding it was unlikely. (After all, they're Hitoshi's parents, and however great he is, Mic is about as likely to remain impartial as Izuku's dad is to marry All Might. And whilst Aizawa can remain impartial, he'd probably quit rather than deal with Izuku's habit of getting into... Situations.)

“Because of your Aunt From Okinawa,” Shoto answers.

“…Is Auntie Rei from Okinawa?” Izuku frowns. He could have sworn she told him she was born in Tokyo, and anyway… What does that have to do with their teachers?...

“I mean your Quirk!” Shoto hisses, glancing around suspiciously. “Aunt. From. Okinawa. Get it?”

“Oh!”

“Perhaps we should think of an appropriate codename,” Tenya suggests. “To avoid further confusion.”

“Yeah, but what? Ants… Frolicking…”

“Apples fucking…”

“Perhaps something shorter and less… Vulgar?” Tenya winces. “I was thinking perhaps Pokémon would be a suitable codename?”

“Why?” Izuku frowns as he tries to figure out the connection. Then he decides it’s probably a pretty good suggestion; he doubts anyone would think there is anything connecting the terrifying villain All For One and adorable little Pikachu.

“Well, I was thinking about it, and… We switch, don’t we?” Tenya smiles.

Shoto and Izuku nod in understanding.

“So I thought it might be an appropriate codename.”

“Alright, Pokémon it is!” Izuku grins.

“Right, have we sorted everything out?” Shoto asks just as the bell rings. “Cause I want my cookie!”

“Yes, we should return to class! We do not wish to leave a bad first impression!”

“Alright!” Izuku laughs. Not for the first time, he’s grateful they’re all in the same class. This is how they imagined themselves as children; side by side, fighting the forces of evil and prevailing because Good and Justice and all that other stuff little kids believe. And sure, in the near future they’ll probably be battling more English assignments than villains... But it’ll still be great, he’s sure of it. “U.A., here we come!

Tenya, obviously satisfied and eager to get back to class before they are all expelled for tardiness, spins round and Izuku and Shoto roll their eyes behind his back. He only gets about two steps down the hallway before he stops and, in a voice his friends know only too well, exclaims, “Mr Eraserhead! Whilst I am delighted to see you and am certain you shall prove an excellent teacher, I must protest! Your behaviour at present is not at all befitting a member of staff here at UA.!”

The yellow caterpillar lying in front of the door slowly rolls over and sits up, and for just a second Aizawa stares at them.

“Hi, Eraserhead!” Izuku smiles and waves.

Aizawa groans.

Chapter Text

“Yes, how may I help you, mr…”

“Yagi,” All Might smiles down at the woman. “From Might Hero Agency. I believe you were informed I would be coming?”

“Oh, yes,” the woman nods. “I have the files you requested here, but… Midoriya isn’t in any trouble, is he?”

“I’m afraid I’m not at liberty to say,” Toshinori shifts awkwardly. Is it possible that, before his death, All For One infiltrated…

“I suppose so,” the woman sighs as she leads him over to a table. “Only… He’s such a generous man…”

“Goddamn it!” a man at a nearby computer swears. “It’s crashed again!”

As he watches her hurry off, All Might wonders whether he’s wrong. But if so… he’ll just confirm that Hisashi Midoriya really is the upstanding citizen everyone believes him to be.

All Might takes a deep breath and opens the file.

There is nothing glaringly suspicious about Hisashi Midoriya; he has a fire-breathing Quirk that got him into trouble when he was younger, and apparently went through something of a delinquent faze. Nothing particularly suspicious; some minor vandalism and one very pathetic attempt at shoplifting. The owner of the store chose not to press charges after finding out young Hisashi had just lost his father, and his mother promptly moved them to Tokyo, most likely hoping for a fresh start. And It appears to have worked; Midoriya graduated with decent grades and entered the corporate world, and since then his only real contact with the police was…

…Hang on, young Midoriya was kidnapped?!

All Might stares down at the page for a minute; then he shakes his head and reaches for Inko Midoriya’s file.

She is even less suspicious than her husband. Toshinori pauses when he realizes her mother was Quirkless, but her own Quirk, Attraction, fits with what he observed during her son’s Entrance Exam. There is slightly more information about her than her husband, but it is almost all reports by social workers. And as soon as she aged out of foster care, she promptly vanished until she filed her marriage certificate.

And then, of course, her son was born and a few years later her husband received her death certificate.

Izuku’s file is shorter, but that’s to be expected. As he scans the page, All Might calms down. Sure enough, Izuku’s registered Quirk is Attraction. His only real run in with the law is a minor caution received a few months prior. The only oddity is a note to contact an officer Tsukauchi for any enquiries, but then Midoriya is a wealthy CEO. It is not completely unheard of; Tsukauchi is probably a friend of the family.

All Might leans back in his chair with a sigh.

Looks like he’ll have to track down the boy with the white hair.

Shoto yawns as he follows his classmates. He wishes he’d slept better, but unfortunately, he got woken up way too early by a slightly hysterical Tenya.

(No, Kurogiri will make sure Izuku isn’t late. He probably forgot to charge his phone.

Yes, Shoto is awake and about to get dressed.

…No, if Izuku had been attacked by mutant squirrels, Machia would have destroyed the neighbourhood and they’d have seen it in the news.)

Sometimes, Shoto wishes his friends were sane.

And, speaking of insane friends, up ahead Izuku turns away from the girl he’s been talking to and waves Shoto over. Shoto lets out a longsuffering sigh; if Izuku is planning something, he really needs to demand another cookie.

(Perhaps he should suggest to Tenya they draw up some sort of compensation plan? It’ll probably take a while, and… They’ll have to get Hitoshi in on it, too; it’ll likely take them several hours to agree how many cookies are equivalent to a muffin, and then there are pies…)

“What is it?” he asks as he joins his friend, resigning himself to... well, if Izuku’s involved, probably his impending death or at least being grounded for a month. (Possibly both.) Then he gets a proper look at the girl and frowns, because… “…Hey, aren’t you…”

“Ochaco Uraraka!” she introduces herself. “I… thanks for saving me at the exam! And… Sorry; I didn’t recognize you earlier, with your hair! It's pretty cool, though!”

“Don’t mention it,” Shoto shrugs. “My name’s Shoto Yukiyama.”

“Oh, wow!” she giggles. “Yukiyama? That’s so funny!"

"What's funny?" a nearby guy with spiky red hair asks.

"Cause he's got an Ice Quirk!" Uraraka explains. "He froze that massive robot during the exam! It was amazing!"

Shoto would be lying if he claimed not to smile at the exclamations that follow that statement.

“Alright, settle down,” Aizawa sighs. The hero looks like he’s not slept in several days, and Shoto can’t help a brief twinge of sympathy. After all, it’s doubtful the hero will get to sleep anytime in the next three years. “We’ll be conducting a test of your Quirks.”

“A what?”

“But… What about the entrance ceremony?”

Shoto groans as Izuku’s eyes light up. (At least Uncle Hisashi will be happy. Shoto only knows two people who can get excited over whether Hawks’ feathers are structurally similar to regular feathers or whether they should be classed as appendages more similar to fingers. Which… Ew, does that mean Hawks has hundreds of fingers?)

“No time to waste if you want to become heroes,” Aizawa shrugs, although he does glance over at Izuku for just a second. “U.A. is known for it’s freestyle education system; that applies to us teachers as well.”

Izuku starts bouncing up and down like an overcaffeinated chipmunk.

“I presume you all did the standard no-Quirks-allowed gym tests in middle school. But it’s not rational that this country still insists on prohibiting the use of Quirks when calculating the averages of these records. You – Bakugo, how far could you throw in middle school?”

“…Sixty-seven meters,” the blonde answers as he looks around hesitantly. Shoto almost feels sorry for him, because everyone is now staring at him; then Bakugo’s gaze lands on a (very) excited Izuku and he straightens.

“Great,” Aizawa tosses him a softball. “Now try it with your Quirk. Do whatever you need to; just don’t leave the circle.”

Bakugo stretches his arms. He takes a few deep breaths as his eyes once again seek out Izuku and then stray to Shoto. And his expression morphs into one Shoto is familiar with, and Shoto smiles right back at the clear challenge in his eyes. Bakugo turns, takes up his position, leans back, swings, and…

“DEKU!”

Izuku’s fingers are twitching, a sure sign he is desperately analysing Bakugo’s Quirk. But as their classmates exclaim in excitement, Shoto and Tenya exchange worried glances. Bakugo did apologize for bullying Izuku when he was younger (in about as roundabout and awkward a way as Shoto would expect), but still – if there is one thing Shoto has learnt, it’s that Katsuki Bakugo can be unpredictable. (The second is that he needs to keep the teachers as far away from the loud explosions as possible. Shoto suspects he knows why all bullying in their middle school suddenly stopped.)

Well, no use in overthinking things. If Bakugo ever tries to hurt Izuku, he will become very familiar with hypothermia.

“…Awesome… you say?” Aizawa interrupts the general excitement. “You’re hoping to become heroes after only three years here… And you think it’ll be all fun and games?” the teacher shakes his head. “Right. I think you should know – the student with the lowest score across all eight events will be judged hopeless… And will be expelled.”

Shoto sighs at Eraserhead’s dramatics.

“What?!”

“Why?!”

“But that’s so unfair!”

“Alright!”

Izuku flushes as everyone turns to stare at him.

“What? What did I say?!”

“A valid point!” Tenya, ever the valiant knight, comes to the rescue. “Of course there is an inherent risk that comes with our chosen career path! Since the goal of our teachers is to prepare us to not only survive but also to rise above those challenges, it only makes sense to throw us in at the deep end! Far better to learn of our limitations now, in a safe setting, rather than in a life or death situation! I would expect no less from U.A.!”

“…What he said,” Izuku points at his friend.

“Alright!” the big guy grins. “I agree, Iida! This is a test of our burning passion! Let’s do this! PLUS ULTRA!”

“Well, he’s insane,” Shoto whispers to Izuku.

But the big guy has his uses, he reflects as he waits for his turn. Izuku is keeping his Quirk a secret for reasons, and anyone who can distract from him is a positive. And Shoto will do his best to add to that distraction; if he happens to get a decent score, too…

…Well, Shoto is a good friend and will just have to make that sacrifice.

And Izuku barely does anything when it’s his turn; he just steps up to the start line next to Yaoyorozu and when the pistol goes off, he coughs, splutters and then steps over the finishing line. Shoto takes a swig of water to try and help with the itching in his throat and ignores Tenya’s judgemental stare; if Aizawa didn’t want Izuku switching Quirks, he really should have made that explicitly clear at the beginning.

“Thanks, Shoto!” Izuku hurries up to him; as Shoto passes the water bottle, their fingers brush and Shoto feels Half-Hot, Half-Cold settle back in it’s rightful place. He doesn’t mind switching with Izuku, but… There’s something special about his own Quirk. He wonders whether Tenya feels the same; he wonders whether he’d feel this way if he’d never met Izuku.

But, as he’s taking his place next to Yoarashi, he’s excited. Because he's trained and pushed himself under the watchful eye of Uncle Hisashi, and... The Entrance Exam was only the beginning. Sure, it was flashy, but - this is the moment he proves it can be versatile, too.

This is the moment Shoto Yukiyama gets to announce to the world that he has arrived.

Then the starting pistol goes off, and a huge gust of wind throws Shoto backwards. He hits the ground hard and tastes blood; but the wind is still pushing him backwards, whilst at the same time sending sand blasting at him. He’s pretty sure it’s scraping his skin raw, and desperately he tries to throw up an ice wall in front to protect himself…

…And then, thankfully, the relentless assault stops and Shoto collapses back onto the ground with a groan.

“Shoto?!”

“Are you alright?”

Idly, Shoto wonders what it says about his life that getting assaulted by the wind even warrants that question. Then he remembers that pretty much all his friends and family are absolutely insane. Insane but wonderful, he reflects as he feels the familiar itchy-scratchy-tickly sensation of Izuku’s healing Quirk wash over him, chasing away his aches. They are absolutely wonderful, and…

“I am so sorry, Yukiyama! Please accept my apologies!”

Carefully, Shoto sits up. He looks up at his giant classmate and frowns, puzzled.

“…Why are you bleeding?”

He almost facepalms, because it comes out squeaky and high-pitched, and he turns to glare at Izuku. Of course he forgot – whilst Izuku’s healing Quirk doesn’t have a downside to him, it has an unfortunate tendency of tightening the vocal chords of the patient. There go his hopes of making a great first impression on his classmates. (Technically second impression, but still - he isn't entirely sure what sort of reputation he'll end up with, if the first two things they witness him do are take out a monster robot and then get beaten up by a breeze.)

“Yoarashi, you need to be more careful,” Aizawa sighs. “Whether you stay here at U.A. or not, control needs to be one of the areas you focus on. And you, Yukiyama – do you want to try again?”

“Yes!” Shoto flushes as he scrambles to his feet. He hurries back to the starting line with clenched fists and tries to ignore a few muffled giggles; he can recover from this. He just – Yoarashi is careless with a Quirk that could injure people. Shoto can beat him; Shoto can show him just how vital control is.

Shoto is 0.8 seconds slower than Yoarashi.

Really, Shoto doesn’t expect to do better than Yoarashi when it comes to grip strength. The guy is built like a brick outhouse.

He does feel a twinge of guilt when he’s so distracted preparing for the long jump, he sends Izuku crashing into Tenya.

He almost screams when it turns out Yoarashi is surprisingly quick on his feet for his size.

The ball throw doesn’t even count, because of course the guy with a wind Quirk is better suited.

And he obviously works out, so he beats Shoto at upper body training.

In fact, Shoto only manages to beat him at the seated toe touch.

By the time they’ve all finished, Shoto is pretty sure he hates Yoarashi. It's not a pleasant feeling; true, both him and Bakugo have flashy Quirks, and their rivalry was the stuff of legends in their school... But some of that was because they were pretty evenly matched. And at least for Shoto, it was enjoyable, because Bakugo helped push him to do better, to be better. With Yoarashi...

...Yoarashi doesn't even seem to notice him as he laughs with the Spiky Redhead.

But at least his early embarrassment and feeble attempts to salvage his reputation will have distracted everyone from Izuku, he tries to comfort himself. He glances over at his friends, both relatively relaxed. Some of that is no doubt due to their decent performance, and some of it…

“I was lying about expelling someone.”

…is due to being all too familiar with Eraserhead’s eccentric views on childcare and education.

“What?!”

“WHA?!...”

“He totally wasn’t,” Izuku mutters a little too loudly.

All of his classmates (well, all of his classmates who aren’t closely acquainted with Aizawa) turn to stare at him.  Tenya looks like he’s torn between rescuing Izuku and going to comfort their teacher, who is probably about three seconds away from quitting.

(They are so going to have to send him a care basket.)

“Of course it was a lie,” Yaoyorozu frowns. “It wasn’t terribly hard to work that out…”

“No, see…” Izuku flushes. “…He does this regularly. Like, last year he expelled a whole class…”

“How’d you know that, man?”

“Izuku is incredibly knowledgeable about heroes!” Tenya intervenes. “After all, they represent what we are all striving for! So he studies them extensively, to learn as much as he can! And naturally Eraserhead is a shining example of a successful underground hero, who maintains a healthy balance between…”

“…So basically you’re a hero nerd,” a blonde guy interrupts Tenya’s monologue.

“Pretty much,” Shoto nods, even as Tenya huffs, offended.

“That’s so awesome!” Yoarashi explodes. (Shoto really can’t think of a better word than that. Almost all of their classmates take a subconscious step away as the giant rounds on poor, defenceless Izuku.) “Midoriya, I had no idea you were so passionate about heroes! That’s just what I was hoping to see, here at U.A.! I didn’t even recognize Eraserhead, but you!...”

“Anyway, passion or not, we’re done here,” Aizawa interrupts. “You can find all the documents you need back in the classroom. Not you, Midoriya; Principal Nedzu would like to speak with you.”

“We will collect your things and meet you at the front gate!” Tenya immediately turns to his friend. “I feel it is only right we commemorate our first day at U.A. in some meaningful way!”

“Junk food it is!” Izuku grins and sprints off before Tenya can correct him.

Shoto laughs as his friend sighs, defeated, and doesn’t comment on the small smile on his face. Instead he glances over at Bakugo, already heading back to the building, and then he looks back over at Yoarashi, who seems blissfully unaware of how most of their classmates are avoiding him. This... It feels like he has a decision to make now.

Shoto reminds himself that he’s survived fifteen years being related to Natsuo, and almost a decade of friendship with Izuku and Tenya, and makes up his mind.

“Hey, Yoarashi,” he approaches the taller teen. “I didn’t really introduce myself earlier, did I? Shoto Yukiyama, and… Thanks for what you said to Izuku.”

“Great to meet you, Yukiyama!” Yoarashi grins at him. He’s… He’s not that different than Machia, Shoto tries to reassure himself, after he’s had too many muffins. (Except that Machia basically adores him and would destroy Japan for him and does not have a Quirk that, in combination with Shoto’s own, is basically a super-powered flame-thrower.) “And I really meant it! It’s great to see others with such burning passion!...”

“Yeah, Izuku and heroes… You probably won’t find many other people with such a burning passion,” Shoto sighs. Then he shudders. “Or Quirks.”

“…I really don’t understand,” Yoarashi frowns. “It’s absolutely wonderful to witness! Especially since they are such important subjects!...”

For just a second, Shoto considers being magnanimous in defeat. Then he remembers the humiliation, and decides that he’s a teenager and therefore allowed to be a little petty every now and then. And besides, he’s pretty sure Yoarashi has never met a passion quite like Izuku’s.

“…Ask him about Hawks’ wings tomorrow,” he smiles sweetly. “Then you’ll see passion.”

Izuku grins as he lets himself into the teachers lounge. He hesitates; part of him doesn’t want to keep Principal Nedzu waiting. But the other part wins out, and so he makes a quick detour towards the two adults sat in a corner.

“Hi Midnight! Hi Present Mic!”

“Izuku!” Present Mic grins as he sits up. “It’s great to see you! Have you seen Hitoshi?”

“…No,” Izuku shakes his head. He’s just noticed the pile of used tissues at the Voice Hero’s feet and is starting to regret his decision. “We’re not in the same class. And… Didn’t you see him this morning?”

“He did,” Nemuri confirms with a groan. “I’ve been on babysitting duty for the past hour, because apparently Mic here doesn’t understand teenagers don’t have to be walked to their classroom.”

“But Nemuriii! He’s so handsome,” Mic sniffs and pulls out another tissue. “And what if the other kids are mean to him? What if they bully him?!”

“Mic, you’re a teacher,” Midnight sighs. “You need to at least pretend to be impartial! And Hitoshi won’t thank you for embarrassing him on his first day!”

“Yes, but…”

“Izuku, just head in,” Nemuri manages a small smile. “…This is going to take a while.”

As he takes the opportunity to flee, Izuku makes a mental note to apologize to his dad. And also to call Hitoshi; his friend will probably appreciate the opportunity to vent.

Also, he should probably bake Nedzu some cheese scones.

“Izuku!” the principal beams when he enters the office. “Wonderful to see you! Tell me, has Aizawa expelled anyone this year?”

“Nope,” Izuku smiles as he sits down. “Nobody!”

“Well, that’s a relief!” Principal Nedzu chuckles. “It will be such a nice change not to have to deal with overzealous parents this year, especially… Well, especially with everything else there is to deal with…”

“Yeah,” Izuku sighs. His smile slips from his face, because he is all too aware of what the principal is referring to. “…Dad told me you know.”

Technically speaking, principal Nedzu does not actually know the whole truth. But, since Izuku isn’t exactly keen on seeing his father locked up in Tartarus, he is willing to keep up the charade that Hisashi Midoriya is All For One’s biological son.

Besides, it’s not like they’ll be actively hurting anyone by keeping his dad’s identity secret. Izuku has made it quite clear that any villainous activity will result in an immediate cessation of hugs and he will run away from home. (Which, he realized later, is probably not terribly effective when the person looking for you practically ran the Japanese underworld for a number of years and likely still has many contacts. But then again, Izuku is barely fifteen and his father was All For One. He is at a pretty big disadvantage.)

“Yes,” Principal Nedzu nods. He doesn’t stop smiling though, and… It’s reassuring. “I wish to reassure you that no member of U.A. staff will judge you for your Quirk. We are here to help you grow and reach your full potential. So I hope you will not feel you have to hold back during training.”

“...Right," Izuku nods. "Thank you."

There’s a sudden wail from outside the door, and Nedzu sighs.

“And that brings me to the other matter I wished to discuss,” he shakes his head. “I decided to place you in Eraserhead’s class because he is already aware of your Quirk, and your father agreed that I could explain your… family situation to him. But I also understand if, due to your friendship with his son, you feel unable to approach him about… certain matters. Our guidance counselor, Hound Dog, has been informed of your situation, and if you ever wish to discuss anything at all with someone impartial, I encourage you to turn to him. Or… Recovery Girl, Present Mic, Ectoplasm and I are also aware of your family history. We are always willing to help if needed.”

“…Thank you,” Izuku nods. He wonders whether he should start keeping a list; something like People aware I'm related to a terrifying supervillain. Then he decides it's probably not a good idea; if his dad found it, he'd probably end up moping for days. "...Is there anyone else... Aware outside of school?"

"Only officer Tsukauchi and Ingenium," Nedzu smiles. "I suggested All Might, but your father was... pretty insistent about not telling him."

Izuku can't imagine why.

Chapter Text

“Is this seat free?”

“I am afraid not!” Tenya responds with his usual enthusiastic politeness. “We are saving it for a close friend of ours!”

“Yeah,” Shoto adds, not looking up from his soba. “His name is Hitoshi, in Class 1-C. Do you know him?”

“…You guys suck,” Hitoshi sighs as he sinks into the seat opposite them. He ignores the traitorous smile tugging at his lips as Shoto finally looks up at him, a mischievous twinkle in his eye, and Tenya looks disapprovingly at his lunch. Then he glances to his right, at the final member of their group. “…What’s he doing?”

Shoto groans as he shakes his head, and Tenya takes a deep breath and then pokes Izuku in the cheek with his chopsticks.

“…it would have to be determined whether it’s his hands that control it or if perhaps it is simply force of habit… Oh, hi, Hitoshi!” Izuku beams when he notices the new addition to their table. He grabs a notebook and pen out of his bag and leans over. “What can you tell me about your classmates’ Quirks?”

“They have them?...” Hitoshi answers hesitantly. He glances over at their friends, but the traitors are just watching them as they eat. He wonders in passing whether he should have sat with his classmates instead, but…

“Well, I need you to keep a close eye on them,” Izuku pushes the notebook over. “I’ve already written down a few general questions that can help you with initial observations, although the more information the better. And the sooner I know about their Quirks, the sooner I can begin planning appropriate countermeasures!”

“…What countermeasures?” Hitoshi asks. He wonders briefly whether Izuku is planning on taking over the school. Which… Okay, Hitoshi is more than willing to help with that, but he isn’t entirely sure how the assorted Quirks of Class 1-C factor into the plan. He can’t exactly picture his fellow classmates manning the barricades as they attempt to hold off whatever odd group Izuku has recruited.

“For the Sports Festival!” Izuku exclaims. “I told you, didn’t I? We need to get you into the Hero Course, and the sooner the better!”

“Exactly!” Tenya finally joins the conversation. “The longer it takes, the further behind you will be, Hitoshi! Although of course we shall endeavour to keep you aware of everything we cover in classes that General Studies does not! Rest assured, I will be making copies of my notes every day for you! And if you have any questions about the subject, I will try my best to explain it!”

Hitoshi can’t help it. And he thinks Izuku understands, just a little, as he wordlessly produces a box of tissues for him. Because whenever he remembers those pointed whispers, the repulsive suggestions and the ever-present v-word… This is what makes it better; the knowledge that he doesn’t need those idiots. He has friends that believe in his dreams and are willing to go out of their way to help him succeed, and he wouldn’t trade them for anything.

“So, what’s it like being a U.A. student?” Shoto asks. “You know, with your parents as your teachers…”

“Oh, god,” Hitoshi groans. “You guys are so lucky. I’m terrified if I say anything bad, I’ll get someone expelled!”

“I am quite certain Eraserhead is more professional than…”

“No he isn’t,” Hitoshi rolls his eyes at Tenya’s naivete. “He’d just make their lives a living hell, until they’d quit. It’s Mic that’s the problem! We had English class earlier, and I was terrified he’d try giving everyone the shovel talk!”

“Try bribery,” Izuku suggests with a sigh. “…Mixed with a little blackmail. It’s what I do with dad. You could threaten him with – I don’t know what would work on Mic, though… Is he a hugger?”

“I’ll try that,” Hitoshi manages a smile. Then he almost ducks under the table, because Mic has just stood up and is looking around the cafeteria. But if he is going to be a hero, he has to be brave, and courageous, and so he looks over at Izuku and asks, “How’s your dad?”

“…He’s fine. Still…” Izuku shrugs and then yawns. “…Still a bit iffy about the whole hero thing, but he’s getting used to it…”

“…They spent all night talking about Quirks,” Shoto explains. “Pretty sure they’ve written research papers on at least half our class already.”

“And Tenya has already told me off for not getting eight hours of sleep,” Izuku rolls his eyes. “And I don’t have enough information… Oh look, it’s Yoarashi!”

“Wow,” Hitoshi has no trouble noticing the big guy. Or the slightly shellshocked expression on his face, especially when he notices Izuku waving at him. “…Why does he look like he’s met Machia?”

“He asked Izuku about Hawks’ wings,” Shoto smiles.

“Which you of course had nothing to do with,” Hitoshi snickers.

“He wanted to see passion,” the teenager shrugs. “So I suggested he ask Izuku about whether Hawks’ feathers count as fingers or not.”

“It’s fascinating!” Izuku huffs.

All his friends just look at him dubiously.

“…If Touya ever goes on a date with Hawks, do you think he could borrow a feather for us?”

“…You are not setting my brother up just because you want information about a Quirk.”

“I never mentioned setting him up! Just, if he’s going to be a member of our family…”

Oh yes, Hitoshi reflects, he has perhaps the best friends possible.

Even if they’re Plust Ultra insane.

“…Dad, why are you dressed like a flasher?”

“Tenko!” All Might spins around and sweeps his son up in a crushing embrace. (Crushing being a rather unfortunate descriptive. One of the first lessons he had to learn after adopting Tenko, alongside making hot chocolate and deciphering cryptic artwork, was controlling his strength.) “Oh, it is wonderful to see you again, my boy!”

“You too, dad,” Tenko sighs, but Toshinori can hear the smile in his voice. “…You are wearing pants, aren’t you?”

All Might huffs as he sets his son down, because Tenko really should have more faith in him. But he can’t help his smile as he looks over the young man; his hair is a little longer and his skin a little more tan, but other than that he looks almost exactly like when All Might waved him farewell two months ago.

Which begs the question…

“What are you doing back in Tokyo?” Toshinori asks with a frown. He notices Tenko’s battered old suitcase and backpack and wonders whether he forgot about a visit. “…Not that I’m not delighted to see you, of course, but…”

“…Yoroi got injured,” Tenko sighs. “Nothing serious, but… They’re scaling back operations for a while. And, you know, since I wanted to get more publicity, I figured I might as well come back and explore some of my other options.”

“Well, if you need…”

“I am not working for you, dad,” Tenko cuts him off. “Besides, I’ve already had a few good offers.”

“Really? Do tell!”

“…Maybe we could discuss this somewhere that is not a random-ass bush?”

All Might considers the suggestion. He’s been hiding for the past three hours, hoping to catch a glimpse of The White-haired Boy. Unfortunately, he has not had much success – he was forced to abandon his post at one point, when he spotted Eraserhead heading in his direction, and whilst he caught sight of a few teenagers with white hair, none of them had more than a passing resemblance to the boy with the ice Quirk.

“That sounds like a wonderful idea!” Toshinori laughs. He can come back the next day, and if that fails… If that fails, he’ll have to call Torino. “Come on, burger time! My treat!”

“Thanks, dad!” Tenko grins.

“So, tell me,” All Might prompts as they set off in the direction of their favourite restaurant, Tenko dragging his suitcase behind him. “What’s your plan? What are these offers?”

“Well, Idaten are still interested in giving me a go,” Tenko shrugs. “Might be cool to be part of a big team. The Pussycats suggested a collab – but they’re scaling back their day-to-day, cause of some family emergency… Hawks sent me a decent offer, but I’m pretty sure it’s more about the clout than cause of my skills… Oh, and Snipe suggested trying for a position at U.A. as a T.A. to tide me over; I’m going to visit tomorrow…”

“Really?” an idea starts to take shape in All Might’s mind. “Mind if I tag along? It’s been a while since I’ve been to U.A.; it’d be great to have a look around, see what’s changed…”

“Oh, sure,” Tenko laughs. “Going soft in your old age, huh?...”

“Cool Ingenium cosplay!”

Tenya groans. He considers ignoring his friends and walking away, since that would be the mature, dignified course of action, but… Well, being mature and dignified is only enjoyable when he can occasionally let loose.

And besides…

“You’re one to talk,” he remarks as he slips on his helmet.

“What’s that supposed to mean?!”

“Have you looked at yourself?” Shoto smirks. “You look like your dad.”

“Yes; all that is missing is the correct hair colour,” Tenya adds. “I am sure Shoto would be more than willing to assist.”

“Ha ha,” Izuku huffs. “Very funny.”

“Seriously, you guys are so unoriginal,” Shoto laughs. “I’m the only one with an original costume!”

“Oh, is that why your cufflinks look like penguins?”

“…I hate you both.”

Tenya just laughs as Shoto storms off, indignant. He glances down at his costume and then makes to follow, but realizes Izuku has sat down on the bench and is tugging at his jacket sleeves, an anxious expression on his face.

“…Izuku, we should join our classmates.”

“…Yeah, I guess,” Izuku answers, but doesn’t get up.

Tenya sighs. He doesn’t want to hold up their class, but… Oh, he will simply have to apologize to Aizawa. Izuku is far more important.

“What’s wrong?” he asks as he sits down next to his best friend.

“…It’s dumb.”

“It does not matter whether it is dumb or not,” Tenya shrugs. “We are friends; if you wish to talk about it, I am here for you.”

“…Yeah,” Izuku sighs. “Just… Do you think it’s silly?”

“What, your costume?” Tenya frowns. “…Not really, no.”

“…I just… I don’t know, I just realized how weird it is that I based my costume on dad,” Izuku sighs. “And… I just, I’m not sure I should keep it now.”

“I don’t think it is weird,” Tenya smiles. “You based your costume on your hero. True, he might not be a hero with a license, but… If anything, it speaks of the love and respect you feel towards your father! And, after all, it is also fairly practical; if you need to blend in, it’s current design will not stand out. And if, in future, you have to make changes, they should be fairly simple to implement, unlike… Well, unlike my costume.”

“I guess…” Izuku sighs, but the corner of his lips is ever so slightly quirked upwards. “Just… It still feels really weird…”

“Izuku, I am certain you shall be able to make it your own!” Tenya shrugs. “I… do not wish to hurry you, but…”

“Yeah, I know,” Izuku chuckles. “Oh, my mask!”

“…Why do you have a mask?”

“…No reason…”

By the time they rejoin their class, Aizawa looks distinctly unimpressed. Tenya immediately bows, a string of apologies on the tip of his tongue…

“I’m sorry, sir, it was my fault!”

It is undoubtedly Izuku who speaks, even if his voice is distorted by his mask. Tenya straightens and turns to stare at his friend as Izuku soldiers on, staring down at his cuffs as he fiddles with them.

“I just… was feeling a bit anxious, about… things, and Tenya stayed to talk me through it…”

“Fine,” Aizawa sighs. “But if this happens again, tell me earlier. Are you alright to participate in today’s exercise, Midoriya, or would you prefer to sit it out?”

“No, no, I’m fine! Just… what is today’s exercise?”

“You’ll be split into teams of two,” Eraserhead sighs. “One team will be heroes, the other – villains. The catch is, you’ll be facing off indoors – so think carefully before you fire off some overpowered blast. We do not have time here at U.A. to waste on idiots who will collapse a building on themselves.”

Tenya can’t help but glance over at Bakugo.

“The villain team will enter first. They will be hiding a nuclear weapon; the heroes’ goal is to either secure it or capture the villains. There will be a time limit, though, so the villains can win either by protecting the weapon until the clock runs out or by capturing the heroes. Any questions?”

No one is quite brave enough to speak.

“Alright, teams will be decided by drawing lots.”

Not Bakugo, not Bakugo, not Bakugo…

Tenya almost groans when he ends up in the same team as Bakugo. The blonde does not look pleased, either; in fact, when he spots Tenya looking at him, he snarls. (Very mature behaviour indeed; Tenya wonders whether there’s any point in informing him that it is certainly not becoming a student at U.A. Probably not.)

Maybe Tenya will at least not have to pretend to be a villain…

“The first round will be between…” Aizawa pulls out two pieces of paper and stares at them for a minute before looking back up at them. “…Team A and Team D. Iida, Bakugo – you two are the villains.”

This time, Tenya does groan as he follows the blonde into the building. Well, he’ll simply have to try and channel Alt Forty One. And – this will be wonderful practice for when he is a hero! After all, he won’t always be able to work with Izuku or Shoto, and might in fact have to work alongside heroes he does not like.

And besides; he and Bakugo shall be in the same class for the next three years and may have to work together once they go pro. Tenya may not agree… Okay, Tenya may feel a strong personal dislike towards Bakugo (and he will never admit to all those days he spent ranting to Tensei about what a mean, nasty poopy-pants Kacchan was, he just needs to find a way to delete that footage), but that does not mean they cannot move past that. They are, after all, mature young men well on their way to adulthood and should not allow childhood prejudices to colour…

“Alright, Four-Eyes, let’s get one thing straight!” Bakugo snarls once they reach the room with the fake bomb. “Don’t think you can boss me around like Midoriya!...”

Oh, this is going to be wonderful…

“Alright, Uraraka,” Izuku grins at his teammate. “I think we should go for a two-pronged attack! You try and locate the bomb, and once you have – I’ll draw them away, and you can rush in and secure the bomb! If you think you’re about to get caught, let me know!”

“Okay, sure!” the girl smiles; then she frowns. “But, like… Are you sure it’s okay for me to leave you to face them on your own?”

“Oh, it’s fine,” Izuku chuckles. “I have a trick up my sleeve, after all…”

“…And so I believe we should take a proactive approach, rather than…”

“Fuck you!” Bakugo snarls, his hands letting off weird pops, and Tenya eyes them nervously, because he isn’t entirely sure what sort of Quirk requires grenade-shaped gauntlets. “I told you, you’re not the boss of me!”

“…I am not trying to ‘boss you around’, I am simply pointing out I am quite familiar with the way Izuku thinks, and this strategy is likely…”

“FUCK YOU!”

“…I think I’m getting close,” Uraraka whispers. “I mean… I can hear a lot of explosions coming from up ahead… What do you think they’re doing?”

“…I have no clue,” Izuku frowns. “I mean, they can’t be fighting… Not Tenya…”

“I am wondering whether you even belong here in the first place!” Tenya yells.

“WHAT DID YOU SAY, YOU BASTARD?!”

“You heard me,” Tenya flounders a bit as he tries to come up with an appropriate insult. “…Deku!”

Bakugo screams.

“Midoriya! Separate them now!” Aizawa screams into the microphone. He can hear several of his other students screaming, but his eyes are fixed on the screen.

Come on, Izuku! Summon Tenya!

Bakugo chokes on some weird black goo. The bastard seems to be vanishing, but - it doesn't matter! He won't forgive him for this! He snarls as he brings up his hand and pulls the pin out, because so far none of his blasts have left a trace...

(Fucking armour!)

...But suddenly, he's not looking at the armoured bastard anymore.

And it's too late.

Katsuki Bakugo has fucked up again.

Chapter Text

“Now, dad, what have we agreed?”

“…I’m not allowed to brutally murder the Bakugo brat."

“And?...”

“…I’m not allowed to set Gigantomachia on him."

“And?...”

“…I need to consult you before I do anything that might affect him,” Hisashi sighs.

“Good dad!” Izuku grins and finally deigns to hug his father.

“…I’m pretty sure every hero I ever defeated is laughing at me right now,” Hisashi rolls his eyes. Just where did he go wrong, that a fourteen year old boy is able to boss him around like this?

(Probably around the time he didn't immediately rip the arm off that criminal, his mind suggests. The worst part is, he can't even regret it, when he remembers Inko's beautiful eyes.)

“And I’m pretty sure mum is very proud of you for not killing the boy she regarded as family!” Izuku shoots back.

“…Okay, that was a low blow.”

“…Did it work?”

“Yes,” Hisashi sighs and ruffles his son's hair. He can't help a small smile as he looks down at his little boy. "You've gotten very good at manipulation, Izuku."

“…Is that a good thing?”

“Ask me that again after you’ve talked down your first jumper,” Hisashi shrugs.

He can't help but worry just a little as he looks over his son, though; when he got the call from Nedzu, he practically ran out of his office (leaving his poor secretary to make his excuses to Yotsubashi - he really needs to give her a raise) and had Kurogiri warp him straight to Recovery Girl's room. Izuku was already pretty much patched up, but the minute he laid eyes on him, he burst into tears, and any thoughts of murder fled Hisashi's mind as he sat down next to his son and hugged him. (Of course, once they got home and he thought back on it, Hisashi realized he had been played. Which - alright, fine, Izuku earned both that extra helping of dessert and an extra day for Katsuki Bakugo to live. Positive reinforcements and all that.)

But now... Hisashi never worried about Izuku being a hero before. He always thought he would be able to keep him safe, and this... It just makes it clear that there are things he cannot protect Izuku from, things that might slip through. Hisashi cannot be there every minute of every day. And he wishes he could just... keep Izuku safe a little longer...

"You know, you could stay home from school..."

"Dad, I am going to school!" Izuku hisses. "Now, behave yourself, alright?"

"...Yes, Izuku," Hisashi sighs.

"And don't do anything illegal."

"I won't."

"Love you, dad!"

"I love you too, Izuku," Hisashi smiles and waves as his son vanishes through a warp gate. Then he levels Kurogiri with A Look, because he kept the whole of Japan trembling in fear for decades and he deserves some respect, dammit.

Which reminds him...

"Do you think you could bake me a dozen muffins?" he sighs. "I think I need to apologize to Yotsubashi..."

Seriously, his life was so much simpler when he was a villain. He could just murder the balding little upstart and be done with it...

It feels great to be back at U.A.. Izuku doesn't mind the noise as he changes his shoes, or ducking out of the way of other students as they rush to class. In fact he likes it; it's so easy to pretend that he's just another student. That he has no concerns other than school and a slightly odd family, and his Quirk is just one of many.

That he hasn't just spent the past several hours actively preventing a murder, and that there isn't a part of his mind that is absolutely terrified he'll slip up and send his father to Tartarus.

He grins as he stops outside his classroom and slides the door open; then he steps inside...

...and immediately regrets not staying home.

"Midoriya!" Kirishima exclaims. "Man, are you alright?!"

"You sure you should be back so soon?" Jiro frowns.

"Oh my gosh, Midoriya!" Uraraka rushes over. "Are you alright? I'm so sorry I left you like that! I... tried to visit you, but..."

"It's fine!" Izuku rushes to assure everyone. "Seriously, Recovery Girl patched me up in no time! And anyway, I came up with the plan, so really, you don't have to feel guilty, Uraraka!"

"Yeah, but still," Ashido huffs. "That Bakugo really overdid it! I mean, picking a fight with his own teammate?"

"He's not gonna last," Sero sighs.

Izuku glances around the room, and realizes that only one person is missing.

Bakugo.

"Well, I... sorry, Uraraka, I need to talk with Tenya..."

"Oh, sure, Midoriya," the girl nods. "Just... It's so great to see you're feeling better!"

"Yeah, thanks!" he grins at her and then hurries over to his friends. Shoto treats him to a small smile; Tenya...

"I am so sorry!" Tenya immediately jumps up and bows. "Yesterday was entirely my fault! I should have maintained my composure!... I should not have allowed Bakugo to provoke me!... I..."

"Hey, hey, it's fine!" Izuku hisses. "Dad patched me up! Just... What the fuck happened between you and Bakugo?!"

"I... Well, I'm not entirely sure," Tenya frowns. "Neither of us were happy to be partnered together, but..."

"It looked like you said something right before he went ape shit," Shoto interrupts him.

"Well, that can't be it," Izuku sighs. "I mean, no offense, Tenya, but babies are better at insults than you."

"Yes, I admit I could only come up with deku..."

"...You didn't," Shoto groans. "Please say you didn't..."

"What? What ha..." Tenya freezes mid sentence. "I am an idiot, aren't I?"

"No arguments here!"

"I'm pretty sure I'm siding with Bakugo on this one," Izuku sighs.

"I shall apologize to him as soon as the opportunity presents itself!" Tenya declares, and Shoto and Izuku exchange looks, because they'll probably have to be present for that in case Bakugo decides to finish what he started.

The opportunity does not, thankfully, present itself before Aizawa arrives. Their teacher looks even worse than usual, and Izuku can't help the twinge of guilt as he takes in the man's bedraggled appearance. He also can't help but worry as he stares at Bakugo's empty desk. His dad probably isn’t behind this, but there’s always that remote possibility. Or – could Bakugo be skipping? He… He didn’t come to check up on Izuku, but they’re not friends, so that’s not terribly surprising… Or maybe he’s sick?...

“Alright, settle down,” Aizawa sighs. Then he seems to notice he's missing a student. “Oh… Yukiyama, do you know where…”

As if on cue, the door slides open and Bakugo slinks in.

“…Never mind, then,” the teacher sighs again. “Bakugo, stay after class. Right, on to more important matters… It's time for you lot to pick a class president. Any volunteers?”

“Me!”

“I’d like to do it.”

“I wanna be a leader!”

"Pick me, pick me!

"Let me do it!"

"I would like to volunteer."

It is probably a miracle that a fight doesn't break out; as it is, Aizawa stares at them for a minute until everyone quiets down, uncertain. Then he pulls out his sleeping bag.

“You have ten minutes to decide amongst yourselves. Don’t wake me up. Oh, by the way – we no longer accept representatives selected through death matches.”

“…That’s oddly specific,” Jiro frowns.

“…Yeah, there are a lot of rules like that here at U.A.,” Izuku winces. “Don’t turn people’s trousers into butterflies, don’t force Vlad King to perform Hamlet…”

“…Don’t freeze over Training Ground Beta…”

“…Don’t try and figure out how fast Ingenium can go after you dose him with caffeine…”

“…Don’t bribe Present Mic to perform karaoke in the cafeteria, singing ‘What time is it’ from High School Musical 2 to try and get all the students to join in a flashmob…”

“…You are both… very knowledgeable in regards to school regulations,” Yaoyorozu remarks. “…And… How should I put this… You seem familiar with Mr Eraserhead’s…”

“…General weirdness?” Izuku suggests.

“You said it, not me,” Kirishima grins. “But… You do.”

Izuku hesitates, because he probably shouldn’t admit to why he knows so many specific rules. He glances around at the curious faces of their classmates, and…

“Izuku’s father is a friend of Principal Nedzu’s!” Tenya swoops in to save him. “And, as such, he was kind enough to allow us to make use of some of the facilities during the holidays! And, admittedly, we are also close friends with Mr Eraserhead’s son…”

“Hang on, Eraserhead has a son?!”

“Seriously? He doesn’t look like he could keep himself alive!”

“Is he a single dad?”

“Who’s the mother?! Spill, spill!”

“…I don’t think this is a good place to talk about it,” Shoto interrupts them, pointing to where Aizawa’s eyes are peering at them from behind his desk. The assorted students of 1-A take one look and make the sensible decision that perhaps they should get back to the task of choosing a leader.

“…But, ribbit, how do we decide who should be president, though?”

“I vote for Midoriya.”

Everyone freezes. They all slowly look towards Bakugo, who is glaring down at his desk.

“…Hey, Bakugo, you alright?” Kirishima asks hesitantly. “…I mean…”

“He knows the teachers and the rules,” Bakugo ignores him. “He’s smart and will be a great hero. He understands Quirks. Can you think of a better fucking candidate?!”

“…Well…”

“…That… kind of makes sense…”

“We need to elect a sensible vicepresident, though,” Shoto sighs. “Someone who won’t get us all expelled in a week.”

“…I would never!...”

“Good point, there’s the weekend. Eight days.”

“…Just for the record, I’m looking for new friends,” Izuku groans. “Applicants can start handing in resumes. Bakugo, you interested?”

“Are you fucking insane, Midoriya?!”

“That’s not a no!” Izuku grins.

They end up electing Yaoyorozu as vicepresident, after Tenya’s candidacy provokes a three-minute argument between Bakugo and Shoto. But once Aizawa finally stands up, cutting Bakugo off mid-rant, Izuku can’t quite seem to focus on the lessons.

Bakugo looks… Well, like crap. His school uniform is messy (and not in the ‘I’m too cool to care’ manner, but in the ‘I tried sleeping in this’ way), and from what little Izuku saw… He hasn’t slept at all. He doesn’t even seem to move during their breaks, and most of their classmates don’t seem keen to interact with him. (To be fair, Izuku can’t blame them, because they basically just saw him apparently try and murder a classmate.) There’s something about him that seems familiar, something that reminds Izuku of someone…

…of…

…Touya.

The realization hits Izuku like a freight train, and he freezes.

And in that moment, he knows he has a new mission ahead of him.

He groans.

“Bakugo, wait up!”

It’s kind of funny how the blonde freezes up when he hears Izuku call after him, and Izuku grins. He hurries up to catch him, and treats him to his most adorable smile. (It’s the one he perfected for Quirk-related purposes; Machia has never once refused him, after all!)

“I thought we could eat lunch together!”

“…Wouldn’t you rather eat with Frosty and Four-Eyes?”

“Their names are Shoto and Tenya, and they’re going to introduce Hitoshi to everyone!” Izuku shrugs.

“…Who?”

“Hitoshi! He’s… well, you know, he’s Eraserhead’s son,” Izuku turns to grin at Bakugo. “And besides, I want us to get along! You know, be friends!”

“…You’re fucking insane,” the blonde chokes out.

“…Yeah, I get that a lot.”

“I hospitalized you yesterday!”

“And Recovery Girl did a spectacular job patching me up!”

“I bullied you!”

“We were only three years old.”

“Your mother was fucking dying and I called you a crybaby!”

“…Yeah, that was pretty mean,” Izuku admits. “But you have come a long way since then! So, Katsuki Bakugo, I have decided – WE ARE GOING TO BE FRIENDS!”

Bakugo stares at him for a minute; then he lets out a scream and storms off.

Izuku takes a moment to lament his lot in life; then he takes a deep breath, squares his shoulders, and...

"Bakugo, wait up!"

“Alright, Chronos, if you’d like to join us… Oh, erm…”

“I’ll just wait here!” All Might smiles as he takes a seat. “Good luck, Tenko!”

“…Thanks, dad,” Tenko lets out a longsuffering sigh.

Midnight looks a little uncertain, but really, there isn’t much Toshinori can get up to in the teacher’s lounge. And besides, he is the number one hero; so she shakes her head and ushers his son off towards a conference room. As he watches them depart, Toshinori tries to ignore his crushing guilt. This is for the best; if he is wrong, there is no point in worrying Tenko for nothing, or worse, dredging up unpleasant memories for Torino. And if he is right…

…He thinks he understands Nana a bit better, now.

He almost backs out more than once as he waits for the room to empty. But Midoriya and The White-haired Boy are both too young to have been conceived before Nana’s death, and All Might is the latest person entrusted with One For All.

If All For One somehow survived, it’s All Might’s duty to stop him.

If All For One found a successor, it’s All Might’s duty to stop them.

And if, god forbid, one of the boys is All For One’s son, it’s All Might’s responsibility to save him.

So, once the room is empty, Toshinori takes a deep breath and stands up. He almost chickens out, but he takes a deep breath and creeps over to the door to the principal’s office, glancing around furtively. He almost expects someone to jump out at him as he tries the door to the office, but nothing happens. It is simply – unlocked. So with a silent apology to Nedzu, All Might lets himself in.

Then he looks around and tries desperately to decide where he should start looking.

Of course U.A. keeps records of all their recent applicants. Once he has located them, he should be able to narrow down his search and find the name of The White-haired Boy. And once he has a name, he can run a background check and find the connection to All For One.

But as he looks around, he realizes the massive flaw in his plan: those records are most likely electronic. And Principal Nedzu is no fool; his computer is likely protected by a password that is slightly harder to crack than All Might’s own. (He finds it easy to remember OfA8Nana.) Feeling despondent, but unwilling to back out now, he moves around the desk and breathes a huge sigh of relief.

Nedzu left his computer unlocked.

Even better, it’s open on the exact directory All Might needs. He immediately begins narrowing down his search; he doesn’t know the boy’s registered Quirk, but he’s male, and likely received at least a few Rescue Points…

Then the screen locks and an alarm goes off.

All Might jerks back, startled, and accidentally rips the mouse cord out; the screen tips over, and All Might lunges forward, barely catching it in time.

And as he is standing there, frantically searching for an escape route, the door opens and Principal Nedzu enters the room.

“Honestly, Hisashi, we’ve talked about this…” the teacher trails off.

For a second, they stare at each other; then All Might summons his trademark smile.

“…Hello, Principal Nedzu!” he booms and waves.

…With the hand holding the computer mouse.

“…All Might, what are you doing in my office?”

Chapter Text

Hawks is having a good day.

No, not a good day; a stupendous, wonderful, fantabulous day! His agency just got paid, he’s got several sponsorships lined up that he’s excited about (because hello, free stuff) and, best of all…

He’s got a date with Yukiyama!

And sure, the policeman probably only agreed out of pity (cause, you know, Hawks was kind of slightly delirious from blood loss and kept resisting the paramedics so he could wax lyrical about Yukiyama’s eyes), but a date is a date! So Hawks has come up with a brilliant plan: he will sweep Yukiyama off his feet! He’s booked a private room at one of the best restaurants in Tokyo, with a wonderful view of the skyline! He’ll meet Yukiyama at the station when he gets off from work, and they can stroll along casually to the restaurant. (And hopefully, this time there won't be any weird dragon-wolf hybrids running amok.) Then they can stay in there and talk and watch the sunset, and then, if he plays his cards right, Yukiyama might agree to let Hawks take him flying…

But of course the universe hates Hawks and wants him to die alone.

So he really should not be quite so surprised when he hears the fucking scream.

He almost shrieks himself and whirls around, and sure enough there’s a winged figure rapidly gaining altitude despite the person struggling in its grasp. Hawks… he kind of just stares at the sight for a second as his brain tries to process it, because this has to be the most bizarre kidnapping ever.

“Fuck my life,” he groans once his brain has rebooted. He doesn’t exactly have a choice; he’s pretty sure Yukiyama would be madder if he didn’t step in than if he’s a few minutes late. “Hey, you with the wings! Put him down!”

In hindsight, it’s probably fortunate that he/she/it doesn’t obey, cause the impact from the fall would almost certainly hurt the kid. But it’s still annoying when the… creature just spins around, shrieks at him and takes off.

“Hey, get back here!” (Okay, Hawks doesn't really expect that to work - he's not that dumb, but still!)

Hawks screams in frustration and takes off after them.

For a freaky mutant kidnapper, the thing is surprisingly agile. Hawks rounds a corner and ducks under a bridge. Then he turns again, desperately trying to keep up to the thing. He doesn't dare use his feathers, because there's no telling how injured the kid will be if he's dropped at this speed. The thing suddenly swerves; Hawks follows, narrowly avoiding a headlong collision with a bus. Then they've emerged onto a busy road, scattering pedestrians. Cars swerve left and right as people scream. The thing ducks out of the way of Mt Lady's fist, and then they're going up, up, up...

It’s not perfect, but Hawks prepares to take his shot. The minute the thing lets go of the kid, he’ll catch him with half his feathers…

And then the thing howls in pain and lets go.

Hawks is so surprised he almost doesn’t react in time. He dives forward and just manages to catch the kid’s outstretched hand; his shoulder is almost ripped out of its socket and the kid cries out in pain, but… then they’re hovering in the air two hundred feet above street level, watching the creature dive for a dark alley and vanish amongst the trash bags.

“…What the hell was that?” Hawks asks. He can’t quite make sense of the thing he saw; it… That can’t have just been a Quirk that made someone look like that, can it?...

“…I don’t know,” the kid answers.

A beat of relative silence passes between them, and then…

“…Could we land?”

“Oh, right, sure!” Hawks scans the ground below and locates a nice, empty street for them to land on. It’s a little awkward, considering his cargo, but he finally manages to bring them low enough that he feels comfortable letting the kid drop the last foot or so.

…And then, because the universe hates him, his phone rings.

Oh, fuck.

Hawks scrambles to get it out of his pocket and almost drops it (twice). He takes a deep as he answers it and glances over at the kid, because at least he has a decent excuse, and pauses as he realizes the uniform is surprisingly familiar.

How dumb was that thing, to try and abduct a fricking U.A. student?!

“I don’t know why I agreed to this.”

Hawks whimpers, because Yukiyama does not sound happy. (Frankly, he sounds like he’d like to chuck Hawks into a volcano. Which probably is not the best start to any relationship.) He checks his watch and winces; even if he abandons the kid and doesn’t file a report until later, he won’t make it to the station until he’s at least thirty minutes late.

“Yukiyama, I swear I can explain…”

“Hawks, are you going to be here in the next five minutes?”

“…no…”

“I’m going home,” Yukiyama sighs. “And… Look, Hawks, just leave me alone. I don’t want to date someone who can’t even respect me enough to show up.”

And then he hangs up.

Hawks kind of wants to cry. It’s not fair; he did the right thing, and if he could just explain, surely Yukiyama would agree. But he’s also pretty sure the policeman won’t be terribly impressed if Hawks ambushes him with the incident report tomorrow morning. (Hawks has seen Yukiyama in action, and dammit, the guy has a killer left hook.)

“…Is everything alright?”

“Oh, yeah, great, my life has just ended, but apart from…” Hawks trails off as something occurs to him. He slowly looks up, and the boy takes a step back as Hawks examines him in silence. “…You’re from U.A., aren’t you?”

“…Yeah…”

“Do you know a Yukiyama?” Hawks asks. It’s a desperate plan, but… okay, Hawks is very desperate. “He’s a first year in the Hero Course. His first name is Shoto, he loves cold soba and strawberry muffins, his first word – okay, you don’t need to know that…”

…He should probably stop talking, because he’s starting to sound like a creepy stalker.

“…Yeah, I know Yukiyama…” the kid answers, wide eyed. “…Why?”

“Could you tell him what happened? Please? I swear, I will make it worth your while! Please, I am begging you, I don’t want to die alone!”

“…What’s that got to do with… Yukiyama?” the kid asks as he slowly pries Hawks’ hands off his shoulders.

“I had a date with his brother. Only I… Kind of stood him up. Not on purpose, but… Well, you were being kidnapped! I didn’t have a choice! And now Yukiyama hates me, but I mean – he’d hate me even more if I turned up on time, and said, ‘You’ll never guess what I saw; this weird creature grabbed a kid off the street! So, what do you want to drink?’”

“…He probably would,” the kid snickers.

Hawks levels him with an unimpressed look, because he’s still the number 2 hero…

…No, he probably doesn’t have a leg to stand on when it comes to commanding respect.

“I’ll mention it to him,” the kid agrees.

Hawks could cry, because there is still hope! If baby Shoto is anywhere near as intelligent and kind as Yukiyama makes him out to be, surely he’ll see the injustice in this and intervene! And surely Yukiyama will listen to his beloved baby brother!

“Kid, you are wonderful,” he smiles instead. Then he groans, because they probably should go report this. “Come on, we’d better get you to the nearest police station. Can you walk? Think you’re going into shock?”

“I’m fine,” the boy shrugs. “Trust me, this isn’t the weirdest thing that’s happened to me.”

“…It’s not?” Hawks asks, because holy fuck, what sort of upbringing are kids getting nowadays? He’s pretty sure the normal response to almost being kidnapped by a weird creature and then coming face to face with a hysterical prohero is something like… tears, or maybe fainting.

“You have not met my family,” the kid sighs. “But… What’s so great about this Yukiyama guy, anyway? Like… couldn’t the famous Hawks do better than some random no-name?”

Briefly, Hawks considers being offended. Then he decides the kid owes him, he really doesn’t want to walk to the station in awkward silence…

…And he has yet to pass up an opportunity to extol the virtues of officer Yukiyama.

“Well, first off, he’s hot,” he sighs as they start walking. “Like, he should not be allowed to wear a uniform. And he’s smart – he can explain really weird Quirk stuff in a way even my dumb ass understands. And he’s so kind, and…” He glances over at the teenager, and… he’s actually paying attention. Seeing that… Hawks takes a deep breath and continues. “He has this smile,” he admits softly. “Like… He goes on about his family so much it should be obnoxious, but… He has this spark in his eyes, and you can see how much they mean to him. And I just… I guess I just want him to look at me that way, just once... What are you doing?”

“Calling my family,” the kid shrugs. “I figure I should tell them what happened. Especially if I’ll be home late.”

“Good point,” Hawks sighs, despondent. Why does no one ever want to listen when he’s telling them how wonderful Yukiyama is? Not the random kid he saved, not his sidekicks, not the head of the Hero Commission... “Oh, they can meet us at Hoth police station…”

“Hey, Touya!” the kid takes a deep breath. “Look, just… I almost got kidnapped by some weird thing. Don’t worry, I’m fine; Hawks saved me. …Yes, Hawks. …Yes, he’s still here, we’re heading to Hoth police station. …Yes, I know. ….Look, do you want to talk to him? …Yes, you should probably do that. Yeah. …No, I’m not going to hold his hand. Look, I’ll see you there, okay? Right, bye…”

The teenager hangs up with a groan, and Hawks chuckles.

“…Older brother?” he guesses. The name is vaguely familiar - doesn't he have a secretary named Touya? Yes, that's probably it, he decides with a shrug.

“Yeah," the kid sighs. "He worries way too much.”

Hawks just laughs. He wonders whether Yukiyama is a worrier. He probably is; he probably frets over his beloved siblings, especially baby Shoto.

Hawks thinks it might be nice to have someone worry about him…

“Hawks!”

Hawks squawks and almost ducks under the desk.

(He doesn’t, because – hero. He does however level an unimpressed look at a snickering detective.)

“Yukiyama?” he asks, not quite believing it as he turns to find… Yukiyama, with a black eye and large bandage wrapped around his head (which only gives Hawks ideas about nurses uniforms – he has it bad), holding…

“I’m so sorry for earlier,” his crush bows and then presses the bar of chocolate into his hands. “I know it’s not an excuse, but I has a pretty awful day at work, and… Look, I’m so sorry! Thank you so much for saving Shoto! I don’t know how!...”

“…Shoto?” Hawks squeaks. He glances over Yukiyama’s shoulder to where the kid is watching them with a cheeky grin. “As in baby Shoto?... Like, your Shoto?...”

“…Yes. Didn’t he tell you?”

"No, he did not,” Hawks glares at the kid and decides a little revenge is in order. “He doesn’t look much like his photo. You know, that time he dressed up as All Might for Halloween?”

Well, the kid isn’t grinning anymore, but Hawks has just realized he probably shouldn’t be pissing of someone who possesses blackmail material. Did he say anything particularly embarrassing? Should he consider bribing baby Shoto with an internship to keep quiet?

“…You actually remember that?”

“…Yeah,” Hawks can’t really bring himself to be worried when Yukiyama is actually smiling at him. (Would it be weird if he took a quick picture? Just one?) “…Do you want to get something to eat?”

“Oh,” the policeman glances over his shoulder. “I…”

“Shoto can come too! My treat!” Hawks grins. He is perfectly alright with baby Shoto tagging along if it means he finally gets to buy Yukiyama a meal. Especially while Yukiyama seems to actually be pleased with him!

“…I’ll pass,” the teenager rolls his eyes. “I’ll call Kurogiri to get me, and crash at Uncle Hisashi’s. I’ll be perfectly safe there, Touya.”

“Kid, I love you,” Hawks grins. “Hey, do you want an internship?”

“…I’ll definitely pass.”

“…I have issues with heroes.”

“Mph?” Hawks mumbles around his mouthful of ice cream. He looks over at Yukiyama, who is staring down at his hands as he plays with his spoon, his bowl of ice cream empty in his lap.

It might not be the perfect date Hawks envisioned, but he can't find it in himself to complain; they bought a big box of fried chicken, several tubs of ice cream and cans of soda, and then traipsed back to Hawks' apartment to lounge on the floor. Somehow, getting to be a part of Yukiyama's routine for bad days feels a hundred times better than a fancy meal. (Plus, now Hawks knows Yukiyama loves chocolate ice cream and hates strawberry. He has yet to figure out how he can use this to his advantage, but...)

“I just… thought you should know,” the policeman sighs as he runs his hand through his hair. “I… My sperm donor was a hero. Only… he was kind of terrible. Like, he only really wanted the fame and not... Not to help people, not really. I guess… I just assumed you were like him, especially when you didn’t show up tonight.”

Hawks considers this information. He’s… well, in hindsight, Yukiyama’s reluctance makes a lot more sense now. And… His reputation, his public persona, probably didn’t help those initial assumptions. He wonders briefly whether he knows Yukiyama’s father professionally, and then frowns. Quite a lot of the photos Yukiyama keeps in his locker (and no, Hawks did not break into it, he just happened to see when he was trying to catch a glimpse of a shirtless Yukiyama – he has problems) feature a tall guy with white hair. Since all of Touya's siblings apart from baby Shoto have white hair, Hawks just... assumed he was the father. But... Maybe he's a stepfather? It's entirely possible...

“…Who’s the guy in the suit?”

“Oh, that’s Uncle Hisashi,” Yukiyama chuckles. He hesitates and glances over at Hawks, and offers, “He… helped us leave.”

Hawks silently digests this new information. He can fill in the gaps far too easily, and… suddenly Yukiyama’s devotion to his family takes on a new light. He wonders how many others know this about the officer; wonders how long it will take for him to truly earn Yukiyama’s trust.

Well, he might as well start now.

“My birth name is Keigo Takami,” he offers. “I… Well, it’s a long story, but I gave it up when I became Hawks.”

There’s more there of course, much more, but it seems like a decent start. And Yukiyama seems to agree, because he offers up a small smile.

“…Thanks.”

Hawks decides that they’ve probably reached the limit of how far he should push Yukiyama, especially on their first date. So he sets his bowl down and grins over at the man.

“So, like – you said this is your ritual for rough days! We’ve had fried chicken, we’ve had ice cream – what’s next?”

“Oh,” Yukiyama hesitates, and – he’s actually blushing, and Hawks doesn’t think he’s ever seen anything more adorable. “Well, now I normally settle in for a movie…”

“Really?” Hawks doesn’t think he could smile any wider if he tried. “What’s your favourite movie? I’ve got the TV ready to go, so just…”

“…My Neighbour Totoro.”

“Oh!” Hawks desperately flounders around, searching for an appropriate response. “…So you like traditional animation?”

“…It’s not that,” Yukiyama groans. “Just… Look, it’s dumb, you pick the movie.”

Hawks stares at him for a minute; then he makes up his mind and turns his attention back to the TV.

“Hey, I told you to pick the movie!” Yukiyama exclaims as he selects the icon with the weird, grey blob-creature.

“I’ve never seen it before!” Hawks shrugs. “And besides, I’m interrupting your ‘Crap Work Day’ ritual. So we’re watching Totoro!”

“Oh, god, you’re worse than Natsuo,” the policeman groans, but when Hawks glances over, he’s smiling. “Just fair warning, I always start tearing up when they get the telegram…”

“Oh, it’s an emotional movie?”

“No, I…” Yukiyama sighs. He hesitates, and then closes his eyes. “…It was the first movie we watched as a family, after we left. All five of us, together. And… Just… Whenever we get to that scene, I remember looking down at Shoto, and… I felt like we were safe for the first time. So…”

“Oh…” Hawks winces. He glances up at the screen, suddenly feeling incredibly shitty. “Sorry for overstepping. I just… I’ll pick another…”

“…No. I… I don’t mind watching it with you," Yukiyama offers him a small smile, and Hawks almost melts. "Besides, I could never date a heathen who has never watched the cinematic masterpiece that is ‘My neighbour Totoro’.”

“…You’ve convinced me, we’re watching it right now.”

Chapter Text

"Why. Did. You. Do it?!” Aizawa hisses.

“I am sorry, Eraserhead, but I cannot tell you.”

Aizawa barely resists the urge to scream. Or punch the blonde fool in the face. Instead he fixes All Might with his most disapproving glare, and is pleased to see the Number One hero flinch.

“All Might, please,” Principal Nedzu groans. “We have been here for hours. I would be perfectly within my rights to have you arrested! Now please, tell me why you broke into my office!”

“I cannot say anything in front of Eraserhead…”

“You forced us to evacuate half the school!” Nedzu finally snaps. “Half the heroes in the area were dispatched, the media will be all over this – it could be a scandal! The Symbol Of Peace convicted of a crime, All Might! Do you have any idea how that would look?! I need to know – why did you hack my computer?!”

“I didn’t hack it,” All Might insists. “It was unlocked…”

Aizawa activates his Quirk, just to shut the fool up. He almost wishes he could ask Hitoshi for help, in case Brainwashing could force the hero to answer, but… He suspects he knows the reason, and if he’s correct… If he’s correct, Hitoshi can’t know…

“…Is it related to All For One?” he asks, and prays he’s wrong.

The way All Might flinches confirms his worst suspicions.

“No,” Nedzu breathes. “Please, no…”

“All Might, did you break into U.A. because of All For One?” Aizawa insists. He doesn’t want this; Izuku deserves to live a normal life (or, at least, as normal as he can manage) and not dragged into some ridiculous, long gone conflict between adults.

The three sit in tense silence for a few minutes; then All Might sighs and nods, and Aizawa’s heart sinks.

“How much…” the blonde hero clears his throat. “…How much do you know about All For One, Eraserhead?”

“Everything,” Aizawa snaps. He just… He wants to get this conversation over with. He wants to go home as soon as possible, and just… He wants to beg for Midoriya’s forgiveness for not keeping Izuku safe, and plead with the man to still allow Hitoshi to spend time with him. Because Aizawa might have failed Izuku, but... Hitoshi doesn't deserve to suffer for his father's mistakes, and...

...Aizawa promised himself he'd never fail Hitoshi again.

“Everything?” All Might gasps. “But… Nedzu!...”

“All Might, Eraserhead is Izuku’s teacher,” the principal sighs. “It’s only right he know about his Quirk…”

“…Izuku?” All Might frowns. “…As in Izuku Midoriya? He’s the student with two Quirks?”

The mug of coffee Aizawa was holding slips free, but he can’t seem to care about it as he stares at All Might in horror. Because All Might didn’t know, and they told him. They failed as Izuku’s teachers, and Aizawa doesn’t have to look over to know Nedzu is equally horrified. If it were any other student, Aizawa would be pissed, but…

…But this is Izuku. Izuku, who Hitoshi adores more than anyone else in the world, who dumped fatherhood on Aizawa with one well-meaning act of kidnapping. Who is related to a villain and yet is one of the kindest, most heroic people he has ever met, who has changed so many lives for the better just by virtue of being himself. Izuku, who did nothing to warrant the look of absolute horror on All Might’s face.

And just like that, any shreds of patience Aizawa had are completely gone.

“Get out,” he hisses.

“Eraserhead, what do…”

“I SAID GET OUT, YOU BASTARD!”

“All Might, please leave,” Nedzu growls. “I will call you tomorrow to explain everything, just… please leave now.”

All Might stares at them both, wide eyed, for a long moment, and Aizawa almost wants him to refuse. He wants to have an excuse to punch the fool, Symbol Of Peace be damned, and is almost disappointed when the blonde nods and stands up.

“Alright,” All Might nods. “But… I would like a full explanation tomorrow.”

And with that he leaves, and Aizawa buries his face in his hands.

“God; how am I going to explain this to Hisashi?” Nedzu groans.

“…How are we going to explain this to Izuku?” Aizawa counters, and tries to ignore the feeling of utter helplessness. Everyone at U.A. knows Izuku and his friends to some extent, even if just in passing, and nobody aware of his connection to All For One would ever believe him to ever even contemplate becoming a villain. Hell, if All For One were still alive, Izuku would do everything possible to bring him down. But All Might…

…All Might doesn’t know him like they do.

The sound of his phone ringing breaks Aizawa out of his spiralling thoughts, and with a sigh he answers. He won’t make it home tonight (this morning, he corrects himself when he catches sight of the clock on the wall and winces), but… He kind of just wants to hear Hizashi’s voice right now assure him that everything will be alright…

“Hizashi?” he frowns. “Hizashi, slow… Shoto almost WHAT?!”

“It was awful,” Shoto sighs. “I’m pretty sure I’ve been traumatised.”

“…I can see that,” Hisashi remarks as the teenager helps himself to another muffin. “You poor thing.”

Detective Tsukauchi just chuckles.

“What are you doing here, anyway?” Hisashi turns his attention back to the man. “Don’t you have some detecting to do?”

“I needed to ask some follow up questions regarding yesterday’s incident, and Hawks isn’t answering his phone,” the policeman shrugs. “And besides, you always have excellent coffee.”

It is official – Hisashi’s reputation is dead. Not just dead; it has been buried, dug back up, set alight and its ashes have been scattered at sea.

“Wonderful,” he snaps. “I hope you’re happy, Izuku! I’m not quite sure how, but I’m certain you’re responsible for this!”

Izuku, the impudent little ray of sunshine, just laughs.

“Alright,” Tsukauchi reaches for a muffin himself and Hisashi groans. “The report says you were attacked by a strange, winged creature…”

“Oh, you mean The Flying Zombie Bat Monster!”

Hisashi groans and buries his face in his hands.

“…The… Flying… Zombie…”

“It needed a name,” Izuku shrugs. “What do you think?”

“That’s not a name, that’s a descriptive!” Hisashi hisses. Where exactly is Izuku getting this from? Was he this unimaginative when he was fourteen?! (Alright, fine, All For One was not the most terrifying name he could have come up with, but still! He made it work! Branding is everything to a competent villain!)

“…I’m not sure it’ll fit in the report…” Tsukauchi frowns.

“That’s what you’re concerned about?!”

“It’s probably good we didn’t go with Super Freaky, Batshit Insane Pedo With Wings.”

“…We are having a talk about naming things,” Hisashi sighs. Maybe he should talk with Nedzu; third year might be a little late for something as important as villains and their ways of thinking. (Hell, if Hisashi were responsible for this attack and he found out he was being called The Flying Zombie Bat Monster, he would probably stage a devastating attack just to establish that he should be taken seriously. Pissing off villains is a terrible idea, since they tend to have very unhealthy ways of venting their frustrations! Why do heroes never seem to grasp that?!)

Tsukauchi, the freeloading bastard, just laughs. He shakes his head and looks back down at the report, and frowns. “Unfortunately, the officer in charge of the report doesn’t seem to have filled it out correctly. Apart from the wings, was there anything else that stood out about this villain?”

“Well, I don’t know,” Shoto frowns. “I was kind of busy not falling to my death…”

“Any detail could be helpful.”

“Well, I could see its brain.”

Hisashi chokes on his tea.

“…Its brain,” Tsukauchi repeats slowly.

“Yeah,” Shoto nods. “It was like it was missing the top of its skull! The brain was just… There!”

“…I think I owe Sansa an apology,” Tsukauchi looks back down at the report. “Its brain…”

Okay, Hisashi isn’t entirely sure what the creature was, but he seriously needs to keep abreast of this case out of morbid curiosity. He can only presume the creature was some lab-grown creation; he’s fairly certain most rational people aren’t dumb enough to walk about, their brain exposed. Did the person responsible for this never hear of helmets?

“…I have to wonder, though, why you of all people are handling this case,” he frowns as something occurs to him. “And why you’re here alone. Should I be concerned?”

Or, alternatively, is there anyone that he needs to incinerate before they could possibly threaten Izuku? Perhaps it's time to bug the police department again?

“…There have been a few… unexplained disappearances over the past few months,” Tsukauchi sighs. “It took us a while to notice a pattern, but… Yukiyama matches the profile we have of the victims…”

“…You mean The Flying Zombie Bat Monster has been flying around, kidnapping kids?!” Shoto asks, wide-eyed. “What… What does it want with them?”

“That’s just it,” Tsukauchi sighs. “We’ve not found a trace of the victims. It’s like they’ve vanished into thin air. You’re… Well, you’re the first to get away, and our only lead.”

“Are you sure you don’t just need better detectives?” Hisashi frowns. “It sounds to me like modern villains need higher standards.”

“Dad!...” Izuku hisses.

“Excuse me, but somehow I’m not trembling with fear at the notion of Flying Zombie Bat Monsters kidnapping random teenagers! Especially if the things are so damn conspicuous!” Hisashi rolls his eyes. Honestly, whoever is behind this had been doing so well! Whatever possessed them to go after a student at U.A. of all places?! And why the hell did they not check the area for high-ranking heroes?! He's certain that back in his day...

Oh god, he's getting old.

“Dad!...”

“So you don’t have any suspicions as to who might be behind this, Midoriya?...”

“Oh, would you look at the time?!” Izuku jumps up and treats them all to the most insincere smile Hisashi has ever witnessed. “Come on, Shoto, let’s go! We don’t want to be late!”

“But muffins!...”

“Shove some in your pocket and let’s go!” Izuku hisses. “Bye, officer Tsukauchi! Love you, dad! Be good!”

“Thanks for letting me crash here, Un – hey, let go, Izuku, you’ll tear my sleeve!”

Izuku does not, in fact, let go of his sleeve. In fact he practically drags Shoto out of the room, and Hisashi glances over to find Tsukauchi staring after them, mouth agape.

“…What was that about?...”

“Oh,” Hisashi finally realizes why Izuku rushed off and pulls out his phone to text his son an apology. “Izuku hasn’t told the boys about All For One the villain yet.”

“…Oh,” Tsukauchi winces and helps himself to another muffin. “Poor kid. That… can’t be easy.”

“…No, I suppose not,” Hisashi sighs. Then he looks back up at the policeman. “But since we are alone, you don’t have to hold back anymore. I’m guessing you’re here to ask whether I believe All For One was involved in these disappearances?”

“Close, but no cigar,” Tsukauchi actually looks embarrassed. “…Actually, you were our prime suspect until yesterday.”

“…Me.”

“Yes.”

“…The prime suspect.”

“…yes.”

Hisashi stares at the man for a second; then he bursts into laughter.

“My dear detective,” he finally manages to get out. “If I were responsible, I would not be utilising anything as conspicuous as strange flying creatures when I have a human teleporter! And I would not be foolish enough to target my own nephew, especially since he’s Izuku’s best friend! Exactly how desperate for leads are you?”

“I know,” Tsukauchi groans. “It’s just – all the missing teenagers had powerful Quirks. But that’s the only thing they had in common. And – we don’t know if it’s a local thing or a national problem, cause none of the other prefectures are communicating with us! And the only villain that would be interested in Quirks is All For One, but he’s dead! And if you’re not responsible, then I have no clue who might be behind this! I don’t suppose you had a brother or something?”

“As far as I’m aware, All For One only ever had one child,” Hisashi frowns. This… Yes, this fits what he would do if he were still a villain. But… Is it possible there is someone else who might be interested in Quirks? In which case…

He almost knocks over the table as he jumps to his feet. If someone is collecting powerful Quirks, then… The ability to take Quirks…

“Midoriya, calm down!” Tsukauchi grabs him by the arm. “Izuku’s true Quirk is not recorded anywhere. And I have already contacted Nedzu to warn him. He will tell all the students to be vigilant.”

“Yes, of course,” Hisashi nods. Izuku is at U.A., surrounded by heroes. He will be safe for a few hours, and… he’ll go with Kurogiri to pick the boys up, because Rei will probably appreciate it. Everything will be absolutely fine.

He almost runs out of the room when his phone rings.

“Nedzu?!” he snatches it up. Could Izuku be hurt? Could the Flying Bat thing have come back for a second attempt?! Could Bakugo have tried to finish the job?! “What’s wrong?!”

And then his jaw drops.

“All Might did what?!”

“…You named it what?!”

“The Flying Zombie Bat Monster,” Izuku repeats himself. “What do you think, Tenya? It took us hours to decide on a name!”

“We tried to get your input, but you weren’t answering your phone,” Shoto adds. “So we went with the majority vote.”

“…It was after midnight on a school night,” Tenya groans and rubs his forehead, and Izuku frowns. Why does no one appreciate the name? “And besides, two out of four is not a majority vote! It is exactly half!”

“I voted for it too,” Hitoshi shrugs and then glances over to the final person at their table. “By the way, what’s Sparky Sparky Boom Boy doing here?”

“How the fuck should I know?!” Bakugo snarls from where he has been glaring at them for the past five minutes. “I was fine eating lunch on my own!”

Ah yes, Izuku sighs. He has bigger problems than weird flying kidnappers, which will probably turn up dead the minute the police identify them. Unfortunately, said problems cannot be solved with brute force alone, and frankly managing his dad’s overprotectiveness is a piece of cake compared to ensuring Hitoshi doesn’t make Bakugo walk off the school roof.

“His name is Bakugo, and I want us to be friends!” Izuku informs his friend, ignoring the pops coming from the corner of the table. Bakugo may be loud, but he’s not dumb enough to pick a fight in the cafeteria against Eraserhead’s son. (Probably. Hopefully. Just in case, Izuku crosses his fingers.) “And besides, he looked kind of lonely!”

“…Didn’t he almost kill you?”

“Yeah, well he was aiming for Tenya,” Izuku shrugs. After all, Bakugo kind of was provoked. Everyone makes mistakes, especially when emotions and Quirks are mixed together. (His dad has at least twenty stories on hand for whenever Izuku starts getting overexcited about his latest Quirks. Izuku is well acquainted with Quirk-related injuries.) “I just happened to Summon him at the worst possible time. So it was an accident!”

“…And didn’t he use to bully you?”

“He apologized for that and besides, if he hadn’t, I’d never have met Tenya,” Izuku frowns as something occurs to him. “I should probably thank him for that. Thanks, Bakugo!”

“…You’re insane,” Bakugo shakes his head. “You’re fucking insane.”

“Look who’s talking,” Hitoshi mutters.

“What did you say, you purple…!”

“Alright, that’s enough!” Aizawa suddenly materializes out of nowhere with his mysterious ninja powers and levels Bakugo and Hitoshi with an unimpressed look. Then he takes a deep breath and closes his eyes. “Midoriya, I’m afraid you’ll have to come with me. Something serious has come up.”

And just like that, Izuku can’t breathe. What… What could this be about? Could dad or Kurogiri have been hurt? Could they be in hospital? Or…

Oh, god, Tsukauchi visited them that morning. Could… Could the police think his dad had something to do with The Flying Zombie Bat Monster and want to question him? Or… Could they have arrested dad. Or…

…Or could they have figured out All For One didn’t die at the hands of Nana Shimura?

“…Mr Eraserhead, should one of us grab Izuku’s things?” Tenya asks, already halfway out of his chair.

“No,” the teacher shakes his head. “Mic should have grabbed them by now. Just… I’m afraid Izuku won’t make it to this afternoon’s classes."

That’s bad. That’s very, very bad, and Izuku can’t figure out what is going on. The police… They won’t arrest him, will they? No, surely not, but… He knew about his father’s identity but didn’t tell them, so maybe he committed a crime? Will they… They’ll only arrest his dad, right? They won’t… Surely he won’t fight All Might, and die, and…

“Hey!”

Izuku cries out as someone slaps him hard. But… as he raises his hand to his cheek, he realizes it helped; he can kind of think straight again, and his vision isn’t so blurry anymore.

“I don’t know what’s going on, but get a fucking move on!” Bakugo growls. “And don’t start hyperventilating again!”

For a second Izuku stares at the blonde, surprised; then he manages a weak smile. “…Thanks, Bakugo.”

“Tch, whatever!” his classmate grabs his tray. “And if you need to talk to someone, I’m sure these useless extras will be happy to listen!”

And with that, he turns and marches off, leaving four very confused teenagers in his wake.

“…Hang on, was he being nice?” Hitoshi asks. “…Like, actually nice?”

“…Izuku…”

“Oh, right!” Izuku snaps out of his confusion. “I’ll… I’ll talk to you guys later…”

“As Bakugo said, if you need to talk with someone, we will be here for you!” Tenya smiles. “Remember, we are your friends, Izuku.”

“…Yeah,” Izuku manages a smile. “…Thanks.”

He follows Aizawa out of the cafeteria in silence, because he might want to know what this is about, but there is a very real chance this concerns All For One. It probably does, because surely Aizawa would have told him what happened otherwise, right? Unless it’s something serious, and…

“…Izuku,” his homeroom teacher pauses once they’ve reached an empty corridor. “Just… Remember me and Mic are here for you, too, if you need someone to talk to.”

“…I… thank you,” Izuku tries to control his breathing, because this has to be really serious.

“And…” Aizawa turns to him. “You’re your own person, Izuku. And you’re a good kid, so just… Don’t worry about your grandfather, alright?”

“Yeah…” Izuku nods just as a Warp Gate appears next to him. He hesitates for a second and then dashes forwards and gives his homeroom teacher a quick hug. “…Thanks.”

Then he takes a deep breath and steps through the Warp Gate.

He almost collapses from sheer relief when the first thing he sees upon emerging in his living room is dad, sitting on the sofa. Izuku can’t help himself, he bursts into tears.

(Because if the authorities knew his dad was All For One, they would have arrested him already. Or worse. They would not send Izuku home if the house were about to be swarmed by heroes, right? So… Oh, god, has Machia died?!)

“Oh, Izuku,” his dad sighs as he stands and pulls Izuku into a hug. “Everything will be alright, I promise.”

“What…” Izuku hiccups. “What… What’s wrong?! Is Machia alright?!”

“…He’s fine, Izuku,” his dad chuckles as he produces a box of tissues. “And so is Kurogiri.”

“Then… What is it?!” Izuku asks and then blows his nose.

“Well…” dad sighs. “…All Might has found out you’re connected to All For One.”

“He’s WHAT?!” Izuku almost collapses; his dad grabs him at the last moment, and gently pushes him to sit on the sofa.

This is bad; this is so far past bad, Izuku can’t think of a decent descriptive. Any hero would be better than All Might, because what if he figures out dad’s old identity? Oh god, Izuku doesn’t want All Might to kill his dad! It’s not fair, all Izuku wants is a nice, quiet, average life…

“Izuku, it will be fine,” his dad crouches down in front of him. “I’ll handle this. I’ve spoken with Nedzu, and we’ve agreed I’ll meet with All Might tomorrow. I’ll tell him I’m All For One’s son.”

“But… How?” Izuku sniffs. “And what if he figures out you’re lying?!”

“Izuku, there’s no way for him to find out the truth,” his dad smiles. “Hisashi Midoriya is squeaky clean. Any similarities between me and All For One can be easily explained by us being related, and Nedzu believes all my Quirks were given to me by my father. And besides, All Might wouldn’t just be calling us liars; there are at least a dozen well-respected heroes that will back up our version of events. It will be alright.”

“Alright,” Izuku manages a watery smile, because – dad’s right. He put so much thought into this, after all, so everything will be fine. Izuku just needs to trust him. “Just… How did he find out?”

His dad doesn’t answer him; in fact he looks away, and Izuku feels his heart sink.

“…Dad? Dad, how did All Might find I'm related to All For One?”

“Izuku, I…” his dad takes a deep breath. “Izuku, it wasn’t your fault. I don’t blame you for anything, because you didn’t know…”

“What happened?”

“…All Might saw you use both Summon and Attraction during the Entrance Exam.”

Izuku’s gasps in horror, because…

…He led All Might straight to his father.

Chapter Text

“Hi, Uncle Hisashi!”

Hisashi groans. He has not been looking forward to meeting All Might (far from it – he might have fantasized about skinning the blonde bastard alive, especially considering it took over two hours to calm Izuku down). It certainly doesn’t help that Izuku insisted he wanted to come.

This, however…

“Hi, Tensei!” Izuku smiles and Hisashi decides Ingenium is a godsend.

“What are you doing here?” he asks with a sigh as he turns to the young man. “Don’t you have heroing to do?”

“I figured you guys could do with some backup,” the hero treats them to his winning smile. “And besides, it’s been too long since we last saw each other.”

“Yeah…” Izuku deflates a bit and Hisashi winces.

“Izuku, we talked about this. It’s not your fault. No one blames you for what happened,” he smiles at his son. “I don’t blame you for what happened.”

“Yes, but still…”

“Hey, hey!” Tensei ruffles Izuku’s curls. “It’ll be fine! I mean, it’s not like you’re a villain, and anyway, you’ve got like… A dozen heroes backing you up! More if you count Kurogiri’s fanclub!”

“Not to mention a team of highly competent lawyers,” Hisashi adds.

“Okay, first rule of the day: don’t bring up your lawyers,” Tensei sighs. “It just makes you look suspicious. In fact… Maybe you should let me do the talking. You have a nasty habit of saying incredibly terrifying things.”

“I had a terrible role model,” Hisashi retorts as they start walking again. “And I’m a CEO. It’s highly likely I exhibit a few psychopathic traits.”

“…So, could you maybe just stay quiet and let me do the talking?”

“Absolutely not,” Hisashi turns his head to glare at Tensei. “All Might deserves everything he gets. And frankly, if a few words are enough to scare him, he has no business being the Symbol of Peace.”

Izuku shifts anxiously next to him.

“I wish I brought popcorn!” Tensei grins.

Hisashi shakes his head at the young man, but… There’s a part of him that’s glad he’ll be present. Because, like it or not, Izuku is determined to be there when they speak with All Might. And… All Might has always been Izuku’s favourite hero. It will be difficult enough to face him now; at least this way…

…At least this way Izuku will know he has the support of his second favourite hero.

“Izuku, you know…”

“No, dad,” Izuku takes a deep breath and looks up, determined. “I want to do this.”

For just a moment, Hisashi considers forbidding it. He considers sending Izuku home, and dealing with the matter himself. But… He can’t protect Izuku forever, not only from villains, but from All For One’s reputation.

“Alright,” he smiles and then presses a quick kiss to his son’s forehead. “I love you, Izuku.”

Then he takes a deep breath and opens the door to the conference room.

“Hisashi!” Nedzu greets him with a smile. “Right on time, as always. I’m guessing you’ll have your usual. Izuku, would you like some tea?...”

“Just some water, please.”

“Same here,” Tensei grins as he takes a seat next to Eraserhead. “Hey, Chronos! Good to see you again!”

“…What’s Ingenium doing here?” Tenko Shimura-Yagi, well and truly recovered from his antisocial teenager phase, stares at them, wide-eyed.

“Ingenium is… a family friend,” Hisashi sighs, and tries to ignore the way the hero beams at the title. “I am Hisashi Midoriya, and this is my son, Izuku. I know you, Mr Yagi, but… I am afraid I am not familiar with your friends…”

“I am his sidekick, Sir Nighteye,” the beanpole in a suit supplies. “And this is Gran Torino, a… close personal friend.”

“And I’m Chronos, and I would like to know what’s going on here,” Shimura-Yagi huffs. “…Hey, are those muffins?”

“They’re triple chocolate,” Izuku perks up as he opens the lid of the box, and Hisashi decides he likes All Might’s son. “My mum’s old recipe.”

“…What the hell is all this about, Toshinori?” Torino, the meddlesome fool, finally speaks. “And how the hell does this guy know you?”

All Might doesn’t answer; he just keeps staring at Hisashi.

“It’s all rather complicated,” Hisashi admits as he accepts a cup of tea from Nedzu. “But… Well, I suppose there’s no point beating about the bush. I’m All For One’s son!”

“WHAT?” Torino jumps to his feet (and onto the table).

Tenko Shimura-Yagi chokes on his muffin.

Sir Nighteye’s jaw drops.

Tensei bursts out laughing, and even Izuku and Aizawa smile.

“…You gave me parenting advice.”

“Yes, I remember,” Hisashi nods.

“How the fuck did All For One have a son?!” Torino exclaims. He’s glaring at them all, and it brings back so many pleasant memories Hisashi has to take a sip of tea to hide his smile.

“I never asked him about the specifics,” he shrugs once he’s gotten his face under control. “Frankly, I’m not terribly interested in the details of my own conception, especially considering the parties involved.”

Tensei lets out a loud snort and buries his face in his hands. Then he quickly lifts it again.

“But, I mean…” Shimura-Yagi frowns as he helps himself to another muffin, and Hisashi gives him another point on the Heroes I Won’t Murder scale. “…Why tell us. Like… Oh my god, dad, is this why you broke into U.A.?!”

“Apparently, your father saw my son using more than one Quirk and grew concerned,” Hisashi sighs. “Although he has no need to worry – I am perfectly content with my life as Hisashi Midoriya and have no wish to follow in my father’s footsteps. And Izuku here has been dead set on becoming a hero from the age of three, which Ingenium can confirm once he has finished having a fit.”

“…You gave me parenting advice.”

“Yes, we have already established that.”

“So, like…” Tenko glances between Hisashi and Izuku. “…You’ve both got All For One?”

“Oh yes,” Hisashi treats the young man to a charming smile. Was Shimura this nice? She’s quickly becoming his second least-hated One For All user. “Would you like to see it?”

“Yes, please.”

“NO!”

“TENKO!”

“FUCK NO!”

Tensei lets out a rather worrying sound and collapses onto the table, and Hisashi wonders whether they should start getting ready to perform CPR. Then he decides that since he never asked him to come, Tensei can look after himself, and grabs a muffin. Experience has taught him that baked goods never last long in the presence of teenagers.

“Izuku, how about you take Chronos to one of the training grounds and show him All For One?” he suggests magnanimously.

“That sounds like a capital idea!” Nedzu beams. “Eraserhead, how about you accompany them?”

“I really don’t think…”

“Dad, it’ll be fine,” Shimura-Yagi rolls his eyes as he stands up. “I mean, look at the kid; he’s harmless! Like, a complete cinnamon roll!”

“Hey!”

“Sorry, green bean, but it’s the truth,” Tenko shrugs and then turns his attention back to the three adults on his side of the table. “Besides, Eraser will be there too. Or do you think he’s been recruited by All For One?”

Oh, if Shimura was anything like her grandson, she deserved the honour of defeating All For One! Hisashi is starting to regret killing her!

“Your son is a charming young man,” he smiles at All Might. “How about you boys take the rest of the muffins with you?”

“Hey!” Tensei recovers from whatever medical emergency he was suffering to grab a muffin.

“Oh, you’re still alive?”

“Dad…”

“It’ll be fine, Izuku,” Hisashi smiles at his son. “I’ve got Tensei and Nedzu. And besides, weren’t you curious about Decay?...”

“Tenko, don’t say anything!...”

“Dad, he’s just a kid!” Tenko groans. “Seriously, I’m so sorry about him…”

“It’s okay…” Izuku lies. It isn't terribly convincing, and Shimura-Yagi seems to pick up on it, because he treats his father to the dirtiest look Hisashi has ever witnessed. Hisashi makes a mental note to look into some sponsorship deal with Chronos; the lad is a national treasure.

He maintains his pleasant façade until the door shuts behind the two young men; then he frowns and leans forwards.

“Whilst I understand your concerns, I would appreciate if you could at least attempt to be civil in front of my son. Izuku has more than enough to worry about as it is.”

“What were you doing at Nana’s grave?” All Might glares at him. “Were you waiting for me?”

“Don’t flatter yourself,” Hisashi sighs. “My wife had just passed away and was buried nearby. All For One warned me to avoid certain heroes such as Shimura and your elderly friend there; when I saw her name, I recognized it. It was not hard to guess how she died, and as the son of her murderer, it seemed only proper I pay my respects.”

“Proper?!” Torino glares at him. “How the hell do we even know you’re telling the truth?! For all we know, the kid isn’t even your son!”

“Oh, honestly,” Hisashi sighs. “Tensei, could I please borrow Engine for a minute? I promise I’ll give it right back…”

“Oh, sure, Uncle Hisashi…”

“That’s not what I meant!” Torino screams. “How the fuck do we know you’re not actually following orders from All For One?!”

Hisashi sighs and examines the man in silence for a minute. He’s thought long and hard about this, and… he’s come to an unfortunate conclusion.

“There is nothing I can say that will get you to trust me,” he admits with a shrug. “You do not know me. However, I can assure you that my only desire is for Izuku to live a long, happy, healthy life. But… I would like to point out there are several heroes, two of whom are present in this room, who have known both me and my… family history for a number of years. If I am, in fact, a villain, they are either spectacularly incompetent or I have not done anything to warrant the slightest suspicion.”

“…When I last met your son, he was sobbing in a graveyard,” All Might frowns. “Care to explain that?”

“He had just found out his grandfather was a fearsome villain capable of destroying society as we know it and his favourite hero’s Quirk exists solely to kill said grandfather,” Hisashi counters. “Frankly, a mental breakdown is to be expected!”

Nedzu suddenly develops a cough.

“What I would like to know is why you didn’t think to inform All Might that there were still people possessing All For One,” the beanpole finally speaks.

“Well, since All For One was long dead, I felt it only fair to leave the final decision up to Hisashi,” Nedzu smiles. “I made sure beforehand he was not remotely dangerous, of course, and have been keeping an eye on him since. Since he did not pose a threat, I felt it best to respect his wishes…”

“And that’s not suspicious…”

“Literally the only reason your Quirk exists, All Might, is to end the threat of All For One,” Hisashi rolls his eyes. “Excuse me for not feeling comfortable confiding in you that both me and my young son happen to possess All For One!”

“Yes, but again – how do we know that kid is really your son?” Torino glares at him. “Hell, how do we know your wife really died from cancer?”

The cup in Hisashi’s hand shatters.

“I think you has better leave,” Nedzu scowls, his pleasant demeanour gone.

“We’re not going…”

“Who was this Inko, anyway?” Torino continues. “She some villain, too?...”

"Get out," Hisashi hisses, and suddenly every hero in the room finds it hard to breathe. "You have three seconds to leave, and then I will make you regret ever being born."

And then they all gasp as the oppressive atmosphere vanishes as suddenly as it appeared, and Hisashi looks down, disinterested, at his bleeding fingers.

"If you really have to know, she was the most wonderful person ever," he remarks calmly. "And I would trade my life for hers in a heartbeat."

“…So, what’s it like, being related to All For One?”

“Huh?” Izuku frowns as he looks over at Chronos. The young hero has been examining him in silence for the past few minutes, but it doesn’t feel… threatening. “…Well, what’s it like being related to All Might?”

“Good point, green bean,” the hero chuckles. “Tell you what: you answer my questions and I’ll answer yours. Deal?”

“Deal!” Izuku can’t help his enthusiasm. All For One or not, this is the perfect opportunity to learn about a new Quirk.

“Right,” Chronos hums. “Seriously, though, what’s it like being related to All For One? Especially considering…”

“…Considering I’m hoping to become a hero?” Izuku sighs. “Weird. Kind of terrifying. Like, I don’t think I’m evil, but… I dunno, I just…”

“…You don’t want to be compared to him?” Chronos suggests, and Izuku stares at him, wide eyed, because… “You want people to see you as your own person? Been there, done that, got the t-shirt. Imagine three years at U.A. as All Might’s son.”

“Yeah,” Izuku smiles. “That’s got to suck.”

“I mean, I didn’t mind it that much,” the hero hesitates; then he hunches his shoulders. “Look, don’t tell my dad I said this, but… He only adopted me cause my grandmother was his mentor. And… Sometimes when he or Torino look at me, I think… It’s like they’re not seeing me in that moment.”

“Yeah,” Izuku sighs. “My dad… He’s kind of like that sometimes, too. He’ll just… I sometimes feel like I’m a replacement for my mum. Not all the time! He’s a great dad, and all! Just…”

“…Yeah…” Chronos nods.

It feels strange to stand next to the son of the current holder of One For All, adopted or not. Particularly as when Izuku looks over, he can’t help but feel a strange… kinship with the young hero. Like weirdly enough, he can actually relate…

“Look at us!” Chronos suddenly laughs. “Our grandparents killed each other, and here we are, getting along! Life sure is weird!”

“Yeah,” Izuku smiles. It’s… It’s nice to have someone who understand…

“So, green bean, you had some questions about Decay?...”

Chapter Text

"I don't trust that Midoriya bastard!"

Tenko seriously considers just walking out the door. He's pretty sure he could find a hotel for the night or, failing that, a former classmate with a spare futon and an empty corner. (Heck, Aizawa might be willing to let him crash at U.A.. He was always incredibly understanding of Tenko's... awkward home situation.) But, like it or not, this is his family; so he sends a silent prayer to his grandmother, grabs that bottle of sake he got as a farewell gift (because if he has to deal with the inevitable idiocy, he needs booze) and then joins the three so-called 'adults' in the kitchen.

"He must have brainwashed Nedzu, there's no other way around it!" Torino growls. "We need to immediately find his hideout, and..."

"And what?" Tenko interrupts the old man before he can get too worked up. He notes how the hero's hands are shaking and wonders whether age is finally catching up to him. "Storm it? Arrest him for being related to a villain that's been dead for years? Don't forget he has a son, who probably lives with him!..."

"Exactly!" his dad exclaims. "We need to save young Midoriya!"

Dear lord, how did these idiots successfully raise a child?! Tenko wonders what fool decided to approve his adoption; then he realizes they had probably been bribed with limited edition, signed merch.

"From what, exactly?" he asks with a sigh. "Homework? Being grounded? None of you actually know anything about him. Look, I talked with him, and... He's not afraid of his dad. At all."

"And how do you..." Torino trails off and looks away guiltily.

"I'm not suggesting you trust the guy," Tenko does his best to ignore the Mt. Lady sized elephant in the room. He is a hero, he can power through this. "But don't rush into anything. Do some digging. Check his story. If he is a villain, you'll need solid evidence. You can't just smash your way into his house and abduct his son!"

"Tenko has a point," Uncle Nighteye admits, and Tenko almost cheers. (He doesn't, because he's not a little kid anymore.) "Midoriya may not be famous, but he's well-connected and widely respected. And - Idaten and Nedzu are both firmly on his side. We cannot act rashly."

"I suppose you have a point..." his dad admits, and Tenko grins and starts wondering what to do about dinner. If he has Uncle Nighteye on his side, it's only a matter of time before his dad folds, and...

"I still don't like it!" Grampa Torino growls. "Two people walking around with All For One, and Nedzu didn't warn us?!"

"Well to be fair, one of them is still a child..."

"It doesn't matter! He's dangerous!"

"Torino!" All Might snaps, and Tenko doesn't have to look over to know all three men are staring at him. And suddenly... Suddenly he just feels exhausted.

"I'm pretty tired, so I'm just gonna head to bed," he tries to smile at them. It feels forced, and dirty, but he doesn't have the energy to try for anything more convincing as he turns and runs away.

His bedroom has evolved over the years; there's All Might merch, of course, but also family photos, and a few posters of his grandmother Torino somehow acquired. Most of the time Tenko treats it as motivation to push himself, to become a hero worthy of the Shimura name; tonight thought... Tonight it's too much, so he collapses onto the bed and buries his face in a pillow.

Dangerous.

So cool!

He's scary...

That's so awesome!

"Tenko?"

"Midoriya - Izuku's not dangerous," Tenko declares as he rolls onto his back. He wonders briefly what grandmother would say if she could see him now, defending her murderer's grandson, and then feels a weight lift off his shoulders as he remembers how incredible she was. "He's just a kid."

"Tenko, I appreciate you like him, but..."

"He is not," he insists as he sits up and glares at his father. This - this is the hill he will die on.

"Tenko, my boy..."

"I'm not a child anymore!" Tenko yells, and suddenly the whole day is too much. "He doesn't deserve to have his life ruined because his dad... I don't know!"

He collapses onto his back, grabs a pillow and screams into it.

"...This isn't about All For One, is it?"

Tenko considers telling his father to fuck off. But then he remembers Izuku's bright eyes, his innocent smile, and sighs.

"He's like me," he admits softly. "He doesn't deserve to be dragged into this whole One For All, All For One mess..."

"Tenko," his father chuckles as he settles on the side of the bed. "He's nothing like you..."

That's because he's not broken.

Yet.

"Dad, please just trust me on this," Tenko clenches his fists. "Don't act without thinking. If Midoriya isn't a threat - hell, even if he is - there's no better place to keep an eye on Izu-Midoriya junior than U.A.." He takes a deep breath and pulls out the big guns. "Nana... Nana would want you to give him a chance."

"Do they bite?"

"Chronos, they're teenagers."

"Yes, but do they bite?" Tenko hisses as he anxiously adjusts his respirator for probably the hundredth time that day.

Thirteen looks at him as if questioning his sanity, and then sighs and turns away, and Tenko takes the opportunity to stick his tongue out at the hero. After all, Thirteen has an unfair advantage; they’re a teacher, and would be perfectly within their rights to expel all the snot-nosed brats if they so much as look at them funny. Plus their costume is probably reinforced steel, or something; the kids would just break their teeth if they tried biting them.

(And anyway, Tenko was a teenager not long ago; he remembers his classmates all too well. He's pretty sure at least half of them were actually up-and-coming villains scoping out their future opponents.)

"They're here!" the hero exclaims as the large doors open, and Tenko takes a deep breath.

They're just kids.

He can do this.

He can...

"WHOAAA!!"

"IS THIS UNIVERSAL STUDIOS JAPAN?!"

"Look, it's the Space Hero, Thirteen!"

"Ooh, I love Thirteen!"

"And... Hey, is that Chronos?..."

Thirteen, the traitorous bastard, steps aside, and Tenko hastily straightens up and tries not to look like he was hiding.

"Hello, everyone!" he summons his best I-was-raise-by-motherfucking-All-Might smile and waves. The assorted teenagers don't look like a bunch of psychos, but you never know. (Midoriya senior does not look like he is related to a supervillain. Uncle Nighteye doesn't look like he could kick the asses of most highly ranked heroes at a moment's notice. Appearances can be very deceiving, Tenko has learned.)

"Chronos here is considering joining the staff at U.A., so we thought it might be beneficial for him to observe today's class," Thirteen informs the students. "Especially since today we shall be focusing on his speciality, rescue training!"

Tenko finally spots familiar green curls next to an Ingenium cosplayer and has to resist the urge to wave at the kid. There is no official reason they should know each other, after all; he does wonder briefly whether Midoriya has figured out the real reason he is joining U.A.'s staff.

He probably has; he seemed pretty smart.

"Before we begin, though, I have one or two points. Or three... Four..."

Oh, dad so owes him.

"As I'm sure many of you are aware, my Quirk is called Black Hole. It can suck in and tear apart anything."

"And you've used it to save people in all sorts of disasters!" Midoriya finally explodes, a bright smile on his face, and Tenko smiles because he apparently is enthusiastic about all Quirks.

Oh yes, this cinnamon roll is evil incarnate.

"Indeed; however, my powers could easily kill. I've no doubt there are some among you with similar abilities. In our superpowered society, the use of Quirks is heavily restricted and monitored. It may seem that this system is a stable one. But we must never forget that it only takes one wrong move with an uncontrollable Quirk for people to die."

Tenko winces, because he knows that better than anyone.

"During the physical fitness test, you came to learn of your own hidden potential. Through battle training, you experienced the danger that your respective Quirks can pose to others. This class will show you a new perspective; you will learn how to utilize your Quirks to save lives. Your powers are not meant to inflict harm. I hope you leave here today with the understanding that you're meant to help people. That is all! I thank you for listening."

Tenko remembers his first rescue training all too well. (And the ensuing panic attack.) He scans the group, wondering which of the kids have dangerous Quirks; probably not the cosplayer... Or the kid with the tail...

"Great, first off..."

"Excuse me, sir, but I think I should sit this out."

Everyone turns to stare at some blonde kid, and Tenko frowns.

"Bakugo?" Eraserhead straightens up. "What do you mean?"

"I..." the kid takes a deep breath. "My Quirk... It's dangerous. Not suited for rescue work. So I... I just..."

"That's precisely why today's lesson is so important," Thirteen speaks up. "To give you a new perspective..."

"Yes, but... But I..."

I'm scared.

I don't want to hurt someone.

I'm dangerous.

"How about me and... Bakugo stay back and watch you guys?" Tenko finds himself speaking up. "I'd probably just get in your way. And who knows, maybe we'll figure out some way for Bakugo to use his Quirk."

"Chronos..." Thirteen starts.

"Alright, Bakugo, you can stay back with Chronos," Aizawa cuts him off. "Pay attention to what your classmates are doing, and ask Chronos if you've got any questions. He came top of his class in rescue training."

See, this is why Eraserhead was always Tenko's favourite teacher.

"The rest of you head over to the Urban Disaster Zone. I will pick four of you to act as casualties, so think about how you'd use your Quirks. I expect a detailed argument as to why I should not select you."

As the assorted teenagers head off, Tenko takes the opportunity to examine his new charge. The kid doesn't look like a murderous psychopath, so that's a plus. In fact, as Tenko looks him over, he realizes there is nothing whatsoever to point towards a Quirk; the kid isn't even wearing a costume, just his gym clothes and boots.

"So, your name is Bakugo?" he asks, because he has no idea how to talk to teenagers.

"Yeah."

Tenko stares at the kid, waiting for him to say anything else.

The kid stares after his classmates.

Oh god, why couldn't the kid afraid of his Quirk be nice and friendly like Cinnamon Roll? How is he supposed to talk with him? How did his (third) Quirk therapist get Tenko to open up?

"...So, like... What's your Quirk?"

Bakugo finally looks at him, almost as if he's surprised by the question, and Tenko wonders whether he's dumb. (Highly unlikely, since U.A. dumb is honour-roll smart by the standards of most other schools. Although maybe he was injured during battle training - that might explain his unease about his Quirk...)

"Look, you're here to learn, right?" he smiles, desperately trying to look approachable. "I may not look it, but I'm pretty smart. If I know what your Quirk is, maybe I'll be able to think of..."

"It doesn't matter," the blonde interrupts him. "I'm going to transfer out of U.A.."

For just a second, Tenko stares at Bakugo. Then his brain finally reboots and he remembers words are a thing. "You're WHAT?!"

Ookay, wonderful. It looks like Tenko somehow, with his super-great luck stumbled onto the single human more traumatized by their Quirk than him. His identity as the most angsty, damaged, brooding hero is officially under threat and his legions of adoring fangirls (alright, fine, there are only twelve that he knows about) may turn and abandon him. What is this Bakugo's Quirk that he can stake a claim on Tenko's title, some sort of... Death Note thing?!

This is not what Tenko signed up for and his dad owes him big time!

But...

"Have you talked about this with Aizawa? Or Hound Dog?" he asks, because he is an Adult and Mature and holy crap they are more equipped to handle this right now, somebody come save him. (Deep breaths, remember to breathe...) "I know there are other hero courses, but..,"

"I'm not going to be a hero," Bakugo cuts him off again. "I'm not cut out for it."

Part of Tenko wants to wash his hands of this whole mess. This is not what he signed up for, and he is not equipped to deal with someone having an existential crisis (insert internal screaming here). But at the same time he can't run away, because...

"You're drowning," he mumbles.

"What?!..."

"Look, kid..." Tenko takes a deep breath. This... It isn't that different from running into a disaster zone, and it's strange how that thought soothes him; he can hear his respirator thundering in his ears, feel the ground under his shoes... He's calm. He can do this. He's not a monster. "...I don't know what you did, but I've been there. I... still am there, sometimes. But that guilt you're feeling... It's an anchor. It drags you down, deeper and deeper, until you can't breathe. Until you can't struggle anymore. But if you give up now... That guilt is going to destroy you, I guarantee."

"You don't!..."

"I don't know?" Tenko laughs bitterly. He can feel five figures behind him, five spectres that follow him into every disaster zone, and he clenches his fists. "I killed people. I killed my family. And it may have been an accident, but I have to live with that for the rest of my life. I have to save people with the knowledge that in their last moments, to my family - I was a villain. But I've also realized that I need to move forwards. And... Being a hero means my Quirk can save people. It means I can try and make up for what I've done. So just... Don't give up quite yet. Talk to Hound Dog; talk to Eraserhead. Make an appointment with a Quirk councillor. Try not to drown."

Chapter Text

“All right!” Izuku hums as he looks around at his classmates. “Landslide Zone, Landslide Zone... Shoto, you should be on standby in case of another landslide; you can use your Quirk to block it. Jiro, Koda, you can use your Quirks to locate survivors...”

”He really is a Quirk nerd,” he hears Kaminari mutter.

”You should see him with his dad,” Shoto snorts. “Especially during the Sports Festival. I’m pretty sure they’ve written scientific papers during the intervals.”

Izuku sighs (it was one time and it was his dad that just jotted down a few notes, nothing more) and starts considering his remaining classmates. Yaoyorozu needs to focus on making medical supplies, Kirishima... Kirishima can be on the excavation team...

”Midoriya, there’s something that’s been bothering me.”

”Hm?” Izuku frowns. He's still trying to figure out how to best make use of Naval Laser (besides having Aoyama lie down and act as a human distress beacon, because that would not look good in the press) when he turns to his classmate. “What is it, Asui?”

”Call me Tsuyu,” the girl tilts her head. “Your Quirk is very... confusing.”

...Oh crap, this can't be good.

”What do you mean?” he tries to summon his most nonchalant smile. On any other day, he could manage, but the confrontation with All Might is still fresh in his mind. He is not ready to come out to his classmates about his frankly rather creepy Quirk. (Let alone the whole related-to-a-supervillain thing. Heck, he's pretty sure Auntie Rei doesn't know!)

”Yeah, Asui, what do you mean?” Sero, wonderful Sero, asks. “He’s got some weird teleportation Quirk. You saw it during Battle Training...”

”Yeah, but... I could have sworn you healed me during the Entrance Exam,” Uraraka speaks up. “I mean... do you have, like, two Quirks?...”

Oh crap.

”Non, non!” Aoyama shakes his head. “He had a levitation Quirk, I am trés sûr!”

Holy fucking shit, no wonder All Might found them!

Izuku is absolutely the worst son ever!

”...It is therefore completely understandable that you had a panic attack!”

”Tenya, do me a favour and never comfort me again,” Izuku groans. It comes out rather muffled, since he is attempting to suffocate himself with a pillow. (After all, if he’s dead, he won’t have to face his classmates tomorrow. Then again if he’s dead, half of Tokyo is likely to be wiped out. Being a hero is exhausting...)

”On the plus side, it’ll be a while before anyone asks about your Quirk again,” Shoto mercilessly adds, and Izuku wonders just how hard it would be to murder his friends. Dad could probably give him a few tips...

...He probably shouldn’t; Auntie Rei would be sad if Shoto suddenly vanished.

”I hate you both,” he sighs as he removes his pillow.

“Is there any way we can help though?” Tenya, well-meaning meddler that he is, asks. “You have been acting strange for some time now. Is everything alright at home? Would you like to stay with me for a few days?”

”Yeah,” Shoto nods. “Why’d you leave school early? Is everyone alright?”

”It’s...” Izuku carefully considers his answer for a minute; then he realises he’s tired of this. He’s tired of hiding things from his friends, of lying to them, of asking them to help with his deception without explaining why. They deserve better. “Tenya, could you call Hitoshi and ask him to come over? If Aizawa asks, tell him... Tell him it’s about my grandfather.”

”...Sure,” Tenya slowly nods. He hesitates for a second; then he shakes his head and leaves the room.

”...Izuku, what...”

”...There’s something I need to tell you guys,” Izuku admits. “Something important.”

”...This sounds like a muffin conversation,” Shoto decides. “I’ll go ask Kurogiri.”

Izuku watches him leave; then he sighs, grabs his pillow and covers his face with it again.

If he’s lucky, he’ll suffocate before his friends come back.

"Alright, so what's this about?" Hitoshi asks as he collapses onto Izuku's bed. "Who did you kill and where do we hide the body?"

Izuku whacks him with a pillow, but there's a faint smile on his face, and Hitoshi feels himself relax just a bit. He glances around the room, but there's nothing to clue him in on whatever they're here for. Mic practically shoved him out of the door, and his dad promised to call Ectoplasm and explain why he didn't finish his homework. But for the life of him, Hitoshi can't figure out why the mere mention of Izuku's granddad got them so worked up.

...Is Izuku's grandfather All Might or something?

"Look, guys, it's just..." Izuku takes a deep breath. "This is all going to sound crazy, but... I swear it's all true. I... Oh, god, where do I even start?!"

He looks like he's on the verge of tears, so Hitoshi tries to lighten the mood. "Don't tell me - you're actually a lab-grown clone!"

"...No, it's not that," Izuku manages a smile.

"You're All Might's biological son and Uncle Hisashi adopted you when he married Auntie Inko!"

"You're an idiot."

"I know!" Tenya beams. "Uncle Hisashi is in fact a retired supervillain!"

"...Something a bit like that..."

"WHAT?!" Hitoshi screeches.

"You're joking, right?!" Shoto gasps as his muffin falls, forgotten, from his hand. "You have got to be joking."

"Look, just..." Izuku groans. "...There was this villain, years ago, called All For One. He wasn't known, cause... Well he was a terrifying villain capable of stealing anyone's Quirks, seeking to destroy society as we know it, and the government didn't want people to panic, and... Well, you obviously know I've got All For One - the Quirk I mean, and..."

"Holy crap," Hitoshi gasps as he finally pieces it all together. "Your grandfather is an evil supervillain?!"

"Are you safe?!" Shoto glances around the room, almost as if expecting to find cameras watching them, or a superpowered old geezer to blast through the wall, laughing maniacally. "Is he going to come after you for telling us?!"

"Do you need somewhere to stay?" Tenya joins in. "If my house isn't secure enough, I am certain mother would allow you to stay at Idaten!"

Izuku stares at them all for a second; then he laughs and wipes his eyes.

"It's fine!" he assures them even as he grabs some tissues. "All For One was defeated a while ago! And anyway, you know what dad's like..."

All three teenagers nod. Uncle Hisashi would be more than willing to take on an overpowered supervillain capable of destroying Japan if it only meant keeping Izuku safe. (Not that Hitoshi doesn't share the sentiment, but... Well, Uncle Hisashi would probably be very effective.)

"...Dad and Mic know, don't they?" Hitoshi realizes. "That's why you said to tell them it was about your grandfather."

"Yeah," Izuku nods. "So do Tensei and detective Tsukauchi. And Nedzu, and... Most of the teachers at U.A...."

"...Why'd you leave so early last week?" Shoto asks. "Was it related to this... All For One?"

"Yeah," Izuku sighs. "All Might realized I'm related to All For One, and... We kind of had to do damage control." He takes a deep breath. "See, there's this Quirk called One For All. It's capable of being passed on from hero to hero, all for it to one day be used to defeat All For One, and... Well, All Might's the latest holder, and he's not exactly keen on us... Us being people with the Quirk All For One..."

"Holy crap," Shoto breathes.

"So that is why Chronos will be teaching us!" Tenya exclaims. "To, I suppose, keep an eye on you!"

"Yeah..."

"That's why you're so anxious about your Quirk," Hitoshi realizes. "You're scared people will realize you're related to All For One."

"...yeah..." Izuku sighs.

Hitoshi stares at him. He tries to ignore his hurt feelings, because he knows all too well why Izuku was reluctant to tell them. And there is still some worry in Izuku's eyes as he glances around at them, as he waits to see whether they'll reject him.

Well, there is only one solution.

"Dumbass!" he grabs the nearest pillow and smacks his friend with it. "You think a freaking supervillain's enough to scare us off?! Like it or not, you're stuck with us!"

"Exactly!" Tenya nods. "I understand your unease, but we are your friends. We would never turn away from you in your hour of need, especially because of something so far beyond your control!"

"Yeah," Shoto grins. "I mean, it's not like you and Uncle Hisashi are villains..."

"Oh my gosh!" Hitoshi laughs. "Imagine Uncle Hisashi as a villain!"

"I know!" Shoto nods and then pitches his voice lower. "Prepare to die, All Might! But first, could you sign this Limited Edition poster for my son?"

"You thought you could beat me?! I shall - oh crap, is that the time? I need to pick Izuku up from daycare!"

"Could we please reschedule our epic showdown? I just managed to get Izuku to fall asleep..."

And then, as if summoned, the door opens and Uncle Hisashi pokes his head in.

"Hello, you four," he smiles at them as he loosens his tie. "What's so funny? Is there something I should know about?"

Hitoshi stares at the man; then he lets out a long snort and collapses sideways, laughing like a maniac. Shoto laughs so hard he has tears streaming down his face; Tenya is barely making any sound as he desperately wheezes.

Izuku just buries his face in his hands.

"...Izuku, what's going on?" a very confused Uncle Hisashi asks.

"...I just told them about the villain All For One," Izuku admits in a tone much like any teenager caught with a dirty magazine.

"Do not worry, Uncle Hisashi!" Tenya is the first to recover, although he is panting rather heavily and his shoulders are still shaking. "Whilst your family history is unfortunate, we know you both far too well to hold you responsible for something you had no control over! Indeed, you are both exemplary members of society and deserve a great deal of respect, considering your background!"

"Yeah," Hitoshi grins. He understand better than most how difficult it can be when people judge you for your Quirk, and he can't imagine how much harder it must be to share a Quirk with a villain. "And don't worry about your Quirks. There's no such thing as a villainous Quirk, after all. What matters is what you choose to use your Quirk for!"

"...Thanks," Uncle Hisashi slowly nods. "Well, I just... There's something I need to do, so... If you're staying over, don't stay up too late..."

They watch the man leave, and then Shoto sighs and slumps over to lean on Tenya's shoulder.

"Poor Uncle Hisashi," he remarks. "It's never easy when your sperm donor's a bastard."

"Izuku, tell me the truth," Hisashi groans. "Am I not scary anymore?"

"...Dad, you're asking the wrong person," Izuku sighs. "You kissed my owies better. And remember when we went to Zoo Dreamland and you threw up on the teacup ride?"

"Don't worry, sir," Kurogiri comes to the rescue. "I am certain All Might still has nightmares about you."

Chapter Text

"Alright, the next matter is the upcoming Sports Festival," Nedzu looks around the room. "I am of the opinion we should proceed as normal, but perhaps increase security..."

"I doubt that will even be necessary," Hisashi sighs as he sets down his mug. Honestly, heroes can be so paranoid at the most inappropriate times. The number of attacks he successfully carried out because of lax security and the amount of resources they wasted when there was no threat is, frankly, astonishing. "There has only been one probable kidnapping in the past weeks up in Hokkaido, and a single sighting of a strange creature over in Kyoto. This group is not particularly visible and is probably still gathering its strength, and besides, the Sports Festival will be attended by thousands of people, most of whom are in the hero business. Frankly the rest of Japan is more at risk. And don't forget that if U.A. is seen to have increased its security, it could shake public confidence. People will wonder why, since there is nothing they know of that would warrant such a precaution..."

"Thank you for your insight, Hisashi," Nedzu smiles. "I'll bear that in mind. Chronos - is your father going to be in attendance?"

"Yeah," Shimura-Yagi nods, not even looking up from his doodles. "He probably wants to make sure Cinnamon Roll doesn't detonate a bomb, or steal everyone's Quirks - I don't know, some crap like that, I don't really pay attention to the Strategy Meetings. I'll try and keep him under control."

"That would be much appreciated," Nedzu nods. "His presence should go a long way to ensuring the event proceeds without disturbances. Hisashi, would that be..."

"Fine," Hisashi sighs. "But if he upsets Izuku, I'm punching him through a wall."

"Fair enough," Chronos smiles, and Hisashi mentally congratulates Shimura. 

"Does anyone have anything else to add about the Sports Festival?" Nedzu looks around the room again. "No? Alright, then onto the matter of Class 2-A and their unfortunate habit of destroying the cafeteria robots..."

"Heey, little listeners, whatcha doing?"

Four very, (very) guilty teenagers slowly look up at Present Mic. The Voice Hero is smiling at them, still dressed in his costume, apparently unaware of the grand conspiracy that was taking shape in his apartment.

"Well..." Hitoshi, the unofficial Mic-whisperer, glances down at the large spreadsheet they're sitting around. "See..."

And then, like a hung-over angel descending from the heavens (or perhaps, more accurately, summoned from the sanctuary of his bedroom) Aizawa appears next to his boyfriend, and tells him, "They're obviously asleep. Don't wake them."

The four (very awake) teenagers exchange glances.

"Izuku, you awake?" Shoto asks in a monotone voice.

"Mnoo..." Izuku answers even as he desperately tries to hide his (A3 sized) spreadsheet under Hitoshi's maths notebook.

Tenya lets out an impressive snore.

"Go away, Mic..." Hitoshi groans and then reaches over, grabs a pillow and covers his face with it.

"See?" Aizawa smiles at his very confused boyfriend. "Come on, I'll make you a coffee and explain everything. And you four - don't do anything illegal."

The four friends wait until the adults have left; then they let out a collective sigh of relief.

"Well, that was close," Izuku groans. "Tenya, you checked the rules, right?"

"Absolutely!" Tenya adjusts his glasses. "There is nothing in U.A.'s rules forbidding aiding other students during the Sports Festival if both parties are competing. Indeed, such a scenario is not addressed at all; however, I feel we should try and avoid being too obvious in case we are accused of cheating."

"Yeah, and if I make it to the individual matches, don't help me," Hitoshi adds. Then he takes a deep breath. "And... If I come up against any of you, don't go easy on me..."

"We won't," Shoto promises.

"Right!" Izuku grins. "Okay, so let's go over the plan again..."

"Alright, everyone, remember to show everyone the burning passion of Class 1-A! Ready?! Let’s go! PLUS ULTRA!”

”Did you even sleep last night?” Sero asks, glancing up from his shoes. Most of the boys of Class 1-A aren't even paying attention to Yoarashi, accustomed as they are to his unbridled enthusiasm.

”Anyway, shouldn’t our class president be hyping us up?” Kaminari adds, even as Yoarashi slowly climbs down from the bench. Tenya, who had been glaring at the larger teen for the past ten minutes, finally turns his attention back to his own preparations. “Hey, Midoriya, any words of encouragement?”

“...I have a bad feeling about this," Izuku groans as he closes his locker. This is going to be - bad. Terrible. After all - his dad is going to be in the audience! Surrounded by heroes! (Alright, fine, they've attended almost ten Sports Festivals already, but - Izuku was there by his side to make sure he didn't brutally murder anyone! Especially All Might! And it's not like he can excuse himself in the middle of a round! What would he say? "I think my dad is about to annihilate half the attendees?")

”Hey, class prez, it’ll be fine!” Kirishima flashes Izuku a grin and thumbs up. “You’ll do great!”

”I don’t think that’s it,” Shoto snickers. “Uncle Hisashi is a very... enthusiastic parent.”

”Oh yeah, isn’t Touya tagging along with his boyfriend?” Izuku frowns. If he is going to suffer, he is not going to suffer alone.

“God damn it...”

“Let us be positive!” Tenya, the lucky bastard, smiles at them, and both Shoto and Izuku level him with unimpressed looks. “At least we are not Hitoshi!”

Izuku manages a smile at that, although he’s still feeling sick. What if the plan goes wrong? What if Tenya overlooked some obscure statute and they’re all expelled? What if the government realises Izuku has All For One, kidnaps him and locks him up in a top secret research facility?...

”...Hey, Midoriya, your dad has white hair, right?...”

”Yeah, Sato...” Izuku slowly looks up, dread pooling in his stomach.

”I came to wish you good luck, Izuku!” his dad beams from the doorway. “And the rest of you too, of course...”

”Tell Shoto I’ll be cheering him on!”

”Mum?!” Shoto hurries over to the door. “What...”

”I had a spare ticket,” dad shrugs. “Anyway, Izuku, do you have a minute? I’d like to talk to you privately.”

”Oh. Sure,” Izuku slowly stands up. As he passes him, Tenya reaches out and squeezes his shoulder as a silent show of support, and Izuku manages a weak smile. And then he’s out in the corridor, following his dad until they’ve reached an empty room.

”Dad, what’s...”

”Come here,” his dad sighs and pulls him into a hug. “I know I already told you, but - do your best. Don’t allow for worry about All For One to hold you back. Besides, I’d hate for all your effort to be wasted just because All Might’s an idiot. Hitoshi deserves better than that.”

”How’d you...”

His dad levels him with A Look, and Izuku manages a smile.

”Sorry, dad.”

”Yes, well you had best be getting back to your classmates,” the man smiles and ruffles Izuku’s curls. “Your mother would be so proud, Izuku. I... Pretend she's there, with me, watching you. Show her the hero you'll become. Show her the incredible friend you are.”

And...

It helps.

Izuku Attracts a box of tissues off the table. Dad... He'll be fine; Auntie Rei should be able to stop him from engaging in anything too suspicious. And Izuku... He doesn't just want his mum to see him, he realizes. Dad, Auntie Rei, Kurogiri, Machia, Auntie Katsumi, Mandalay... They'll all be watching. They've done so much for him, he... He wants them to see him, wants to make them proud.

"Izuku?" his dad asks when Izuku suddenly hugs him.

"...Thanks, dad."

Breathe.

In and out, in and out.

Your Quirk's not evil.

Don't picture...

"Hey, Bakubrat!"

"Chronos," Katsuki manages a weak smile as he looks up at his - teacher? Mentor? Friend? He's been struggling with the correct label for a while now, wary of overstepping, afraid that the young hero will decide to step back if he comes on too strong. But he also doesn't want to be rude, and he wishes the smile on his face didn't feel so uncomfortable, so unnatural.

Shimura-Yagi doesn't seem to mind, though, as he moves to stand next to Bakugo, and Katsuki feels himself relax ever so slightly. The gesture is appreciated; it means he doesn't have to worry about maintaining the correct facial expressions, disguising the dread he can feel in the pit of his stomach.

"You'll do fine," Chronos announces, and somehow it helps calm the worst of Katsuki's fears. "You're not wearing the gauntlets, so even if you have an accident, no one will be seriously hurt. Recovery Girl will be on standby. You can go out there and just do your best, kid."

"Thanks," Katsuki manages.

He doesn't think he's only grateful for that remark. He doesn't think he'd have made it past the first month if not for the young hero; doesn't think he'd have made it through all the nightmares, of wondering what would have happened if Midoriya had - if he hadn't...

"Are your parents watching?"

"Yeah," Katsuki nods, grateful for the distraction. "They - they took the day off. Said - said that I don't have to win."

"Good," Chronos grins. "They're right. No one will be disappointed if you don't win, Bakugo. Just do your best."

Do your best.

Yes, Bakugo reminds himself. The therapist was right when she pointed out - he doesn't have to be the best. It's not the end of the world if he doesn't win; he just has to do his best. And just then he spots a familiar mass of green curls, and takes a deep breath and, before he can chicken out, he calls out, "Midoriya - good luck!"

"Thanks, Bakugo! Good luck!" the other teenager waves and then turns back to the white-haired man he's with, and Bakugo feels a strange sense of pride.

"Yeah," Chronos chuckles. "Good luck, Bakubrat."

”Good morning to you all, ladies and gentlemen, and welcome once  again to U.A.’s Sports Festival! I’m sure you’re all excited to see what our talented students have to offer! Without further ado, now... Please get ready to welcome... The incredible Class 1-A!”

”Oh, god,” Shoto whispers. “Who let Mic be the announcer?”

Izuku manages not to snicker as they line up. He feels a faint twinge of nerves as he scans the crowd; then he spots a familiar figure and nudges his friend to point out their parents.

”And next up, we have the amazing Class 1-B!”

”Wait for it...”

”And now, ladies and gentlemen, here come the true stars of this festival, the wonderful, incredible... Hey, no!... Shota! Give me that!...”

Everyone in the stadium turns to stare at the announcers booth as the speakers broadcast the sounds of a scuffle. Then, finally, a new voice comes over the speakers.

”Present Mic is banned from announcing until he can remain impartial,” Aizawa informs the stadium.

”...But Shotaaa...” they hear in the background. “...He’s so handsome...”

Hitoshi buries his face in his hands.

Shoto and Izuku glance over at where Hisashi and Rei are sat in the front row, beaming, and sigh. Seriously, Tenya is so fortunate...

”Right, right!” Midnight hurries up on stage, obviously desperate to distract the crowd from Mic. She almost trips, but recovers admirably and strikes a pose. “Well, it’s time for the Athlete’s Oath! This year’s student representative is from Class 1-A, Izuku Midoriya!”

Izuku winces. He almost wishes someone else was chosen, but Nedzu had been right when he pointed out this would be the perfect opportunity. Izuku Midoriya can make a good impression, become a familiar face to the public. If he has a good reputation, becomes trusted by the people he will protect, it can help him in the future should anyone question his Quirk.

It doesn't help his nerves when he steps up to the microphone. Izuku takes a deep breath and looks down at his classmates. His friends. And...

”I-I know we’re all very different people,” he begins. “We’re all here for very different reasons. And - some of us are just here because we have to be. But... some of us are here to push ourselves; to find our limits and push past them. Some of us... Some of us are here because we are grateful to those who have helped us get this far, and want to show how much we’ve grown. And some of us... some of us are here despite others and now want to prove everyone wrong. So... Whatever our reasons, consider why others may be here. And... let’s all do our best.”

Yeah. They’ll all do their best.

“That’s my son,” Hisashi proudly announces to the hero sitting next to him.

”Well, pretty speech or not, he’s still going down,” Rei snickers.

”You take that back! Shoto may be powerful, but Izuku will still kick his butt!”

”Izuku might be talented, but Shoto will wipe the floor with him!”

”I knew front row seats were too good to be true...” the hero groans.

”Jerk,” Mic mutters as he glares at his boyfriend.

”Honestly, Hizashi,” Shota sighs as he mutes his microphone. “Why did they let you be the announcer?”

“...I threatened to resign if they assigned me to a different year,” Mic admits. “But I don’t want to miss anything! And I want to show Hitoshi my support...”

”You shouldn’t.”

”What?! Shota!” Mic jumps to his feet. There are many things he has compromised (conceded) on for the sake of their relationship, but this? This is inexcusable! “Just because you don’t!...”

”Hizashi, think about it,” his boyfriend levels him with A Look and Mic slowly sits back down. “We may be Hitoshi’s parents, but we’re also heroes and teachers. And - how would people react if they knew? Do you honestly believe they wouldn’t think we gave him an unfair advantage? Just think about Chronos.”

”Right,” Mic winces as he remembers everything the gossip rags had to say about All Might's son. This is the problem with dating someone smarter than him (and also why he decided Shota would be a great teacher); his boyfriend can make him feel like a foolish teenager. "Sorry, Shota..."

”And do you think Hitoshi would be happy with that? After all, he doesn’t need us screaming ourselves hoarse to know we’re here for him. Plus,” Shota finally smiles. “It’s not like he needs us. He’s got a small army down there for him.”

”...Shota,” Mic sniffs and smiles. “I think I’ve fallen for you all over again.”

”...Shut up and just take your binoculars.”

”See, this is why I love you!” Mic laughs and presses a quick kiss to his boyfriend’s cheek. Then he grabs the binoculars and leans forward, ignorant of how red Aizawa flushes. “Hitoshi, Hitoshi... I see him! In the second row, next to Izuku! Oh, they’re such great friends, they’re adorable!...”

“Actually, Hizashi... I know I don’t say it much, but... I...”

”And they’re off! GO, HITOSHI, GO!”

”Hizashi, stop using your Quirk! I want to watch, too!”

Mic reigns in his excitement. Which isn't exactly difficult, because...

”...Shota, why do we always make the gate so narrow? It’s kind of anticlimactic...”

”Hizashi...”

”Oh, they’re through! Hitoshi, Hitoshi... There he is!” Mic grins. Wind Boy is in the lead, with Shoto close behind, but who cares about them? At least half the competition has been immobilised by ice, but most if not all of 1-A have managed to avoid being frozen; and, next to Izuku’s green curls, is a familiar mop of uncontrollable purple fuzz is gliding across the ice. “Good thing we took him ice skating! Oh, Tenya’s just overtaken them! Hey, Sho — Oh my god, Shota, the robots! THE ROBOTS!”

”...Hizashi, you’re being ridiculous,” Aizawa groans, but Hizashi doesn't care. What if Hitoshi trips? What if he doesn't notice an incoming robot?! WHAT IF...

”Yes, but... Oh, that was close! Windy clears the robots... Smart thinking, Shoto, freezing it like that! And down it goes, and we might need to send someone to dig students out... Oh, good moves, Izuku! That was close; looks like it’s blocking him, what will... HOLY CRAP, WHAT WAS THAT?!”

”Looks like Izuku acquired a strength Quirk,” Shota remarks as Izuku lands on top of a robot  and then jumps again, almost losing his footing as he lands. He takes off immediately, trying to catch up to his classmates, and doesn’t even glance back as Hitoshi appears in a mass of black goo just behind him.

”Least he’ll be fine on the ropes,” Hizashi chuckles as his son goes sprawling. Hopefully the sports uniform will prevent him from scraping his knees...

”What?...”

”...Shota, he was on the gymnastics team. I dragged you to regionals!”

”Oh yeah...”

”Sometimes I wonder why I love you,” Mic mutters. He laughs when he spots Tenya zooming across the rope, looking like a total dweeb; Izuku is painstakingly crawling across, Hitoshi has only just reached the first crossing... “Who’s in the lead?”

”Still Yoarashi,” Shota shrugs. “But Shoto’s close behind.”

”Ooh...” Mic swivels to get a better view and shrieks when a mine explodes. “Holy crap, who designed this course, Hisashi Midoriya?!”

”I think I just lost hearing in my right ear.”

”Shoto’s caught up to Windy...” Mic recovers quickly. “Tenya’s close behind, but... Ouch, that’s gotta hurt! Izuku... middle of the pack, but he seems to know where the mines are... And Shoto’s gone flying! And - Windy’s in the lead again! Oh, Izuku’s caught up to Birdie, and... WHY’D HE STEP ON THAT MINE?!”

”WHAT?!” Shota perks up and leans forward, even as the crowd cheers; someone has just won. “Can... Can you see anything through the smoke?”

”I...” Mic frowns; then he gasps. “It’s Hitoshi! Go, Hitoshi, go!”

”Izuku did it so no one would see him use Summon,” Aizawa grins. "Everyone's distracted, after all. No one will notice some kid appearing."

”Who won, anyway?”

”Yoarashi.”

”Oh, good for him - Oh, they’re so adorable!” Mic grins when Izuku pulls Hitoshi left, obviously to avoid a mine. He cheers when they cross the finish line, and throws his arms around Shoto. “They survived, Shota!”

”Top ten,” his boyfriend smiles. “They’re all moving on.”

”Oh Shota,” Mic sniffs. “I... I’m so proud...”

”Hizashi Yamada, give me that microphone!”

"Mist Man, why doesn't Little Lord just kill them all? Why does he have to run around like that?!"

"Rock paper scissors?" Fuyumi suggests with a sigh, even as detective Tsukauchi slowly inches away from Machia.

"Oh no, I have a paper due!" Natsuo hisses. "I can't risk all my brain cells dying off like last time!"

"It's simple, Machia," Kurogiri announces even as he warps back into the living room, a fresh jug of lemonade in hand. "They're all his friends, and he's playing tag with them. And if they die, he'll be very sad, so he can't just kill them."

"Oh!" the giant beams as he straightens up. "Like Best Friend and Penguin and Fuzzy! Little Lord has so many friends!"

"I've just had a thought, though," Fuyumi suddenly straightens up. "How the fuck do we explain the battles?"

"Right, the next challenge, is..." Midnight beams down at the assembled students. "Cavalry battle!"

"Seriously?!" Kaminari frowns. "How's that even gonna work?"

"Alright! Let's show everyone..."

"SHUT UP, YOARASHI!" half the assembled students from Class 1-A shout.

"I can't believe he's really like that," Hitoshi whispers to Izuku. "He's kind of like a giant puppy."

"He..." Izuku frowns; then he snickers. "...Actually, you're right. Gonna be hard for him, though, coming first. Everyone will be gunning for him."

"Sounds like the perfect opportunity for me!" Hitoshi grins. "TV Tokyo, here I come! Or... Do you think..."

"No, no, you've got a point!" Izuku grins. "Yoarashi is competent enough he'll probably make it through, and if you're on a different team to the rest of us, no one can accuse you of cheating! Plus you're right about publicity! Hitoshi, you're a genius! Just don't go revealing your Quirk..."

"...I was just channeling my inner Mic," Hitoshi admits with a wince. Then he takes a deep breath. "Hey, big guy! Yoa - Yoarashi! Want to team up?!"

Izuku just laughs, because of course Hitoshi would gravitate to someone like Yoarashi. (Hitoshi is the only person he has ever met to enjoy Situations, after all.) He glances around at the other students, who are quickly teaming up, and spots Tenya and Shoto grinning at each other. He could go join them, or maybe...

"Oh, I know!" Izuku grins. "Bakugo, you wanna team up?!"

"Are you fucking insane?!"

"Hey, cool idea, Midoriya!" Kirishima grins as Izuku hurries over, completely ignoring the death glare Bakugo has turned on him. "You can help us with that black goo Quirk!"

"...Actually, I can also disable people's Quirks," Izuku admits. Suddenly not teaming up with his friends is not seeming like such a great idea, if only because he does not have the time to go into all the specifics of All For One in the little time they have left. "Look, don't ask me how, I really don't have time to explain, and I'm not as good or experienced as Eraserhead, but..."

"...Your Quirk is seriously weird, you know that?" Bakugo finally allows himself to be distracted from trying to set Kirishima on fire with his glare.

"...Yeah, I've been told that. A lot," Izuku sighs. And that's even before going into all the other Quirks he possesses. (Apparently his dad always had a thing for unusual and unique Quirks. Which - well, Izuku supposes that's something they have in common. He just wishes he didn't sometimes wonder about exactly where they came from...) "Oh, hey, Sero! Over here!"

"Don't you wanna be with your loser friends, though?"

"Hey, don't be a jerk, man..."

"Oh, no," Izuku shakes his head and glances over to where Hitoshi is trying not to fall off Yoarashi's shoulders. "No, it's better like this. Bakugo, you be the rider. I can use Summon to get you closer to the other team; Sero, you make sure he doesn't touch the ground. Kirishima, you're in the front."

"...Midoriya, wouldn't it be safer for you to be the rider?"

"Oh, no," Izuku hesitates, and then admits, "Again, I don't have time to explain, but I can't really use Summon on myself right now. So. Let's go! Plus Ultra!"

"Hell yeah!" Kirishima grins. "Get on, Bakugo! We're winning this!!"

"You're both insane," Bakugo mutters, but he does climb on, and just in the nick of time.

"Alright, time's up!" Midnight announces. "Everyone get ready! Three..."

Izuku takes a deep breath.

"Two..."

Be careful, but don't hold back.

"One!"

I love you, Izuku.

"Go!"

"We're going after the ten million points!" Bakugo growls.

"On it!" Izuku grins. They're not the only ones gunning for Hitoshi's team, but Izuku just laughs as he activates Summon. "Sero, you're up!"

Bakugo appears several feet above the ground and immediately throws his hands back, using the momentum from the explosions to propel himself forward; Sero snaps a length of tape towards him, ready to pull him back. Yoarashi spots them, though; a massive wind whips up, pushing all the teams back and sending Bakugo skywards.

"Oh no you don't!" Izuku mutters, and takes a deep breath. And then the wind changes, launching Bakugo back towards the group, hand outstretched, even as a gust seems to push Hitoshi's headband towards him.

"What the..." Yoarashi gasps, but Sero's already reeling Bakugo back. Izuku can't pay any attention to his team; the field is a missive confusion of Quirks and sensations and it takes almost all his attention to send Whirlwind back towards its original owner. (Or at least he hopes he got the original owner. He'll have to check later.)

"They got our points!" Bakugo growls as he settles back on their shoulders, already putting on the headband. Sure enough, Hitoshi is holding a strip of fabric, and Yoarashi appears frozen in shock, even as a team from 1-B is heading straight for them. Izuku just catches a glimpse of his friend smacking his classmate (hard); then Kirishima exclaims, and he drags his attention back to his own team.

"What the?!..." Sero yells as their feet are immobilised. 

Izuku scans the crowd; he doesn't have anything himself that would work, but if he can spot Ashido and just borrow...

The other team almost collides with them, and Izuku has to focus to keep to his feet; they can't get away any more, but maybe...

"Not so strong, huh?" the rider laughs as he easily dodges Bakugo, and Izuku feels his heart sink, because...

Bakugo is hesitating. He's not using Explosion offensively, just trying to keep the boy away, and...

"Or maybe your Quirk is just wasted on someone like you?"

And then he activates his own Explosion copy right in front of Bakugo's face.

Bakugo flinches back, and Izuku realizes he's probably only seconds away from a panic attack. And... And Izuku knows why, and Izuku just... Something in him breaks.

Izuku is fucking pissed.

"You bastard!" he yells, and yanks Copy away from the smug blonde. The blonde reels, obviously shocked, and Izuku seizes his chance to Attract his headband. And then he activates Summon and sends Monoma's team all the way over to the far end of the field, just below where his dad is sitting. His throat is starting to itch, but Izuku doesn't care as he holds the headband up to Bakugo.

"Bakugo, man, snap out of it!" Kirishima yells. "It's not over yet!"

"I need to take a break!" Izuku rasps, and then coughs. "Let's play defensive!"

"Sure thing, Midoriya!" Kirishima nods. "We're in the lead. Bakugo! Come on!"

"I'm fine," the blonde gasps, and Izuku winces as he hunches over. "Fine, fine. I'm fine."

"Dammit," Izuku mutters as he surveys the field. Several of the other teams are fighting, or running around; Hitoshi seems to have acquired another headband, and his team is surrounded by a strong wind, keeping others at bay; Tenya and Shoto seem to be holding strong, several headbands around Shoto's neck. "Only a few minutes to go!"

"To the left!" Sero yells. "Bakugo, come on!"

"I'm FINE!" the blonde snarls, and then blasts the incoming rider in the shoulder.

Izuku doesn't comment on how his hand seems to shake.

"Run!" Kirishima declares.

"Hey, no!... We're not!"

"Majority vote, Bakugo!" Sero yells as they leg it.

"No, we..."

"It's a revolution!" Izuku adds. "The horses have taken over!"

"You!... You..." Bakugo screams, chokes, and then...

...Then he laughs.

"What do you know?" Hisashi beams. "Izuku won!"

"...It was a team effort," Rei grumbles. Hisashi has no right to look so smug. "Shoto beat him in the first round!"

"And yet Shoto lost to the big guy..."

"Shut up, Hisashi."

"It'll be a while before the matches start," Hisashi chuckles as he stands and stretches. "I'm going to get a coffee. Do you want your usual sugary abomination?"

"Thanks," Rei smiles as she joins him. She glances around the stadium, idly wondering how many people are in attendance. "I'll call Touya, see if he wants to meet up. Hawks could probably use a break..."

If Touya is true to form, by now Hawks has probably been forced to memorize an itemized list on why Shoto and possibly also Izuku are the most talented, incredible, kind, wonderful... Maybe she should buy the hero a coffee. She shakes her head as they split up, Hisashi taking a deep breath as he heads towards the inevitable queue of people waiting for drinks, and Rei finds a nice, quiet corner to dial her eldest.

"Mum, did you see that?!" Touya answers on the second ring. "Oh my god, who knew Izuku could kick ass like that?!..."

"I saw, I saw!" Rei laughs. "Actually, I'm at the stadium with Hisashi. Front row seats."

"Seriously? Go Uncle Hisashi! Hey, Hawks, come on, let's go meet up with mum!"

"...I'm not ready to meet your parents..." she hears faintly, and laughs. Poor Hawks; then again, she doubts anyone can ever be quite ready to meet Hisashi Midoriya.

"My mum's nice! Now come on! Mum, where are you? We'll come meet you!"

"Alright, darling," Rei nods and gives her son the best directions she can. "I love you!"

"Love you too, mum! See you soon!"

Rei smiles as she pockets her phone and leans back, intent on waiting for her son. Hisashi will be a while, but there's no rush; all of her boys (and isn't it strange to consider just how much her family has expanded) will be moving on, and she doubts they'll participate in any of the games. She just needs to make sure she's back in her seat by the first match...

"...Rei?"

Rei frowns, because she knows that voice, and slowly turns.

"...Endeavor?"

Chapter Text

It is so strange, Rei reflects as she examines her ex. The Enji from her memories, her nightmares is so large, so terrifying, and yet...

The man before her is just that - a man, nothing more and nothing less.

Rei frowns. Has her mind been playing tricks on her? Has Endeavor changed so much over the years? Or perhaps...

...Could she have changed?

"...How have you been?" the hero asks. "Could we... Could we talk?"

This whole situation feels so surreal. Rei cannot remember a single time during their entire marriage when Enji asked after her well being, not even during any of her pregnancies. She wonders how she is supposed to feel. Flattered? Touched?

...Surely she should feel something.

"...I'm good," Rei answers hesitantly. "But... There's nothing for us to talk about."

She doesn't know why Endeavor flinches at that, doesn't understand why he looks so shocked. She glances over her shoulder, wondering where Touya is; she doubts he'd react well to seeing his father, and it would probably be rather awkward if he punched a licensed hero...

"...But... Our family..."

"What family?" Rei blurts out as she turns back to him. And suddenly... Suddenly, as she stares at him, she realizes that this is her chance. Her chance to finally speak, her chance to vent, her chance to scream. So she clenches her fists, and looks him in the eye (so that's where Shoto got his turquoise eye, she notes), and says, "We were never a family. You... It took me a few years to realize it, to accept it, but... You never wanted a family."

"I did!..."

"No, you didn't!" Rei yells. She won't... Family means salvation, strength. Family is what kept her going in the darkest moments, what saved her; family is her children, her friends. Enji was never family. "You wanted a Quirk, a gene! That's why you married me, why we had child after child - because of a fucking Quirk! And you know what the worst part is? I loved you. I thought that it was my fault, that maybe, if I finally gave you the child that you wanted, everything would get better, maybe you'd finally love me! But it didn't get better, it got worse. Because you no longer needed me; I just kept getting in the way while you tried to create your ultimate hero! You almost broke me, Todoroki, almost made me hate the only joy I had left in my life!"

"Rei..."

"I felt guilty leaving," Rei hisses. "It took me years to realize it, but - I may have left, Todoroki, but you were the one who destroyed your family. You could have been a father to four incredible, wonderful, kind children, but you chose not to. And that - that's not my fault."

She's crying, she realizes. But strangely enough, she can't seem to care; she feels so light, and so tired, and...

"Would you like me to punch him?"

Rei laughs as Hisashi, with his usual impeccable timing, steps over to her, two takeaway cups in his hands. She's almost certain he has not just arrived; frankly, she's just relieved he didn't bring popcorn.

"...Is he..."

"He's just a friend, Eandeavor," Rei sighs, suddenly tired. She doesn't have any energy left for silliness, for petty jealousy.

"Just a friend," Hisashi confirms and then, because he is Hisashi Midoriya and loves drama and screwing with people, he adds, with a beaming smile, "Hisashi Midoriya. I paid for Rei's divorce attorney!"

Rei can't quite contain her snort.

"You... you..."

"Now, now," Hisashi hums, and Rei shivers as something - something in the air shifts. "You'd best control yourself, Endeavor, what with all these cameras around. Wouldn't want them to get the wrong idea, now would we?"

"...No sir..."

"Excellent!" Hisashi hands Rei her mug. "Now, if you'll excuse us, we have to get going. Have a wonderful life!"

Rei turns to leave, but pauses when she hears Endeavor say, "...Rei... the kids..."

She doesn't quite know why she answers, doesn't understand the pity that prompts her to say, "They're old enough to decide whether they want to see you or not. I'll tell them, but any relationship has to be on their terms."

"Understood?" Hisashi purrs.

And with that, they walk away.

Rei barely makes it around the corner before all her energy seems to vanish. She almost collapses, only Hisashi's quick reflexes saving her, and allows her friend to manhandle her to a nearby seat.

"It's alright," Hisashi assures her as he crouches down next to her. "You're safe. I won't let him..."

"...I'm not," Rei gasps, and then laughs. "I'm not scared! Hisashi, that - that was Enji, and - I wasn't afraid of him! I didn't run away! I - oh my god!"

And then she bursts into tears, and Hisashi sighs and produces his customary box of tissues.

"Oh god, I'm a mess," Rei sniffs after she's calmed down a bit. "I'm sorry, Hisashi, I..."

"It's fine," her friend shakes his head. "Actually, it was rather enjoyable. And besides, you... I think you needed this."

Rei smiles. Because... she thinks Hisashi's right. She feels...

"Oh my god, mum!" she hears and looks up to find Touya barreling towards them, concern etched on his face. "What happened?!"

"We ran into a certain ex-husband," Hisashi explains with a shrug as he stands. "Your mother gave him a bit of a talking to, and I believe she just needed a bit of an emotional release, hence her tears. Completely normal reaction.”

"What?!" Touya gasps. "Mum, are you sure you're okay? Do you want me to get security?"

"It's fine, darling," Rei blows her nose and then stands. "I'm... Not afraid of him. After all, I've got Hisashi. And... Oh, you must be Hawks!"

"It's an honour to finally meet you, ma'am, sir!" the Number 2 Hero, who had been watching the whole exchange clearly unsure what he should do (or what was even going on), bows low to her and Hisashi. "Touya has told me a lot about you! I just wanted to take the opportunity to assure you that I love and respect him very much, and shall do my best to prove myself worthy of him..."

"Good," Hisashi nods and reaches out to shake his hand. "Hisashi Midoriya, Touya's uncle. Let me just say, if you ever hurt him, I will rip those pathetic little wings off you, skin you with a rusty razor, stuff you with your own feathers, sew you back up and present you to the Hero Commission as a novelty body pillow. Are we clear?"

"Eep!" the Number 2 Hero squeaks.

Rei laughs, because - this is her family. These people that she has come to love and trust despite their peculiarities, who mean her life is anything but peaceful - they are her family.

And she wouldn't change them for anything.

***

As everyone checks the screens announcing the match ups, Izuku feels his heart sink. Because his name is there in the second match, in black and white, and his opponent...

"Oh, come on!" Shoto groans. "Are you kidding me?"

"It's not that bad," Izuku tries to argue as he glances over at Hitoshi. "We're not petty enough to let..."

"We know that," Shoto snorts.

"Exactly!" Tenya nods. "We are not foolish enough to think you would allow your friendship to be seriously damaged by competing with one another! We know neither of you are petty enough for that to occur!"

"Then what's the problem?"

"Who do we cheer for?!" Shoto asks. "You're both our friends, but we can't cheer for you at the same time!..."

"You're both dumb," Hitoshi groans.

"How about one of you cheers for me, and the other for Hitoshi?" Izuku suggests.

"A splendid idea!" Tenya beams.

"Hey, Izuku, let's do our best..."

I am not talking to you from now, Izuku signs back.

"You're dumb too."

Izuku just grins as they separate. But, as he heads backstage, he can't help his nerves. If he wins, Hitoshi will be out of the running. But if he throws the match, he knows Hitoshi will never forgive him. But if Hitoshi loses in the first round, he won't be able to transfer...

"Hey, Cinnamon Roll!"

"Chronos?" Izuku frowns. "What are you doing here?"

"Ensuring you don't brainwash us all using cybernetic slugs," the young hero rolls his eyes. "I dunno what the conspiracy is for today. Seriously though, I'm here for free pep-talks and maybe the occasional hair ruffle. Don't tell my fans, being angsty pays my bills."

Izuku manages a smile.

"So what's got you so depressed?"

"Well," Izuku hesitates; then he sighs. "...I'm gonna be fighting my friend..."

"Oh, the General Studies kid Uncle Nighteye wants to adopt?"

"...He what?" Izuku pauses.

"Look, I may have let slip that this Shinso guy has a pretty neat Quirk," Chronos grins. "And that he's looking to get into heroics, but got stuck in General Studies. I mean, I did kind of leave out the part about him being your best friend, but... Well, I give it a year, max, before Shinso starts getting apprenticeship offers."

"He won't take them," Izuku winces. He knows Hitoshi far to well; he won't be willing to work for anyone who, in his mind, mistreats his friend. But maybe if Izuku talks to him, he'll consider at least a temporary placement, something to help him since he will just be falling further behind...

"Maybe not, but an offer from All Might's agency will look good, and that can go a long way," Shimura-Yagi interrupts his thoughts. "Appearances matter in this industry. But first, Shinso needs to be noticed. He needs to prove himself to people who have never heard of him. This is his chance; even if he loses, if he puts up a good fight first, people will remember him. If you go easy on him, people - heroes who could give him a chance - will notice; but if he goes down fighting... He could still have a shot."

"...Thanks, Chronos."

"You're welcome, Cinnamon Roll!" the hero chuckles. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I should probably find Bakubrat and give him an inspiring pep-talk. You know, I think I'm really getting the hang of this teaching thing..."

Izuku smiles as he watches the young hero leave; then he heads off to one of the waiting rooms.

Everything is going to be fine...

"So it's come to this?" Hitoshi sighs when they take their places in the ring. He's not taking up a fighting stance, but considering his family, slouching does not mean anything.

Izuku resists the temptation to stick his tongue out at him. He needs to stay focused; Hitoshi is a strategist, and will almost certainly try and provoke him, something which could be easy considering how well they know each other. But his friend is also a skilled fighter, taught by the master of being unassuming, Aizawa himself. So...

"Begin!" Midnight announces.

Hitoshi doesn't move; he stares at Izuku for a few seconds, even as Izuku watches him, waiting for the slightest sign Hitoshi is going to...

"This isn't gonna work," Hitoshi suddenly straightens up. "I can't... After everything you've done for me, I can't fight you. I can't. I'm sorry, Izuku."

And with that, he turns away.

Izuku panics. This won't showcase Hitoshi's abilities, won't give him a chance to transfer. It will mean the end for Hitoshi until next year, and Izuku will be the one responsible.

Fight forgotten, he rushes forward, arm outstretched, desperate to stop his friend from walking out of the ring.

"Hito..."

His mind goes fuzzy.

Of course Hitoshi wouldn't give up so easily! Izuku wants to scream, because he was played. He needs to be ready for the moment Brainwashing wears off; he watches through the fog as Hitoshi turns, mere steps away from the line. He looks Izuku straight in the eye; and then he nods, and...

All traces of his earlier hesitation gone, Hitoshi grabs Izuku's outstretched arm, and spins; Izuku tries to resist as his mind clears, but he's just a second too slow, and hits the ground hard, his breath escaping in a winded gasp, and...

"Midoriya is out of bounds!"

Nobody is cheering, Izuku realizes as he stares up at the beautiful blue sky. A kid from General Studies won the first match, and no one is cheering. He wonders whether it’s shock; Hitoshi won in a matter of seconds.

"...Hey, Izuku?" the sky is suddenly obstructed by Hitoshi's worried face. "Sorry about that, but... Are you mad?"

Is he mad? Yeah, at himself for allowing Hitoshi to play him like that, but... Hitoshi will be moving on. Hitoshi will have a chance to transfer to the Hero Course. If Izuku has to lose, maybe it's not so bad if it'll at least serve a purpose. He has next year to try again, and...

"You won," he says, and suddenly he's scrambling to his feet, laughing, and he throws his arms around his friend. "Hitoshi, you won! You won!"

Yes, he's crying, but... No one will ever quite know why.

"A... A touching example of sportsmanship and friendship!" Mic's voice blubs over the speakers. "Oh... No, Shota! This time I'm ready for you!"

The crowd finally seems to unfreeze and applauds, although for the most part it's rather subdued; Izuku nudges Hitoshi though and nods towards where Rei and Touya are giving a standing ovation, and his dad is discreetly wiping at his eyes.

"Promise me you'll win," Izuku smiles as they part, ready to head back to their seats.

"...Yeah," Hitoshi finally smiles. "I promise."

***

"Oh, thank god!" Fuyumi exclaims.

"...Mist Man, why did..."

"FRIENDS!" everyone choruses.

***

"Oh my god, how did this happen?!" Izuku groans as Tenya emerges, decked out with support gear. "Shoto, why didn't you do something?!"

"Tenya needs to stop taking everyone at face value," Shoto grins. "Besides, it's funnier this way."

"...You just wanted to get back at him for not having a ridiculous stage parent."

"...That too," Shoto sighs. "Come on, Tenya! Just cause you're an idiot doesn't mean you can't win!"

"Yeah, Tenya!" Izuku joins in and then groans as Hatsume begins her presentation. "Oh my god, my dad would love her."

***

"...I think I want to get into Support items," Hisashi sighs dreamily. Mei Hatsume, a charming young lady with absolutely no respect for U.A.'s hallowed traditions, willing to use others for her own ends, self-serving though they may be, with a flair for the dramatics and...

"Hisashi, I think you're about to start drooling," Rei remarks. "Besides, wouldn't it mean competing with that... Denterat... Dentarat..."

"Detnerat," he corrects her with a sigh. Of course, the balding upstart strikes again; a shame, but he needs to stay close with Destro’s brat just in case, and he can’t risk it all for an amusing teenager. "You're right, you're right... Shame, really. And I doubt Yotsubashi would appreciate her... unique personality..."

"...Don't you mean insane?" Hawks asks. Somehow, he managed to persuade the two heroes on either side of Hisashi and Rei to swap seats with him and Touya, which means Hisashi now has to watch the matches in the company of the Number 2 Hero and the Shoto fanclub.

(Well, at least he will maintain his dignity, he comforts himself, and be a beacon of composure amongst this sea of vulgarity. Even if he wishes Izuku hadn't somehow located his banner and burnt it last night. Then again, he is also rather proud of Izuku for nicking that fire Quirk when Hisashi wasn’t paying attention - oh, the dilemmas of fatherhood...)

"Prepare yourself," he warns Hawks as Hatsume finally steps out of bounds, ending the amusing spectacle and forever securing herself a place in Hisashi’s good books. "Do you want earplugs?"

"...Why would I..." Hawks starts; then the billboard flashes up the next contestants. "Oh my god, yes, please, thank you so much sir!"

They barely get them in in time, because...

"COME ON SHOTO!"

"SHOW THEM HOW IT'S DONE, DARLING!"

(Hisashi glances over and hopes Rei doesn’t fall over the railing; then he goes back to watching the match with Dignity and Decorum, and hopes Shoto loses. It would serve Rei right for gloating...)

Shoto's shoulders tense and Hisashi fancies he can spot a trace of a blush as he waits for the match against... Sero, was it? The one with the freaky elbows... To begin.

"And begin!..."

Ice shoots out from Shoto's direction, immediately encasing the other competitor in a massive glacier, and Hisashi chuckles as Hawks' jaw drops.

"WAY TO GO, SHOTO!"

"THAT'S MY BABY!"

"Shut up, both of you!" Shoto yells back.

"...That was baby Shoto,” Hawks croaks out, obviously in need of a stiff drink.

"Yep," Hisashi nods as he pilfers one of Hawks' chips. "Come a long way. I remember when he was six and only creating glaciers half that size..."

"...Touya, your whole family is fucking terrifying."

***

Breathe.

Breathe.

"Hey, Bakubrat? You okay?"

"...Can't," Katsuki rasps. "I can't do this. Can't fight her."

"Hey, it'll be alright," Chronos crouches down in front of him. "We're not dumb; no one would let you compete if they thought you could seriously injure anyone. Remember, I only ever competed in my third year. And I promise, the minute I think anyone's in danger, I'll step in."

"Really?..." Katsuki takes a deep breath. Holds it. Lets it out.

"I'll stand right next to the ring," the hero nods. "You'll be able to see me all the time. I promise I'll stop the fight the minute I think anyone's in danger, but I need you to trust me. Can you do that?"

"...Yeah," Bakugo nods. He trusts Chronos; Chronos is good, and understands, and doesn't think he's weak. Chronos will do as he promised.

"Don't forget, Uraraka's a student here too. She's here to fight, to give it her all. And if she fights you here, today, and you hurt her, she can use that. She can look at it and learn, and then, one day, when she's fighting for her life, it could make a difference. It could mean she survives, she gets to go home to her family," Chronos smiles. "That's our ultimate goal here - not to create the next Symbol of Peace, not to teach heroes how to place in the Hero Billboard. Our goal is to make sure you can survive out there."

Katsuki takes a deep breath and allows Chronos to help him to his feet.

Even if he's unsure about himself, he trusts Chronos; that's why he follows the young hero out and takes his place in the ring, across from Uraraka, Chronos visible over her shoulder.

He clenches his teeth as she comes at him, because it's clear she's not a fighter; why should she be, when her Quirk isn't suited for it? People care so much about their Quirks, he realizes as he lets off the first explosion. And the second, the third... His palms itch, and the smell is making him anxious, but Chronos hasn't stepped in, so it's alright. It's fine. He can do this.

"Stop toying with the poor girl!"

Toying? Bakugo barely dodges her; he doesn't think he's toying with her, is he? What if he is? What if he's going back down that path, what if he doesn't even realize it, what if...

No, Chronos wouldn't let him. Chronos believes he can be a hero, is allowing for the match to continue even as Bakugo fires off explosion after explosion. Katsuki trusts Chronos.

And then Uraraka finally unveils her master plan, the dozens of chunks of rock floating above the ring, and Katsuki could cry he's so relieved; because he played right into her hands, and that means she planned for this. That means she wanted him not to go easy on her, and that means he didn't do anything villainous. He glances over to where Chronos is watching them, a small smile on his face, and then he takes a deep breath and raises his hand.

The blast he sets off is probably the largest he ever has; he can feel the skin on his hand blister and crack, but it does the trick, reducing the rocks to little more than pebbles. He turns back, unsure if he can continue, but Uraraka has collapsed, clearly exhausted, and suddenly Katsuki can't stand anymore. Chronos barely catches him in time as his legs give out; he doesn't even hear Midnight declare the winner as he desperately struggles to breathe.

He does hear Chronos, though, when the hero smiles and says, "Good job, Bakubrat! I'm proud of you!"

***

Eijiro Kirishima, Quirk: Hardening. Close range fighter. Good strength and reflexes, but not a tactical thinker. Watch out for...

"Shinso, right?"

"That's me," Hitoshi sighs as he looks up from Izuku's cheat book. He really would rather be preparing for his next match, but it would probably be rude to pretend he'd suddenly gone deaf. "Oh, Yoarashi, right? Is there something you wanted?"

He isn't sure why the big guy is glaring at him; he was pretty sure they got along alright during the Cavalry Battle, and besides that... Have they ever even spoken before? He frowns as he tries to remember, and...

"You should be ashamed of yourself!"

"...What?"

"You say you want to be a hero?!" Yoarashi clenches his fists. "Don't make me laugh! A true hero is someone who inspires passion and hope! And yet Midoriya considers you a friend, wanted to fight you, and you used that against him! You manipulated him, and all for an easy win! Was it truly so important you win?! Do you truly have so little confidence in your own skills?! If so, I cannot accept someone as cold as you could ever become a hero!..."

You, a hero? You've got to be kidding!

Shinso, you need to be realistic.

Boys with naughty Quirks can't be heroes, Hitoshi.

Hitoshi...

You should be a hero!

Could do a lot of good with a Quirk like that.

Course you can!

...is pissed.

"Are you done?" he asks as he snaps Izuku's cheat book closed. It's taking everything in his power not to lash out, but he knows how this goes. If he lashes out, it will just show Yoarashi he got under his skin. It will give him the satisfaction of knowing he hurt Hitoshi. "Cause I want to go see how my friends are doing."

"Did you simply befriend them so they could help you cheat your way into the Hero Course?"

Hitoshi is going to rearrange this fucker's face.

He shoves his way past Yoarashi. He's not a cryer, but he can feel tears pricking at his eyes. He hates this, he hates this, he hates this; Yoarashi doesn't know what he's talking about, doesn't know Hitoshi wants to win so badly precisely because of his friends, his family, the people who always believed in his dream, Yoarashi doesn't...

And then an idea appears in his mind, and he stops. He hesitates for a moment.

I promise.

But...

Izuku will understand, he assures himself.

And with that, Hitoshi makes up his mind. Takes a deep breath. And heads out to beat Kirishima's ass.

The redhead is good, and strong, but Hitoshi was trained by Eraserhead; he channels his frustration and dodges, blocks and ducks, focusing on speed over strength. If Kirishima hits him it's all over; but the boy is so focused he doesn't notice Hitoshi moving them ever closer to the edge of the ring. And then Kirishima throws a punch that scratches Hitoshi's cheek; he twists, uses the momentum of his opponent against him, and even as he struggles to regain his footing, Kirishima steps out of the ring.

"Hito-shi SHINSO wins!" Present Mic cheers as Hitoshi looks up at the stands and zeroes in on Yoarashi.

One down, one more to go.

Hitoshi wishes he could be more disappointed when Yoarashi wins against Tenya.

"Good luck!" Izuku grins.

For just a second, Hitoshi considers telling his friends about his plan. But then he takes a deep breath and steps out, ready to face Bakugo.

He doesn't know why Chronos is hovering by the stage, doesn't really care. Bakugo is only a stepping stone, another obstacle on the way to the final, and an easy one at that. Because Hitoshi knows exactly which buttons to push, knows how best to play Bakugo. So the minute the match begins, he takes a deep breath, swallows his discomfort, and yells, with the smuggest smile he can manage, "Hey, Deku!"

And that is how Hitoshi progresses to the finals.

He accepts his friends congratulations, the inevitable hugs, and then hurries off towards the stands where the Support Course is sitting.

His plan is almost foiled as Shoto puts up a fight, and the match against Yoarashi drags on far longer than any of the previous. Shoto throws up ice block after ice block, desperate to keep himself in the ring, using his fire to try and disrupt Yoarashi's wind currents; but eventually the big guy seems to give up on long range attacks, because he drops down behind Shoto and throws his whole weight into a vicious punch.

Hitoshi winces as Shoto is knocked unconscious.

But at least his plan will go ahead, he tries to comfort himself as he adjusts the microphone and steps out of the tunnel. He can almost feel his friends' gaze on his back, doesn't have to look to know both Uncle Hisashi and Auntie Rei are beaming at him. Dad has undoubtedly wrestled the microphone away from Mic; there are all these people cheering him on, hoping he'll be able to achieve his dream.

And Hitoshi is willing to let them all down just because he's feeling petty.

But as he glares across at Yoarashi, he can't seem to care. Because he can feel anger, red hot and boiling, and uses it to keep his nerves in check; he licks his lips, and waits for the moment...

"Alright!" Midnight, another person he's about to disappoint, beams. "Begi..."

"FUCK YOU!"

Everyone falls silent and just stares at him as Hitoshi adjusts the microphone he borrowed from Hatsume. Yoarashi looks stunned, mouth agape, but Hitoshi knows it's only a matter of time before he recovers. This is Hitoshi's only chance. He needs to use it.

"Fuck you! You don't know a thing about me!" he snarls. "You don't know what it's like to be told you can't be a hero! You don't know what it's like when people call you a villain! You don't know what it's like when your teacher won't answer your questions cause she's scared of your Quirk, you don't know what it's like for adults to give up on you, you don't know what it's like to wear a muzzle! YOU! DON'T! KNOW! And it would be easy to give up, prove everyone right, become a villain, but guess what?! Quirks don't make villains, choices make villains! And I choose to be a FUCKING HERO and if you or Bitchface or stupid Mr Sato don't like it, you can go suck a BAG OF DICKS! I'm gonna be a hero, shove my license in your FUCKING FACE and then go celebrate with the friend who believed in me even when I didn't! So you know what?! FUCK YOU! AND FUCK EVERYONE WHO THINKS QUIRKS CAN BE EVIL, CAUSE THEY FUCKING AREN'T, YOU DUMBASS!"

Hitoshi finishes his tirade and, with a scream, launches himself at the other teen. Yoarashi proves himself a worthy opponent; he seems to react purely on instinct, a strong wind whipping up and throwing Hitoshi back, out of the ring, tumbling head over heels as he crashes into the grass.

For a moment, everyone is absolutely silent.

Then the crowd goes WILD.

Hitoshi sighs as he climbs to his feet, suddenly feeling incredibly tired, and turns away. The walk back to the tunnel suddenly seems far too long, especially when he can hear the crowd applauding Yoarashi’s victory. He knows what they must be feeling; the rising star of the Heroics Department finally put in place the upstart from General Studies, the little kid who thought he could challenge the status quo. Hitoshi doesn’t even want the silver medal; he wants to go home and hide away from all these people who saw him fail, saw him snap.

But he still needs to face his friends and family, the only people who supported his ridiculous dream. He needs to face them knowing he let them down. He hopes at least Izuku won’t be mad he broke his promise, hopes Mic won’t be too disappointed, hopes dad won’t call his actions irrational to his face...

"Oh my god, Hitoshi!" Izuku cheers as he sprints out into the stadium and launches himself at him, sending Hitoshi staggering backwards.

"That was so awesome!" Shoto grins as he joins them.

"I wish you had refrained from quite so many vulgarities..."

"You loved it, Tenya!" Izuku laughs. "You're still smiling!"

"...Well, I suppose I agree with the sentiment," Tenya chuckles.

"Sorry," Hitoshi manages a weak smile. It’s good his friends don’t seem too upset, but he still failed, still let them down... "I failed; I shouldn't have..."

"Oh, you should have!" Shoto grins and glances up at the stands. "Take a moment and listen to what they're actually saying."

Hitoshi listens.

"...Well said, kid!"

"A strong Quirk and an inspirational story like that? He's perfect!"

"And did you see his moves earlier? He obviously identified a weakness and learned hand-to-hand combat..."

"Seriously, sticking someone like that in General Studies? What are they thinking?..."

"...Will fucking fight you for him..."

"Hitoshi!" he hears a familiar voice and finally moves, walking the last few steps before he's back in the tunnel. The minute they're out of view, Mic sweeps him up into a bone-crushing hug, sobbing uncontrollably. "Oh, I'm so pro-oud of youu! Shota, did... did you... did you seeee..."

"I saw, I saw," Hitoshi feels his dad ruffle his hair. "You did good, Hitoshi. I couldn't have put it better myself."

"Oh!" Mic suddenly lets go of him, turns, and sprints off.

"Mic, where are you going?!"

"I need to get that recording!" Mic yells. "Mum will kill me if I don't transcribe it for her!"

"Oh god," Hitoshi groans at the thought of his gran.

He can't help but smile, though.

***

"...Touya, don't take this the wrong way, but I think I'm in love with that kid," Hawks gasps.

"...Drama queen..." the police officer sighs, smiling, as he lowers his phone. “I wonder if I can set this as my ringtone...”

"...Well that was certainly memorable," Rei shakes her head. "...Do you think we could meet the boys? I rather feel like I should give Hitoshi a hug..."

”Oh, I’m sure it’ll be fine!” Hisashi glances down at her. His hands are sore from how hard he’s clapping, but fuck that, Hitoshi earned the standing ovation he’s receiving. It’s astonishing; Hitoshi has more reason than many villains Hisashi knew to resent the system, and yet he is determined to fight for Law and Justice and all that shebang. It’s almost sad to see all that villainous potential go to waste.

Well, at least Hitoshi seems to have decided to take a dramatic stand against the status quo on a national stage; Hisashi firmly approves and would like to believe he influenced the lad in some way.

His phone buzzes and he frowns as he finally stops applauding and fishes it out; hopefully it’s not Kurogiri warning him Machia is planning to avenge Fuzzy’s defeat...

"Katsumi? What... Calm down, I can't understand... Course I can look after Tenya... Why... What do you mean, Tensei's in the hospital?!"

***

"Well, would you look at that; if it isn't little Hitoshi..."

Chapter Text

"...Any news yet?"

"Still nothing," Hisashi sighs as he opens the cupboard. He realizes he's run out of clean mugs and groans; he's exhausted, running on an absurd amount of caffeine, and wishes more than anything he could just sleep. And yet, every time he closes his eyes for more than a second, he ends up desperately searching for his phone.

The three boys standing in the doorway don't look much better. And that probably sums up the situation perfectly; there should be four boys up way past their bedtime, four boys waiting anxiously for news.

It doesn't seem right without Tenya.

This whole situation is so unfamiliar, so wrong; Hisashi is... unaccustomed to waiting for news. He's unsettled by the unfamiliar uncertainty, by the worry he feels; back when he was still All For One, his followers were little more than pawns. He was always prepared, always ready with a suitable replacement to ensure his plans could proceed uninterrupted.

And Tensei should not matter, should not warrant such concern. He is little more than a nuisance, an annoyance Hisashi tolerates for Izuku's sake. Hisashi should not care whether he lives or dies, whether he stays the same cheerful idiot Hisashi hates.

It's not like they're...

His phone buzzes.

Hisashi snatches it up and three teenagers crowd around him as he reads, "Stable. Intensive care. Out of immediate danger. Visiting hours 11-2, 4-8."

"Oh, thank god," Shoto breathes and sways alarmingly.

"...That's good, right?" Izuku asks anxiously. "It means Tensei will be fine, right?"

"...Come on," Hisashi sighs. "Let's get some sleep."

"What about..." Hitoshi trails off and gestures to where Kurogiri is snoring softly, sprawled across the kitchen table, surrounded by macarons.

"Leave him," Hisashi sighs.

He'll have to figure out what to do with all their new baked goods tomorrow.

"Hi, Auntie Katsumi,"

"Izuku," the woman manages a weak smile and hugs the boy before moving on to the rest of their party. "Shoto, Hitoshi. Thank you for coming."

"We brought muffins," Hisashi informs her as he holds up his bag. He considered stopping by a florist along the way, but they're running low on space in the kitchen, and flowers always remind his a little too much of funerals, and cemeteries. It's probably best not to tempt fate. "Also macarons and a lemon drizzle cake. If you'd prefer brownies, an apple pie or something called a black forest gateau, I can call Kurogiri."

"Thank you," the woman nods and then yawns, not even bothering to cover her mouth, and Hisashi makes a mental note to call Kurogiri and have him drop of a thermos of coffee.

"How about you head over to the cafeteria?" he offers. That's the proper thing to do, isn't it? She looks tired, exhausted - she looks like a worried mother. "I can stay with Tensei..."

"No, it's fine," Iida shakes her head. "He's asleep right now, but - he'll be so happy you came to visit."

When they follow her into the room, the figure in the bed looks nothing like Tensei. His head is bandaged, the covers pulled up to his chest, a tube hooked up to his nose. The room's not even quiet, not with the beeping and whirring of the various machines Tensei is hooked up to.

Izuku manages a watery smile when the young hero's eyes flutter momentarily; Hitoshi is clutching his silver medal so tightly his knuckles are white. Shoto might as well be carved from ice, and it's only through experience that Hisashi knows it's the only way the boy has to avoid breaking down completely.

And Hisashi...

Hisashi realizes he has no right to be here. He slips out of the room and leans against the wall outside, desperately fighting back tears. How many times was he responsible for ending a promising career, cutting short a young life? How many people has he put through the same agony Izuku is now suffering through?

He glances up and spots Tenya sat at the end of the corridor, head in his hands. For just a second Hisashi doesn't see the young man he's watched grow up; he sees the little boy from so long ago who helped Izuku regain his confidence, who believed his big brother to be the greatest hero ever.

Hisashi wants, more than anything, to be able to comfort Tenya as he watches the lad's shoulders shake with silent sobs.

But he doesn't know how.

***

"Definitely avoiding us," Hitoshi sighs as he lets himself into Izuku's bedroom. "Dad checked the security tapes - Tenya snuck out the West Entrance."

"Then Plan A is a go," Shoto nods.

"Auntie Katsumi gives us the green light," Izuku takes a deep breath as he lock his phone. "Hitoshi, guard the door. Shoto, you're on window duty. You guys ready?"

"Ready," Shoto nods.

"Ready," Hitoshi confirms.

"Alright," Izuku takes a deep breath.

For just a second he hesitates; he doesn't want to push Tenya, doesn't want to make him feel worse. But then he remembers how he felt after the whole All For One revelation; how just knowing he had friends helped, how he didn't even have to talk to them. And Tenya... Tenya is far too used to worrying about others. He's all too likely to view opening up as burdening them, and Izuku... He wipes at his eyes angrily, because friendship goes both ways; if Tenya can worry about him, he can worry about Tenya.

Izuku activates Summon.

"Wha?..." Tenya looks around as he appears in the room, chopsticks in hand. "Izuku! We really must talk about your unfortunate habit of Summoning people without warning!"

"Yeah, it's unfortunate," Hitoshi sighs dramatically. "But then again, we couldn't warn you since your phone's not working."

"No, it's..." Tenya pulls his phone out and then freezes, realizing he's been caught red-handed.

"Oh, so you've just been ignoring us."

"Look, Tenya," Shoto speaks up. "You don't have to talk if you don't want to, but... We're a team. We're here for you."

"You do not need to worry!" Tenya smiles, although there is something off about the expression. "i appreciate your concern, but I am fine..."

"You're not," Izuku blurts out, and suddenly - suddenly it's all too much. "You're not fine," he sobs. "Course you're not fucking fine! It... This is Tensei! He's not even my brother, and I'm not fine! I just!... He didn't deserve this, he's a fucking awesome hero, and... He's known about All For One for years, and he still told me I could be a hero!"

"He was the second person to ever tell me I could be a hero," Hitoshi whispers.

"He showed me what it means to be a true hero," Shoto adds, wiping angrily at his eyes.

Tenya hunches his shoulders and looks down.

"...I just..." he chokes out. "...I just want my brother back."

It all devolves from there.

"Dinner should be ready in five minutes," Kurogiri announces, poking his head into the room. "Are you boys staying over?"

"Yes," Hitoshi sniffles.

"I will call my mother..."

"I can do it," Kurogiri smiles. "It's good to see you, Tenya."

For a while after the door closes, they all stay where they are, sprawled out around the room; then Shoto shifts.

"...I don't want to leave," he mumbles. "Like - I get the point of the internships, but..."

"I get it," Izuku sighs. "I don't want to be alone."

"...Maybe you shouldn't?" Hitoshi speaks up. "Like, you could go to Nedzu and explain you want to be together. It'd limit your choices, but..."

"There's also the whole All For One situation," Izuku sighs. "I have no idea how they're gonna solve that..."

"It's still worth a try," Shoto shrugs. "What d'you think, Tenya?"

"...Yeah," Tenya croaks, and then blows his nose. "I'm in."

***

"Afternoon, Katsumi."

"Hisashi!" Katsumi Iida sits up, startled, and Hisashi winces. Normally the acting head of Idaten is the picture of a consummate professional; today, however, her makeup is smudged, her hair a mess, her shirt wrinkled and voice hoarse. "What... What are you doing here?"

"I thought you might want to go home for a few hours," Hisashi offers as the woman searches desperately for her glasses. "I can sit with Tensei for a bit."

"Oh no, no," Katsumi shakes her head. "I couldn't possibly. And besides..."

"Katsumi, you've been here for three days straight," Hisashi states bluntly. "Go take a shower. Get some rest. I promise I'll call you the minute anything changes."

"Well, I..."

"Tell you what - I'll have Kurogiri Warp you back," Hisashi smiles. "Someone wise once told me I can't do everything alone."

"...Didn't I say that?"

"Yes, but you weren't sleep deprived."

The woman laughs. She leans over and presses a kiss to her son's forehead and then stands. On her way out she hugs Hisashi. "Thank you so much."

Hisashi doesn't comment on how she could really use that shower.

Instead, he sees her out and then returns to Tensei's bedside. The young man is still dead to the world, breathing softly. It is... strange, seeing him like this, strange not to hear the all too familiar 'Uncle Hisashi'.

"Fantastic," Hisashi sighs as he settles into the chair Katsumi vacated. Despite medical advances, hospitals have apparently not considered investing in comfortable furniture. "I hope you appreciate how much I do for you."

Then he pulls out his latest financial reports and settles in for a long wait.

"...Heey, Unca 'sashi..."

"I'm not your uncle, you annoying brat," Hisashi sighs as he sets down the file. "Shouldn't you be asleep?"

"Unca 'sashi," Tensei snickers.

Hisashi shakes his head and checks the time. He winces; it's past midnight, and as he examines Tensei, he decides there's no point calling Katsumi. Tensei is smiling goofily, eyes unfocused, likely liable to fall asleep any minute.

"Just go back to sleep, you pest," Hisashi says as he stretches. Long hours in a hospital chair are never good for his spine.  "Your mother should be back in the morning."

"Don' wanna," Tensei grumbles. "I missed you..."

"Well, you didn't have to run into the Hero Killer to get me to visit," Hisashi remarks and then winces. He's pretty sure he's just committed some great social faux pas.

"Heero Killew," Tensei rolls his eyes, obviously unimpressed. "Scary, scawy. I bet you'd kick his ass."

"...I don't see how," Hisashi rolls his eyes. "Remember, I'm not a hero."

"Yeeeaaah," Tensei snickers. "We'd have a loot of dead villains. Alt Forty One to the rescuee!!..."

"...Shut up, brat."

"You know, it's weird," Tensei frowns. "You're my best friend. My bestie's an ex-villain!"

"What?" Hisashi freezes. This... What? How?

"Why'd you pick that, anyway? All For One, All For One, I dunno, sounds kinda dumb..."

And then, like the fucking bastard he is, Tensei falls back asleep.

Hisashi stares at the brat, wide-eyed. This - it sounds like somehow, he knows. Like he figured it out. And that means...

He needs to go.

It would be so easy, too; Tensei is in intensive care recovering from life-threatening injuries, and a sudden relapse, an adverse reaction to one of the dozen medications coursing through his system would not be the least bit suspicious. The safest solution would be to induce sleep, wait until someone takes his place, and then...

But this is Tensei.

Tensei, who helped Izuku recover from the trauma of losing his mother.

Tensei, who is Tenya's beloved big brother.

Tensei, who is Hisashi's...

"Dammit," he swears as he makes his decision.

It's a matter of a minute for Hisashi to eliminate the side-effects of the painkillers, to clear Tensei's mind of the fog, and then he crosses his arms and waits for the young man to wake up.

"Oh, hey, un..."

"If you tell anyone, I will raze Idaten to the ground and kill every last one of your puny sidekicks," Hisashi hisses. Then, prompted by something that feels unpleasantly like a conscience, he sighs and begrudgingly adds, "...Apart from Tenya."

"...I don't know what you're talking about."

"Please don't insult my intelligence, Tensei," Hisashi leans forward and allows for a touch of All For One to bleed into his voice. "Or would you prefer I enter your mind and take a look around for myself? I suppose it's only fair to warn you, though - I'm a bit out of practice. I might be a little rough; muddle a few memories, you know, knock off a few IQ points..."

"...Alright, fine," Tensei winces. "But you don't have to worry! I mean, I've kept it secret for years!"

"You've what?!"

"...Well, no offense, but it's... kind of obvious when you know what to look for," Tensei sighs. "You're... kind of terrifying, and have a few... villainous tendencies. You know how villains operate better than any pro I've ever met. And also... Alt Forty One never made sense to me. Like... You adore Izuku. If you hate All For One as much as you claim, why would you let him be present in your life? In Izuku's? And then I thought - well, if this Shimura had already passed on One For All... I'll just stop talking now..."

"But... Why?" Hisashi frowns as something occurs to him. "...Why wouldn't you warn anyone?"

"Because it doesn't matter," Tensei shrugs and winces as the movement obviously aggravates his injuries. "Because All For One is dead. You're just - Hisashi. You're a dad, you're a Quirk nerd... I know you don't feel the same way, but you're my friend. I've known you for years, so of course I'd trust you over All Might. You're not evil, Hisashi, and I don't think you've been truly evil for a long time."

There must be something wrong with the hospital ventilation system; that's the only reasonable explanation Hisashi can think of as he wipes his eyes. "...Thank you."

"Also, I'm pretty sure you could just raze Tartarus to the ground, take over Japan and declare yourself president for life."

"...I'm starting to rethink not brutally murdering you."

"...Yeah, well," Tensei laughs bitterly. "Not like it matters anymore. My career as Ingenium is over."

"Perhaps," Hisashi hesitates. Then he makes his decision and smiles. "But it doesn't stop you from being a hero. Think about it - right now, somewhere out there are four heroes-in-training. And - you shaped them. You showed them what a hero should be. What happened to you was tragic, but it can't erase all you've accomplished. And it can't change the fact that for those four boys, Tensei will always be their hero."

"...Thanks, uncle Hisashi."

"I told you, you brat, I'm not your uncle," Hisashi chuckles. "My name is Hisashi. Use it."

Chapter Text

"Come in!"

Izuku takes a deep breath, steels himself, and then pushes the door open.

"Izuku!" Principal Nedzu beams. "How wonderful to see you! I know it's a little late, but well done! It was wonderful, seeing you use your Quirk during the Sports Festival!"

"Hey, Cinnamon Roll," Chronos, sat in front of the desk, waves. Then he grows serious. "...How's Ingenium doing?"

"...He's... okay," Izuku manages and swipes at his eyes. It's getting easier, especially now that Tensei has woken up and can talk when they visit; but no matter how much he tries to act like nothing's changed, there's a shadow in his eyes, his smile isn't quite the same, and every time they leave, Izuku feels like Tensei is missing that carefree spark that made him unique. "...I... I can come back later..."

"No, no," Nedzu shakes his head. "We're practically done here, anyway. Sit down, and tell me - what can I do for you?"

"Do you want me to leave?" Shimura-Yagi offers.

"No, it's fine," Izuku shakes his head. He sinks down into the chair, takes a deep breath, and blurts out, "It's just with Tensei hurt - could, could me and Tenya and Shoto do our internship together?"

"...Ah," Nedzu winces. "That... may be difficult. Most agencies aren't willing to take on more than two first-years at a time. And... Considering your unique circumstances..."

"What about my idea?"

"Hmm? Oh, yes, yes, that's a possibility!" Nedzu perks up. "You see, Izuku, Chronos was just asking whether you and Bakugo could intern together!"

"What?" Izuku frowns as he glances from one hero to the other. "Why?"

"Well, Bakubrat's still... uncomfortable with his Quirk," Shimura-Yagi sighs. "I pulled a few strings and got him an offer from Gang Orca. He doesn't look it, but he's experienced with dealing with Quirk-related trauma, I can attest to that. Only... It'd be good for Bakubrat to be with a friend, someone who can keep an eye on him, you know, help him loosen up a bit."

"...Does Bakugo have a friend?"

"No, and that's the problem," Chronos groans. "But he respects you, and I think - he'd like to be friends. Plus... Maybe seeing up close that you're not afraid of him could help. So what do you think? Orca's pretty cool about weird and dangerous Quirks, he's number 10 AND he's a member of the Kurogiri Fanclub."

"...Could I think about it?" Izuku asks, mind already going a mile a minute as he tries to think of all the pros and cons. He'll call his dad first chance he gets; dad is a wonderful source of information about heroes, especially now that he doesn't have to bother about pretending he obtained said information legally. He will have to keep his possible fellow intern's identity a secret though; dad has... Opinions about Katsuki Bakugo.

"Of course, of course!" Nedzu nods. "It'll take me a few hours, but I'll ask around and compile a list both of agencies willing to take all three of you boys and agencies willing to take Iida and Yukiyama. You can come pick it up after class."

"Thank you, sir."

"Now, you had best get going," the principal chuckles. "After all, I believe today is the day you get to choose your hero names! Don't want to be late for that!"

"Oh, right!" Izuku perks up. He packed his second ever notebook specially for the occasion, with the forty-seven names he's managed to narrow his shortlist down to over the years. (Said notebook also includes several pages of critique of said names by his dad, including such remarks as, Izuku, if you choose the name Small Might so help me god I shall level New York, several I thought I taught you better than this and WHERE DID I GO WRONG, a whole page of NONONONO... and quite a lot more constructive criticism. Except for All Might Junior, which never got a single line written about it. Izuku found his dad curled up in bed looking miserable after he saw that particular name.)

"And do you think you could stop by Class 1-C on the way?" Nedzu holds up a large stack of papers. "I may not be legally allowed to send him out on an internship, at least not yet, but Shinso might still like to have a look at all the agencies willing to take a chance on someone with a so-called 'villainous Quirk'."

***

The white space is taunting Katsuki.

He forces himself to take a deep breath and looks up. His classmates are excitedly debating various names, scrawling stuff on their own boards and wiping them off. Katsuki glances over his shoulder and finds Midoriya staring down at a page filled with tiny text, busy crossing out line after line. A few students look like they've already decided on a name, and Katsuki can understand, cause he came up with his when he was eight.

But now he doesn't want to be King Explosion Murder. The very idea of that name makes him sick, because he can't help but remember I-Midoriya right after that blast, and...

No, Bakubrat, don't think about it. Everyone makes mistakes and everything worked out; just don't do it again.

Katsuki wishes Chronos were here so he could talk it over with the young hero; after all, the young hero could probably come up with a few cool ideas. (Heck, Katsuki can't help but smile when he remembers the way, when asked about his Quirk, Chronos tilts his head and intones in a creepy voice, In time, all things turn to dust...) Katsuki wonders whether he should simply turn and ask Midoriya for help, cause he's sure to come up with a few suggestions, but then he dismisses that idea.

The white space is still taunting Katsuki, whispering that maybe Chronos is wrong; maybe you're not cut out to be a hero; maybe you're a villain, just look at Midoriya...

No, no, Katsuki trusts Chronos. He didn't mean to hurt Midoriya. He can do this.

But when the fifteen minutes are up, Katsuki is no closer to figuring out his hero name. And watching his classmates just makes him feel more and more hopeless; the sparkly guy is first up, announcing his name with a certainty Katsuki can only envy, Pinky gets her name rejected (but at least she has a name)... Frog girl had her name chosen since elementary school, and Katsuki wishes he could just slam his head into his desk, because this shouldn't be so hard!

"This is me!! Red Riot!!"

Katsuki blinks and looks back up; the guy with the Hardening Quirk - what was it, Kikishima? - is staring at them proudly, his name written in big, bold letters.

"Red Riot!" Midnight smiles. "Could this be an homage to the Chivalrous Hero: Crimson Riot?"

"Right!" the redhead grins. "I know it's from back in the day, but Crimson's the kind of hero I wanna be."

"Heh heh..." Midnight chuckles as she takes the board. "Just know that bearing the name of your personal hero comes with a lot of pressure."

The kind of hero I want to be.

Katsuki picks up his pen.

Being a hero means my Quirk can save people.

Kacchan, that's mean!

Who do you want to be, Katsuki?

And suddenly, Bakugo knows.

He scribbles down the characters and jumps up before he can chicken out, cutting in front of tail-boy. He can feel everyone staring at him, but he takes a deep breath. Focuses on a freckled face near the back of the room. Remembers that same face ten years ago, when he was still a stupid brat. He is going to save people; he is going to show his parents, show Midoriya that he has grown, has changed. That he knows what he did wrong, that he can be a better person than he was.

(That maybe Auntie Inko would forgive him.)

"I want to be Kacchan."

Chapter Text

"Right, Izuku..."

"I'll call you every day," Izuku promises with a sigh.

"And..."

"I'll be careful," he shifts his rucksack and glances around the train station, hoping his classmates don't see him. He's pretty sure Kirishima isn't getting lectured by his parents...

"And..."

"I won't only eat junk food!" Izuku groans. "Dad, I'm fifteen. I'll be fine!"

"...I know," his dad, who apparently doesn't quite understand Izuku is not about to die the minute he leaves his sight, sniffs. "Just... I'm sorry, Izuku, but both my boys are leaving home at the same time. I'll be all alone with Machia!..."

(And isn't that a terrifying thought. Izuku shudders.) 

"...I'm sorry, sir," Kurogiri finally looks up from his phone. "Did you just adopt me?"

"Inko adopted you over ten years ago and I know better than to piss off her ghost," dad retorts. "Any complaints?"

"I wouldn't dare, sir," Kurogiri chuckles.

"Welcome to the family," Izuku manages a smile despite the situation. "You're stuck with us now."

"...Izuku, I've known your father's past since I first met him. I've been stuck with you for years now."

"Not really," dad shrugs, and the proceeds to say, "Inko wouldn't approve of me murdering you. Although wiping your memory wouldn't really go very well; there's rather a lot I'd have to remove, and that tends to cause some rather unpleasant side effects..."

"...Dad, please stop saying terrifying things while we're out in public," Izuku sighs. Seriously, all they need is to be overheard by some poor person just going about their day. But then he feels that familiar worry return, and he looks at his dad and asks, "...You'll be alright, won't you?"

"I'll be fine, Izuku," his dad huffs and ruffles his hair. "Tensei made me promise I'd visit him every day. And I'll just keep busy; I'm thinking about taking a crash course in neurology."

"...Why?"

"Because All Might is annoying, so I want to find some toxin that will allow me to take control of his body and walk him off the roof of Might Tower,” dad rolls his eyes. "Seriously though, considering my vast assortment of various Quirks, I might be able to do something for Tensei.”

"…You mean it’s not as simple as slipping him a Healing Quirk?” Izuku frowns. He mentally starts going over the Quirks he knows his dad possesses; it's been several weeks since the injury, so a simple Healing Quirk might no longer work. Perhaps a Regeneration Quirk paired with some other Quirk that would allow dad to focus the regeneration specifically on the spinal column...

“It might be,” dad admits. “But I have several Healing Quirks, and they all work differently and have their own drawbacks. Plus, Tensei didn’t just have his spine severed but underwent a long operation that undoubtedly involved a lot of cutting and prodding, and I know next to nothing about all the very complicated thingamabobs that make up the spine. And anyway, if I don't have a replacement prepared, I prefer not to experiment on people until I'm reasonably sure I won't turn them into a vegetable."

“You can’t replace Tensei!”

“My point exactly,” dad chuckles. “Don't worry, Izuku; if all goes well, I’ll stop by a petshop some time next week and pick up a few rats. Unless you’d prefer I start on human test subjects?”

“Rats are fine, dad,” Izuku smiles and hugs his father. It's hard, sometimes, to believe he was once a villain. “Just don’t tell Nedzu. Gosh, you really are a good guy deep down!”

“Perish the thought,” dad winces. “I would like it noted for the record I am not in fact doing this out of the kindness of my heart, I just want the annoying brat to stop looking so miserable all the damned time."

“…And the real reason, sir?” Kurogiri asks.

“…It’s been a while since I’ve had a friend and I thought I should do something nice for him,” dad admits with a sigh. “And with Izuku out of the house, I need to do something to keep busy. Nedzu was pretty clear that I’m not allowed to rent the flat next to Gang Orca’s agency and spend the whole week following him around.”

“…How do you know the flat next to Gang Orca’s agency is available?” Izuku questions, although he's not quite sure he wants to know the answer.

“Izuku, please,” dad huffs. “I was once a feared figure in the underworld, whose intelligence network eclipsed that of the Japanese government. I could access computers, cameras, bank records; nothing was safe. Something like this is no challenge for me.”

“…Okay,” Izuku nods, because that makes a lot of sense. He wonders what else his dad knows…

“…Plus I found it on Airbnb when I was still considering following you around,” dad shrugs. “Seemed like a nice, convenient base of operations.”

Izuku buries his face in his hands, because his dad is fucking insane.

“Oh, I do believe I see your classmates…”

“WHAT?” Izuku shrieks. He snatches his case up. That's it, he is not going to get caught being seen off like a little kid. “ILOVEYOUGUYSTAKECAREGOTTAGOBYE!”

He turns to dash off, makes it about three steps and then goes barrelling straight through Warp Gate and into his dad. Only his father’s quick reflexes save him from going sprawling, and Izuku turns bright red as he spins round.

“Kurogiri!”

“Say goodbye properly,” the warper tells him. “We raised you better than this. Besides, you know he’s just going to sulk all week if you don’t hug him goodbye.”

“I do not sulk,” All Might's (retired) nemesis complains.

“Whatever makes you feel better, sir…”

“…Midoriya, what are you doing here?” the familiar deadpan voice of Aizawa has Izuku groaning. His fate has been sealed; he glances over and realizes with a sinking feeling that all his classmates are staring at him. (Except for the two traitors, snickering near the back. Izuku seriously needs to find better friends.)

“Seeing Kurogiri off,” dad shrugs. “Take care, Kurogiri! Give our regards to the Pussycats!”

“…Kurogiri is taking the train.”

“It gets me into the holiday mood. I listen to music, watch the scenery… It’s all rather enjoyable,” the warper explains with a smile. He pockets his phone and ruffles Izuku’s hair. “I had best get going. If either of you require my assistance, just call. Or text me your coordinates.”

“Bye, Kurogiri,” Izuku manages to get over his embarrassment to hug the man; and then the warper vanishes off into the crowd, and Izuku is left in the presence of the greatest villain to ever live and twenty oblivious heroes.

“Midoriya…”

“Right,” dad clears his throat. “If you get homesick…”

“I’ll be fine, dad,” Izuku hugs him; then he grabs his case and hurries over to his friends. This is probably one of those band-aid moments; best to get it over with.

“And you two take care of each other! I do not want to have to comfort your mothers because you decided to try for a Darwin Award!”

“Yes, Uncle Hisashi!” Tenya and Shoto chorus.

“Midoriya…”

“I’m going, I’m going,” dad rolls his eyes. He treats Izuku to one last smile, and then turns and, pulling a white handkerchief out from somewhere, leaves, sniffing. Izuku makes a mental note to call him that evening; and maybe Auntie Rei would be willing to keep him busy...

Eraserhead doesn’t say anything until Izuku’s father has vanished from view (and, knowing him, turned invisible and doubled back to make sure nothing bad happens, because Izuku has the world's most paranoid father); then he sighs and turns to face the class. “Right. You’ve all got your costumes, don’t you? Wearing them in public is strictly prohibited, but don’t drop them.”

“YEAHH!”

“And don’t slur your ‘yeah’, Ashido. All of you, be on your best behaviour!" the hero surveys the group and then winces when his eyes settle on Izuku and his friends. "Try not to get into any Situations."

"Why'd he say it like that?" Kaminari whispers.

"And remember you are representing U.A. when you're out there. Now, off you go!"

Everyone begins to slowly disperse, heading towards their platforms, and Izuku realizes he has one more goodbye before he can leave. And… suddenly he wishes they were at least catching the same train, because…

“…I’m gonna miss you guys,” he sniffs.

“We will miss you too, Izuku!” Tenya smiles.

“Thank god for group chat,” Shoto grins. “Don’t do anything too dumb.”

“Yes, do try and avoid any Situations…”

Izuku rolls his eyes, because he’s pretty sure everything will be fine. Gang Orca sounds far too responsible to let him and Bakugo get anywhere near anything dangerous. He takes a deep breath and prepares to leave; not for the first time he wishes Hitoshi had answered his phone…

“Oh, good, you haven’t left yet.”

***

“Hitoshi!” Izuku grins and spins round, almost smacking Shoto with his case, and Hitoshi manages a smile.

“I came to wish you good luck,” he explains with a shrug, hands in his well-loved Present Mic hoodie. It feels strange, standing here with his friends; they’re all dressed up in their school uniforms, with their shiny cases with their very own costumes inside. They’re all about to leave on their internships, and Hitoshi…

Some of his emotions must show on his face.

“You’ll be coming with us next year,” Izuku smiles, with a certainty Hitoshi wishes he could feel.

“Yeah,” he manages a smile of his own. “You’d better get going. Don’t wanna miss your train.”

They hug one last time, and then…

…then Hitoshi is left alone.

“Hitoshi?” he hears his dad. “You okay?”

“Yeah,” Hitoshi lies.

They’re gone.

His friends, his greatest supporters – they’re gone, off on the next step towards their ultimate goal of becoming a hero. And Hitoshi is left behind, wishing he could get on that train too. He wonders whether, if he’d played his cards differently at the Sports Festival, he’d have his own internship. Maybe he’d already be preparing to transfer; maybe, if he hadn’t blown it, he too could be a…

“Oh my gosh, you’re that guy from the Sports Festival! You’re Hitoshi Shinso!”

“Huh?” Hitoshi frowns as he turns to the speaker. “…Who are you?”

“Oh!” the girl, a short middle schooler with short black hair and a purple facemask bows, almost upsetting her (also purple) backpack. “My name’s Sakura Takahashi, and – I’m a huge fan! I think you were really awesome in the finals and – will you sign this? Please? Please?”

“…Sure…” Hitoshi hesitantly accepts a (purple, he’s starting to see a pattern here) notebook and a pen.

“And could you write ‘Fuck you’ on it?!”

“…I guess,” Hitoshi nods, and then his brain finally reboots. “…Why?”

“I…” the girl hesitates; then she hunches her shoulders. “…People say I’ve got a villainous Quirk, too. School… ‘s not fun. But! Then I saw you on TV! And you’re right, Quirks aren’t evil, cause I’ve never used mine to hurt people! So fuck everyone at school, I’m gonna be a violinist! …Are you alright?”

“He’s fine,” dad nods as Hitoshi wipes at his eyes. “Thank you, though. It means a lot to him, to hear that. There’s nothing a hero wants more than to be able to help someone…”

“…Actually, there’s twelve of us,” the girl glances away, suddenly shy. “I’m part of a support group for Quirk discrimination, and… Well, we’d all seen it already, but Kagami still played your speech at our last meeting. Everyone’s gonna be so jealous when they find out I met you in person!”

“…Twelve,” Hitoshi chokes. The very idea there might be twelve people who saw his speech and felt encouraged by it is astonishing.

“Do you have a phone?” his dad asks. “Cause I could take a photo of the two of you…”

“Oh my gosh, yes!” the girl gasps. “Could we, mr Shinso? Please?”

“Sure,” Hitoshi slowly nods. It feels surreal, posing with her, and he desperately racks his brain to try and come up with something to say. How does Mic do this? He’s always so encouraging on his show, and he’s been the one Hitoshi has turned to over the years whenever he’s worried about his Quirk. “…Erm…”

“Thank you, mr Shinso!” the girl beams. “Thank you! You’ll be such an awesome hero!”

“Thanks,” Hitoshi smiles and finally comes up with something. “And… Fuck your classmates. You’ll be a fucking awesome violinist.”

“Thank you! Thank you, thank you, thank you!” the girl squeals. “Oh my gosh, wait until Chiyo hears about this!”

And with that, the girl rushes off, barely making it onto her train.

“Hitoshi? You okay?”

Hitoshi sniffs and doesn’t answer; he just pulls out his phone and dials a familiar number.

“Heey, Hitoshi, whatcha…”

“Shut up, Mic,” he chokes out. “Thank you. Thank you.”

“Hitoshi, what…”

“I’ll explain later,” Aizawa takes the phone. “We’ll head over to Fluff City; you can meet us there. We need to celebrate Hitoshi becoming a hero.”

Chapter Text

“…Oh, that’s Hush, her Quirk lets her manipulate the volume of certain sounds…”

“Midoriya,” Katsuki can’t help but smile. They’ve been waiting in the lobby of Gang Orca’s agency for ten minutes already, and it's been perhaps the most educational ten minutes of his life. “Did you memorize the Quirk of everyone at this agency?”

“I dunno,” Midoriya frowns as he fiddles with his cuff links. “Maybe? No, I don’t know the receptionist… And I'm not sure about that guy over there, although he looks rather like Macarena from Hokkaido…”

Katsuki wonders briefly whether he should ask how Midoriya even knows about what must be a minor local hero from Hokkaido; then he decides it’s probably Quirk-related. He has established, over their short train journey, several key facts about Midoriya: he has access to the best muffins Katsuki has ever tasted, his smile can probably cure several illnesses, and he is some sort of Quirk genius.

(Katsuki now knows an incredible amount about Float, which apparently belonged to Chronos’ grandmother. Who was apparently a hero who mentored All Might, how did Midoriya find that out?! Katsuki is still torn between being impressed and absolutely terrified at Midoriya’s research skills.)

“You’re correct; he’s visiting for a few days!” a booming voice announces.

“Gang Orca!” Midoriya beams as he jumps to his feet, and Katsuki feels himself relax ever so slightly as he stands up. “Oh my gosh, congratulations on making the Top Ten! And thank you for giving me a chance, I’m so excited!...”

“Thank you,” the hero, dressed in his costume, chuckles. “It’s good to see you haven’t changed.”

“What?”

“Tokyo Aquarium, ten years ago. I believe you were with ‘your best friend and your new friend’.”

Katsuki winces at the reminder of Four Eyes and Frosty.

“O-oh,” Midoriya blushes. “…You remember that…”

“It was a rather pleasant surprise, seeing you in the Sports Festival,” the hero chuckles; then he turns, and Katsuki snaps to attention. “So you’re Katsuki Bakugo.”

“Yes, sir,” Katsuki nods and almost winces at how uncertain he sounds. He wants so badly to make a good impression; Chronos got him this chance, and he doesn’t want to embarrass his mentor.

“You know, I wasn’t planning to offer you an internship based on your performance in the Sports Festival.”

Katsuki flinches. Of course not; he’s seen footage of his fights, and he looks terrifying. Like a villain. It’s obvious a top-ranked hero wouldn’t…

“But Chronos seems to believe you have potential, and that lad has a good head on his shoulders.”

Katsuki perks at that.

***

“…Really sorry, Hitoshi, but they cancelled my flight, and…”

“It’s fine, Mic,” Hitoshi smiles as he steps out onto the pavement. “Gran left us enough food for at least a week. I’ll just reheat something, watch some TV…”

“Don’t stay up too late!” Mic immediately commands, and Hitoshi snickers. “Just… I’m so sorry, Hitoshi! I promise I’ll bring you back something nice…”

“Just bring yourself back.”

“Aww, Hitoshi!” there’s a suspicious sniffle on the other end of the phone. “I love you so much…”

“I love you too,” Hitoshi answers, and quickly hangs up before Mic can get all mushy, or he gets too embarrassed.  He feels weird sometimes, with how open he tries to be with his affection. But then he reminds himself of those first few years, when he had no one that cared whether he liked his carers or not…

…Hm, maybe he should stop by Fluff City?

“SHINSOOO!”

Hitoshi was raised by motherfucking Eraserhead; he spins round, falling into a battle stance, ready to fight as a hero comes crashing down from the sky.

“I AM SO SORRY!” the large hero yells and proceeds to slam his head into the pavement with enough force Hitoshi is sure he broke something.

“O… kay,” Hitoshi takes a step back. He glances around, trying to locate an escape route; dad is working at U.A., but if Hitoshi calls him about an insane hero…

“Hey, Gale Force, you can’t just run off like that!...” another hero hurries over. “Oh, hey, you’re that kid from the Sports Festival!”

“…That’s me,” Hitoshi sighs. He wonders if he’s about to be asked for another autograph (it was rather weird yesterday, when he got stopped by Kamui Woods). Then the large insane hero straightens up, and… “Oh! You’re… that… Insane Yoarashi!”

“…Actually, it’s Inasa,” Yoarashi corrects him.

“I dunno,” the hero – probably a sidekick overseeing his internship, Hitoshi is sure Izuku would recognize him – snickers. “I think it’s pretty accurate. Seriously thought, Gale Force, you can’t just run off like that!...”

“I AM SORRY!” Yoarashi booms, and Hitoshi wonders whether he should sneak off while the teenager’s distracted. “But I need to speak with Shinso!...”

Wait, what?

“Yeah, I know, you mentioned it. A few dozen times,” the hero sighs. “Hey, tell you what, since we’re almost done anyway, how about I finish patrol on my own, and you boys go grab lunch?”

“Yes! Thank you! Shinso, as part of my apology, I will buy you lunch!”

“…Could we back up?” Hitoshi asks, because this is not making any sense. “What are you apologizing for? Don’t you hate me?”

“NO!” Yoarashi exclaims. “No, of course not! I am here to apologize for my shameful conduct during the Sports Festival! You deserved to win much more than me! Why, your passion!...”

“Yeah, well I lost,” Hitoshi interrupts him. (Alright, he’s still a little sore about that.) “You won. There’s nothing else to say.”

“But there is!” Yoarashi explodes. “You worked so hard to get so far, despite the numerous obstacles you had to overcome! You showed such passion, such determination, and I judged you despite knowing nothing about your struggles! If I could give you my spot, I…”

“I don’t want your spot, I want my own!” Hitoshi snaps.

“Exactly!” Yoarashi beams, and Hitoshi wonders how someone so much taller can look like he’s looking up to Hitoshi. “You are so dedicated, have such a burning passion, yet you will not accept anything you have not earned! I can only stare in awe!... Hey, Shinso, come back!”

“If you want to go on about burning passion in the middle of the street, be my guest, but I’ve got my gran’s katsudon waiting for me at home,” Hitoshi declares, and then winces. Katsudon… “…I miss the guys…”

“Of course! Your friends are away on their own internships!” Yoarashi exclaims, excited. “Well then how about we hang out?!”

Hitoshi turns to stare at the larger teen.

Maybe, if he makes a break for it…

“…Don’t you have an internship?”

“We can meet up after I’m done!”

“And I still have class…”

“Wonderful! The agency I’m interning at is close to U.A.!”

“…You’re not going to give up until I agree, are you?”

“I believe that with enough determination, anything…”

“Yeah, quick PSA: sometimes no means no,” Hitoshi sighs. But he feels his phone buzz, and it reminds him of a friendship that started with a similar dynamic, a friendship that changed Hitoshi’s life for the better. “…But I guess we could grab lunch together…”

“Yes!” Yoarashi beams. “Allow me to treat you! And since you’re doing me a favour, you can pick where we eat!”

“I want to go to a cat café,” Hitoshi declares. He’s starting to feel a lot more sympathy towards his dad.

“Alright!” Yoarashi grins.

“And if you scare Pumpkin, they’ll never find your body.”

***

The Purple Fuzzinator: Two days to go! I miss you guys!

Littlest Lord: We miss you too, Hitoshi! How are you doing?

The Purple Fuzzinator: My bruises have bruises. I am never training with dad again.

The Purple Fuzzinator: Has Sparky tried to murder you yet?

Ingenium 2.0: Hitoshi!

Ingenium 2.0: I am certain Bakugo would not harm Izuku!

Ingenium 2.0: After all, he is a hero in purple washroom pink banana

The Purple Fuzzinator: Hi Shoto!

Ingenium 2.0: I miss muffins!

Ice Hero Penguin: Shoto, please give me back my phone!

Ice Hero Penguin: At least unlock the bathroom door!

Ice Hero Penguin: What if something happens to Tensei?!

Littlest Lord: Ooh, 4/5 for manipulation! Good job Tenya!

Ingenium 2.0: I am not sure whether to be pleased or not…

Littlest Lord: Manipulation solves a lot of problems.

Littlest Lord: Trust me, I know.

Ice Hero Penguin: How many murders have you prevented, again?

The Purple Fuzzinator: Gotta be double digits!

Littlest Lord: Sorry, gotta go!

“Midoriya!”

“Sorry, sorry!” Midoriya pockets his phone and hurries to catch up to him. He shifts the shopping bag on his shoulder, and Bakugo wonders whether they should have just cheated and bought fast food. It's already dark and the streets are mostly empty; they stayed later than planned because Orca decided to explain how different hero agencies team up. (And that then led into a Quirk discussion which took longer than anyone expected.)

Katsuki doesn’t have to ask who Midoriya was messaging; the other teen has been keeping in contact with his friends. But at the same time he seems to have been trying to be friendly towards Katsuki. And Bakugo doesn’t quite know how he feels about that.

On the one hand, he’s jealous; Midoriya has fit right in with Gang Orca’s agency. He’s willing to listen, always ready with a suggestion (especially if it’s Quirk related – Katsuki’s pretty sure that Gang Orca’s analyst is in love). And when they're out, he looks so approachable (unlike Katsuki who just wishes he didn't feel so uncomfortable in his costume). But then again...

Katsuki’s not stupid; he’s read about what happened to Ingenium, seen how subdued Midoriya and his friends were after the Sports Festival. But he has no idea how to approach the matter, has no point of reference (after all, he’s never personally known any hero who was terribly injured by a villain). And, truth be told…

Katsuki still hasn’t figured out what sort of hero he wants to be. He kicks a nearby stone, hands stuffed in his pockets, and wonders what he’ll tell Chronos when he next sees him. Because he’s heard the whispers around the agency, and…

“Hey, you!”

It takes Katsuki a few seconds to realize that the voice he just heard was Midoriya; then he spins round and doubles back, just in time to spot Midoriya dash down a dark alley and throw their grocery bag at a very suspicious figure.

“What the fuck!” the figure exclaims and turns, and Katsuki suddenly gets a terrible feeling in the pit of his stomach. Because the man's wearing a weird mask, appears to be missing a nose, is decked out with a fuckton of knives and is pointing a motherfucking katana at Hush. “You kids had better scram!”

Katsuki thinks that is a very good idea.

Midoriya, apparently does not, because he takes a step forward.

“You…” he takes a deep breath, and then straightens, and… something about him changes. “You must be the Hero Killer, Stain.”

“I said scram,” the villain turns away from them.

“And what sort of heroes would we be if we did that?” Midoriya lets out a dark chuckle.

“Why would you tell him that?!” Katsuki can’t help but gasp. He glances over his shoulder; if he makes a break for it, surely he’ll come across someone on patrol. But that would mean leaving Midoriya with the Hero Killer, Midoriya who at present seems to have a death wish.

“Heroes?” Stain shakes his head as he looks back at them. “Don’t make me laugh, kid…”

“Get out of here!” Hush manages to shout, although there are tears in her eyes. “Run!”

(Again, in Katsuki's opinion, a very good idea.)

“Well, we’re not heroes yet,” Midoriya shrugs. “But I can hardly pass up such a perfect chance for revenge.”

(Crap.)

“Revenge?” Stain lets go of Hush, allowing her to slump to the ground.

(Crap crap crap.)

“For Tensei – Ingenium,” Midoriya clenches his fists. “My inspiration. You ended his career, you sent him to hospital – this is my chance to avenge him.”

“Avenge him?” Stain laughs as he takes a step towards him. “And you say you want to be a hero? You’re just like him, a fake."

Katsuki edges forward. If Midoriya won't run, he'll have to grab him and drag him along, even if they'll be in danger of Stain catching up easily. He's not about to let Midoriya get murdered in front of him.

"If you want to be a hero," Stain chuckles darkly and gestures towards Hush, "then – WHAT THE FUCK?!”

“Run, Bakugo!” Midoriya yells as Hush vanishes in a mass of black goo.

Katsuki doesn’t have to be told twice; he turns and makes a break for the street. But then he hears a cry behind him and turns to find Midoriya on the ground, Stain standing over him, katana at the ready, and...

“GET AWAY FROM HIM!”

Stain jumps back as Katsuki launches himself at him. He's got a short knife in his other hand, with blood on it. And then, as if things aren't bad enough, his creepy tongue licks it.

It's official - they've stumbled into a horror movie. Fuck everything, they are getting the hell out of here!

"Midoriya, get up!" Katsuki yells and risks a glance over his shoulder.

“I!... Can’t!” Midoriya gasps. “I think it’s his Quirk!”

“WHAT?!” Katsuki turns to stare at him. If Midoriya is paralyzed, then…

“Bakugo, watch out!”

Katsuki dives out of the way in the last second to avoid the very spiky things coming out of Stain’s shoe and scrambles to his feet. He immediately launches himself at the villain; if Midoriya can't move, he's dead. Katsuki can't just leave him. But whatever the villain's Quirk is, surely it can't last forever.

Time. That's all they need.

Stain jumps back, and Bakugo scrambles into position between him and Midoriya. Explosion is not suited to long-range attacks, but Stain seems to prefer close-range anyway. Katsuki just has to...

He ducks out of the way of a very sharp knife and amends his assessment. Stain doesn't seem to mind long-range after all.

They are so fucked.

“Can you use that black goo?!” he screams as something occurs to him. If Midoriya can teleport…

“Not on myself!” Izuku yells back. “If you want!...”

“No!” Katsuki yells, because he’s not leaving Midoriya. And then instinct has him twisting, and he barely ducks under Stain's katana. The villain has a knife in his other hand, coming down, and Bakugo grits his teeth and flings his hand forward, firing off Explosion and sending the villain tumbling back. Katsuki stumbles himself, accidentally stepping on Midoriya, and glances down to check on him...

"Bakugo, watch out!"

Stain, apparently recovered, is bearing down on him again, and Katsuki grabs a nearby trash can lid and barely manages to block the katana.

“Not bad, kid!” Stain cackles, his long tongue like something from a nightmare, and Katsuki feels no guilt about drawing back and setting off Explosion in his face.

The villain reels back with a scream.

"Can you move yet?!" Katsuki yells and flings the lid at the villain, who just dashes it aside and levels him with an unimpressed look.

"No!" Midoriya yells. "Did you notice anything when you first attacked him?!"

"Just his creepy tongue!" Bakugo shudders. "And his weird blood kink! Bastard licked it off his sword!"

"HEY!"

"Blood... That's it!" Midoriya shouts. “Bakugo, he licked my blood off his sword! That’s how he gets you!”

“What?!” Katsuki twists to stare at the teen, because that has to be the creepiest Quirk he's ever heard off...

"KACCHAN, MOVE!"

Bakugo barely dives out of the way of Stain; he hits the ground hard and then forces himself up, because Stain's between him and Midoriya, his sword coming down...

"KACCHAN!" Midoriya screams as he throws himself at Stain, the villain, twisting, and the sword slices into his shoulder. He grits his teeth, aims, and fires Explosion straight at the villain's wrist, and with a scream, Stain lets go off the katana.

“Any ideas, Quirk nerd!?”

“I!... Yes!” Midoriya screams. “But it’ll probably hurt!”

“Probably less than dying!” he retorts, and then ducks as Stain swings for his head with a knife. "What do I do?!"

"Just..." Midoriya grunts, and Katsuki winces as a new wave of adrenaline washes over him. "BLAST HIM, KACCHAN!"

Katsuki reacts on instinct, bracing himself; he can see the rage in Stain's eyes, see the knife coming down...

…And then the force of the explosion sends the villain flying back, the noise deafening; the force of the recoil sends Katsuki crashing back into Midoriya, his ears ringing, and then…

“Owww…” Midoriya groans.

“...What the fuck was that?” Katsuki slowly sits up.

Stain is lying motionless several meters away; some parts of his costume are smoking.

“…Did we just kill the Hero Killer?”

Chapter Text

“…You okay, Bakugo?”

“Think so,” Katsuki groans as he slowly sits up. His head is ringing, and he must have done something to his chest, because there’s a weird burning-but-not-quite that has him rubbing at it. But then again, he reflects as he looks around, they just fought the Hero Killer. This is nothing compared to how bad it could be. “How bout you, Midoriya?”

“Well, I’d appreciate if you got off me,” the teenager replies.

Bakugo scrambles to his feet, or at least tries to; it’s hard to balance and almost as soon as he’s standing he falls sideways, colliding hard with a wall. “Shit, my head!...”

“Oh crap, crap, crap,” he hears Midoriya mutter as he scrunches his eyes up, desperate for the ringing to stop, and then, blessedly, it eases up; it gradually fades, and he lets out a long sigh of relief as the burning vanishes. “Bakugo, you alright? Do you know who I am?”

“Course I know,” he snaps back and then winces. “Sorry, Midoriya, just – my head…”

“Does it still hurt?” Midoriya insists. “Anything else hurt? I’m really sorry about this…”

“I’m alright,” Katsuki manages a weak smile as he turns back to the teen. “Just… Just tired.”

“Oh thank god,” Midoriya breathes.

There’s a faint moan from further in the alley.

“We should probably get someone to deal with him,” Katsuki decides as he pulls out his phone. He dials the agency number, looks up and almost has a goddamn heart attack. “Midoriya, get away from him!”

“It’s alright,” Midoriya calls from where he’s crouching over Stain. “I don’t think he can move!”

“Bakugo? What is it?” he hears a voice in the receiver.

He opens his mouth, tries to think of what he should say, and decides there is no way he can make this sound believable.

“Look, me and Midoriya ran into… a Situation,” he sighs. “We need Gang Orca and preferably several other heroes over here ASAP.”

“Oh, I can help with that!” Midoriya smiles.

“…What?...” Bakugo begins and then shakes his head as, in a swirling mass of black goo, Gang Orca appears in the alley. Of course, the weird teleportation Quirk is working now. “Never mind, we’ve got Gang Orca here. If you could send those other heroes, that’d be great.”

“Midoriya,” Gang Orca sighs as he caps his pen. “I was in the middle of…”

“That’s the Hero Killer Stain,” Midoriya interrupts him, pointing to the unconscious villain. “He tried to kill us, so we used our Quirks in self-defence, as allowed by the law. I think he might need medical attention. Oh, and I took his Quirk, but I can give it back…”

Katsuki smiles as he pockets his phone; now that they're out of danger, he can laugh at how nonchalant Midoriya seems about the whole situation. Even if it has him wondering what his classmates childhood was like, that he doesn't even appear shaken.

“…That’s the Hero Killer.”

“Yep.”

“You fought the Hero Killer.”

“Yes, sir.”

“You currently have, in your possession, the Hero Killer’s Quirk.”

“Yep. It feels kind of creepy.”

“…You were such a cute child…”

“Wait,” Katsuki suddenly realizes something. “What do you mean, you took his Quirk?”

“Oh, right!” Midoriya suddenly gasps. “And Bakugo needs to get checked out by a doctor! I slipped him Amplify during the fight!”

“Midoriya, what the fuck!...”

“Bakugo,” Gang Orca interrupts him. “I understand you have a lot of questions, but I would like to know what exactly happened here. How did you run into Stain in the first place?”

“We were coming back from the store,” Katsuki shrugs, even as he tries desperately to figure out what’s going on. “Midoriya spotted him first. He was threatening Hush…”

“Hush?!” Gang Orca’s calm demeanour slips at the mention of his sidekick, and he looks around the alley. “Where is she?!”

“Midoriya used his weird teleportation Quirk on her,” Bakugo answers. He turns to where the teen has pulled out his phone and is dialling someone. “Midoriya, where did you…”

“IZUKU!” a voice suddenly shrieks from the smartphone. “WHERE ARE YOU?! CAN YOU SUMMON ME?! I’M…”

“Dad, I’m fine,” Midoriya groans. “Just a few cuts! Stain’s unconscious and probably pretty hurt…”

“STAIN?! THAT PATHETIC, LITTLE!... IZUKU, SUMMON…”

“Dad, you’re on speakerphone and Gang Orca is right here!”

“…Ah.”

“What did you do with Hush?”

“Who?... Oh, her! I’m sure she’s fine. I was visiting Tensei when she appeared, so I just left her with him.”

“Dad….”

“I passed several nurses on the way out, I’m sure someone found her and took care of her injuries.”

“Oh my god…” Midoriya groans.

“Mr Midoriya, my deepest apologies for this incident,” Gang Orca clears his throat. “I will take the boys to be checked out.”

“And I’ll instruct my lawyers to meet us there.”

Midoriya groans.

***

“So, like… What’d you mean when you said you took his Quirk?”

Izuku freezes. He can see people swarming about outside the car window as Stain is loaded into an armoured van to be transported to a secure facility; he hears the door shut behind Bakugo as the teen settles in for the short journey to the hospital. He's... He's too tired for all this, but at the same time, Bakugo deserves an answer.

Especially since...

“Izuku, seatbelt,” detective Tsukauchi reminds him from the front seat, and Izuku automatically obeys. He racks his brain for what to say, and finally makes a decision.

Perhaps simple is best.

“What I said,” he sighs as the car slowly begins to move. He glances over and finds Bakugo staring at him, and quickly glances away. This... uncertainty is unpleasant; everyone who matters has known about All For One for years, has known Izuku for years. “My Quirk… The Quirk I was born with… It allows me to transfer Quirks between people. And I have more than one Quirk – I kind of picked them up over the years… But my original Quirk, the Quirk I was born with, is called All For One.”

“…Right,” Bakugo slowly nods. “So, like… that’s why no one in class can agree on what your Quirk is?”

“Yeah,” Izuku manages a smile as he remembers the discussions he sometimes overhears. “They’re all right and they’re all wrong. That – that’s why I couldn’t use Summon – the teleportation Quirk – on myself; it doesn’t work on the user. When I want to teleport myself, I just switch Quirks with Tenya or Shoto. Mostly Shoto; it’s less obvious if his Quirk goes missing for a few minutes.”

“…If you’re keeping it secret, though,” Bakugo frowns, “why bother with the whole switching thing? Why not just slip Four Eyes this… Summon for a few seconds and take it back?”

“Well…” Izuku winces. He glances away, feeling incredibly guilty for what he did earlier. “…It’s dangerous to have more than one Quirk at a time. It’s kind of like… My dad says it’s like when you overload a server, it overloads the brain and… well you know. Me and dad, we’re alright cause we have All For One, but others…” he scrunches his eyes closed. “I’m sorry, Bakugo. I slipped you another Quirk earlier, during the fight.”

In the driver’s seat, Tsukauchi can’t quite hold back a horrified gasp. Dad has been quite clear with everyone, over the years, just how dangerous it can be; and despite his curiosity about all things Quirk-related, that was the one line Izuku had been too afraid to cross.

“Hey,” he feels a hand on his shoulder and glances over, and – Bakugo is smiling. “It was worth the risk. I mean, neither of us is dead, right?”

“Yeah,” Izuku manages a relieved laugh. And at least Bakugo still seems able to form sentences, although remembering the pain on his face... Izuku shudders.

“So, like… do I still have that… What was it, Amplify?”

“No,” Izuku shakes his head. “I took it back when you fell over. I didn’t want to risk you getting hurt more than you already were. You should let my dad take a look at you, when we get to the hospital, just to be safe; he knows a lot more about All For One than I do.”

And probably knows the warning signs. Maybe Izuku should ask him for more details about Quirk overload, now that he's older; there might be more situations where he is forced to give someone a second Quirk, and knowing how to treat them afterwards would certainly help...

Bakugo suddenly lets out a loud snort, startling Izuku out of his thoughts.

“What…”

“I just,” the blonde laughs. “When I bullied you, I used to call you Quirkless! And you’ve got, like, a dozen Quirks!”

Izuku can’t quite hold back his own laughter. Even detective Tsukauchi snickers in the front seat.

Maybe everything will work out after all…

***

“Izuku!” Hisashi practically sprints out of the hospital doors the minute he sees his son, leaving several very relieved nurses in his wake. “Are you alright?! Are you hurt?! Do you know who I am?! Do you need to sit down?! Do you feel faint?!...”

“Dad!” Izuku (who doesn’t seem to be dying, but you never know) hisses, his cheeks bright red, as he pushes the car door closed. “I’m fine, really!”

“Fine?!” Hisashi almost has a stroke right then and there. “You ran into the Hero Killer! You could have died!... By the way, where is he?”

“Dad, no.”

“I just want to have a nice little chat with him about being more… selective when it comes to his victims,” Hisashi shrugs. Just a nice, friendly little chat between retired villains… (And if Stain isn’t retired yet, he will be on medical grounds by the time Hisashi is through with him.)

“Sir, no.”

“Nobody asked you, you weasely traitor!” Hisashi snaps as Kurogiri joins them, and Izuku takes the opportunity to nudge him away from the car, so detective Tsukauchi can finally get out.

“…Why are you…”

“I was just getting ready for bed when your father called,” the traitorous bastard, whom Hisashi was kind enough to give a home to, explains with a sigh. He’s wearing a baggy Wild, Wild Pussycats t-shirt, black sweatpants and a single flipflop. “…I’ve been on Midoriya duty ever since.”

“Excuse me!...” Hisashi growls. He does not appreciate being referred to like some irresponsible child. And anyway, he knows hypocrisy when he sees it - he is damned sure Kurogiri was not actually in the toilet when that policeman excused himself!

“Thank you, Kurogiri,” Izuku manages a smile. “Your sacrifice was not in vain.”

“I don’t know where I went wrong,” Hisashi remarks to Tsukauchi as he eyes the two. “Can I at least get my phone back now?”

“Of course, sir.”

“And my sim card…”

“I don’t even want to know,” Izuku mutters.

“And you can stop laughing, you freeloading bastard!” Hisashi snaps at the detective. He is just remembering that the police are, as a general rule, all annoying, useless, and a waste of taxpayers money. (Except for Touya, who is the exception that proves the rule.) Why else do they rely so heavily on overly dramatic idiots in skintight leotards?! “Where were you when my son almost died?!”

“Dad, I didn’t almost die!...”

“Seemed pretty close to me…”

“Bakugo!”

“What’s he doing here?” Hisashi snarls as he finally notices the third arrival. Katsuki Bakugo may have grown over the years, but Hisashi has not forgotten his little boy’s tears over how mean Kacchan was, the call from Recovery Girl about Izuku’s injuries… If anything, the blonde is probably in more danger now than he was from Stain; Hisashi is overemotional, tired, and would very much like to vent his frustrations. If he can't get to Stain, he'll just have to find another target...

“Alright, fine, but Bakugo saved my life.”

“…What?” Hisashi stops imagining what it would feel like to crush the little bastard's skull and slowly looks back at his son.

“Well, Stain hit me with his weird paralysis Quirk, so I couldn’t run,” Izuku explains, and Hisashi barely resists the urge to grab hold of him because of the terrifying vision that pops into his mind. “Bakugo refused to leave me, though; he fought Stain, trying to keep him away from me, until finally we managed to defeat him… Although that was mostly Bakugo, too…”

“I couldn’t have done it if you hadn’t slipped me that Amplify Quirk,” Bakugo interrupts.

“Katsuki Bakugo,” Hisashi steps forward and grabs the blonde’s hand. Scrap murder plans, Katsuki Bakugo is officially a godsend.  “Thank you for saving my little boy.”

“Dad!”

“I will personally pay for your medical expenses and legal representation.”

“…Why do we need legal representation?” the blonde frowns. “…We were defending ourselves…”

“Because politics doesn’t care,” Hisashi sighs. “You’ll learn, young man, that villains are nothing when compared to politicians.

***

“Izuku, are you…”

“Dad, I’m fine,” Izuku groans. He's not sure how many times he's repeated the exact same line, but he's starting to wish for a thesaurus just to change it up a bit. “The doctors have cleared me. You’ve given me a full check-up. I’m fine!”

There’s muffled laughter from the other bed, and Izuku turns to glare at his classmate. “Shut up, Bakugo!”

“Sorry,” the blonde says with an unapologetic grin. “Is he always…”

“Yes,” Izuku sighs, glancing up at his dad. “Lucky me.”

“Excuse me for worrying about my little boy!” dad huffs, but then he gently ruffles Izuku’s hair. “…Thank you, Bakugo.”

“It was nothing,” the teenager mumbles, glancing away, and Izuku grins.

“Nothing?! He fought the Hero Killer singlehanded and won! It was awesome!” Izuku laughs. But then he remembers exactly how the fight ended, and the smile slips from his face. He takes a deep breath and turns back to his father. “Crap, I... I slipped him Amplify during the fight, dad. Could you... I don't know..."

To his credit, dad doesn't question Izuku's reasoning, doesn't ask for any specifics; he immediately grows serious. He hurries over to Bakugo's bed, a frown on his face, and presses a hand to the blonde's forehead.

"Bakugo, look to your left," he orders the teenager. "Now your right. Focus on me now. How many fingers am I holding up?"

"...Three."

"I want you to count backwards from ten."

Bakugo obeys.

"Alright..." dad hums. "Name three members of staff at U.A. and their Quirks. You can use civilian or hero names, whichever is easier."

"Chronos - Decay, Principal Nedzu - High Specs, Eraserhead - Erasure... Midoriya, what's going on?"

"There's no obvious damage," dad smiles as he straightens up. "I'll arrange for a CT scan before you're discharged, and speak to Nedzu. You'll need a more detailed test than this to make sure you're alright, but as far as I could tell, you seem to be doing alright, Bakugo."

"...It really isn't that big of a deal, is it?" the blonde frowns as he looks from father to son. "I mean..."

"Bakugo," dad sighs, suddenly serious, and Izuku once again feels a wave of guilt. It's one thing to grow up knowing he shouldn't give people multiple Quirks; it's another to see just how serious his dad is treating this. "There is only one person I know who does not possess All For One, received multiple Quirks and is not currently a vegetable."

"...Fuck."

"A very apt descriptor, yes," dad chuckles and then ruffles the teenager's hair. "Like I said, I'll call Nedzu later. Just to be safe, if anything changes - even if it's just a migraine, or your vision is a little blurry, or you can't sleep - anything at all, tell a teacher immediately and go to Recovery Girl. It's better to be safe than sorry."

"Yes, sir," Bakugo nods. Then he spots Izuku's concerned look and smiles at him. "Hey, Midoriya, I still think it was the right call."

"Izuku," Izuku smiles. "You know about All For One. And you saved my life. It's only fair you call me by my first name."

"Katsuki," the blonde answers. Then he glances away, blushing, as he adds, "...Or you can call me Kacchan, if you..."

“WHERE IS THAT BRAT?!” someone screams and the door crashes open; Izuku flinches back instinctively and is surprised to find his dad already by his side, glaring at the intruder. “YOU! HOW DARE YOU SCARE ME!...”

“WE’RE IN A HOSPITAL, HAG!” Katsuki screams back.

Izuku stares in shock as a woman (probably Bakugo’s mum, since they look so alike) storms in, clad in a red dressing gown and blue slippers.

“Mitsuki, Katsuki has a point,” a middle-aged man with glasses, wearing a t-shirt and wrinkled slacks hurries in after her. Then he spots Izuku and stops dead in his tracks. “…Midoriya.”

“WHAT?! WHAT’S THAT GOT TO DO WITH?...”

“Hello, Mitsuki. Masaru,” dad smiles charmingly. (Oh god, he's not about to eviscerate anyone, is he?) ”Long time no see.”

The woman freezes; then she slowly turns to stare at Izuku.

“…You know, Katsuki doesn’t look like he’s seriously hurt…”

“I’M FINE!”

“FINE?!” the woman screams and rounds on her son. “I GOT A CALL YOU RAN INTO A FUCKING VILLAIN, AND YOU SAY YOU’RE FINE?!”

“Well, she’s not changed,” dad mutters.

“You know them?” Izuku hisses as he watches, wide eyed, as the woman and Katsuki continue to argue.

“…Well…”

“We were Inko’s friends,” the gentleman approaches. “Well, to be honest, Mitsuki was closer to her than I was. Masaru Bakugo.”

“Oh!” Izuku hesitantly shakes the man’s hand. “…Izuku Midoriya. I’m her son.”

“…I guessed as much,” Bakugo senior chuckles; then he quickly removes his glasses and wipes his eyes. “But it’s wonderful to see you again, truly. Mitsuki, come say hello to Izuku.”

The woman freezes.

“I’m fine, mum,” Katsuki sighs.

”Mitsuki, come on,” her husband continues. “Didn’t you want to say something to Hisashi?”

Izuku notices his dad stiffen as the woman turns, and braces himself. If need be, he can use Summon and send dad to officer Tsukauchi; it would be rather awkward if Katsuki’s mum was murdered in front of him…

“I’m sorry.”

“Wha?...” dad’s jaw drops, and Izuku snickers.

“Izuku – Midoriya,” Mrs Bakugo sniffs, and Izuku sits up straighter. “Your mother – Inko – she was the greatest friend I could have ever asked for. She was there for me when I needed her without fail, day or night; she was the sister I never had. And I – I failed her. Because all she would have wanted me to do was be there for you. And I – I wasn’t. Katsuki – he was just a child; his actions towards you were a reflection of my failure as a mother. I should have seen the signs and intervened, should have put a stop to it. I can only apologize for that and ask you to not blame my son for my mistakes. I’m sorry.

“And you,” she turns to dad. “Hisashi. We both know I never supported your relationship with Inko. We both know I never liked you. So I won’t offer you an apology. But… Thank you,” she bows. “Thank you for doing what I failed to. Thank you for protecting Inko’s son…”

“He’s my son too…”

“Dad!” Izuku hisses as he elbows his dad in the ribs. “Be nice!”

“Oh goodness!” Mr Bakugo laughs. “Sorry, sorry, just… Inko used to say that, too!”

“Really?”

“…Me and Mitsuki never quite got along…” dad mutters.

“That right there,” Mr Bakugo chuckles. “That is a massive understatement. Mitsuki hated him on sight. She even tried to get Inko to leave him on their wedding day!”

“WHAT?”

“Seriously?!” Izuku cackles at the expression on his dad’s face and leans forward. “What happened?!”

“…Well, I only heard it from Mitsuki, but…”

“…She tried to beat me up with her bouquet,” Katsuki’s mum smiles at the memory. “Called me several names, too. Then she saw the time, screamed and rushed out. Lost one of her shoes in the process; Masaru had to drive back to fetch it.”

“So that’s why her flowers looked so awful…”

“Could you tell me some more about her?!” Izuku asks, excited. “Please? Unless you and Bakugo – I mean your son…”

“Oh, hell no!” Katsuki grins. “I wanna hear it too!”

“I mean… I guess,” the woman smiles as she glances around. “…Is there anything in particular you want to know?”

Izuku considers the question carefully. He’s heard a lot about his mum over the years – her favourite foods, colour, her favourite hero (a very awkward conversation for dad in hindsight, considering it was Nana Shimura), how she always forgot her keys…

But there is one thing, more than anything else, Izuku needs to know.

“Was she as terrifying as dad says or did she just have him wrapped around her little finger?”

Chapter Text

As the train pulls into the station, Izuku takes a deep breath. He prepares himself. And then, the minute the doors open, he bolts out of perhaps the emptiest carriage in the history of the Tokyo transit system. Morning commuters freeze and stare as a huge figure squeezes out of the doors behind him, not quite managing to avoid denting the metal a little.

“Fuck,” Izuku mutters when he realizes the closest exit is blocked off due to a villain attack. He mentally thanks Tenya for forcing him to memorize all the different routes to U.A., and leads Machia out onto the street.

Seeing U.A. again, even if it’s only been a week, warms something deep inside. Izuku smiles and picks up the pace; he can’t wait to see his friends again, is even looking forward to Eraserhead lecturing him about Situations…

“Alright, Machia,” he glances over his shoulder and realizes Gigantomachia isn’t there. “Machia!”

He sprints back to where the giant has stopped and grabs his hand.

“Sorry about him!” he calls over to the poor man Gigantomachia was staring at. “Come on, Machia! We’ll be late!”

“Yes, Little Lord!” Machia beams, waves at the guy and allows himself to be tugged along. It is always rather strange, since he is so much stronger, but Izuku learned at a young age that Gigantomachia loves holding hands. In fact the giant is beaming as he follows along obediently, and would probably start swinging said hands if not for the very real possibility he would send Izuku flying.

“Now, what did dad tell you?” Izuku asks as they near the front gates. He wants to make sure the giant is clear on the rules before he is, inevitably, distracted.

“I don’t kill anyone!” Machia replies happily, and a few of the nearest students stop and turn to stare as he continues, oblivious, “And Class 3 is full of puny weaklings, so I must go easy on them!”

Izuku does his best to ignore the stares as they increase; they pass the gates without incident, and he starts looking around for a member of staff…

“And I must listen to Mousy! And… BEST FRIEND!”

And with that, the giant takes off, scattering students left and right as he rushes up to the front door and sweeps Tenya up into a (hopefully not literally, with Machia it can be hard to tell) bone crushing hug.

“Oh, crap…” a familiar voice mutters behind Izuku and he just barely ducks out of the way.

“PENGUIN!” Machia beams as he grabs Shoto. “I have missed you! Where is Fuzzy?!”

“A valid question!” Tenya manages to free his arm and pushes his glasses back up his nose. “If Hitoshi does not come soon, he may be late!...”

“You’re so smart, Best Friend!”

“…Izuku, what the fuck is that?”

“Oh, hey, Bakugo,” Izuku sighs as he turns to the blonde. He wonders how best to explain Machia, and settles on, “That’s just Machia. He’s… Well, he’s my dad’s bodyguard.”

“…Little Lord, who is that?”

“Oh, that?” even without looking, the smile is evident in Shoto’s voice. “That’s…”

“Kacchan!” Izuku cuts him off and pulls Bakugo forwards so Machia can get a good look at him. He does not think Katsuki would appreciate being nicknamed Sparky, or, heaven forbid, Deku. “This is my friend, Kacchan! He saved my life!”

Machia promptly drops Shoto and Tenya and rounds on Bakugo.

“You are wonderful, Kacchan!” the giant wails. “Little Lord makes Lord so happy! He must be protected!”

“Put me down!” the blonde screams. “Izuku!...”

“Sorry, he kind of needs to get it out of his system!” Izuku calls up to him. “On the plus side, he’ll protect you with his life!”

“Yes!” Machia beams. “You are Little Lord’s friend! You make him happy! I will protect you and Best Friend and Penguin and Fuzzy!”

“…What’s Machia doing here, anyway?”

“Nedzu wants him to help some of the older classes with training,” Izuku explains with a sigh. “…Plus Kurogiri’s still on holiday, and dad’s still a bit… touchy about the whole Stain business…”

“…You mean you got grounded,” Shoto snickers.

“Yep.”

“Only you could get grounded for almost being murdered by a serial killer.”

“…Actually, he grounded me for not using Summon on Stain,” Izuku winces. That had certainly been an interesting conversation.

“…where would you send him?” Shoto frowns “…I mean, you couldn’t just let him run off…”

“I think we had best change the subject!” Tenya announces, even as Shoto’s eyes widen in understanding. “Machia, please set Bakugo down! We really must get to class!”

“…Yes, Best Friend,” Machia sighs as he finally sets a very rumpled blond down. “Bye bye, Kacchan!”

“Remember to listen to Principal Nedzu!” Izuku reminds the giant. “And don’t kill anyone!”

“Yes, Little Lord!” Gigantomachia nods and then spots Present Mic. “Parrot! I am here to crush Class 3-A!”

“…What the fuck was that?” Bakugo mutters as he watches the giant rush off, leaving shocked students staring after him. “I mean…”

“I know,” Izuku sighs as there’s a faint crash “He can be a bit… much, but he means well.”

“Your whole family’s insane.”

“I dunno,” Izuku frowns as they head into the school building. “Kurogiri turned out pretty alright…”

“…Is that the weird fog guy from the hospital?”

“Yep.”

“…His name is Kurogiri.”

“Yes.”

“He also has a fanclub,” Shoto adds with a grin. “All Might’s a founding member.”

“Fucking insane,” Bakugo nods.

“Please refrain from such vulgar…”

“Hey, fuck you, Four Eyes!”

“Oh, don’t be like that, Kacchan,” Shoto laughs and then ducks out of the way. “It’s not nice…”

“Don’t call me that, Frosty!”

“…Isn’t it your hero name?” Izuku frowns, and Bakugo freezes.

“I mean, yeah, but…”

“But what, Kacchan?” Izuku smiles. “You’re gonna have to get used to people calling you that. And besides, we’re never getting away from our embarrassing childhood nicknames.”

“Yeah,” Shoto sighs. “I’m forever cursed with the name Penguin.”

“At least your name isn’t directly tied to your parent,” Izuku groans. “It can get so confusing when he’s excited. Tenya’s the only one with a decent name!”

“Oh yeah,” Bakugo frowns. “Why’s…”

“…I got pretty excited when he called me his best friend,” Izuku explains with a groan. He may not remember it clearly, but unfortunately his dad taped the whole thing and regularly enjoys rewatching it. “Machia didn’t quite understand what friends were, so I spent an hour explaining it to him, and why Tenya is the bestest friend ever. I think I might have repeated the word one too many times.”

“To be fair, it would have been rather confusing if he called me Ingenium,” Tenya shrugs and then grimaces. “Although not so much now…”

“Sorry about that,” Bakugo winces. “How is your brother…”

“Not too bad,” Tenya sighs. “Especially now that Stain is off the streets. And… Apparently Uncle Hisashi somehow acquired Stain’s medical records; Tensei seemed to… enjoy them quite a bit…”

“Yeah, well, Stain deserved it!” Izuku declares as they reach their classroom. “Fuck him, thinking he knows what makes a good hero! He obviously has terrible taste!”

He slides the door open.

“Oh, hey!” Kirishima grins as they enter. “Man, Bakugo, congrats on taking down the Hero Killer!”

“Yeah, talk about having a blast!” Kaminari chortles. “Ow, Jiro!...”

“Are you and Midoriya alright?” Yaoyorozu speaks up, obviously concerned.

“Oh, I’m fine!” Izuku grins and throws his arm around Bakugo’s shoulders. “After all, I had Kacchan to protect me!”

“How the fuck did you lot hear about that, anyway?!...”

Ashido wordlessly pulls up a video on her phone.

“…Two U.A. students encountered Stain during their internship. Despite their best efforts to get away, one of them was injured and unable to escape; showing great personal courage, the other minor, who shall only be identified as Kacchan, refused to leave his friend. He did his best to protect his classmate against this so-called Hero Killer’s savage attacks, and finally managed to subdue the villain. Whilst both boys used their Quirks, this is a clear case of self-defence; indeed, I very much look forward to the day when these brave young men join those that protect us…”

“Oh, it’s Mrs Akashi!” Izuku smiles. “She’s good!”

“…Who the fuck is that?” Bakugo frowns. “Why…”

“Hello, there!”

Everyone turns to where Chronos, with a bandage wrapped around his forehead, is smiling in the doorway.

“Mind if I borrow Bakubrat for a bit?”

***

“Hey, relax, Bakubrat,” Chronos chuckles as he closes the door. “You’re not in any trouble, I swear!”

Katsuki isn’t convinced. He glances around the teacher’s lounge; Present Mic is sitting at his desk next to Eraserhead, rubbing his temples, Thirteen is stood by the printer, but apart from them, the room is empty. He wonders whether he’s about to get told off for what happened with the Hero Killer, and clenches his fists; no matter what, he decided at the hospital he would never apologize for his actions.

“Come on, sit down!” Chronos sighs and gently nudges him towards a small coffee table flanked by two sofas.

Bakugo perches on one, back straight, and Shimura-Yagi settles down opposite him.

“You alright, kid?” the hero asks, the smile gone from his face.

“I’m fine,” Katsuki immediately replies. “One of the doctors had a Healing…”

“That’s not what I mean,” Chronos sighs. “Look, you faced a fucking serial killer. That would give anyone nightmares; hell, I’ve never met the guy. I still have nightmares about him!”

“…Oh,” Katsuki frowns as he tries to examine his feelings. How does he feel? Is he traumatized? Is he afraid Stain might break free, or afraid that next time he won’t be so lucky, or perhaps… “…I guess I’m relieved.”

For a second, Chronos stares at him.

Then he bursts out laughing.

“Sorry, sorry!” he chokes out when Katsuki jumps to his feet, offended. “Just… And you said you weren’t cut out to be a hero!”

“…I’m not,” Katsuki growls. What he did – it wasn’t heroic. He didn’t do it because it was the right thing to do; he did it because Izuku was right there, and he couldn’t bear to watch him die, to abandon him. “I just…”

“…Fought off a fucking serial killer, risking your own life, to protect a friend,” Chronos supplies. He takes a deep breath and smiles up at the blonde. “Look, Bakugo, I don’t know what kind of hero you wanted to be, growing up. When you’re little… Being a hero seems all glamorous, and flashy, and like you’ll always be able to save everyone. Reality isn’t like that. Even… Even All Might can’t save everyone. When we decide what sort of hero we want to be, we have to be realistic. But… Just between you and me…” he takes a deep breath. “If Kacchan is the sort of hero who refuses to abandon a friend in need, who is willing to put his life on the line to protect someone… Well, he sounds pretty cool to me.”

The world seems to sway in front of Katsuki’s eyes and he collapses back onto the sofa in shock. Chronos chuckles and shakes his head as he leans forward.

“There’s something I want you to do for me, though.”

“…What?”

“When you walk back into your classroom, I want you to take a look around. I want you to look at Midoriya smiling with his friends. I want you to watch your classmates catching up, laughing. And I want you to tell yourself, ‘I did that’,” Chronos grows serious. “When someone dies… It isn’t just that person affected. Midoriya has a father who would be devastated to lose him. He has friends who would be absolutely heartbroken. Teachers, who would wonder if they failed him; classmates, who would have to look at an empty desk. My philosophy is… When you save a life, you’re not only saving that person. Because there are so many other people whom that action will affect. They can just… Continue as normal. And... You never know how precious normal is, until you lose it.”

Katsuki stares at Chronos. He thinks back to the hospital, to Mr Midoriya frantically checking Izuku was alright, and then grumbling at his son’s exasperation. He thinks about Frosty and Four Eyes, joking about as they reunited with their friend; remembers the giant who seems to absolutely adore Izuku.

He remembers how his mum’s eyes glistened, even as she recounted story after story of her best friend, Inko Midoriya.

“…I want to be a hero,” he admits quietly as he stares down at his hands. “I want… I want to protect people.”

“Well,” Chronos chuckles. “There’s no better place for you to learn that than here at U.A..”

Chapter Text

The next few weeks pass relatively peacefully, an achievement in itself for the Midoriya family. Kurogiri returns from his holiday and immediately fills his room with books on child psychology. Tensei is released from the hospital and asks Mei Hatsume to design him a wheelchair, a request quickly shut down by the combined efforts of Power Loader and Katsumi Iida. Machia accidentally destroys one of the gyms, thus forever securing himself a place in U.A. history. (As soon as the building started collapsing, he curled around all of Class 2-B to shield them. Then he shrugged off several tons of debris and hurried off to apologize to Izuku. Half of 1-A almost fainted and the Maths quiz had to be postponed.) Hitoshi is officially banned from sparring with Yoarashi after the larger teen sends him flying into a wall for the third time in as many days, and Bakugo comes as close as possible to burying the hatchet when he allows himself to be dragged to the nurse's office to visit and goes off on Yoarashi about being more careful with his Quirk.

All in all, the students of Class 1-A settle into a routine of sorts, as exams draw ever closer…

“I haven’t studied at all!” Kaminari groans. “Between the Sports Festival and the internships, it totally slipped my mind!”

“What?” Yoarashi exclaims. “Are you kidding? I can’t believe…”

“Yoarashi, you’re in the top five,” Shoto sighs, barely glancing up from his phone. “You lecturing them is really not going to help matters.”

“…If it’s academics you need help with, I could lend a hand,” Yaoyorozu offers. Then she winces. “The practical exam, on the other hand, is another story…”

“Well, if you know what you want to work on, we could ask Nedzu to let us use the training grounds during the weekend…” Izuku speaks up. He glances around at his classmates. “He could still turn us down, but if we say we’re preparing for exams…”

“That’s an option?”

“U.A. encourages its students to work hard! And go beyond!” Tenya immediately jumps in with an explanation. “Indeed, extra training – when done in moderation – is looked upon favourably! We shall of course have to find a member of staff willing to supervise us…”

“Doesn’t Fuzzy train here with Eraserhead most weekends?” Katsuki points out. He flushes as everyone turns to stare at him, but he continues, “If you just need a teacher present, wouldn’t it be alright to just train somewhere near them?”

“Hey, good thinking, Kacchan!”

“Shut up, Frosty!”

Izuku laughs and makes a mental note to approach Hitoshi with the offer. It certainly sounds like a good idea; his friend could do with sparring with one or two people he’s not familiar with, and, as he surveys the room, there are a few students who could probably benefit from Hitoshi’s more… strategic approach.

“I just wish I knew where to begin,” Yaoyorozu sighs.

“Yeah…” Jiro nods. “Like, I’m sure I’ve got stuff I could work on, but… I dunno, I haven’t got a clue.”

“Maybe we just need someone to come in and point out our weaknesses?” Uraraka asks. "I mean... the Sports Festival was really helpful, but... sometimes you don't notice your problems till it's too late..."

“….You know,” Izuku frowns. “…I think I might know someone who could help…”

“Absolutely not.”

“But why?” Izuku asks. He resists the urge to pout, because he is here in a professional capacity, as a representative of Class 1-A, seeking assistance with their training from a specialist.

“Izuku, I am a retired supervillain,” his dad sighs as he sets down his mug. “I may no longer be in active conflict with heroes, but I cannot, in good conscience, tutor a whole class of aspiring pros. It is simply not done!”

“But you helped my and my friends!” Izuku points out. “And Tensei! And the Pussycats!”

“Point Izuku.”

Dad levels Kurogiri with an unimpressed look.

Kurogiri just treats him to a beaming smile and turns back to the washing up.

“That was different,” dad explains. “You boys are family. It is my responsibility, as a parent, to ensure you are all as ready as possible to face whatever the world throws at you.”

“Plus you’re paranoid.”

“Plus I’m – the point here is that I have no such obligation towards most of your classmates!” dad glares at Kurogiri, who has developed a mysterious cough. “It is a matter of professional pride!”

“But that’s precisely why I’m asking you!” Izuku beams. “Who better to give us a few pointers than the fearsome All For One? I mean, I’m pretty sure there isn’t a single villain out there who could hold a candle to you. And – if you help us avoid basic mistakes, it’ll mean a higher class of heroes. Which in turn will mean most of the incompetent villains will get locked up pretty quick, and only the crème de la crème will be left! So in a way…”

“Flattery will get you nowhere,” dad interrupts him and picks up his paper. “No, Izuku. That is my final answer.”

The situation looks dire, so Izuku plays his trump card.

“…I’ll let you take photos of me in my costume?”

“I’m free all day this Sunday.”

***

“Well, you certainly don’t do anything by halves, do you?”

“Shut up, Tensei,” Hisashi growls as he closes his briefcase. “Don’t think I won’t murder you just because we’re friends. And anyway, why are you tagging along?”

“How could I call myself your friend if I passed up such a wonderful opportunity to laugh at you?”

Hisashi sighs. He resists the temptation to triple check his files and straightens up, because he might as well get this over and done with.

“Alright, Kurogiri, wipe that damned grin off your face and open a Gate to U.A.’s front entrance.”

Kurogiri, the bastard, just laughs.

Hisashi grumbles as he steps through. Izuku is obviously a terrible influence on the Warp user; where are the good old days, when he shivered in fear every time Hisashi so much as looked at him? Of course… that was rather impractical, considering he was too afraid to voice suggestions, and… Such an attitude would also look rather suspect to outside observers… And Hisashi may have developed a certain fondness for the man, and would miss some of the small gestures he never pays attention to, but are the result of Kurogiri showing initiative and actually caring about his wellbeing…

Oh, how his life has changed, he reflects with a wince as he stares up at U.A.. Once he would not have hesitated to kill Kurogiri for his cheek, just like once it would have been nigh on impossible to set foot inside the school grounds. Now it’s as simple as calling Nedzu and asking for permission, an act that is more out of courtesy than anything else. And what is he here for? To teach a class of would-be heroes how to fight his former brothers-in-arms, to reveal his trade secrets to these children. Is he truly so despicable, that he is willing to betray his comrades for something so trivial as…

“By the way, what does Izuku’s costume look like?”

Yes, he certainly is.

“I don’t know,” Hisashi sighs as he adjusts his spare camera. “Izuku gets flustered and changes the subject any time I ask. And Nedzu is an annoying bastard and just laughs.”

“Good morning, Hisashi, Iida,” said annoying bastard greets them. “I thought I would show you to the P.E. Grounds…”

“You mean Katsumi Iida called you and threatened to do unspeakable things to you if Tensei so much as caught sight of miss Hatsume,” Hisashi shudders as he remembers his own conversation with the woman. He is rather glad he is retired and not planning to return to professional villainry; a pissed off Katsumi Iida is only slightly less terrifying than a pissed off Inko, and he's fairly sure she would be furious if he ever... Well, if she found out the man that had watched her youngest for so many combined hours happened to also have a rather large bodycount.

“You are absolutely correct,” Nedzu winces.

“What?” Tensei hurries to keep up with them. “Why?”

“Look, Tensei, this may be hard for you to understand,” Hisashi takes a deep breath. This whole friendship thing is rather tiring, not least because of Tensei's... well, the word idiocy springs to mind. “But you do not need a supersonic wheelchair. Or a built-in flame thrower.”

“You don’t know that!” the young man insists. “Now that I’m out of commission, some of the villains I put away might be out for revenge! I need to be able to protect myself!”

“If you give me their names, I could… look into them for you,” Hisashi offers with a smile. “See which might be possible risks…”

“They’re hypothetical,” Tensei immediately responds. “Totally hypothetical, not real at all! Nothing for you to worry about! Oh, look, I think I see the kids! Hi, Tenya!”

“Tensei?!” his brother hurries up to them. “What are you doing here?”

“He came to point and laugh,” Hisashi mutters as he sets his briefcase down.

“Don’t mind him,” Tensei smiles at the gathered teenagers. “He’s just a little… prickly. Heart of gold, though! And as for me, I am a retired hero with many years of experience, so I thought I should come impart my wisdom upon you youngsters.”

“What experience?” Hisashi asks as he pulls out his files. “You’re only about thirty.”

“I am the son of two prominent heroes, and have been in the business for fifteen years!” Tensei insists. “And I’ve known you for twelve of them! By the way, which of you kids is Katsuki Bakugo?”

“…That would be me…” the blonde steps forward after a moment’s hesitation.

“Great to finally meet you!” Tensei grabs his hand and shakes it. “Thanks for fucking Stain up! Really appreciate it! You ever need a favour, us at Idaten would be happy to help.”

“And that, dear children, is a truly heroic attitude,” Hisashi remarks. “Tenya, Izuku, here, help me hand these out.”

“I’m retired!” Tensei shrugs. “I’m allowed to be a little vindictive. Besides, you do not get to lecture me!”

Hisashi rolls his eyes. He surveys the gathered students, dressed in their gym clothes; he waits until all of them have received their files, and then clears his throat.

“Right, good morning. My name is Hisashi Midoriya, and I am Izuku’s father. What you have just received is a Quirk Analysis Report. They’re quite common; larger agencies may have dedicated Quirk analysts, but many smaller hero agencies or freelancers will contract a consulting firm to prepare such a report. The goal is to highlight possible strengths and weaknesses; perhaps provide a new perspective, or some new ideas. I apologize, by the way, for those that are a little more speculative, but I was basing my knowledge on Izuku’s observations and publicly available information. If you find any serious errors or misconceptions, please report them to me and I’ll be sure to amend my suggestions.”

“…This thing’s like six pages long…” a blonde boy with an odd zigzag in his hair says, flipping through his file.

“Yes, I apologize for that, but it was getting rather late and I wanted to get some sleep.”

“Why doesn’t Iida have one?” a muscular teenager with very odd lips speaks up. “Or Yukiyama?”

“…Because Uncle Hisashi knows our Quirks inside and out,” Shoto explains with a sigh. “…Every month we have to sit down for a Quirk review, so he can suggest possible improvements.”

“Speaking of which – Bakugo, I apologize, but the report I’m working on for you is taking a little longer than I expected,” Hisashi sighs. “I should have it completed by Wednesday, but in the meanwhile, I provided a few general suggestions.”

“…What?”

“It’s his way of showing he cares,” Tensei lets out a long-suffering sigh. “You’re looking at someone who got a fifty-page-long report for his birthday every year.”

“Hang on,” the girl with the earphone Quirk speaks up. “Why’s my report say LEARN TO FIGHT in capital letters?”

“Jiro, correct?” Hisashi glances around at the gathered teenagers. This, right here, is his primary concern, the first thing he considered when he began this task. “What will you do if you encounter a deaf villain?”

“Well, I…”

“Or a villain damages your speakers?”

“Err…”

“Or a villain possesses the ability to steal Quirks?” Hisashi asks. “I want you all to think seriously about what you’d do if you couldn’t use your Quirk. Saying it will never happen is foolish and short-sighted. Consider, if you will, Eraserhead: true, he is a hero, but there is nothing to say there does not exist a villain with a similar Quirk. You don’t know what’s out there. Villains – true villains, like Stain, will not hesitate to kill you. And as heroes, you will always be at a disadvantage. Your Quirks are part of public record; you will be broadcast on news stations using them. You will be expected to hold back. I am not a hero, not a member of staff here at U.A.; I’m not here to give you all a speech about going beyond, or the greater good, or obeying the law. If anything, I am here representing your families, the people who will watch you out there and pray you will come home safe. And if there is one thing you owe them, it is to prepare for the worst now, so that said worst isn’t fatal. Any other questions?”

For a moment everyone is silent.

“…What would you suggest I work on, Uncle Hisashi?” Tenya finally decides to break the tension.

“Figure out a way of disabling your opponents that doesn’t involve high-speed impacts to the head,” Hisashi shrugs. “From what I understand, acute subdural hematomas are generally frowned upon.”

“Look… Kirishima, just because your Quirk makes your head hard doesn’t mean you should literally try breaking through walls with it. You can’t be a complete moron if you made it into U.A., so STOP AND THINK.”

“Ashido, you seem like a charming young lady, but work on your aim. None of your teammates will appreciate it if you accidentally dissolve their shoes.”

“Capes are dumb and a recipe for disaster. That’s all I have to say to you.”

“If your big discharge fries your brain, consider investigating the effects of smaller charges, and whether you have any limitations there. But be careful; you don’t want to be the literal Heart Attack Hero.”

“Uraraka, you are my new favourite. See, everyone, she identified a serious weakness and took steps to eliminate it. Gold star, keep up the good work!”

“Yoarashi, a little advice: a grand speech is a wonderful opportunity for your opponent to blast you. DON’T DO THAT. Or save it for when their safely in handcuffs, or even better – your shower! Don’t just stand there like a huge human target. They’re villains, they don’t believe in fair play!”

“Bakugo, if you want to practice blasting human targets, I could bring Gigantomachia along.”

“I…” the teenager hesitates. “…I’m not sure that’s a good idea…”

“Trust me, Machia is pretty much indestructible,” Hisashi smiles. “Not sure he’d even feel it. And besides, he’d love to help you out; after all, the stronger you are, the better you can protect Izuku.”

“…I’d appreciate it.”

“Right,” Hisashi surveys his surroundings. Most of the kids are hard at work; Hitoshi and Eraserhead are conducting an impromptu combat lesson, Izuku is talking with the Blockhead Trio of Kirishima, Sato and Kaminari… There.

He takes a deep breath and heads over to his next target. (Student. Student!)

“Yaoyorozu, correct?” he smiles at the young lady. “Quirk: Creation. Anything you’d like to ask me?”

“I…” the girl hesitates; then she shakes her head. “…No, sir.”

“Oh?” Hisashi hums. He can practically feel her uncertainty, her lack of confidence; he knows the signs all too well. She is the weakest link in this class, the first one a true villain would target; a powerful Quirk, yes, and intelligent, but a weak mind, a mind that could so easily be turned, twisted, broken. And she may not know it, but that lack of confidence can easily be used not only against her, but against her classmates. Her friends. Izuku. Hisashi needs to eliminate that risk. So he chuckles as he glances around, carefully not paying her too much attention. “Well, I suppose you are the smartest here. Heck, you probably know the drawbacks of your Quirk far better than I could ever hope to!”

“I… I’m not sure about that, sir…”

“No need for false modesty,” Hisashi shrugs. “No, Jiro, don’t use your Quirk! I know it can be difficult at first, but you need to learn to fight without it! Ah, miss Yaoyorozu, that reminds me – how are you when it comes to combat experience? Judo, karate…”

“…Nothing like that, sir,” the girl winces. “I mostly rely on my Quirk…”

“Well, I’d suggest a few weeks with Hitoshi and Eraserhead,” Hisashi shrugs. “You’ll be taking down blackbelts in no time, even if they’ll insist you cheated. I apologize for not including any such suggestions in your file, but – well, Tokoyami showed great presence of mind, attacking you like that. If he let up for even a second… But then again, it just shows how serious a threat he considered you!”

“…What?...”

Hisashi barely resists the urge to laugh.

“After all, against most of your classmates – you would be the obvious victor! And even against him! If he let up for even a moment, you could create a mirror to reflect the sun, or perhaps a torch – are you capable of creating working batteries? Or a flare, or a very large firework… Or some sort of sleeping gas, or – well, a gun would be a little violent for a school festival… Or – would a net work? There are probably more effective methods… A stun gun, tranquilizer darts… Do you mind if I stop there? I am starting to feel very uneasy, standing in such close proximity…”

The young lady giggles and then pauses, surprised. “…Thank you, sir.”

“What for?” Hisashi frowns. “And you can stop snickering, Tensei, you brat, I can hear you!”

“Alright!” Izuku hurries over to them. “So, dad… Want to come see my costume?”

“Yes,” Hisashi immediately nods. “Let’s go. No, wait, I need my cameras!”

“I got them!” Tensei grins as he wheels himself over. “Now come on, Izuku, costume time!”

Hisashi barely manages to stand still as the teenagers bid him goodbye; then he only manages to keep his pace slow as Tensei, the boys and him head inside through sheer force of will. He may be retired, but he still has a reputation to uphold. It’s strange, he reflects; this should just be another ridiculous hero costume, and yet…

“…Wait,” he pauses as a horrifying thought occurs to him. “Is your costume based on All Might?”

Dear lord, if it is, he will have to brace himself. And make sure to force his most convincing smile, because he is a supportive parent and it is only a costume and he completely earned the ultimate betrayal that would feel like…

“…No, it’s not based on All Might…” Izuku flushes.

“Izuku took inspiration from a different hero of his!” Tenya informs them with a cheeky smile.

“I see,” Hisashi sighs. Well, at least Tensei is somewhat tolerable, even if he will no doubt gloat about it for many weeks. In fact, Hisashi reflects as he glances down at his friend, he probably already knows. That’s probably why he has such a wide smile on his face, ready to tease them all about it.

He waits outside as Izuku gets changed, trying to ignore Tensei and Nedzu’s excited smiles as he triple checks his backup camera. And then the door opens, and…

“…Why are you dressed in a suit?” Hisashi asks with a frown. There’s nothing he can see about the costume that is reminiscent of Ingenium; perhaps the mask, but… A lot of hero costumes have masks, because jaws and noses make for very tempting targets, and…

“You’re an idiot,” Izuku groans.

“Hisashi, think carefully,” Tensei laughs. “Who does Izuku know that always wears a suit?”

“…Nedzu?”

“No, someone taller than me,” the principal chuckles. “You know him quite well, though.”

“I don’t…” Hisashi trails off.

Oh.

Bonus:

"I'll bring it up with Midoriya next time I see him," Yotsubashi nods.

"That might take a while," his assistant comments. "I could arrange a meeting for you?"

"Alright," Detnerat's CEO sighs. "But no earlier than next week; I need to prepare myself."

"Oh, is he as intimidating as the rumours say?"

"Yes," Yotsubashi groans. "Plus he has new photos of his son."

Chapter Text

“Alright,” Izuku downs the remains of his juice and jumps up from his seat. “Wish me luck!”

“Oh, Little Lord! May I…”

“No, Gigantomachia,” Hisashi chuckles. “You need to help Kurogiri around the house, remember?”

“…Yes, Lord,” the giant sighs, his shoulders slumping in disappointment as Izuku hurries past him.

Hisashi smiles as he finishes off his coffee, because there is something… strangely heartwarming about his bodyguard’s enthusiasm. (Even if it has probably traumatized several teenagers. Oh well, at least there’ll be a lot less that can intimidate them once they enter the workforce.)

“Don’t worry,” he decides to be kind and comfort his loyal follower. “Summer holidays are coming, and you know what that means…”

“Yes!” Machia perks up at the thought of more time to spend with Izuku and his friends. “Little Lord has such fun followers. Not like doctor!”

“…You’re right there,” Hisashi winces at the unpleasant memories that brings up. He stares down at his mug, wondering what…

“Bye dad, bye Machia! Be good!”

“Bye bye, Little Lord!”

He’s probably fine, Hisashi shrugs as he stands up. It’s likely he’s retired by now. Didn’t he have a grandson around Izuku’s age?...

***

“How do you feel, Bakubrat?”

“I think I’m gonna puke.”

“Oh, shit,” Chronos winces. “Want to get changed into your gym clothes? I can go talk with Nedzu, I’m sure he…”

“What?” Katsuki looks up from where he’s been fiddling with his belt, trying to remember what all the junk on it is. “Oh, no, it’s just… I’m kind of anxious about the exam.”

“Don’t scare me like that!” the young hero elbows him in the ribs. “But… You’re… okay wearing your costume again? Especially the… You know…”

“I guess,” Katsuki grimaces as he lifts his arm to examine his gauntlet. “Don’t know what I was thinking…”

“Yeah, they are kind of… bulky,” Chronos admits. “But hey, we’re all young and dumb at some point. I mean, I once drew up a costume with all these creepy hands attached, including one over my face.”

“…Wouldn’t that obscure your vision?”

“…Yeah, that’s what Uncle Nighteye said when he saw it,” Chronos sighs. “But you could ask for… a bit of a revision of your costume. I mean, I know it’s been rough, but… You’ve got the excuse that you know what to expect and want to make it more practical. And the whole sweat collecting thing… It’s a neat idea, but…”

“…I was wondering if it would be possible to adjust the size of the explosion,” Katsuki admits. After Stain… He knows now he might have to use his Quirk against villains, but – if he had his gauntlets, and Stain had dodged, it would have been game over. Larger explosions would still be useful against robots, but smaller blasts would both make him more mobile and have a smaller chance of killing…

“Good thinking, Bakubrat!” Shimura-Yagi grins. “We’ll draw up an application first thing tomorrow. Now, come on! To the exam site!”

Katsuki rolls his eyes at the young hero, who just laughs.

“Don’t suppose you’re willing to tell me what the exam is?” he asks as they step out of the locker room.

“My lips are sealed by special order of Principal Nedzu!” Shimura-Yagi sighs. “But don’t worry, Bakubrat, you’ll do just fine. You looking forward to summer camp?”

“Yeah,” Katsuki smiles. He is actually kind of… excited. He was never particularly keen on schooltrips before, but he thinks it’ll be different this time. He’ll have the chance to hang out with Izuku, and a few of the other students seem to have warmed up to him since the Stain incident… Then he winces. “Just hope I don’t flunk this exam…”

Bakugo walks another few steps and then realizes Chronos has stopped. He turns, confused, to find the young hero frowning at him.

“Chronos? Everything alright?”

“Just…” the young hero hesitates. “…Thought you should know, that even if you fail this exam… You’ll still be coming to Summer Camp.”

“Wha…”

“Come on, Bakubrat," Chronos darts past him. "We don’t want to keep Nedzu waiting!”

***

“Alright! So, Midoriya, any ideas how to deal with Thirteen? Midoriya? Are you – are you okay?”

Izuku groans and buries his face in his hands. He feels slightly sick at the prospect of the upcoming exam. He understands the reasoning behind it, but still, he can’t help but wish he had been paired with Tenya, or Shoto, or even Kacchan – someone who already knows about All For One.

Someone he doesn’t have to tell.

Izuku looks up and Uraraka treats him to a confused, if slightly nervous, smile, and it twists the knife in Izuku’s gut. Because his exam has already begun. The staff at U.A. – they’re not watching him to see how he’ll perform against Thirteen.

They want to see whether he’s willing to sacrifice Uraraka.

And Izuku – he doesn’t want to have to make that choice, doesn’t want to be responsible for the consequences. With Kacchan – that was easy, a split second decision in a life or death situation. This – sitting in a school bus, driving out to take an exam – it’s so mundane. So normal. If he chooses not to tell, Uraraka will likely never know, never blame him.

And yet…

Why should he be afraid? Why should he have to hide something so crucial? And not even from the general public, but his classmates, the people whose very lives may one day depend on him. If he is always scared, always keeping All For One hidden, there will come a day when he will have to make a choice, a choice between letting someone die and exposing his Quirk. And – that someone may not be a stranger; it could be Uraraka, or Jiro, or Kirishima…

Izuku Midoriya is not a villain, he is not All For One; Izuku Midoriya is going to be a hero, and…

Heroes sacrifice themselves to save people.

“Actually, Uraraka,” Izuku looks up and treats his teammate to a rather shaky smile. His hands are shaking, he knows, but he tries desperately to ignore it, because – everything worked out with Kacchan. It’ll be fine. “…There’s something you should know about my Quirk…”

***

“Alright! Come on, Yaoyorozu, let’s show Eraserhead our burning passion!...”

“No!”

Yoarashi freezes, mouth open and arm outstretched, and Momo almost takes it back. But…

The larger teen has a nasty habit of rushing into things, of over-reliance on his Quirk. And – against Eraserhead, their Quirks will be practically useless; they need to plan first, make sure they’re prepared for when they face their homeroom teacher.

And Momo has realized that Mr Midoriya was right. There were so many ways she could have taken down Tokoyami! She allowed herself to be convinced she needed to act like the rest of the contestants, show her fighting skills, when that was clearly not the right approach! If she had created a gun or a torch like he suggested, instead of a silly shield, she might have won! So starting from now, she will be more decisive! She will be more confidant! She was elected as vice-president for a reason; she must show her classmates they were not wrong to trust her!

“I am sorry, Yoarashi, but we must think carefully about… Yoarashi!”

She resists the temptation to throws something at the boy as he takes off; instead she hurriedly focuses on Creating a tranquilizer gun.

Would they fail her if she shot Yoarashi?...

***

Katsuki gets it.

Four Eyes glances over at him and then swiftly turns away, and Katsuki has to resist the urge to groan, because of course they’ve been paired together. Who else would U.A. select for him, if not the guy he basically tried to murder a few short weeks ago? What could possibly go wrong?! It’s not like Four Eyes will have some completely justified reservations about teaming up with the guy who hospitalized his best friend.

And… Katsuki isn’t ashamed to admit, he’s jealous of Iida. And now, here he has the perfect opportunity to fuck him over; he just has to sit here, and wait out the clock, and they’ll both fail the exam. They’ll still get to go away to camp, but he’ll have the satisfaction of knowing Mr Perfect Student has to attend extra classes.

But Iida is Izuku’s best friend, and…

Katsuki wants, more than anything, to make their childhood dreams a reality. He wants to be a hero, yes; but he wants to face down villains alongside Izuku, like they imagined before he got his Quirk. He wants Izuku to be able to think of Kacchan as a friend, a comrade, and not a bully. And if he wants to team up with Izuku, that… That’ll mean teaming up with Frosty and Fuzzy and Four Eyes.

He has to decide whether his resentment is worth more than his dreams.

“…Any ideas?”

“Huh?” Four Eyes turns to face him. “Oh, erm… I was thinking that, perhaps, it would be best to retreat and summon help…”

“Yeah,” Katsuki nods. “Not sure how far you’re going to get, though; I’d bet Power Loader has dug up at least half that field by now…”

“Yes, but that will make no difference if we are airborne!”

“…Right,” Bakugo slowly nods. “Thing is, I can’t make it all the way to the gate without touching down once. Not with just my hands. And I land on shaky ground, or Power Loader grabs me, it’s game over.”

"Well, then the solution is simple!" Iida exclaims. “All we have to do is get you closer!”

***

“Great,” Ojiro groans. “Why’d we have to get stuck with Chronos?”

There’s a faint crash as the hero Decays another building.

“…If I came up against a villain with Decay, I’d leg it,” Shoto admits.

“Agreed, let’s run.”

Another crash, this time closer.

“Problem is, he’s between us and the gate…” Shoto winces. This would be so much simpler with Izuku, who would undoubtedly already have at least three plans. “…One of us has to distract him, while the other goes for help.”

“Yeah, but… Which one of us faces that?”

“…Hang on,” something occurs to Shoto, and he perks up. “He’s still a teacher! He can’t just Decay us! That’s our key advantage; he has to hold back! We don’t!”

“Right!” Ojiro smiles. “Still, we gotta be careful… What if I fought him?! I’ll have an advantage in hand-to-hand…”

“Yeah!” Shoto grins. “He has these special gloves for when he wants to avoid accidentally using his Quirk! He puts those on, he’s basically Quirkless! I could put up an ice wall, too, when I get past him; it would slow him down a bit… Unless…”

There’s another crash and the ground shakes.

“…I think we should still run.”

***

"...Good, good..." Recovery Girl hums as she watches the screens. She chuckles when she spots Bakugo and Iida seemingly discussing the best course of action and makes a mental note to send a screenshot to Chronos; as someone who had to regularly deal with his Quirk-related anxiety attacks... She really should have retired long ago, she knows, but whenever she considers it, a new student will come along and remind her why she loves this job so much. Saving people is incredibly rewarding, of course, but there's nothing that can compare to getting to know students, watching them grow and overcome obstacles...

No, there's no feeling like it in the world.

And, speaking of overcoming obstacles, Midoriya and Uraraka are making their move. Thirteen wisely took up a position just in front of the gate and, as she watches, Uraraka dives out from where she was hiding and makes a mad dash for the gate. Thirteen just reaches out their hand, snaps the cover on their finger open...

...And nothing happens.

"Oh my!" Recovery Girl laughs as the hero looks down at their hand, obviously surprised; but they’re a pro, and familiar with Izuku's Quirk, so they snap out of it quickly and as soon as Uraraka is within reach they reach out, to intercept her, and...

Well, it looks like Uraraka learned a lot from her time at Gunhead's agency, Recovery Girl reflects as Thirteen hits the deck and the girl snaps the handcuffs on.

"Uraraka and Midoriya have passed!"

***

“This is a terrible idea.”

“Yes, we have already ascertained how you feel,” Four Eyes repeats. “Now please close your mouth, or else you might bite your tongue off.”

Katsuki resists the temptation to tell Iida where to shove his advice, and tries to make himself more comfortable. It’s not exactly an easy feat; whoever designed the bastard’s costume clearly never expected a situation where a teenager would be riding on his shoulders. 

…Then the bastard takes off at full speed, and Bakugo latches onto his helmet with a scream, almost tugging the bloody thing off. He almost closes his eyes against the unrelenting wind, but that of course would not help their plan whatsoever, so he forces them open wider, even as they start to tear up. He braces himself when they reach the field, but nothing happens; they start crossing it...

And then, about midway across, Four Eyes seems to falter. Katsuki doesn't hesitate; he kicks off Iida's shoulders, propels himself up into the air with the force of Explosion (and refraining from glancing back down to see how badly he dented Iida's costume). He needs to stay airborne, to stay out of Power Loader's reach. He forces himself higher, higher than normal; he can see the gate ahead coming closer and closer...

...And then he narrowly avoids slamming into the bloody board on top of the thing; he barely has time to brace before he crashes into the ground, rolls another couple of yards, and finally comes to an undignified stop flat on his face.

"Fucking hell..." he groans as he rolls himself over onto his back. He's pretty sure he's broken something.

“Bakugo and Iida have passed! No, I think that counts as a pass. Yes, I know he didn’t go through the gate, but…”

“Fuck you, of course it’s a pass!” Bakugo yells. “Bloody hell, I think I need a stretcher…”

Chapter Text

“Guess what?! Bakubrat passed his exam!” Tenko cheers as he lets himself into his home. He's in a great mood, and can't wait for dad to get home to boast to him; he's already shared the wonderful news with a receptionist, security guard, two guys from Legal and the head of Accounting.

“Oh wonderful,” Grandpa Torino responds. “Who’s that, again?”

“It’s his favourite student,” Uncle Nighteye supplies; the rhythmic thuds make it clear he has not even slowed down stamping whatever mass of paperwork dad left for him. Tenko considers being very offended; then he remembers Uncle Nighteye would probably keep doing paperwork if the building caught fire. (Heck, Tenko is well aware the sidekick would probably choose to save the paperwork instead of Tenko.)

“Is he allowed to have a favourite student? Shouldn’t he be impartial?”

“I don’t want to hear that from you!” Tenko huffs as he joins the two men in the living room. He throws himself down onto the sofa and pilfers one of Torino’s tagoyaki. “Not that it’s not great to see you, but – what are you doing here?”

“What am I doing here? What am I doing here? All For One’s grandson is a student at U.A.! What do you mean what am I doing here? I want to know what he’s up to!”

“Also, he missed you,” Uncle Nighteye adds. He holds up a report with a wince, and Tenko can’t help the twinge of sympathy he feels; it looks like dad filled the form out in with a pink highlighter, whilst also dripping copious amounts of blood. “He snuck a bar of chocolate into your room.”

“Shut up, pencil neck!”

“Aw, thanks, Grandpa Torino!” Tenko laughs. He is used to Torino’s tsundere tendencies, and suspects the elderly hero is an expert at electronics (or at least fucking them up) considering the number of times he arrived at Might Tower because ‘his damned microwave exploded again’. (Dad once made the mistake of asking why he always bought the same model if it was so unreliable. It was not pretty.) “But you don’t have to worry; there’s nothing suspicious going on.”

“Yes, but what if he’s playing the long game? What if you’ve missed…”

“Oh, ye of little faith,” Tenko chuckles. “I’ve been keeping notes.”

“Cinnamon Roll Observation Log? Seriously, Tenko?”

“Look, if you don’t like it, you can go spy on the kid,” Tenko sticks his tongue out at his dad. “Oh wait, Nedzu threatened to do unspeakable things to you if you so much as looked at him funny.”

“At least he’s been keeping notes,” Uncle Nighteye, ever the peacekeeper, points out as All Might opens the notebook on the most recent entry. "Perhaps we will be able to draw some conclusions based on his observations..."

“BAKUBRAT PASSED! I AM THE GREATEST TEACHER EVER! GO TENKO, GO TENKO, YOU’RE! NUMBER! ONE! Also, C.R. passed his exam. Good for him. Who’s C.R?”

“Oh, it got a bit annoying writing Cinnamon Roll all the time, so I just write C.R.,” Tenko shrugs. “Hey, where’s the pizza menu?...”

“…I told you this was a bad idea,” Grandpa Torino mutters.

“XX June – C.R. brought in muffins. I think he’s trying to poison the teachers. Will test for poison. Later – still no effects; poison may be slow-acting. Will nobly sacrifice myself and eat as many muffins as I can. If I die, give my Limited Edition All Might pin collection to Katsuki Bakugo.”

Uncle Nighteye laughs.

"Ran into Midoriya senior today, coming out of Nedzu’s office – apparently they have a monthly chess game. (Which is lowkey terrifying, because it means Nedzu has access to a massive arsenal of Quirks. I don't think we should worry so much about AfO as our new rodent overlords.) He was really nice – gave me a Quirk Analysis Report (For free! FROM ONECORE LABORATORIES!) and a box of macarons. I checked with Nedzu, and he said they mostly just talk about Quirks. He also said if I was suspicious of the macarons, he would dispose of them safely.”

“Those were from Midoriya?!”

“ZZ May – I wonder if I could get Bakubrat to call me Nii-chan?... Tenko, you need to take this seriously!”

“I am! And I think I’ve figured out Cinnamon Roll’s evil scheme!”

“What?! What is it?!”

“He’s waiting for dad to die of old age,” Tenko rolls his eyes. “I’m ordering takeout. You guys want anything?”

***

“…Could I at least pay you half?” Hitoshi groans.

“Sorry, no can do!” the stall owner shakes his head. “My mother would kill me if I took your money.”

“Oh, the challenges of fame…”

“Shut up, Shoto,” Hitoshi snaps. “I can make you walk off the mall roof, you know!”

Shoto just laughs and returns to examining the merch, and Hitoshi glances over at his friends (and Bakugo) and seriously considers just ditching them all. He didn't even come for anything specific; he just tagged along with 1-A to Kiyashi Ward Shopping Mall, cause it beats sitting at home. Unfortunately, though, since Tenya is basically Mr. Boyscout, none of his friends need to buy anything for Summer Camp, either...

...Which is how Hitoshi has found himself in the slightly awkward position of desperately trying to persuade someone to let him pay for a 'Quirks aren't evil' t-shirt.

“…Fine,” he relents, because he knows Grampa. A little embarrassment over a t-shirt is nothing, compared to how happy Reo Yamada will be when he receives it. “I’ll take it.”

“And I will take the purple phone case!” Tenya adds. “I am sure Tensei will appreciate it!”

“Hey, how much is this mug?”

The four friends all turn to stare at Bakugo.

“What?! What is it?!”

“…You’re buying your parents a set of ‘Quirks aren’t evil’ mugs for their anniversary?” Izuku checks.

“What? No!” the blonde flushes. “No, it’s just… I thought Chronos might like it…”

“Indeed, Bakugo!” Tenya beams. “I am sure Chronos would appreciate the gesture!...”

“Hey, fuck off, Four Eyes!”

“…Are they alright?”

“Yeah,” Izuku, ever the... well, in this case manipulator, smiles at the stall owner as the two start to bicker. “We’ll take the two phone cases, five t-shirts, three mugs… Anything else?”

“Takeaway mug!” Shoto holds up the item in question.

“What he said,” Izuku nods. “How much in total?”

“Look, since you’re U.A. students and Shinso’s friends,” (Hitoshi groans at that, but no one pays him any attention. Why would they; he’s only the inspiration behind all the merch.) “I’ll give it to you half price. Just get those two away from my stall before they scare away all my customers.”

“Alright!” Izuku cheers as they leave with their purchases, Hitoshi pulling his hood up to hopefully avoid any more run ins with admirers. (He’s starting to understand Mic’s weird fashion sense; least no one ever recognizes him on days off.) “Way to go, Kacchan, Tenya!”

“I must admit, I feel rather conflicted,” Tenya sighs. “Is it truly…”

“Look, no one forced the guy to give us a discount!” Bakugo snaps.

"Hey, 'Quirks aren't evil' merch!" they hear a familiar voice back in the direction they came from.

"SERIOUSLY? THAT'S SO AWESOME..."

"...Should we save him from Kirishima and Yoarashi?" Izuku asks.

"No," Hitoshi shakes his head. "Let's just quietly walk away..."

And with that, they hightail it to the other end of the mall.

“…Do we need anything else for summer camp?” Shota frowns once they've found a safe space to hide, far enough they can no longer hear even Yoarashi's exclamations.

“I’m all set!” Hitoshi grins. He's rather looking forward to the trip; he might not be transferring (yet), but Nedzu allowed him to tag along on the basis that he shouldn't fall any further behind.

“I got all the crap I need,” Bakugo shrugs. Then he glares when they all turn to stare at him. “What?! I go camping with my dad!”

“…Quick question, Kacchan,” Izuku pauses. “When exactly is your parents anniversary?”

“…September…” the blonde mumbles.

Shoto can’t quite hold back his laughter, and even Hitoshi smiles. The whole reason Bakugo agreed to join the rest of Class 1-A at the mall was because he claimed to need an anniversary gift for his parents; this however… Well, it certainly explains a lot.

“Then I suppose there is nothing else we need!” Tenya beams. “It is time to, as they say, let loose and have some fun! Especially since we are celebrating the end of our exams! To the nearest arcade!”

“…Does he seriously always talk like that?”

“Yep,” Izuku laughs as he pulls Bakugo along. “You get used to it after a while.”

“Was pretty funny when we were little,” Shoto adds. “Picture a little kid using words like ‘felicitations’ or ‘innovative’.”

“And lecturing other little kids about why, even if they’re yucky, you need to eat all your peppers…”

“Could we perhaps change the subject?” Tenya asks.

“Oh no, Tenya, there is no way…”

“Bakugo, have you ever heard the story about how Izuku’s Quirk first manifested?”

“Don’t you dare!”

“Hey, look, purikura!” Hitoshi points out, desperate to distract his friends. He doesn’t mind teasing most of the time, but most of his ‘embarrassing childhood stories’ are a bit more… Awkward. He doesn’t quite feel ready to share with Bakugo how he first met Izuku, or any of the dozen other tales that point to his less than stellar years in foster care. “How bout we take a picture?!”

“I’ll just go wait…”

“Oh no you don’t, Kacchan!” Izuku, obviously happy to change the subject, grabs him before he can make a getaway. “It’ll be fun!”

Despite his protests, they manage to manoeuvre Bakugo inside the booth. (Although only after Hitoshi threatens to use his Quirk to make him come inside. Just in case, they make sure the blonde is surrounded on all sides so he can’t make a last minute break for the exit.)

It’s still every bit as fun as when they were younger, and soon enough even Bakugo has loosened up; they pull ridiculous faces, and at one point Hitoshi steals Tenya’s glasses for a picture. Then Shoto and Izuku get into an argument about which effects best represent the spirit of summer, an argument that only ends when Tenya selects a third option, thus uniting them against a common foe. There must be something about the magic of purikura, Hitoshi reflects, or they pumped some weird gas in, because Bakugo asks (in a surprisingly quiet and bashful voice) whether they could send him a digital copy.

Of course they do; they even let him keep the printouts.

“I’d better get going,” Hitoshi excuses himself after their photoshoot. He glances at his watch and winces; he wishes he could hang out a bit longer, but… “I want to drop the t-shirt off, and the hospital’s literally in the opposite direction…”

“Give our regards to your grandfather!” Tenya smiles. “Tell him we wish him a speedy recovery!”

Hitoshi waves goodbye to his friends and then hurries off towards the train station.

Thinking about his grandfather brings a smile to his face, because Reo Yamada is incredibly like his son (particularly when it comes to embarrassing Hitoshi). Within three days of being admitted, every nurse on the ward knew his grandson came second during the U.A. Sports Festival. And although they all giggle whenever they see him, and Hitoshi low-key wishes the ground would swallow him whole, he tries to visit every day, because Grampa just lights up when he sees him.

Hitoshi just manages to slip onto the train at the last minute. The compartment is almost completely empty, and he knows the hospital is a fair distance away, so he sits down and pulls out his phone. He can't quite remember which stop he needs to get off at, and focuses on searching for directions. Someone sits down next to him and he shuffles away a bit, to make more space for them...

Then he freezes when they throw an arm around his shoulders and exclaim, “Hitoshi! Long time no see!”

***

“I am going to be all alone again,” Hisashi grumbles.

“…You have Gigantomachia, sir,” Kurogiri points out with a sigh, not even looking up from the washing up. “And anyway, Izuku and I will not be away that long…”

“I know, I know,” Hisashi gallantly resists the temptation to pout. “Just… You’ve both grown up so quickly! What am I going to do when you both move out?”

“Adopt a cat?”

“…No, Gigantomachia would step on the poor thing,” Hisashi winces. Then his phone rings, and he groans. “God, if it’s Tensei with another hair-brained scheme, friend or not, I swear…”

He frowns when he picks up his phone, though, because it’s an unknown number. He takes a deep breath, prays it isn’t someone calling to report Izuku has run into another serial killer, and answers.

“Uncle Hisashi!” a familiar voice wails. “I’m so sorry!”

Chapter Text

“What on…” Hisashi desperately tries to identify the caller, who has devolved into hysterical sobbing. “…Hitoshi?”

A particularly loud wail seems to be all the confirmation he’ll get.

“Kurogiri,” Hisashi hisses. Whatever happened, they need to find Hitoshi as soon as possible and get him to safety. He clears his throat and, in his normal voice, says, “Hitoshi, we’ll come get you. Where?...”

“Excuse me,” a new voice comes on the line. “Pardon… Are you a relative of Shinso’s?”

“Pretty much,” Hisashi shrugs. The details of his exact relationship to Hitoshi can, frankly, wait until the teenager is tucked up on the sofa with a nice cup of cocoa. Besides which, the voice sounds vaguely familiar. That is not necessarily a good sign; if this is a kidnapping, Hisashi needs to make sure the abductor knows Hitoshi is far more valuable alive. He does not want to have to face down a grief-stricken Aizawa. “I don’t suppose you’d be willing to tell me where you are?...”

“Outside The Complete Set,” the voice supplies. “Oh, I apologize…”

“…I know where it is,” Hisashi sighs, because of course Izuku’s hero obsession would once again save the day. At least he can probably assume this isn’t a kidnapping plot. (Or if it is, the abductors are particularly stupid and would probably only realize they’ve screwed up when he’s done ripping them to shreds.) “I’m sending someone with a teleportation Quirk; Hitoshi should be able to recognize the Gate…”

Truer words were never spoken; the minute Kurogiri, still clad in his apron, has opened a Warp Gate, Hitoshi comes barrelling through, a horrified expression on his face.

“Uncle Hisashi, I’m sorry! I don’t know… I didn’t mean to! I…”

“Hitoshi, calm down! Deep breaths,” he looks up when another person steps into the kitchen and winces. It might not be an abduction, but he thinks he’d much rather take inept kidnappers, if only for the stress relief. “…Sir Nighteye.”

“Mister Midoriya?” the sidekick stares at him. “…You’re a relative of Shinso’s?”

“No,” Hisashi can’t resist rolling his eyes. “Hitoshi appears to have dialled a random phone number. So, in keeping with my eeviil persona, I shall take full advantage of this situation; the minute you leave this house, I will steal his Quirk, drown him in the washing machine and dispose of his body by having Kurogiri Warp it into the nearest active volcano.”

Hitoshi manages a weak laugh.

“That’s just his sense of humour,” Kurogiri explains to the sidekick as he pulls off his apron. “Hitoshi and Izuku have been friends for years. Would you like some cocoa, tea…”

“…I’ll pass,” Sir Nighteye declines. “Do you have some way of contacting Shinso’s parents?...”

“Of course,” Hisashi nods. “Kurogiri, find out where Izuku is and…”

“NO!” Hitoshi screams. “No, I can’t… Uncle Hisashi, I told!... They know!”

“HITOSHI! Take a deep breath and tell me – who did you tell what? You’re not making any sense!”

“I – I told him Izuku was All For One’s grandson!” Hitoshi wails. “I swear I didn’t mean to, but…”

“Fuck,” Hisashi allows himself a split second of panic. Then he gathers himself; he is a parent first, and so he needs to stay calm for Hitoshi’s sake. “Alright, Hitoshi, we’ll figure this out. Just… Drink your cocoa, calm down. Then you can tell me exactly what happened, and I’ll… track down whoever you told, and… neutralize them.”

“…Why do I feel like I should arrest you?”

“Look, I’m trying to calm him down,” Hisashi levels Sir Nighteye with an unimpressed look. “If you think arresting his beloved uncle Hisashi will help matters, be my guest; I’ll just call my lawyers. If, however, you want to know who has just found out about All For One, I suggest a temporary truce. Deal?”

“I’m home!” Izuku yells from the front door, and Hitoshi lets out a sob.

“Deal,” Sir Nighteye nods.

“Wonderful,” Hisashi smiles. “Izuku, come into the kitchen! I need you to stay with Hitoshi and not let him near anything pointy!”

“Uncle Hisashi!...”

“Dad, what is…” Izuku pauses in the doorway.

“We have a situation,” Hisashi sighs. “Kurogiri will fill you in on the details. Hitoshi, drink your cocoa, I’ll call your parents. Where’s Machia?”

“Lord! What is…”

“Perfect timing! Gigantomachia, some bad people attacked Hitoshi, so I need you to go protect the perimeter. If anyone attacks, knock them out and call me, alright? No killing anyone! And you,” he turns to Nighteye, “Come with me.”

“…I must say, I am impressed,” the sidekick admits as they leave the kitchen. “You appear very… in control, considering how serious this situation is…”

“Unfortunately, Izuku is rather… prone to getting into situations,” Hisashi sighs as he grabs the home phone. “I have a lot of experience. For example, I first met Ingenium when he broke into my house and assaulted me. And before you ask, no, I was not doing anything illegal, I was cooking dinner; Izuku unfortunately decided I was the best person to provide medical assistance to Eraserhead and Present Mic is prone to overreacting.”

“…I see,” Sir Nighteye nods slowly. He looks like he is struggling with the concept; then he winces. “I think I can relate; Tenko once decided he wanted to see what the Detroit Smash looked like up close…”

“I’m guessing it didn’t end well.”

“Actually, it ended surprisingly well,” the sidekick groans. “The villain that tried to kill him was treated to a Texas Smash to the face, and Tenko was released from hospital with only eight stitches.”

“…Yes, that tracks,” Hisashi nods. At least it appears a proclivity to end up in dangerous situations is not a trait unique to Izuku. “Before I call Hitoshi’s parents, do you think you could tell me what happened?”

“…I am not entirely sure myself,” Sir Nighteye winces. “I was just on my way home, when Shinso collided with me. He… Well, I was entering the station, and he was exiting it, so I assume he’d gotten off a train. He was obviously distraught, so I thought I should offer assistance. I lent him my phone, but instead of his parents, he called…”

“I’m not surprised, though,” Hisashi groans. Now that he has a moment to step back and consider the situation, the gravity of the situation is starting to sink in. Part of him wants to go back into the kitchen and hug Hitoshi; another wants to track down those responsible and eviscerate them. "God, out of all of them, why did it have to be Hitoshi?"

"What do you mean?"

"It's not my story," Hisashi sighs. He glances up at the sidekick, considering whether he can get away with handing the task of calling Mic over to him. The man probably took some weird sensitivity course or whatever. Then he winces. Mic is every bit as much of a worrier as Hisashi, and a random call from All Might’s sidekick about anything pertaining to Hitoshi is quite probably going to result in U.A. replacing all their windows. And so Hisashi takes a deep breath, reminds himself that he was once the fearsome All For One, and makes the call.

“Heey, Midoriya, what’s up?...”

“Before you panic, Hitoshi is currently drinking cocoa in my kitchen,” he hurries to assure Present Mic. “But he had some sort of… run-in or something that has left him pretty distraught. Do you think you could contact Aizawa? I can have Kurogiri pick you up…”

“Oh my god, yes!” Yamada gasps. “We’re at U.A.! Are you sure Hitoshi’s okay?! Should I bring Recovery Girl?!...”

“I’ll check him over and Heal him if needed,” Hisashi sighs. “Kurogiri will be at the West Gate in five minutes.”

(Present Mic will probably be there in two.)

“Alright,” he hangs up and nods to Sir Nighteye. “…Let’s go find out what happened.”

“…I’m not sure who he was,” Hitoshi admits once they’ve all migrated to the living room. (A process that took considerably longer than necessary, because as soon as he was through the Warp Gate, Mic latched onto his son, almost knocking him out of the chair. Then Aizawa had to try and get his boyfriend to calm down, and Hisashi was forced to explain Hitoshi’s family situation to Nighteye…) “I was on the train, and he just… sat down next to me and said something like… ‘It’s been a while, Hitoshi!’ or… ‘Long time no see, Hitoshi!’. I can’t remember what exactly, but – he only used my first name. And I thought it was weird, cause everyone who recognizes me from the Sports Festival always calls me Shinso, or Hitoshi Shinso…”

“Do you remember what he looked like?”

“He was… Nothing special,” Hitoshi winces. “I didn’t really get a good look. Mid-twenties, buzz-cut… Regular street clothes, I think hoodie and… jeans?... Oh, but I do remember he was holding a cat plush!”

Hisashi resists the temptation to groan, because that does not exactly narrow anything down; hell, if Eraserhead shaved his head, he could possibly be a suspect.

“…How did he get you to tell him about Izuku?” Aizawa asks.

“I think he used a Quirk on me,” Hitoshi sniffs. “Suddenly, I just… It was like I wasn’t in control of my body anymore! And he started asking me questions, and I – I couldn’t stop myself from answering!”

“What did he ask?” Hisashi speaks up. It is almost impossible for a random person with knowledge of his former identity to connect him to Izuku. And for them to then go after Hitoshi, a friend who knows about that connection? Whoever this is, they had some prior knowledge, or… suspicions, but who? “Try and remember exactly how they phrased the questions.”

“The first was…” Hitoshi frowns as he tries to remember. “What is the name of your green-haired friend? And… my mouth just seemed to move on its own, and I answered Izuku Midoriya… And then, then they asked, What is Izuku Midoriya’s original Quirk? And I – I said All For One!”

Hisashi hisses, because that phrasing, right there – they suspected something already.

“And then,” Hitoshi chokes back tears. “Then he asked, What is the connection between Izuku Midoriya and the villain All For One? And I said – I said he’s his grandson! I swear I didn’t want to, I just… I…”

“Hitoshi!” Hisashi snaps. He almost feels guilty, but this is an emergency. He takes a deep breath. “Calm down. I need you to tell me – what happened next?”

“He – he just laughed!” Hitoshi sniffs. “Not an evil laugh like you – like full-bellied laughter for almost two stops! And at some point – he must have lost control over me, cause I realized I could move again… So I waited till we pulled into a station, and tried making a run for it! He grabbed me, I threw my bag at him and he let go, and I just managed to get off…”

“And that is when he ran into me,” Nighteye concludes.

“I’ll find someone who can draw a sketch, or – I’ll call Tsukauchi, see whether he can pull camera footage,” Hisashi nods. “Hitoshi, this Quirk of his – do you know how he activated it? Were there any odd smells, did you feel any sharp pains…”

“I don’t know!” Hitoshi groans. “One minute he’s greeting me, and then… Bam, I’m just a passenger in my own body!...”

“…Hitoshi,” Izuku speaks up. He reaches over and grabs his friend’s hand. “…Did it feel like this?”

“Like wha…” Hitoshi freezes mid-word, eyes suddenly blank.

“No,” Aizawa breathes, obviously catching on. “Please, no!”

“What?” Sir Nighteye frowns. “What is it?”

“…Hitoshi, clap twice,” Izuku commands. As soon as his friend obeys, he shoves him in the shoulder.

“Yes! That’s exactly it!” Hitoshi gasps. “…Wait…”

“Did you say anything before they activated their Quirk?” Hisashi asks. “Anything at all?”

“…I started asking who they were,” Hitoshi breathes.

“Excuse me,” Nighteye speaks up. “But I must confess you have lost me…”

“It’s Brainwashing,” Aizawa explains. “Whoever it is, they have a similar Quirk to Hitoshi.”

Hitoshi chokes back a sob.

“…Well,” Hisashi decides to try and put a positive spin on this. “That… actually is good. Helpful.”

“How?” Mic levels him with an unimpressed look.

“It should help us narrow down our pool of suspects,” Hisashi sighs at the blank stares he receives. “Look, you all probably know Quirks are part of our genetic makeup. And that children get half their DNA from the biological father and half from the biological mother. As such, in most cases, a Quirk will either closely resemble that of one parent, or be a combination…”

“Oh!” Izuku, genius that he is, catches on. “Think… Fuyumi! Her Quirk is almost exactly like Auntie Rei’s! And Shoto obviously has a combination…”

“Exactly,” Hisashi nods. “There are even some theories suggesting that what we consider mutations, i.e. Quirks not like those of the parents, may in fact simply be some sort of recessive…”

“Dad, focus.”

“Yes, of course. My point here is, Quirks are, by nature, unique. Especially now; the several generations that have passed since we first developed Quirks mean that… Goodness, how do I put it…”

“Oh, I get it! Think about the glowing baby!” Izuku takes up the challenge. “If the baby has two kids, and they both have Quirks…”

“…But child A can turn the glow on and off, and child B cannot,” Hisashi nods. “And then child A has a child with another Quirk user, and their child has the ability to, for instance, make water glow. And child B has a child that just glows all the time, but maybe it’s red instead of gold. Over generations, the same Quirk can evolve into vastly different abilities. But statistically speaking, it is almost impossible to get near-identical Quirks if you’re starting from two different abilities…”

“It’s kind of like familial DNA, but for Quirks!” Izuku grins.

“…So you think this bastard has a similar Quirk because he and Hitoshi are related?!”

“Exactly!” Hisashi beams. “And fairly closely – I would bet something like a sibling, parent, possibly an uncle… Maybe a grandparent at a stretch. Do you have access to Hitoshi’s birth certificate, family records…”

“It’s all sealed…”

“Dad might be able to pull a few strings,” Mic speaks up. “I think he’s friendly with the regional head…”

“Perhaps I might assist,” Nighteye clears his throat. “Any person that knows about All For One is suspicious. A request from All Might should make matters easier…”

Hisashi swallows down his pride. He never thought he would be getting help from All Might’s sidekick, but if it means protecting Izuku…

“…If it would help, I am still somewhat friendly with a few… contacts,” Kurogiri offers. “We never discuss anything remotely illegal, but if there are any rumours floating around the underworld…”

“…Who exactly are you?” Nighteye pauses. “Midoriya, why does your… assistant… have…”

“That’s just Kurogiri,” Hisashi shrugs. “Former child burglar, now my resident mode of transportation, washing machine and cook.”

“…He’s pretty much been adopted into the family,” Izuku explains. “All his crimes were committed before he was thirteen. He’s good now! He even has a fanclub!”

“Hang on, you’re that Kurogiri?!”

“I never would have thought you would tell children about All For One.”

“Well, it’s not like they’re random kids off the street,” Hisashi points out. “Hitoshi was the most recent addition, and… Goodness, Izuku picked him up almost a decade ago.”

“…At the Sports’ Festival, Shinso mentioned a muzzle,” sir Nighteye glances up the stairs. They can hear the two teenagers setting up the spare futon, and despite the serious circumstances Hisashi can’t help but be comforted. “And… I can't help but wonder, how he came to live with two young proheroes...”

“It’s not my story to tell,” Hisashi shrugs. “If you want confirmation, go to Mic. Or Eraserhead. Or Shinso.”

“Fair enough,” the sidekick chuckles. He settles on the sofa and glances around the room, his eyes lingering on Hisashi’s wedding photo. “I must admit, you are… Not what I expected. And earlier, when your son… I presume he used All For One on Shinso?”

“Look,” Hisashi groans. He really isn’t in the mood to argue about the inherent evils of his Quirk right now. “Hitoshi knows Izuku would never…”

“I’m not suggesting he would keep Shinso’s Quirk,” Nighteye cuts him off. “It is just… I never thought I would see All For One used for good. And… Please don’t take this the wrong way, but I cannot imagine the amount of trust Hitoshi must feel, not to even by fazed by his Quirk disappearing, even momentarily.”

“Well, it didn’t happen overnight,” Hisashi admits with a chuckle. “But… To be frank, the boys are all used to it. They regularly switch Quirks; they say it helps with training. I suppose they have such different approaches, it gives them valuable insight. And…” he hesitates; but then he glances over at his wedding photo and soldiers on. “…All For One is, really, just a Quirk like any other. If you could only know how much comfort it has provided our family over the years, how many smiles… You’d agree it’s not evil.”

There’s a faint crash from upstairs, and Hisashi can't help but smile. Then he wonders whether he'll wake up to find Izuku has snuck Tenya and Shoto in when he wasn't looking. (Allowing Izuku to keep Summon is something of a double-edged sword; there have been many times he has woken up to find one little boy has magically multiplied into three or four.)

“I suppose I had best get going,” sir Nighteye stands up. “I shall try and obtain footage of the perpetrator; if I develop any leads, I will contact you.”

“Right,” Hisashi nods. “Would you like Kurogiri to drop you off somewhere, or…”

“The walk will do me good,” the sidekick shakes his head. “Goodnight, Midoriya.”

“Good…” Hisashi freezes.

He stares down at his hand, grasped firmly by Nighteye, in mounting horror. This is all he needs; of course the sidekick would use the exact same method he used on All Might all those years ago! Fuck social conventions! Does he need to take emergency measures? How far ahead is the sidekick viewing?! Is Hisashi going to commit any acts that may be particularly suspicious, has the man learned to read lips, what…

Nighteye lets out a loud snort and lets go; he doubles over and clutches his sides desperately as he laughs and laughs, and Hisashi decides murder sounds rather appealing. Surely he would be able to come up with a plausible cover story; perhaps a passing bus suddenly careening wildly out of control...

“See anything good?” he asks.

“Oh, nothing special,” Nighteye finally gets himself under control, although he’s still grinning. “You know, you have a very expressive face. I suppose you take after your father in that regard.”

“Dad?” they hear, and turn to where Izuku, obviously curious, is standing halfway down the stairs. “What…”

“Midoriya,” Nighteye acknowledges Izuku. “Keep up the good work. And give my regards to Ingenium. It is good to see he is not allowing his injury to keep him from being a hero. And as for you,” he turns back to Hisashi. “My deepest apologies for Torino’s remarks about your wife. She must have been a remarkable woman.”

“Hang on, you mean to tell me…”

“It is good to know Hisashi Midoriya is nothing like All For One,” the sidekick chuckles. “Have a good night.”

“I wonder if I can bomb Might Tower…”

“Dad!”

Chapter Text

“Now, Gigantomachia, what did I tell you?”

“I protect Little Lord!” the giant beams. “And I must listen to Mist Man! Oh, and I must not kill anyone!”

“…There are so many ways this could go wrong,” Tensei mutters. “I have a terrible feeling about this.”

“Look, we’ve talked about this,” Hisashi turns and levels the former hero with an unimpressed look. He has already discussed this matter with Nedzu. (Although discussed may not be the appropriate word; Hisashi suspects he currently owes the principal another favour, a prospect that shouldn’t fill him with such glee. There is an alternative universe somewhere, where Nedzu is a fearsome villain.) “There is some strange person out there that knows Izuku not only has All For One, but is also related to old-me. Either Gigantomachia goes to camp, or I tag along…”

“Oh yes!” Gigantomachia cheers. “It will be fun!”

“…Ah,” Hisashi pauses. He glances back at his bodyguard, who is positively beaming, and tries to think of a way out of this mess. He rather doubts Izuku will be pleased to arrive at the camp location only to find his father waiting for him; then he looks over at Tensei and decides he definitely is not going, because the idea of leaving his best friend to house-sit for a week is only slightly more appealing than going camping with All Might. “Well, you see…”

“So, how do you suggest we explain this to Nedzu?” Tensei asks, and Hisashi barely resists the urge to eject him from the house. “And how long do you think Izuku will ground you for?”

“Excuse me, I do not…”

“Little Lord!” Gigantomachia cheers as Izuku chooses that exact moment to come running down the stairs with his bag, and Hisashi wonders which particular deity he pissed off this week. “Lord is coming with us!”

“But dad can’t come!” Izuku frowns. “I wanted to make him a surprise present…”

“You cannot come, Lord!” the giant immediately informs him.

“Thank you, Izuku,” Hisashi chuckles as he reaches out and ruffles his son’s hair. “You’re my hero.”

“Dad!...” Izuku blushes as he ducks out of the way. Then he glances past his father, takes a deep breath, and asks, “Tensei… You’ll be alright for a week, right?”

“Oh, sure!” the former hero laughs. “Don’t worry about a thing! I will make sure he only commits crimes that cannot be traced back to him!”

“Excuse me, I am not some…”

“I’d rather he not commit any crimes, period,” Izuku mutters.

“Look, I’m not All Might. Or you,” Tensei shrugs. “Part of being a hero is knowing your limits, and you know what Hisashi’s like! The best I can do is make sure he doesn’t get arrested.”

Hisashi just shakes his head and decides it really isn’t worth his time pointing out he isn’t some inexperienced petty criminal; if he were to leave sufficient evidence for a conviction lying around, he would deserve all the jailtime he was sentenced to. (Besides which, he has been to jail twice in previous identities; it is a wonderful place to network and recruit, not to mention hide from heroes desperately searching for All For One. Twenty years is not exactly terrifying when one has the power to destroy an entire wall in 0.8 seconds.)

“Kurogiri,” he instead addresses the warper when the man appears with Izuku’s suitcase. “You know what to do in case you’re attacked?”

“I will open a Gate to U.A. and not here,” Kurogiri nods.

“Traitor.”

“I’ll be fine, dad!” Izuku hugs him. “I doubt whoever Train Guy is, he’s ready to make his move quite yet. You just… Try and stay out of trouble, please…”

“Fine,” Hisashi sighs and hugs his son back. He is well aware that the main reason Tensei will be staying with him is not, in fact, that the Iidas are having some major renovations done, but rather because both he and Izuku are all to aware Hisashi would happily spend a week tracking down and eviscerating Train Guy. “You just… Have fun, Izuku. I promise I’ll try and stay out of trouble. Tensei seems to have a decent moral compass.”

“Gotta love that you have to promise you’ll try to stay out of trouble…” Tensei snickers. “Don’t worry, Izuku. It’ll be fine; heck, it’ll do Hisashi good to loosen up a bit!”

“…This is going to be a long week…”

“I will text you regular updates,” Kurogiri promises, clearly uncaring of Hisashi’s upcoming suffering. “And I am certain should anything happen, Machia will be able to take care of it. Isn’t that right?”

“Yes!” the giant cheers. “Little Lord and his friends can have lots and lots of fun!”

And just like that, Izuku grabs his bags and vanishes through a Warp Gate, and the giant and Kurogiri step through another, leaving Hisashi and Tensei all alone in the house.

“So, I guess the important question now,” Tensei grins, “is what sort of takeout we should order!”

Hisashi groans.

***

“Do you think Hitoshi’s alright?”

“I dunno,” Izuku sighs. He glances over at Shoto, and then, as one, they look up to where Tenya seems to be trying to whip their classmates into some sort of shape, an effort that their classmates are more definitely ignoring. After all, they're on their way to summer camp, although Izuku has to wonder how many are aware the journey will probably be the most relaxing part.

“Tenya, sit down,” Shoto grabs their friend by the belt.

“Yeah, Tenya, stop yelling at people. It’s summer break!” Izuku grabs his shirt and they both give him a tug.

“I apologize!” the last member of their trio sits down. They managed to snag three seats together at the back of the bus, just in case they needed to brainstorm about All For One related matters. “I simply wish for our classmates to respect the safety measures!...”

“Shouldn’t you lead by example, then?” Shoto points out. He glances around, and then leans closer and asks in a low voice, “So who do you think is behind this?”

“Could it perhaps be one of All For One’s old minions?” Tenya frowns. “How do you think he even figured out your connection?”

“I don’t know,” Izuku groans. He’s been racking his brains over this ever since the incident, but he’s drawn a blank; his dad is convinced he scrubbed the memory of every last follower of his that might so much as suspect a connection between the Midoriyas and All For One, and since his retirement, half of said followers ended up in Tartarus.

(It was low-key terrifying to find that out. Dad had compiled a list of his most loyal followers, and Izuku had glanced at it and almost had a heart attack. About seventy-five percent of them were well-known, super-dangerous villains in their own right. The other twenty five he had never heard of. Which – yeah, that just made it scarier.)

Not, of course, that he can tell his friends that.

“I must admit, I am surprised it is taking so long to identify Train Guy,” Tenya sighs. “I would have thought that Hitoshi’s records would be an excellent place to start if you believe the perpetrator is related to him…”

“Just to play devil’s advocate, but why are we so sure this guy didn’t have a copy Quirk and just take advantage of Brainwashing?...” Shoto frowns.

“Shoto, we’re all familiar with Brainwashing,” Izuku levels his friend with an unimpressed look. “Name one time any of us have been able to force someone to say a single word.”

“Oh yeah…” Shoto nods. “Brainwashing only really works on the body. Vocal cords are out.”

“And it would be impossible to force anyone to think about the answer to a question and then vocalize it,” Tenya adds. “Although that raises the possibility it might be a coincidence…”

“No, the probable trigger is too like Brainwashing,” Izuku sighs. “And Hitoshi said it felt similar when I used it on him.”

“So we’re back to where we started, unless you have a random uncle somewhere out there, swapping people’s Quirks for shits and giggles.”

“No random uncles that I’m aware of,” Izuku manages a smile. “Plus, Hitoshi’s records are gone, so we’re probably on the right track.”

“What do you mean gone?!” Shoto hisses as Tenya's eyes widen.

“Like – erased. Vanished. Poof into thin air,” Izuku winces at the memory. Detective Tsukauchi had called their household at four in the morning in a state of panic when he discovered it, though partly probably because he wanted someone else to face the wrath of an overprotective Aizawa. “The only evidence he was ever even in the system is the physical adoption certificate. Mic’s sentimentality saves the day.”

“Oh, wonderful,” Shoto groans. “That’s all we need. Doesn’t your dad have some sort of time-travel Quirk, so he can go back and punch Train Guy?!”

“…If electronic records are a dead end, perhaps it would be good to ask people who might remember?” Tenya suggests. “Perhaps a social worker will remember Hitoshi’s family from before he was taken into care? Maybe there are some notes collecting dust in a cabinet… Perhaps Hitoshi remembers something?!”

“Long shot – still worth a try,” Izuku decides and pulls out his phone. “Worst case, maybe dad has some sort of… Memory boosting Quirk…”

Littlest Lord: Hey, how’s 1-B?

The Purple Fuzzinator: SAVE ME!

The Purple Fuzzinator: Monoma thinks I’m a spy. He keeps glaring at me.

The Purple Fuzzinator: He stopped now – Kendo threw a book at him.

The Purple Fuzzinator: What’s up?

Littlest Lord: We were wondering about Train Guy.

Littlest Lord: Any ideas?

Littlest Lord: Don’t know if they told you – electronic records were a bust.

The Purple Fuzzinator: I know – Mic made me pack pepper spray.

The Purple Fuzzinator: I can’t remember much from before foster care.

The Purple Fuzzinator: Think I hadn’t even got my Quirk.

Littlest Lord: Can you remember anything at all?

The Purple Fuzzinator: I liked the swings.

The Purple Fuzzinator: Think we had a cat – something fluffy.

The Purple Fuzzinator: I remember strawberry milk…

The Purple Fuzzinator: Sorry, I know it’s not much help.

Littlest Lord: It was a long shot, don’t worry about it!

“So basically,” Shoto groans once he’s finished reading. “We’re looking for a family somewhere in Tokyo that sometime, eleven to… let’s say thirteen years ago bought strawberry milk, lived not too far from somewhere with a swing, and possibly owned a cat.”

“Or perhaps a certain breed of dog,” Tenya points out.

“Or a very fuzzy carpet,” Shoto adds. “That really narrows it down. I vote we start looking for that time-travelling Quirk.”

“Shoto…”

“Well, how about tracking down a functioning TARDIS?”

***

“You ready for this?” Pixie-Bob asks quietly as the bus stops.

“Yeah,” Mandalay nods. She glances over to where Kota is glaring at the disembarking students and, not for the first time, wishes she could have left him back at their home. Then she remembers what happened the last time she made that mistake and decides this was probably the better option. “It’ll be good to see the boys again!”

“Well, we gotta meet them in style!” her teammate grins. “Ready?”

“Ready,” Shino laughs. She takes a deep breath, rolls her shoulders, steps forward, and… “Rock on with these sparkling gazes!”

“Stingingly cute and cat-like!”

“We’re the Wild, Wild PUSSYCATS!”

“These heroes will be helping us out this time – the Pussycats,” Eraserhead introduces them as most of the teenagers stare at them, and Shino and Ryuko try very hard not to fall over. This is the downside of being a hero team, Mandalay reflects; true, it can be a struggle working together after an argument, or agreeing on which direction to take the team in, but it can be nightmarish trying to appear professional when their signature pose is designed for four people and half of them are missing.

“They’re a four-member hero team who specialize in mountain rescue operations!” Izuku exclaims, as his classmates turn from staring at them to staring at him, and Shino breathes a sigh of relief. At least she won't have to introduce them; being a smaller agency can make things very... awkward. “They’re widely regarded as a prime example of successful teamwork, especially with the way their Quirks compliment each other so well! Just this year, despite familial obligations, they were called to fourteen separate incidents, saving an average of twelve point five…”

“Well, he’s not changed,” Pixie-Bob mutters as the two of them stand down, and Mandalay laughs.

“That’s us!” she steps forward, and has to resist the urge to give Izuku a quick hug.

When Midoriya had first called to let her know about the situation and to ask whether they could hold the summer camp in The Beast’s Forest, she had been worried. She’d been concerned about all the boys, of course, but… Izuku is the closest Kurogiri has to a family, the son of the woman who first showed him unconditional love. If, heaven forbid, something were to happen to him, Kurogiri would be absolutely devastated. And seeing for herself that familiar bright-eyed smile is more comforting than she would ever admit, especially considering everything else she has to worry about.

At least one little boy in her life is still smiling.

“This whole area is our territory,” she informs the assembled teenagers, sweeping a hand out to encompass the vast forest. It’s a helpful distraction, especially since she is no longer looking at Izuku. “And your lodging is at the base of that mountain over there.”

“That far?!” someone exclaims behind her, and she chuckles.

“Huh? Then why’d we stop halfway…?”

“Uh-oh…”

“I suggest we all take a moment to warm up!” Tenya announces, and when she turns back the lad is already stretching his legs. “After all, a strained muscle or torn ligament is a terrible way to start summer camp!”

“He’s not changed either,” Pixie-Bob mutters.

“Hang on, Iida, you mean to tell me we’ve gotta get there on foot?!”

Sweet, sweet, summer children, Mandalay sighs to herself. After a few weeks at U.A., one would think they would know how intense even the most basic school activities could get.

She shudders when she remembers her own first summer camp and hastily distracts herself.

“Yep!” she beams at the gathered students. She never would have thought being on the other end could be so wonderful; maybe she should look into getting a teaching license. “And any kitties that don’t make it by 12.30 won’t get any lunch!”

“Alright! Come on, let’s show them the BURNING PASSION!...”

“Shut up, Yoarashi!”

“He’s got a point, though,” Izuku sighs. “Come on, we’re not getting out of this, you guys; we might as well get started.”

Shino resists the urge to chuckle. Then something occurs to her, and she quickly adds, “Also, just a heads up, but you’re not allowed to use any teleportation Quirks to get there faster.”

She has heard enough horror stories (and witnessed a few) about Izuku’s aptitude for finding loopholes. She would not put Summoning Kurogiri and 'borrowing' Warp Gate past him.

“Aw…” Izuku groans, confirming her suspicions. “Fine. Come on, everyone, let’s do this! We’ll be there before you know it. Who’s with me? PLUS ULTRA!”

“…Midoriya, this cliff has to be a hundred feet tall!”

Sweet, sweet summer children.

“…Yeah, well it won’t matter,” Izuku sighs. “I’m pretty sure Pixie-Bob’s about to send us flying.”

“Right you are!” Pixie-Bob beams and promptly turns the whole rest area into a landslide; Mandalay barely jumps back in time and can't quite resist waving at Izuku as the boy goes flying past her.

“This is private territory, so feel free to use your Quirks!” Mandalay calls after the teenagers, as they vanish amongst the trees. “You’ve got three hours to reach the facility on foot! Make it through the BEAST’S FOREST!!”

“Drama queen,” Ryuko mutters with a smile, and Shino laughs. She glances down at the trees one last time and takes a deep breath; Izuku and the others will be fine. This is her territory; there won't be anyone waiting to attack them here, at least.

At least they won't have to worry about anything while they're here.

“Alright!” she takes a deep breath and turns to the remaining four people still standing in the rest stop area. Over the years she has perfected her expression; no one here needs to know how worried she really was about Izuku. “Pixie-Bob, you take it from here. Kota, it’s time to go.”

“Whatever,” her nephew snorts, and Mandalay winces.

Tonight’s going to be rough.

***

“Hey, Kurogiri!” a familiar voice cheers. “…Why are you wearing a bathrobe?”

“Izuku,” Kurogiri acknowledges the teenager with a chuckle. He examines the bento box one last time and then, with a satisfied nod, secures the lid. And then begins wrapping the thing in plastic. “Shouldn’t you be in the bath?”

“I volunteered to bring some of the dishes back,” Izuku explains as he sets the bowls down with a clatter. “Hey, what’s that?”

“Dinner for Kota,” Kurogiri sighs. He considers adding another layer of protection, and then decides that would probably just overcomplicate matters. His efforts will be wasted if the boy can’t actually reach the food. “He keeps running off before dinner; the least I can do is make sure he doesn’t go hungry. I’ll drop it off at his hiding spot in a minute.”

“…And the bathrobe?”

Kurogiri takes a second to glance down at himself. The brown bathrobe is rather large on him, considering he borrowed it from Tiger. But it's dry and warm, two adjectives that don't apply to the vast majority of Kurogiri's own clothing, and he refuses to go back home to pick up some more clothes on principal.

Also because there is a chance Midoriya has murdered someone and Kurogiri doesn't want be roped into the cleanup efforts.

“He has a water-based Quirk,” Kurogiri groans instead. He has spent over a decade in the service of the most fearsome villain to have ever lived (whose son has an astonishing penchant for attracting trouble), and yet he doesn’t think he has ever felt so exhausted. “And he most certainly does not like me. I’m pretty sure the only reason he stopped throwing the lunchboxes at my head is because I stopped dropping them off in person.”

That had been a... Very long week, he reflects. He came out of it having learned that Kota likes hiding up on some cliffs and also that the boy would be amazing at baseball.

“…Kota’s starting to sound like a brat.”

“He is a grieving child,” Kurogiri reminds them both, because it can be hard to remember when he is forced to take a very, very long walk to calm down. “He lost both his parents without warning, was torn away from everything he knew, and just when he’s starting to feel somewhat secure, he meets his aunt’s boyfriend. I would not be surprised if he believes I want to steal her away from him.”

Maybe he should embroider that on a t-shirt. It might help him remember it the next time he's forced to walk around barefoot.

“It still bugs you, though.”

“It’s just…” Kurogiri groans. “I know I need to prove I’m not trying to take Shino away from him. That I know it’s both or neither, and I’m willing to put in the effort to get to know him better. It’s just… That’s going to take time, and I’m getting a bit tired of unexpected showers and all the different names he calls me. I mean, where does a five-year old even learn the word bastard?!”

Frankly, Mist Bastard is probably the least offensive name Kota could have come up with; Kurogiri is somewhat relieved the boy is still too young to go to school, because there would probably be daily calls from teachers. Oh goodness, he realizes, that would be a nightmare. Kota would certainly not be pleased if he came to pick him up...

Kurogiri lets out a haunted groan.

“He’ll come around in the end!” Izuku hurries to reassure him, and Kurogiri chuckles when the teenager hugs him. At least he has one boy in his life who doesn't wish him dead. “After all, you’re the Kurogiri! God of the kitchen! Patron saint of muffins! The almighty conqueror of the oven!”

“The muffins are all in that white tin over there,” the warper chuckles. “Be a good lad and take them out to your friends.”

“Thanks, Kurogiri!” Izuku laughs. “How do you think dad’s doing?”

Kurogiri pauses to consider the question seriously. Tensei should be keeping an eye on Midoriya. Although the man was rather concerned about Train Guy; there is a chance the former hero has been put to sleep. Or trapped in an illusion. Or paralyzed, and he'll have his memory of the event rewritten...

“Oh, I’m sure he’s fine.”

***

“Alright!” Tensei cheers when the doorbell rings. “Pizza’s here! I’ll get it, Hisashi, you get the TV ready!”

Hisashi sighs as the former hero wheels himself out of the room. But it’s… rather pleasant, he’ll admit, as he turns on the TV and grabs his Star Wars boxset. It'll be... rather fun, if he's honest, to let loose and relax a bit with someone other than Izuku, especially when his son is safe under the watchful eye of Kurogiri. And, despite Tensei's protests, this is Hisashi's house, and he gets to pick the movie. His friend obviously...

“…Hisashi…” Tensei rolls himself back in, a puzzled expression on his face as he stares at the envelope in his lap. “…Why did I just find a love letter on your doorstep?”

Chapter Text

Dear Mister Midoriya! (We see what you did there! Very clever!)

We know about you and Lordy! Yay! We love Lordy too, so don’t worry! You’re not alone! Together we’ll do what Lordy wanted and kill all the heroes and destroy this corrupt society and rebuild it and I’ll become little Hitoshi and…

(“…Do you think it’s one of your old minions?” Tensei asks.

“No,” Hisashi shakes his head. “None of my minions were this insane. Crazy people tend to be very bad at following orders; best course of action is to point them at a target and then walk very quickly in the other direction. And never speak of them again.”)

Little Lord will avenge us all! Yay! (Can I become Little Lord?)

We need to meet up! Plan the overthrow of society! You need to tell us Lordy’s plan! Meet us at Warehouse B23, Oi terminal! At 21.00 on Tuesday! Don’t be late!

Don’t worry, we’re not heroes! We won’t arrest you!

XOXO

League of Villains

“Well, at least we know it’s not a trap,” Hisashi sighs once he and Tensei are done staring at the letter in disbelief. “I can’t think of a single hero moronic enough to think a trap this ridiculous would work.”

“Yeah, but… Who the fuck are the League of Villains?!” Tensei waves the letter. Then he seems to realize it might have fingerprints and drops it. “And why would they write you a letter in glitter pen? And what the fuck is that weird smell?”

“Oh, that’s blood,” Hisashi helpfully informs him. "I think it's what they used to draw the hearts..."

“Warn a guy!” Tensei frowns as something occurs to him. “…Do I want to know how you recognized it?”

“Probably not,” Hisashi admits with a shrug. Then he sighs; unfortunately, Master Yoda will have to wait. “I’m afraid we’ll have to postpone movie night…”

“You aren’t seriously thinking of going, are you?!”

“Of course I’m going!” Hisashi snaps. “Whoever these idiots are, they obviously know about Izuku! And All For – I mean me. Old me. The me that did most-certainly-not-legal-things…”

“…As opposed to the current you, who does not-strictly-legal-things…” Tensei rolls his eyes.

“…And they might be connected to Train Guy!” Hisashi finishes, levelling his best friend with a glare that has inspired terror in countless heroes.

“Yeah, I guess,” Tensei sighs, apparently unconcerned with his impending doom. “We’ll have to leave early, though; public transport can be a nightmare when you’re in a wheelchair…”

“You’re not coming.”

“Course I’m coming!” Tensei snaps. “I’m still a hero, Hisashi, and it’s my duty to save lives! Even if those lives belong to weird insane villains who write you creepy love notes!”

“I’m not going to kill them,” Hisashi blatantly lies; he’s got a pretty nifty fire Quirk that should be able to cremate these villains without a trace. The occasional fire is to be expected, after all, nothing suspicious if equipment isn't stored correctly. “I’ll just have a little chat, and…”

“I’m not that stupid, Hisashi,” Tensei cuts him off. “I’m coming with you and that’s final.”

“You are certainly not coming with me,” Hisashi gallantly resists pointing out the very obvious reason Tensei should not come to a meeting with an unknown number of potentially murderous villains. Should this be a trap, Hisashi is fairly confidant he’ll be fine; Tensei, on the other hand, is not nearly as... mobile as he once was. “If you won’t see reason, I’ll just put you to sleep, and…”

“And if you do that,” Tensei holds up his phone. “I will call Izuku.”

“You!... There is nothing heroic about tattling to my son!” Hisashi exclaims. Retirement is clearly not doing Tensei’s morals any good. Then he realizes that prolonged exposure to the most dangerous villain ever is probably not helping matters. “I was All For One! I am certainly not intimidated by a teenager…”

“How long do you think Izuku will crash with us?” Tensei asks sweetly. “Just… On the off-chance…”

“…Fine,” Hisashi grumbles. He seriously considers wiping Tensei’s memory; then he groans. Inko unfortunately set a bit of a precedent. “You can come.”

“I knew you’d see sense!” Tensei beams. “Hey, can I call you Lordy?”

“Do you want to see Tenya again?”

***

"It's too early for this..." someone mutters.

Hitoshi can't help but agree as he yawns and, with his eyes still half-closed, follows Class 1-B out of the building. His frequent bouts of insomnia have, unfortunately, since the encounter with Train Guy been replaced by nightmares, nightmares that feature green eyes full of hate or a familiar body lying limp. He shudders as he remembers the most recent one, of green hair matted by blood, and picks up the pace.

Class 1-A is already hard at work training their Quirks, and as Class 1-B exclaims in horror, Hitoshi scans the scene, searching for familiar faces. He breathes a sigh of relief when he spots Shoto in a pot of some sort, manages to even smile when he just makes out the familiar sound of Engine...

But then his stomach drops when he realizes he can't see Izuku.

No, no, Izuku's fine, he tries to reassure himself as he scans the scene before him with mounting dread. They wouldn't be so calm if something happened to him, dad would tell him, Shoto and Tenya wouldn't be training, Izuku's fine, he's safe, he's not avoiding Hitoshi because he hates him...

“ROCK ON WITH THESE SPARKLING GAZES!”

Right! Hitoshi perks up at the familiar phrase. The Pussycats aren't just random heroes; if something happened to Izuku, Mandalay would be out looking for him! If her and her team are here, it just means Izuku's off training somewhere else!

“WE’VE COME TO LEND A PAW AND HELP!!” Ragdoll grins.

“We’ve come from… Somewhere…” Tiger rasps.

“STINGINGLY CUTE AND CATLIKE!” Pixie-Bob cheers.

“WILD, WILD PUSSYCATS!!!” the four heroes chorus, striking their signature pose.

“Crazy Cat Boyfriend version!” Ragdoll adds, as, sure enough, Kurogiri (dressed in his usual slacks, shirt and waistcoat) chooses that exact moment to appear next to them, a mug in his hand.

He glances over at the four heroes, all beaming at him.

He looks back at the gathered students, all staring at him in confusion.

“…Meow?” he offers hesitantly.

“That’s the spirit, Kurogiri!” Tiger booms and smacks the man on the back so hard he almost faceplants into the ground.

Nightmares well and truly forgotten, Hitoshi doubles over with laughter. Izuku's fine if Kurogiri is here.

“Who’s the creepy guy?” someone whispers.

“Everyone, this is my boyfriend, Kurogiri!” Mandalay laughs and presses a quick kiss to the man’s cheek, an action that would probably make him blush if his face wasn’t obscured by creepy black mist. “He’s not a licensed hero, but he will be helping out during your stay. And he makes the best muffins ever!”

“Why does everyone always insist on introducing me that way?” Kurogiri mutters. “And – no, Pixie-Bob, I am not wearing a costume! We’ve talked about this!”

“I’m just saying you’d match us!” the blonde sighs, as she holds up a second set of the weird cat-ear-headband she produced from somewhere. “You’re part of the team by now, it’d just make things less confusing for outsiders!”

“No costumes!” Kurogiri snaps. “Or do you want me to stop baking?”

“No costumes!” Ragdoll nods and salutes. “Whatever you say, Muffin Man!”

“Oh, for – Hitoshi, stop laughing!”

Hitoshi doesn’t think he could stop if he tried; every time he does, the image of Kurogiri in the characteristic uniform of the Pussycats comes to mind. It’s getting rather hard to breathe, to be honest, as several of the students from 1-B step away from him, obviously assuming he’s gone mad.

And then someone grabs him by the collar and hauls him backwards through a Warp Gate.

The clearing Hitoshi ends up in is empty and quiet; finally able to get his laughter under control (although he can’t quite get the smile of his face) he glances around. He thinks he can just about make out the sparks from Kaminari, off in the distance, but there don’t appear to be people for…

“FUZZY!”

Hitoshi has maybe three seconds to brace himself as trees snap like twigs, the ground under his feet shakes, and then Machia, even bigger than usual, sweeps him up and hugs him.

“Hi, Machia!” he laughs as he pats the giant’s cheek. “It’s good to see you too!”

“Don’t be scared, Fuzzy!” the bodyguard draws back to look down at him, a serious expression on his face. “I will protect you! And Little Lord, and Best Friend, and Penguin and Kacchan! So you can all play and have lots and lots of fun!”

“Thanks, Machia,” Hitoshi smiles. He feels some of the tension drain from his body, because it is rather hard to be scared when confronted with an overprotective, devoted giant that could probably level several cities without much effort. Then he realizes he still hasn’t seen Izuku, and…

“Machia, put Hitoshi down!” a familiar voice calls up.

“Izuku!”

Izuku is smiling, Hitoshi realizes to his relief, as Machia reluctantly lowers him to the ground. And even better, it’s that same carefree smile he remembers from when they first met, from when Izuku’s reaction to hearing about Brainwashing was delight at this new, fascinating Quirk. And it means more than any words exchanged over the phone, because it means he hasn’t destroyed his first ever friendship…

“…Why’s there a branch in your hair?” he asks, and winces at how choked up his voice is. He hurriedly wipes at his eyes and Izuku, wonderful friend that he is, busies himself with trying to get the twigs out of his mass of curls and doesn't comment on it.

“Don’t you dare laugh,” the green-haired boy grumbles. “I’ve been running around the forest for what feels like forever. Your hair won’t be much better by the end of the day, I’m sure!”

“True, but Hitoshi won’t be nearly as effective at masquerading as a bush,” Kurogiri remarks, choosing that moment to reappear. “And it’s only been fifteen minutes.”

Izuku sticks his tongue out at the warper.

“Oh, is Fuzzy going to play with us?!” Machia beams.

“That’s the plan,” Izuku chuckles and, at Hitoshi’s confused expression, he elaborates. “Machia and Kurogiri are gonna help us train. Dad wants you to try and expand your range, especially when you can’t see the person you’re controlling…”

“…Which is why you’ll be training with the person that can quickly move away from you,” Kurogiri finishes. “And will not hesitate to respond. Machia is all yours.”

“It’ll be fun, Fuzzy!” the giant cheers and claps his hands.

“And you?” Hitoshi can’t help but ask as Kurogiri warps away.

“I’m meant to practice the whole Quirk-sensing and taking thing at a distance,” Izuku groans. “By playing tag with the human teleporter.”

It is several hours later that a very tired and despondent group of teenagers returns to the lodge.

Hitoshi winces as he swallows, because he isn't sure he could manage more than a croak; his throat feels like someone went at it with sandpaper. Shoto collapses dramatically onto the ground, eliciting a weak smile from his friends; Izuku's hair looks like a rather odds bird's nest. Even Tenya doesn't nag them as he simply presses a bottle into Hitoshi's hand, and Hitoshi winces as he recognizes it as the honey-lemon concoction Mic uses to soothe his throat.

“Like we said, the pampering ended yesterday!” Pixie-Bob beams at the gathered students, dressed in her immaculate uniform, and Hitoshi seriously, for a split second, considers using his Quirk on her. Then he takes a swig of his drink and makes a face.

“Wanna eat?” Ragdoll cheers. “Then you gotta cook for yourselves!! Today is curry!!”

Everyone groans. Even Yoarashi, Mr. Passion, can’t summon up a smile, and Hitoshi wonders whether his throat has recovered enough to speak yet. If Izuku borrows Warp Gate, then...

“It… Could be worse,” Izuku manages a smile. “My mum had a pretty simple curry recipe…”

“Hang on, you can cook, Midoriya?” Sero asks. It seems like everyone was looking for a distraction, because suddenly everyone is staring at the green-haired boy.

“Well, yes, a bit… I kind of…”

“Of course!” Tenya snaps his fingers. “In times of disaster and evacuation, someone needs to fill the bellies and soothe the souls of fatigued citizens. It’s also an important part of rescue operations! As I would expect from the class president, you have once again identified a vital part of our training that I overlooked. Everyone, let’s give Izuku our full support!”

“Actually, I only know cause…”

“Let's just settle on you being a genius," Hitoshi croaks out to his friend and takes another swig from his bottle. “So, what do you want me to do?”

Slowly but surely, everyone gets to work. Hitoshi is soon dragged back to assist 1-B by Kendo, who proceeds to smack Monoma for calling him a 1-A plant. He keeps his head down; although 1-B seem mostly alright with him, he knows he's an outsider here. An outsider who could potentially be passing information to their opponents in 1-A, information like Shishida snores almost as loud as Machia, or Monoma probably has some weird humiliation fetish. Dangerous information like that.

Every now and then, Hitoshi sneaks a glance over at the other class, where Izuku seems perpetually busy; chopping onions, tasting the sauce, checking on the potatoes... There's a faint smile on his face as he goes about it, and Hitoshi doesn't have to guess about the reason behind it. Which means he is not at all surprised when, as soon as the food is served, Izuku takes his plate and settles away from everyone else to sit on his own.

Part of Hitoshi doesn’t want to pry, to let Izuku sort out his feelings on his own. Hitoshi is probably the last person who should offer comfort, considering he revealed Izuku’s big secret to some unknown guy. But then he glances down at his food.

And he understands.

“Hey,” he greets Izuku quietly as he settles down on the ground next to him, his own plate in his hands. “You okay?”

“…Yeah,” Izuku nods. He glances down and prods at his curry with his fork.

“But?” Hitoshi prompts his friend.

“It’s dumb.”

“Dumber than that time we went to an area notorious for villain attacks without telling any adults?” Hitoshi asks as he takes a bite of his curry. “Or that time we borrowed Voice and Uncle Hisashi had to heal our busted eardrums? Or maybe…”

“It’s just…” Izuku sighs. “I realized I didn’t tell mum goodnight.”

“Oh,” Hitoshi winces. One of the staples of sleepovers, apart from soda, heroes and not sleeping, was always a small photo of Auntie Inko Izuku would bring with him. Because, as he always said, it would be rude of him not to tell her goodnight. It’s a small gesture that probably seemed natural to a small child, but now that they’re older, Hitoshi can’t help but wonder how important a connection it must be to Izuku.

Part of Hitoshi wishes he had something like that.

“And I know it’s dumb and she won’t be mad,” Izuku winces. “Only it seems kind of mean of me, to not tell her goodnight just cause I’m embarrassed, and then still use a recipe of hers…”

“I think she’d like it, though,” Hitoshi tries to smile. “I mean… She probably cooked this a lot for your dad and you, and Kurogiri. And now you’re cooking it for your friends – I think that's make her really happy.”

“…Thanks, Hitoshi,” Izuku smiles.

And perhaps it’s the fact that they’ve already broached the rather awkward subject of Auntie Inko that gives Hitoshi the courage to take a deep breath and ask, “Do you… Do you remember he at all?”

“I’m not sure,” Izuku takes a bite. “Maybe? I don’t have any proper memories, but… Sometimes, when I’m in the kitchen, I’ll think I just heard her laugh. Or when I’m drifting off to sleep, I’ll think I smelt her perfume. Not enough to describe it, but… I’d probably recognize it,” he shrugs. “Or maybe I’m just imagining things. Why?”

“It’s just…” Hitoshi pokes at his own food. It took him a while to realize, but… “It’s just, when I got taken into foster care, I was probably the same age you were when she... You know. But I can’t really remember much, so I just…”

“…Do you know anything about your birth family?” Izuku asks hesitantly. “Anything at all?”

“Not really,” he admits. “Didn’t really want to. I love Dad and Mic, and in foster care… I just figured they didn’t want me cause of my Quirk. Only…” he sighs. “Now I wonder if they were villains, and that’s why I got taken away. Or… Or maybe they weren’t able to look after me, so they gave me up, but… They still loved me. I don’t know.” He sets his food down and pulls his knees up to his chest. “It was easier not to think about it. But now… I wish I knew who Train Guy was. Cause now that I kind of want to know, I can’t.”

“I’m sure dad will be able to find something,” Izuku smiles and gives him a one-armed hug, narrowly avoiding spilling curry on them both. “Hey, if you want, I know where Kurogiri keeps his muffins!...”

“Alright! Kitchen raid!”

Both teenagers look up to where Shoto is leaning over them, grinning.

“…What are you doing?” Izuku asks.

“Our apologies!” Tenya hurries over. “We thought you may with to have this conversation about undoubtedly very personal topics without fear of being overheard, so we came to ensure none of our classmates spied on you!”

“By spying on us,” Hitoshi points out with a smile. He can still feel that same anxiety and – maybe a little fear, but it’s fading into the background.  It’s easy to put it off for another day when in the presence of his friends.

“You say spying, I say accidentally standing a little too close,” Shoto shrugs.

“And Izuku is correct!” Tenya adds. “I am certain Uncle Hisashi will be able to uncover some information about your birth family. And it is completely understandable you do not remember much from before foster care; you were very young after all!...”

“Hey, what is your earliest memory?” Shoto asks. “Might be fun to talk about something different after such a serious conversation…”

“But it has to be a pleasant memory!” Izuku quickly adds. “Earliest happy memory! Or that you didn’t know was good at the time!”

For just a second, Hitoshi hesitates. But then, as he glances at his friends, he decides it doesn’t matter that some of his earliest memories aren’t great; he’s made more than enough good ones to pick from.

“Right!” he laughs. “Tenya, you first! Was it the first time you ate all your veggies?”

“Hitoshi!” his friend shakes his head as Shoto and Izuku laugh. “Very amusing. If you must know, it was… The first time I recall seeing Tensei in action. I am not sure when it was, but I... I remember being surrounded by all these sidekicks, and realizing they all saw my brother as a leader. That was the day I knew I wanted to be a hero just like him!”

“Mine’s kind of boring,” Shoto laughs. “First time I went to the park. Touya took me after he got home from school, so it was already dark. I remember being really scared of the swings at first, cause I thought I’d fall. When we went home – he claims I ran back three times for a final go before he had to carry me, I maintain it was only twice!”

“I can’t remember mine super clear,” Izuku admits. “It’s mostly just snippets, but – it would probably be when Tenya told me I wasn’t a crybaby. I think I must have been upset over mum’s death, cause I was pretty young… I don’t know how old I was, but I just remember him saying, ‘It’s okay to cry!’ And I think that must have been when I realized what a great friend he… Tenya, don’t cry!”

“I’m just honoured to be your first pleasant memory!” Tenya sniffs, and, with a roll of his eyes, Shoto pats him on the shoulder.

“What about you, Hitoshi?”

Hitoshi hesitates as his friends all turn to stare at him, Tenya still dabbing at his eyes. He thinks back on his childhood, because he remembers things from before Izuku found him, but… Most of his years in foster care were always overshadowed by…

And then, then he remembers the single most important event in his life, and he smiles. He looks down at his hands, and starts.

“I’m not sure how old I was,” he chuckles. “I know I had my Quirk, but I hadn’t started school yet. I was.... sitting in bed one night, cause I couldn’t sleep, and then I heard a noise. My bed was right next to the window, so I peered out, and – there was a hero perched on our fire escape, with a cat! And he just stared at me for a minute, and then he jumped off…” he shrugs. “He came back a few times, and he patrolled our neighbourhood, so I saw him around, and… At some point I decided I wanted to be a hero just like him.”

“Hang on,” Shoto mutters.

“Fire escape at night…” Izuku frowns.

“With a cat…” Tenya’s eyes widen.

“ERASERHEAD!” all three chorus.

Chapter Text

Kurogiri sets down his book.

For a moment he wonders whether it was just his imagination playing tricks on him, but – there’s that sound again. He glances over to the door, but doesn’t see any lights and, with a sigh, he gets up to investigate. Normally he wouldn’t bother but, then again, normally there aren’t forty-one teenagers staying in the house. Including Izuku. Past experience has taught Kurogiri that, where children (especially Izuku) are concerned, mysterious noises in the middle of the night are definitely something that needs investigating poste-haste.

He shudders as he remembers the Great Father’s Day Egg Massacre.

But, thankfully, it isn’t one of the teenager’s up and about. When Kurogiri emerges from his room, he finds Shino sitting slumped on the floor next to Kota’s room.

“Hey,” he greets her as he crouches down next to her. As she looks up at him, he winces; she is clearly holding back tears. “Another nightmare?”

“I don’t know how you did it,” she sniffs and wipes at her eyes. She glances over at the door, takes a deep breath and stands up. “Could we – could we move somewhere else? I don’t want to risk waking him again…”

Kurogiri simply nods. He follows her into the kitchen and wordlessly sets about making them both a nice cup of chamomile. He doesn’t need Shino to explain; Kota has been plagued by nightmares ever since he arrived, nightmares that have slowly morphed from his parents’ killer coming after him to watching his aunt die. And, of course, there is only one way to calm those fears – make sure she is still very much alive.

“I had it easy,” he admits as he carefully sets a mug down in front of his girlfriend. He considers breaking out the biscuit tin, but decides against it; they don’t need a sugar boost at this time of night. “Izuku’s fears were mostly related to his father. I just had to make sure that Midoriya got enough caffeine in the morning.”

And hadn’t that been amusing, watching the fearsome All For One shuffle into the kitchen like a zombie.

Shino manages a smile; then she looks down at her tea and sighs.

“I just wish they hadn’t shown Muscular’s face on the news. Or at least that Kota hadn’t seen it.”

“…You know,” Kurogiri frowns as something occurs to him. “…If I asked around, I might be able to arrange a small… accident for him…”

Midoriya owes him a favour, after all. Or several hundred. The man is probably very experienced at arranging convenient accidents.

“I appreciate the thought,” Mandalay laughs. “But don’t. I’m a hero; I’m not supposed to plan accidents, even for villains. Sooner or later, he’ll get himself caught.”

“Fine,” Kurogiri rolls his eyes at her. “You heroes make everything so much more complicated than it has to be.”

“I don’t know,” Shino shrugs. She glances back down at her mug. “Sometimes, I think we’re too simplistic. Villains are evil and heroes are good, but… Then I think about you, and some of the heroes I’ve met…”

“We’re all human,” Kurogiri nods. “Everyone does things for a reason, heroes and villains.”

For a moment, they sit in silence, and he smiles. Because this, right here – this is a small moment of perfection he once thought unobtainable. Sitting in what feels like his second home, with the woman he loves, being honest with each other…

“…Do you ever regret it?” Shino suddenly asks. “Us dating, that is?”

Kurogiri, who was just pondering the exact shade of brown her eyes are, chokes on his tea.

“What?” he croaks out in between desperate coughs. Dear lord, has he screwed their relationship up without realizing it? What could it be? He desperately tries to identify the possible cause; they… They had a fight three months ago about the new rice cooker, and they still don’t talk about Agatha Christie… But surely that’s not enough to break up, is it?...

“It’s just…” Shino winces. “I don’t know when Kota will come around. I don’t even know if he’ll come around. And I just… I feel bad, asking you to put up with it, when you deserve better. You could find someone without so much baggage, and…”

“Shino,” he interrupts her, and takes her hand. “Everyone has baggage. I mean, I’m a former villain. Touya has some of the most serious daddy issues I’ve ever heard of. And don’t even get me started on Midoriya! My point is – no relationship is ever perfect. There are always challenges, and – if one day we grow apart, then that’s fine. But I love you. I want to at least try. And you don’t have to feel guilty, because that’s my choice.”

“Thank you,” Shino smiles. Then she laughs. “You know, sometimes I wonder whether you told me the truth. You sound so much more experienced when it comes to relationships!”

“…I had Midoriya give me a few tips,” Kurogiri admits.

Three notebooks worth, to be exact.

***

“Great,” Tensei groans as he stops in front of the gate. “Wonderful. What is it with villains and abandoned warehouses, or – creepy old buildings?”

Hisashi cracks his knuckles. They might be running just a little bit late; the trains weren’t exactly busy, but he was somewhat… delayed by a sudden attack of food poisoning. Thankfully, it cleared up and so, instead of using the toilets, he decided to have a little chat with several delinquents about the correct way to address a disabled person.

For some strange reason, they all decided they wanted to walk home instead of waiting for the train.

“I suppose it is the… creep factor,” he shrugs, trying to wipe the smile off his face; he’d forgotten how much of a confidence boost making people cry could be. “After all, there is a certain… Professional need to appear intimidating, and as such abandoned buildings can provide the necessary ambience without need for extensive renovations. Plus they’re very practical. Trying to get blood out of a carpet can be a nightmare. And do not get me started on what it does to wooden floors!...”

“Sometimes, I forget how insane you are,” Tensei chuckles as Hisashi steps up and effortlessly rips the gate off its hinges. “By the way, are you sure no one is going to…”

“Oh, I’ll fix it in a minute,” Hisashi smiles. “After you.”

“Thanks,” Tensei wheels himself in. “But it might be better to leave it open in case we need to make a run for it. I can’t exactly scale a fence.”

“Tensei, please don’t offend me by suggesting I would be slowed down by a measly fence,” Hisashi huffs as he uses a Quirk to reattach the gate. It’s not perfect, but it should be enough to fool anyone passing by.

“Can I offend you in other ways?”

Hisashi levels him with a look that has been known to induce heart-attacks; Tensei just laughs and starts moving.

“Are you sure you don’t want to stay out here?” Hisashi asks reluctantly as he glances down at the wheelchair. He’s resigned himself to not being able to kill anyone tonight, but that will just make things more complicated. If this is a trap, he’ll be fine, but if he’s also worrying about Tensei… “Guard the perimeter. Keep the escape route clear. Something like that. Escape routes are important when you’re not killing everyone, right?”

“Hell no! As your temporary conscience, I am required to remain in close proximity to you to ensure you don’t slip back into your old ways…”

“Wonderful,” Hisashi mutters and makes a mental note not to use any of the twenty-seven Quirks that would undoubtedly kill anyone within ten feet of him. He falls back and glances around; then he winces and rubs his eyes as he activates NightVision. “We’ll want to be careful from now on; we’re being watched.”

“How do you…” Tensei glances up at him and pauses when he catches sight of Hisashi’s glowing red eyes. “Let me guess, something you picked up.”

“At least we’re not dealing with complete amateurs,” Hisashi sighs. He gallantly resists the urge to flip off one particularly incompetent lookout and starts keeping a mental tally. There are enough of them that he’s fairly certain they’re dealing with some sort of organization, though what he’s not entirely sure. All For One was enough of a legend that he’s probably still talked about in the criminal underbelly, but the main groups that would have been survived until now would be the yakuza. And Hisashi is fairly certain they’re not behind this; too honourable, with no reason to show any interest in a child possessing the ability to steal Quirks…

…And too much common sense to touch anything even remotely related to All For One with a ten-foot bargepole. There was a reason he kept them around.

“Well, this is it,” Tensei announces, as they stop outside a large warehouse. “Guess they wanted that creep factor.”

“Stay back,” Hisashi warns him. Then he strides forward, takes a deep breath and wrenches the door open, accidentally pulling some of the hinges out of the wall. “Oops.”

Well, that's hardly his fault. He's fairly certain it would only take a few hours to fix, and - he is not to blame if this League of Villains didn't pick a location capable of withstanding the wrath of a centuries old, super-powered evil genius. Not that that's easy; Hisashi winces as he remembers all the times he was forced to change bases of operations because of fights. His accountant probably hated One For All users more than Hisashi himself, if only because it was always so difficult to convince the doctor that they really needed to economise for a few weeks.

Hisashi makes a mental note to check up on how his inner circle is doing now and forces himself to focus on the unpleasant business of trying to traumatize several insane villains enough to where they will lose any interest in All For One whilst still not letting them in on the fact All For One is, technically speaking, very much not dead.

Retirement is not easy.

“Definitely going for the creep factor,” Tensei mutters as Hisashi strides into the warehouse. NightVision isn't much use in the pitch darkness, so he mentally turns it off; he can hear the faint crunch as Tensei follows him, but can also sense others, several or perhaps several dozen people out in the darkness. Hisashi slows his steps to allow his friend to catch up, just in case; they probably won't be immediately attacked, but better safe than sorry. He has a handy Shield Quirk that he can get up in time to protect Tensei if they just stay close...

“Hey, could someone turn the lights on?" Tensei calls out. He's obviously finding the darkness a bit harder to navigate than Hisashi as he bumps into Hisashi's leg a few times. "This is seriously… GAH!”

Suddenly, several spotlights turn on, their beams trained on the two of them. Hisashi can't help an involuntary flinch, and frowns as he squints up. There are people stood by the lights, but he can't exactly make out features, something that just serves to make him more annoyed. He takes a deep breath and summons up Inko's tearful smile when he proposed, because it's fairly obvious these idiots have no clue who they are dealing with. Levelling the whole terminal would certainly not help his claims that he is no threat; not to mention he would then have to break the news to Tenya that Tensei was accidentally murdered by a pissed off villain.

Deep breaths. Inko wouldn't approve of murder.

“Mister Midoriya!”

Hisashi, for just a second, considers blasting the speaker with one of his Quirks. Then he takes a deep breath and summons up his most professional smile, and fancies he can hear a few people shiver. He was All For One; these weaklings may think they're calling the shots, but Hisashi has the upper hand. And even if he doesn't - simply appearing unconcerned can be surprisingly effective.

“Would you mind turning down the lights?” he calls up instead. Being polite is always surprisingly unsettling to people. And besides, he is a parent and thus must lead by example.

Several of the people shrouded in darkness laugh and Hisashi sighs. Honestly, he hopes this is not the quality of villains now that All For One is no longer there to cull the... more embarrassing ones. Professional pride and all.

“It is a pleasure to meet you!” the figure on the platform chuckles, apparently unconcerned with Hisashi's very polite request.

“I’ll take that as a no, then,” Hisashi sighs again and looks down at his feet. Honestly, what is the world coming to? Well, he gave Izuku's class a lesson, he might as well... Be fair. Show this rabble an example of professional, experienced, nightmare-inducing villainy.

“…Hisashi, what are you doing?” Tensei hisses as he spots what he was looking for.

Hisashi just smiles as he picks up the rock, takes aim…

…And sends the rock flying at the offending spotlight with enough force that the glass shatters and, with a few unsettling noises and a miserable puff off smoke, the light goes out.

“Well, that’s much better!” Hisashi smiles as he dusts his hands off and ignores the sound of several jaws dropping. He did of course consider using a Quirk, but - oh, who is he kidding, he wants to make an impact. He has missed this. “I apologize, but I’m a little light-sensitive, and I would not have been able to concentrate. The others are perfectly fine though, you don’t have to worry. So, you were saying?”

“Erm…” the figure on what Hisashi can now identify as a walkway hesitates, top-hat raised in one hand as part of some aborted gesture.

“This wasn’t part of the plan!” another shadow hisses to the speaker.

“It’s rude to whisper when in the company of others, young man,” Hisashi calls up, barely suppressing his grin. Oh, this is almost as much fun as watching Darth Vader's general badassery. “I don’t appreciate being called all the way out here, and would rather you tell me what all this nonsense is about so I can get to bed at a reasonable time.”

No one speaks.

“Well?” Hisashi crosses his arms and adopts the same tone he uses whenever waiting for Izuku to confess to something. He hopes they don't answer quickly. “I’m waiting…”

“Wonderful!” the man in the top-hat laughs, finally recovering from his shock. “Fantastic! Just what I would expect from All For One’s most trusted man!”

“I think you’ve got me confused with someone else,” Hisashi frowns as he mentally starts trying to identify the man. There’s… something vaguely familiar about him. Could they have - no, he's too young to have been in the Inner Circle before Hisashi retired. Probably related to someone, though... “I’ve never heard of this… Al… All Four-One? Is he some sort of… Performer?” 

“Come now, Midoriya,” the villain chuckles, and Hisashi mentally crosses another two villains off his list. Whoever this chap is, there’s something endearing about his dramatics. Hisashi always thoroughly approved of dramatics. “There is no need for you to pretend here! We are all of us, here, fellow disciples of All For One! Am I right?”

“Yes!” someone calls out.

“Exactly!”

“Yeah!...”

“Oh, you’re a cult!” Hisashi exclaims and everyone suddenly falls silent. He can feel them all staring at him as he winces, and desperately holds back his chuckles. Bursting into laughter now would ruin the dramatic effect he's going for. “Sorry to disappoint you, but we’re all very happy with our current religion. We won’t waste any more of your time. Come on, Tensei, I think we might just make it to the station in time…”

“Are you sure that he’s the right guy?” someone hisses as he turns to leave.

“What do we do now?” someone whispers.

“This wasn’t the plan!”

“There is no need to fear!” the man calls after him, though there’s a hint of desperation in his voice. “We simply seek to carry out All For One’s final plan!”

Hisashi barely resists the urge to roll his eyes. He’s not sure what these people believe, but his final plan is, at least at present, forcing Tensei to watch the original Star Wars trilogy.

“We know you’re not All For One’s son!”

Well, he supposes, at least they’re right about something, even if it just means he’ll have to wipe their minds of a few more memories. And try and train a reflex to feel absolute terror at the mere mention of All For One.

“We know Izuku Midoriya is his biological son!”

Still technically correct, although Hisashi’s stating to get a very bad feeling in the pit of his stomach. He’s almost at the door; he just needs to keep the mask up a little longer, and…

“And we know All For One left him with you, his loyal follower, so that despite his death, his legacy will live on! Izuku will tear down this corrupt system and…”

“What?”

“We told you we knew!” the man cheers as Hisashi freezes in the doorway.

“Hisashi, we need to go,” Tensei hisses. He reaches out and grabs Hisashi’s wrist, but he can’t exactly force him to move.

These people, Hisashi realizes as he shrugs off his friend’s grasp, think Izuku is a weapon. They expect him to do… what? Kill people? Destroy this peace Hisashi cares so much for and burn it to the ground? What will they do when they realize Izuku isn’t the next All For One? Will they take him and try to twist him, break him until he becomes something he was never meant to be, until his innocence is gone, his smile has vanished, and the last spark is gone from his beautiful green eyes…

“If you so much as look at Izuku,” Hisashi snarls as he turns back to the assembled villains. “You will regret it.”

“Hisashi!” Tensei hisses as the crowd starts to murmur.

This is dangerous, Hisashi knows. He’s not playing along with their script, not fitting the role they assigned him. He should calm down; he needs to stay in control, but he can’t. Can’t let them steal Izuku from him, can’t disappoint Inko, can’t let them destroy his family…

“Mister Midoriya, you have no reason to worry…”

“No,” Hisashi snarls. He can hear the fury in his voice, and notices Tensei flinch back; only the presence of his friend is preventing him from going nuclear, from summoning All For One up. Because All For One never cared about bystanders, never cared about things such as friends. If All For One returns here, now, Tensei will almost certainly die. “Izuku is my son, not some… Some… Weapon for you to use. I don’t give a damn about your ridiculous plan! Stay the hell away from my family!”

“HISASHI!”

“Traitor!” someone hisses.

“Bastard…”

“Hang on, isn’t the cripple a hero?!”

“…I suppose we should have expected this,” the speaker sighs. “You’ve become attached to Izuku, and… FUCK!”

Hisashi unleashes a sonic blast at the bastard. Unfortunately the villain dives out of the way. The wall behind him, however, is blown wide open, and the figure takes one look at the busted metal and then bolts.

“HISASHI! NO MURDER!”

“Oh shut up!” Hisashi snarls at Tensei as he prepares for a second shot. The villain is still clearly visible on the walkway; if he just... “My way is much!...”

And then something hard slams into him. He goes flying through the open doors, and crashes into a shipping container, denting the metal.

“What the…” he groans as he tries to stand up. He can feel his head spinning, his ribs already knitting themselves back together. A Strength Quirk? No, that was too much for a simple Strength Quirk. That was something almost as powerful as… One For…

Instinct kicks in and he ducks milliseconds before a fist slams into the container where his head just was, punching a hole; he looks up, bewildered, at where the black arm vanishes into the torn metal, because – Speed Quirk? Then the stranger grabs him hard enough he can feel his bones crack, and tosses him back towards the warehouse. Hisashi stops wondering about his Quirk; survival is more important. He jumps to his feet and only just manages to catch the shipping container thrown at him, sliding backwards a few inches.

“What about your allies?!” he yells, because this is not at all best practice, and then has to dig his feet in as the stranger slams into him, crushing the metal container like a harmonica. Fuck, this is -this is bad. This guy is not some petty small-timer; Hisashi is willing to admit, this guy could possibly give All Might a hard time.

“Hisashi!”

“Stay back!” Hisashi yells over his shoulder, because if Tensei gets close - a single moment, one move, would be enough to kill him.

Tensei.

Hisashi could scream. He needs to end this fight now, because they’re seriously outnumbered. If he goes down, Tensei won’t stand a chance, but… Dammit, dammit, he’s out of practice, this guy is aiming for the kill. Strength Quirks are simple but effect…

The villain grabs him by the leg, swings him around and sends him flying into another container. Hisashi coughs up blood. He can’t die here; if he does, then Izuku…

Izuku, he remembers, and forces himself up. He barely dives out of the way of the villain, old instincts dulled over the years, but he can already feel some of his favourite Quirks settling into place, as he calls them up almost subconsciously. He can end this quickly; get Tensei, get away from here. He’s not some petty villain, not some pathetic hero.

He is A…

No, he corrects himself as he draws back, watching this villain close in at unparalleled speed. He is more than All For One.

He is Hisashi Midoriya.

And so he thinks of his son; he clenches his teeth and then, with the combined power of all his Strength and Enhancement Quirks, he punches the bastard, sending him flying through straight through three containers (insurance will take care of that) and out over Tokyo Bay.

A pretty cool moment, if he says so himself. Then he shifts and grunts in pain as one of his broken ribs protests. He’s starting to get tired, the exertion of all those Quirks and having stepped back for so long making for a dangerous combination. But he can’t stop now; he turns back to the warehouse, ready to go save Tensei, and…

“Oh good!” Tensei skids to a stop in front of him. “Do you have a Speed Quirk? Cause we need to get out of here!”

“How did you…” Hisashi stares in surprise at his friend. Tensei is - in a wheelchair. Paralyzed from the waist down. And was outnumbered. How did... “Never mind; I can take them…”

“Hisashi, your shirt’s fucking red!” Tensei yells, and Hisashi glances down and realizes his shirt is stained with blood. Oh dear, Kurogiri is not going to be pleased. He quickly checks and breathes a sigh of relief, because he still has his cufflinks. “Either we run, or I call Izuku!”

Hisashi freezes. Izuku - Izuku is away at camp, with his friends, having fun. If he gets a call that his father is... dripping copious amounts of blood, he'll probably insist on coming home early. And what about Tenya and Hitoshi?! The past few weeks have been so hard for them, they deserve a break!

“Fine,” Hisashi nods. He glances around, but, weirdly enough, there are no other villains charging them. Then he takes a deep breath; he's likely going to have to carry Tensei, since wheelchairs are not known for speed. “What do…”

“Don’t worry about me!” Tensei grins as he presses a hidden button on the side of his armrest; a harness emerges from inside the wheelchair and clips into place, and suddenly Hisashi feels dread curl its icy fingers around his heart. “Just be ready to blast that fence!”

“…Does your mother know about that?” Hisashi asks, and prays the answer is yes. Fearsome villains are one thing; an enraged Katsumi Iida is quite another.

“Does your son know about this?” Tensei fires back.

“Fair point,” Hisashi nods. He glances around, but - still no villains. He'll have to ask Tensei about that later. “I’ll race you?

“Oh,” Tensei grins as he presses a large red button. “You’re on, Lordy!”

Chapter Text

“Hey dad!” Izuku grins. “How are you doing?”

“I hate friendship so much,” the voice on the other end of the phone groans. “Tensei has no appreciation for the classics…”

“I’m just saying, why build a super-killing-machine with one teeny, tiny spot, where, if you hit juust…”

“They explain that in Rogue One!”

“Your dad is such a nerd,” Hitoshi snickers.

“Anyway, why are you calling? Are you skipping out on training?...”

“Of course not!” Izuku exclaims as he passes another plate to Tenya. “We are showing our initiative as heroes! We saw an opportunity to be of service to a fellow man, and…”

“They volunteered to help me with the washing up,” Kurogiri interrupts him, a smile on his face as he takes another sip of his mint tea. “Plus Izuku wanted to call and check on you.”

“I’m not five years old…”

“Don’t worry, Izuku, no one was murdered… Ow, Hisashi!”

“Dad, what’s that about?” Izuku asks, almost dropping the mug he’s drying. He glances around the kitchen, suddenly all too aware of his friends’ presence. He can’t ask dad anything about All For One, but he also has a growing feeling that something has happened. (Which – not good. It could go either way, from Tensei and dad getting into a fight about the movie to random heroes showing up and almost getting blasted for saying something bad about mum. Unfortunately, where dad's involved, it can be hard to tell.)

“Possible Train Guy lead. Nothing certain; we’re still looking into it. How’s Operation Kota?”

Everyone in the kitchen groans.

“That bad?”

“…It’s probably worse,” Shoto admits, and Izuku can't help but agree. If the past few days are anything to go by, the only thing Kota hates more than heroes is Kurogiri. Which is, of course, very awkward, considering he still remembers stumbling across several printouts from jewellery websites about a week before Water Hose's tragic death.

“You know, if you wanted, I could…”

“You are not using a Quirk on my nephew,” Kurogiri interrupts dad. Then he seems to realize what he said; his eyes widen and he almost drops his mug as he hurries to correct himself. "I mean Kota! You are not using a Quirk on Kota! Of course you're not using a Quirk on Kota!"

"Aww..." Hitoshi grins, and Kurogiri glares at him.

"Your nephew..." Izuku snickers. "Hey, does that make me his uncle, too?"

"Do not worry, Kurogiri! Your dedication to Kota is admirable, and I am greatly impressed by your patience! I am certain that he shall, sooner or later, realize he could not ask for a better, more caring step-uncle than..."

"Alright, you know what? Breaktime is over! Get out of my kitchen!"

"Oh, come on, Kurogiri..."

"Out!"

"Sorry, dad, Supreme Leader Kurogiri says we have to go," Izuku rolls his eyes as he sets down the last bowl. "Love you!"

"Take care, Uncle Hisashi!" Shoto adds.

"Tensei, please do not strain yourself! Remember what the doctors said!"

"Bye Tensei, bye Uncle Hisashi!"

But there’s something still bothering Izuku as they head out, something that his friends pick up on as well, because Hitoshi frowns and says, “Is it just me, or was there something… weird about his voice?”

***

“I still think we should have told them,” Tensei mutters.

“They’re chil – OW!”

“My apologies,” Recovery Girl smiles sweetly, proving once again that nice old ladies should never be trusted. “My, you’ve certainly done yourself a mischief!”

Hisashi gallantly resists telling the elderly hero where she can shove her apologies; instead he takes the proffered gummies and glares at his bandaged arm.

After a rather short and awkward detour to a police station, he arrived at U.A. with a shattered wrist, several half-healed ribs, and numerous fractures. Considering the strength of his opponent, Hisashi probably got off lightly. If he did not have the strength and reflexes of All For One…

Hisashi shudders as he imagines the possible outcome. What would Inko say if he allowed Izuku to be orphaned?! Although he very much hopes to see her again one day, getting yelled at is not the romantic reunion he would like.

“They’re not children,” Nedzu sighs, bringing Hisashi back to the present in which he is thankfully not dead and therefore not facing the wrath of his beloved wife. “They’re heroes-in-training. You cannot protect them forever, Hisashi.”

Hisashi hesitates.

No matter how much he wants to argue, Nedzu actually has a point. These people, this… League of Villains is after Izuku. Hisashi is, to them, just an obstacle to overcome; their true target is All For One’s son. And Izuku… It’s Hisashi’s fault, but Izuku will be the one to pay the price. And… What if Hisashi fails to protect him? What if he’s just a second too late, or in the wrong place at the wrong time? The least Izuku deserves from him is a warning.

But... He never wanted this. Never wanted Izuku to have to grow up to soon, never wanted him to have to pay for his father's mistakes. If he could go back in time and... No, he would still become All For One; if he never got that Quirk, never lived longer than expected, he would not have met Inko. He would never have created Izuku.

“At least,” he starts and realizes that his voice is shaking. “At least let the boys enjoy their trip. Let’s wait until they get back from camp.”

“Fair enough,” Nedzu nods. “We will warn the boys as soon as they get back.”

Hisashi manages a grateful smile at that; a grateful smile that is, unfortunately, short-lived due to someone annoying knocking on the door.

“Knock, knock,” Tsukauchi pokes his head into the teachers' lounge. “How’s the invalid doing?”

“Which one?” Tensei chuckles from his seat; his wheelchair, considerably less mobile and very much not fit for purpose, was confiscated by the police before they were released. Which made things... Rather awkward. Hisashi just hopes that Power Loader, wherever he is, manages to put together a somewhat decent replacement before they leave U.A..

Or is at least able to stop some of the more extreme add-ons his students undoubtedly come up with. Hisashi would really rather not have to explain to Katsumi why her son's wheelchair has a nuclear missile, battering ram and can transform into a mini-submarine.

“Hey, Hisashi, we match now!” Tensei grins as he raises his own bandaged arm. “Want me to sign your cast?”

“I hate you so much right now.”

“The most recent one,” the very annoying detective chuckles as he closes the door, and Hisashi wonders whether he’s related to the Iidas. Surely being so annoying cannot be a coincidence… “Up to answering a few questions?”

“If I say no, will you – OW, OW, OW…”

Dammit, the doctor was never as insolent as Recovery Girl! Hisashi glares at the elderly woman. Has she never heard of respecting her eld… Oh, right.

“He’s fine,” Tensei laughs, showing he is probably the worst friend on the planet. “He’s recovered enough to be snarky, after all.”

“I’m not sure that’s any indication. Where Midoriya’s concerned, snark just means he’s semi-conscious.”

“I could – STOP PRODDING IT, DAMMIT, I’LL BE GOOD!”

Recovery Girl just smiles and passes him a Kitkat, and Hisashi glowers at Tensei. The hero is well aware of his true identity; he should be protecting him from Recovery Girl, in case Hisashi snaps and blows up half of Tokyo, not laughing hysterically!

“Alright,” Tsukauchi sighs as he sits down. “Would one of you two care to explain what you were doing at the docks?”

“Hisashi got a creepy letter from some people calling themselves the League of Villains, so we went to check it out,” Tensei explains with a grin. “Well, you know Hisashi – he went to try and do probably-not-legal things, and I went to make sure he didn’t.”

“…You are aware vigilantism is illegal?”

“I’ve still got my license!” Tensei beams as he produces his wallet. Tsukauchi stares at him; Nedzu just sighs and pulls out his phone.

“He’s telling the truth,” the principal declares after a few seconds. “The registry says he’s no longer active due to injuries, but his license is still valid.”

“Well, at least there’s that,” Tsukauchi sighs. “But there’s also the small matter of you driving a clearly illegal vehicle. Not to mention damaging a police van!”

“Oh yes, that,” Hisashi winces at the memory. He has been slammed into multiple hard surfaces, and yet never would have imagined just how uncomfortable a high-speed impact with a heavily armoured car could be. “How about I write you a cheque for the damages?”

“…The car was totalled.”

“Well then a new car,” Hisashi shrugs. “How expensive can a police van be, anyway?”

“…Of course that’s your response,” Tsukauchi mutters. Then he takes a deep breath and turns his attention back to Tensei. “Anyway, like I was saying – wheelchairs and mobility scooters have a maximum speed limit of ten miles per hour. We’re not sure exactly how fast you were going, but – we’re pretty sure it was at least three times that!”

“It was an emergency!” Tensei whines. “You saw Hisashi – he needed urgent medical assistance!”

“…The report indicates he was forced to render medical aid to you!”

“I’d just been hit by a police car! While wearing jeans and a shirt! Of course I needed medical aid!”

“You ran into the back of an armoured van, while it was stopped!” Tsukauchi buries his head in his hands. “You’re lucky they just finished dropping off the prisoners! I don’t know how we’d hush it up if they’d escaped!”

“It wouldn’t be that hard to round them up,” Hisashi tries to cheer the man up. After all, he's wrangled overexcited boys at hero conventions - corralling a number of highly dangerous villains cannot be harder than that.

“Could we please get back onto the subject of all the laws you did break rather than all the other laws you could have broken too?” Tsukauchi groans. “Iida, I’m sorry, but I have to at least write you a ticket.”

“But…”

“Either I write you a ticket or I call your mother to find out who made the illegal modifications.”

“I’ll take the ticket.”

“By the way,” Hisashi frowns as something occurs to him. “Why did your wheelchair…”

“Oh, I had the guys at Idaten give it an upgrade when mum wasn’t looking,” Tensei grins. Then something occurs to him. “This is off the record, right?”

“Yes,” Tsukauchi groans as he accepts a cup of coffee from Recovery Girl. “I’ve got enough on my plate as it is; no need to go looking for more work.”

“Well that’s a relief,” Tensei lets out a sigh of relief. “Yeah, so they installed the booster. And the sleeping gas!”

“…Sleeping gas?”

“How do you think I got away from the guys in the warehouse?” Tensei laughs. Then he perks up. “Hey, since being your best friend is apparently super dangerous, do you think Hatsume…”

“NO!” Hisashi and Nedzu chorus.

Some silly little League of Villains is one thing; Katsumi Iida in a rage...

“Alright, could we maybe get back to the subject of this… League of Villains?” Tsukauchi asks. He seems to have developed a strange tick, and Hisashi wonders whether all that caffeine is a good idea. “You mentioned a letter?...”

“It’s in my safe at home,” Hisashi informs the man. Not his extra-secure safe, of course; that one houses the most important items, like Izuku’s baby teeth or Inko’s wedding and engagement rings. No need to soil such sacred items with being in close proximity of a letter from mentally unstable villains. “Tensei and I were the only people to handle it, so you might be able to pull fingerprints. There wasn’t much in the way of information, though; it was mostly just nonsensical ramblings, calling All For One Lordy…”

Nedzu chokes on air.

“…And asking me to meet them.”

“At an abandoned warehouse,” Tsukauchi points out. “Alone. Which you did.”

“I brought Tensei!” Hisashi points out. That counts for something, doesn’t it? And true, he wasn’t aware Tensei’s license was still active, but – a hero is still a hero! Really, Hisashi is starting to get the hang of this whole civilian life thing!

Alright, maybe not. He will be the first to admit most civilians probably don’t immediately resort to cold-blooded murder. At least he has a few more days to come up with a reasonable story to tell Izuku.

“I’m still writing you a ticket.”

“What for?” Hisashi frowns. He knows he’s still a bit awkward, but – technically speaking, he probably acted in a mostly legal manner! And at least he’s trying to be a law-abiding citizen…

“I’ll figure something out,” the officer deadpans. “I don’t suppose either of you got a good look at any of these villains?”

Hisashi winces. He wishes he had kept a cool head; if he'd somehow gotten a look at the speaker, or perhaps obtained some sort of... DNA sample, like blood, or hair, or a dismembered hand...

“I’m afraid I didn’t get a good…” he admits.

“I got photos!”

Everyone turns to stare at Tensei.

“What?” the young man grins. “I’m not just a pretty face! I brought my phone! Not sure how good the photos are, considering how dark it was, but…”

“Tensei, I will probably never say this again,” Hisashi declares. He’s… rather impressed, actually. “But you are a genius.”

“I’m not sure whether to be happy or offended.”

“Could you pull the pictures up?” Nedzu asks. “If we see anyone, I could cross-check them with known villains…”

Tensei beams and produces his phone. Then he winces when he realizes the screen looks like Gigantomachia stood on it. Nedzu hurries off to fetch a cable and laptop, and Hisashi wonders idly whether he could intimidate the device into working; he’s done it in the past. He doesn’t really get the chance to test whether this particular skill works, because Nedzu returns and after a few seconds of staring anxiously at the screen, he looks up and beams at them. And just like that, they all crowd around the screen and watch with bated breath as the headmaster opens the first picture...

Tsukauchi groans. Hisashi rather agrees; the image displayed on the screen looks like an extreme close-up of the back of Cementoss' head.So does the next. And the...

“What?” Tensei complains around the seventh picture of probably-concrete-but-too-blurry-to-be-sure. “At least I tried.”

“Yes, yes, A for effort, F for your photographic skills,” Hisashi rolls his eyes. “Honestly, I… Wait.”

“That’s not concrete!” Nedzu exclaims as he stares at the eighth photo. Tsukauchi, who had been busy rubbing his head almost falls over in his haste to get a good look. 

“I think that’s the villain you fought,” Tensei squints and moves to the next photo. “Yep! I don’t think we’ll do better, though; he was insanely fast even by my standards!”

“Wait, zoom in on his head,” Tsukauchi frowns as he spots something. Then he gasps and looks up. “Midoriya – do you…”

“…It looks like a brain,” Hisashi breathes.

“The Flying Zombie Bat Monster!” the detective exclaims.

“…I did not almost get killed by a Flying Zombie Bat Monster,” Hisashi protests. He may be retired, but – he still has some pride left! And what if, heaven forbid, All Might discovers his identity?! How would he ever live down the Symbol of Peace knowing he was almost taken out by a Flying Zombie anything?

“That thing that almost grabbed Shoto?” Tensei frowns, apparently unconcerned with the great threat to Hisashi’s reputation. “I don’t think it had wings though. Is there some way we can check if it’s the same… thing?”

“I can pull the report when I get back to the station,” Tsukauchi shrugs. “I… seem to recall Hawks mentioned it was pale, but I’m not sure…”

Hisashi shakes his head and pulls out his phone. Honestly, this is one of the things that was so amusing back in his days as a villain; the side of Good and Love and all that has a nasty habit of overcomplicating things.

“My way is simpler,” he declares.

“What, you’ve got some – super-secret tracking Quirk that only works under a full moon when Jupiter is…” Tensei rolls his eyes.

"No, that would be ridiculous," Hisashi snorts as he dials a familiar number. "What I have is a working phone, and... Touya, how are you?!"

“Uncle Hisashi?” a familiar voice exclaims, and Hisashi beams at the very confused people staring at him. “Why are… Is mum alright?!”

“She was fine when I spoke to her… two hours ago,” Hisashi checks his watch. “And before you ask, I spoke with Shoto – alright, fine, Izuku, twenty minutes ago, but Shoto was there too, I heard his voice! The point is, there is no reason for you to panic. You just enjoy your vacation! How is Fukuoka?!”

“Oh, thank heavens."  Touya breathes. "It's actually - it's pretty great! Keigo showed me all the best places to eat yesterday, and - oh, we visited a park today that mum would absolutely love! I was thinking we could come here for our next family holiday!"

“Well I’m sorry to interrupt your romantic holiday,” Hisashi lies, because Hawks deserves Touya about as much as Hisashi deserved Inko. (In other words – not at all.) “But I have a possible lead on the flying kidnapper and I need a little help from Bird Boy.”

“What?! Keigo – Keigo, Uncle Hisashi has a lead on The Flying Zombie Bat Monster!”

Someone says something on the other end.

“He’s Uncle Hisashi,” Touya responds as if that’s the answer to all of life’s questions. (In the Yukiyama household, it probably is.)

“…Hello, sir?”

“Ah, Hawks,” Hisashi purrs. He notices Tensei covering his mouth and can't help his somewhat devious smile. “I’m so sorry to disturb you, but I need to check – what did Shoto’s kidnapper look like? Could you give me a brief description?”

“…I didn’t really get a good look…”

“Oh, I’m sure you can come up with something…”

“It was kind of lanky and had wings and was a really weird sickly yellowish-brown and was wearing navy sweats and I swear that’s all I remember…”

“Oh, no, that’s more than enough,” Hisashi beams. “Tell Touya to take care and enjoy the rest of his holiday. And please remember what I said earlier - if something happens to him, it would be... Such a shame for Fukuoka to lose it's resident hero... Well, have a wonderful day!"

“…I’m going to pretend I didn’t hear you threaten the Number Two Hero,” Tsukauchi mutters. “Well, what did he say?”

“It sounds like it’s a different monster,” Hisashi informs the others. “Although I would still guess that they’re somehow related. I highly doubt there are two separate groups foolish enough to allow members to run around with their brains exposed.”

Really, this is almost… Welcome news. Whoever this is not only dared to threaten Izuku’s continued happiness, but also attempted to abduct Shoto. If they are also behind Train Guy, then… Well, all they need to do is attack Tenya, and Hisashi will resurrect All For One for exactly the time required to massacre them all and hang their decapitated bodies from Tokyo Tower.

“Alright,” Tensei nods and turns to the photo again. “So you were killed by a…. Not-Flying Zombie… is that a beak… Duck Monster? Not-Flying Zombie Duck Monster?”

“We are not calling it that,” Hisashi glowers at his friend. This villain-creature-whatever could almost go head-to-head with All For One; they deserve a title acknowledging their strength.

“Alright – Crow Monster! Raven Monster! Chicken – not, that’s dumb… I know!” Tensei beams. “Not-Flying Zombie Ostrich Monster!”

“I refuse to be almost killed by anything with such a ludicrous name.”

“Besides, I’m not sure Not-Flying Zombie Ostrich Monster would fit in my incident report…” Tsukauchi frowns, and Hisashi decides that no, it is no longer a mystery why the police always struggled so much to keep up with All For One.

“Fine!” Tensei throws up his hands. “You name it then!”

Hisashi frowns.

The key to a successful name is for it to be short and to the point. Something with the right flair; even if it is a nonsense word at first, it can be defined by its bearer. And this creature, this villain – it is powerful. It went up against the might of All For One and there were even a few short seconds when it was winning. It deserves a name that acknowledges that achievement, a name like…

“Nomu,” he declares. It seems right to honour these villains with a name he once thought of himself, for one of his own creations. And he is sure that the doctor would agree; this is a creation even he would be proud of. “They’re Nomu.”

Chapter Text

“…Alright, Machia,” Izuku takes a deep breath. “Let’s go over this again. What are you not to do?”

“I am not to come unless summoned,” the giant sniffs, and, not for the first time, Izuku wonders how it is possible that someone so huge, so dangerous, can imitate a kicked puppy so well. Then he steels himself; dad is not around, and that means Izuku is the designated Gigantomachia handler, and he really doesn’t want to explain to Mandalay why her lovely forest is so… barren. “I am sorry, Little Lord! I wanted to protect you!”

“Yeah, well maybe if Kacchan didn’t almost piss his pants…” Hitoshi mutters, and Izuku groans.

“What did you just say, you bushy-haired bastard?!”

Ah yes, there is that unmistakeable Katsuki temper. The previous night came to a rather abrupt end after Machia, convinced they were all in danger, came charging straight at where Katsuki was screaming at Hitoshi. Izuku isn’t sure about what his friend did to scare the explosive blonde, but Hitoshi has always been just a little too fond of freaking people out.

“I believe that is our cue to head back to the lodge!” Tenya hastily inserts himself between the two boys, before they can pick up their argument. “Izuku, you will be able to find your way back, right?”

Izuku slowly turns around and eyes the large swath of trampled trees that stretches out straight in the direction of where they had their test of courage.

“…Yeah,” he slowly nods. “…I think I’ll manage.”

“Well then – Machia, I must admit, I admire your dedication to your duties! Hitoshi, Kacchan, let us head back!”

“I told you not to call me that!...”

“Little Lord…” Machia sniffs as Izuku watches his friends leave.

Izuku takes a deep breath and turns back to the bodyguard, and realizes he just can’t stay mad at him. Not when the giant is staring down at him, forlorn, not when he only got so worked up because he wanted to protect Izuku. But still…

“Machia, I’m not mad,” he assures the former villain, and chuckles as the giant immediately perks up. “But – we’re teenagers, we do dumb things. Yesterday, we were just having fun. And I appreciate you wanting to protect me, but – you kind of scared a few of my friends.”

“I’m sorry, Little Lord!”

“It’s fine,” Izuku hastens to comfort the giant; all he needs now is for Machia to start in on one of his self-deprecating spirals. “I’ll bring them over tomorrow, and you can apologize to everyone, alright?”

“Yes, Little Lord!”

“And, until then, just… Stay here,” Izuku glances around at the clearing. “If we are attacked, I’ll find some way to let you know.”

Not that there’s any likelihood of that happening.

***

“…Well, that could have gone a lot better,” Magne sighs.

“Gee, you don’t say?” Spinner asks, sarcasm practically dripping from every word, and Mr. Compress rubs at his head to try and stave off the inevitable headache. Answering the call of someone seeking to avenge All For One sounded so amusing, so glamorous!...

Then he met his fellow villains and realized that, apparently, standards have really dropped significantly these past few years. He is willing to bet that, when he was still alive, All For One didn't have followers that acted like little children...

“He wasn’t so tough!” Twice laughs. “He was freaking terrifying!”

“I bet I could have taken him!”

All the gather villains slowly look over at Muscular. Then they all burst out laughing.

“Seriously, old man?” Mustard guffaws. “You sure we were at the same meeting?! He would stomp you in a hot second!”

“No he fucking wouldn't!”

“You wouldn’t stand a chance – Dead as a dodo!”

“…it is to be expected,” the speaker mounted on the wall crackles to life, and all seventy or so villains, crammed as they are into the warehouse, freeze. “Midoriya was, for some reason, trusted by our Lord above all others. If he is meant to protect Lord’s ultimate creation, he must be strong, stronger than any other of Lord’s followers...”

Mr. Compress nods; then something slams down on a hard surface on the other end of the speaker, and, with a sigh he prepares himself for another tirade.

“How dare he?! To take our Lord’s benevolent gifts and to betray him, to – use them against his will?! THE TRAITOR MUST BE PUNISHED! We cannot allow such disrespect, such... such... insolence! ALL FOR ONE MUST BE AVENGED!"

Twice makes a loopy gesture next to his head.

“No matter,” the voice lets out a sinister chuckle. “Izuku must be retrieved before he is once again out of our reach. And then… What better punishment, than for Hisashi Midoriya to be killed by the very ‘son’ he loves so dearly?...”

***

“Okay, so just to make sure – that thing yesterday wasn’t a villain?”

“No,” Hitoshi shakes his head for what feels like the millionth time. “He’s just overprotective.”

Class 1-B does not look convinced. Which – okay, Hitoshi can hardly blame them, if the first time he saw Machia the giant was bearing down on him hungry for blood, he’d probably also think he was about to die. Machia unfortunately looks rather… villainous, when he goes on one of his overprotective rampages. Which, considering Izuku’s family background, might not be entirely unexpected.

Hitoshi frowns as he tries to puzzle out where exactly Machia came from. Then he decides he probably doesn't want to know; what matters now is that the giant is only going to intentionally murder someone if Izuku (or maybe Uncle Hisashi) okays it.

“Really, he’s rather sweet,” he tries to convince the other teens, and hopes none of them witnessed that time Machia almost killed Mic. In broad daylight. In the middle of Tokyo. “He still believes in Santa!”

“The big guy that tried to kill Kendo yesterday,” Kodai repeats slowly. “Still believes in Santa.”

“Yep,” Hitoshi smiles. It's become something of a tradition, by now, to sneak presents into the Midoriya household and pretend they were left by Santa. Although there was one awkward year, when Machia almost charged a neighbour who had dressed up for his kids...

“…No offense, Shinso, but you’re pretty weird,” Honenuki remarks as he holds back a branch to let them pass. “I mean, it’s strange enough thinking that Eraserhead is in a – relationship. And has a kid. I mean, no offense, but…”

“…He doesn’t look like he could keep himself alive, much less a kid?” Hitoshi suggests. “Yeah, that’s… Probably why he keeps Mic around.”

Also because dad has been head over heels in love with the Voice Hero since like forever, even if he was too dumb to realize it himself. Hitoshi loves Aizawa, but the man has the emotional intelligence of a brick. Thankfully Mic loves him, flaws and all, although Hitoshi sometimes wishes the two of them weren't quite so... so... in love, because there are only so many hickeys his sanity can take. Once again, he mentally thanks his lucky stars his grandparents live nearby and are always happy to see him.  He does not need to go to bed knowing that in the next room, dad and Mic are… are… And that is as far as that particular thought will go.

“Alright, enough chit-chat!” Kendo declares up ahead. “Kaibara, you got our flag?”

***

Gigantomachia frowns and lifts his head.

He can smell something… Unfamiliar. Strange. Unpleasant enough that he shivers, trying to shake off the urge to move, to find Little Lord and his friends and take them somewhere far, far away.

But Little Lord is so smart – if he says that he’s not in danger, he will be safe! Gigantomachia has complete confidence in Little Lord. And – maybe it’s more of his friends coming to surprise him?

Gigantomachia perks up at that, because it makes sense! Little Lord has so many friends, and is so lovely, of course they would want to throw him a surprise party! And Gigantomachia is familiar enough with surprises by now to know he should not spoil it.

With a firm nod of his head, Gigantomachia turns his attention back to his manga.

He still shivers when a gust of wind blows the unfamiliar scent his way.

***

“Oooh, Kacchan, I think I see a ghost!...”

“WILL YOU SHUT THE FUCK UP?!” Katsuki snarls as he spins round and slams his fist into a nearby tree.

“Temper, temper!” Monoma laughs, and, not for the first time, Katsuki wonders why he got stuck on fucking guard duty for these losers. He can be perfectly quiet if need be, and he resents his classmates for leaving him behind just because he might give them away to the other team.

“Stop trying to provoke him, Monoma,” another of the 1-B bastards sighs. What’s his name – Kibara? Kaibara? Something like that… “We need to stay calm till someone comes rescue us.”

“No one is getting past me!”

“Oh, except for that dead woman hovering just over your shoulder! Ooh, so scary…”

“…Hey, did anything weird happen with any of your Quirks?” skull-face finally looks up from where he was staring at his hands.

“What do you mean, Honenuki?”

“It’s just… For a moment before I was captured, it was like my Quirk was just… gone,” the teenager shrugs. “I… don’t know how to explain it; one minute it was there, and then for a split second it was just…”

Monoma twitches, and Katsuki snickers as he remembers the haunted expression the bastard wore throughout the last part of the Sports Festival. Not, of course, that he can blame him; it's weird enough to think Izuku could just steal someone's Quirk as he pleases, and slightly creepy. Katsuki shivers as he tries imagining what it would feel like to suddenly just... lose such an intrinsic part of himself, without understanding why. And then he realizes, not for the first time, that he probably came close to it; that it was only through sheer dumb luck that Izuku's Quirk didn't manifest back in daycare, when he probably wished, more than anything, for Explosion to stop hurting him so much...

He shivers and quickly turns his thoughts away from that. Izuku is not the sort of person to just go around stealing Quirks left and right. After all, he returned Honenuki's Quirk just as soon as the boy got caught, he just... uses All For One like Aizawa uses Erasure. Thankfully, Izuku is not a villain.

“Maybe you just suck at using your Quirk?” he suggests, trying to distract himself from the terrifying vision of a villain with All For One.

“Oh, like the great and wonderful Class A can do better…”

“Well none of us lost our Quirk, so yeah!...”

***

“Remember the plan,” Mr. Compress repeats for the tenth time. He entertains, for a brief moment, the notion that this time something will stick, and then looks over his comrades and visibly wilts. “Our objective is Little Lord, but…”

“…If we see a nifty Quirk, we grab it,” Veritas nods as he secures his mask over his face. He stretches and gives them all a cheeky wave. “I’ll see you guys later; I’m going to find little Hitoshi!”

“Oh, oh, can I come?!”

“You’re not setting foot near my Hitoshi, you crazy bitch!...”

Compress makes a mental note to avoid Hitoshi Shinso, because he really does not fancy trying to appear intimidating whilst also dealing with Veritas and Toga’s incessant squabbling. Instead, he looks out over the remaining villains, trying to guess who will be most problematic.

Then he realizes someone else is already missing, and groans.

“…Where’s Muscular?”

“Said fighting little kids was boring and he was off to look for a challenge,” Spinner reports with a sigh. “Why is he a member again?”

“Apparently he’s not good enough to get turned into a Nomu,” Compress takes a deep breath and thinks a few very rude words towards their leader. The man is almost as fanatical about those things as All For One. Maybe they could accidentally leave Muscular behind… “Speaking of which, Twice?...”

“Ready to go – Let’s do this thing!” the other villain responds, loud and clear in Compress’ earpiece.

“Alright, League of Villains,” Compress adjusts his tophat. “Let us go retrieve Little Lord.”

***

“Hey, what’s that?”

“What’s wha…” Katsuki looks away from glaring at Monoma and feels his stomach sink. “Oh, no…”

Rising up from the forest some distance away is some sort of cloud, or something, and Katsuki realizes it's coming from somewhere deeper into the forest, in the opposite direction to the camp. Exactly where most of his classmates headed.

“Perhaps someone frightened Yukiyama and he set fire to a tree?” Monoma suggests, but it’s clear even he doesn’t believe what he’s saying.

“No,” Katsuki shakes his head, because he knows smoke. He’s seen Yukiyama use his Quirk and beyond that – he saw a forest fire once, when he was camping with his father. Of course they immediately evacuated the area, but still – looking back at the orange glow, seeing the rising smoke – it stuck with him. “No, that’s not smoke. I mean… I think it’s gas…”

“But – why’s there a cloud of gas out here?” Honenuki frowns. “We’re in the middle of a forest…”

“We need to head back to camp,” Katsuki decides. He’s getting a bad, very bad feeling about this. Hopefully it’s just Izuku with one of – no, no, Izuku from what he’s seen wouldn’t accidentally set off such a large cloud, and there is no logical reason for it either, not unless he wants to field dozens of questions about his Quirk.

“Oh, well, I suppose you might be scared, but…”

“Hey, this…” Katsuki takes a deep breath; tries to banish Stain’s hateful eyes as he attacked time and time again, tries to forget the terror of seeing Izuku just lying there, immobile. He glances over the other boys and shivers. They may not be friends, but he - he wouldn't wish that on anyone, and they don't know what it's like. “This isn’t about Class rivalry! This – if this is a villain attack, we’re all in danger! We need to report back to the pros!”

“Hey, relax, Bakugo. I mean – what sort of villains would attack us? We’re students at frigging U.A.!”

Someone laughs.

***

Kurogiri carefully sets down the last mug and then turns to survey the once again spotless kitchen.

It is nice to see Izuku, of course, nice to see him and his friends have fun, but sometimes he just needs a little peace and quiet. Time away from Quirk shenanigans, and Situations, and everything else that leaves him desperately craving a cup of tea and a lie down in a dark room.

He’ll bake some muffins, he decides, and adjusts his apron – an anniversary gift from Shino, with cat pawprints going across it. It’s been a while since he last dusted off Inko’s chocolate muffin recipe, and if he sets one aside, he can include it in Kota’s bento tomorrow. For just a second, Kurogiri entertains the thought of making cat-shaped onigiri; then he sighs and rejects that plan. Right now, no matter how much Kota despises Kurogiri, at least he's currently willing to eat the food left for him. Kurogiri would rather not jeopardize that.

With that plan in mind, Kurogiri opens the cupboard and reaches up for the flour, mind already listing off all the ingredients. He’ll have to switch the oven on in a minute to let it heat…

“EVERYONE!” Shino’s voice suddenly sounds in his head, startling him. The flour slips from his hands and crashes to the floor, spilling everywhere, but Kurogiri barely notices the mess. “We’re under attack by villains, and there may be more out there! If you can, get back to camp now! Don’t engage, just retreat!”

“Fuck,” Kurogiri hisses as he grabs his phone. He needs to get outside, open a Warp Gate to get reinforcements…

And then something occurs to him, and his blood runs cold.

Where’s Kota?

Chapter Text

“No, no, no,” Kurogiri gasps as he Warps himself to Kota’s room, but it’s empty. The baths, he’s in the baths – alright, he’s not in the baths but - maybe he’s hiding in Shino’s room, please let him be there…

“Kota!...” he hears Shino again. “Kota, get back to camp! I’m sorry I don’t know where you’re always running off to!... I’m sorry, Kota! I can’t come for you!...”

Kurogiri’s legs almost give out, and he grabs onto the doorframe. He’s desperately gasping for air, but can’t seem to get enough oxygen in his lungs – Kota’s out there. Kota’s out there, somewhere, surrounded by villains, living out his worst nightmare. He’s scared, and alone, and what if he’s de… No, he’s not, he can’t be, but no one knows where he is because in his foolish, misguided attempts to win the boy’s trust, Kurogiri never told anyone about his hiding spot. And now there is no hero coming to save him, nobody going to swoop in at the last minute.

No, it’s fine, Kurogiri tries to convince himself as he activates his Quirk. He knows where Kota is, he just… He just needs a few seconds. He’ll just go grab the boy, get him to safety, and then open a Warp Gate to U.A.. He just needs Kota to be alright, to be safe, he needs to see him, he needs to make sure...

And the very first thing he sees upon arriving on the cliff is Kota - wide-eyed, scared, but mercifully unharmed, and the wave of relief that crashes over Kurogiri is indescribable. Despite knowing Kota will hate it, despite knowing it will set them both weeks, he almost collapses to his knees and sweeps the boy up in a hug. Because Kota is right here, safe in Kurogiri's arms, and for just a few seconds, that is all that matters. Because Kurogiri can keep him safe, can take him somewhere far, far away and tuck him in with a nice cup of cocoa.

"Oh, thank heavens," Kurogiri gasps, his voice cracking. "Kota, it's alright. It'll be fine, I just..."

"Nifty Quirk you've got there!"

Kurogiri freezes as the words sink in, and he realizes, to his horror, that he is not alone with his sort-of-but-not-really nephew. He scrambles to his feet and spins to face the stranger, planting himself firmly in front of Kota. All he needs is to buy them a few seconds, enough time to grab Kota and Warp them somewhere...

And then Kurogiri realizes who he's looking at, and his jaw drops.

Because standing there, an infuriatingly cocky smirk on his pathetic face, is Muscular.

The main star of Kota's nightmares.

The bastard who orphaned the poor boy.

The person that Kurogiri blames for every angry rejection, every glare, and every unexpected shower.

Kurogiri fancies he hears a faint twang as the last of his self-control finally snaps.

“You MOTHERFUCKING BASTARD!” he shrieks at Muscular. He feels Kota grab onto his apron, clearly shocked – he never heard Kurogiri so much as raise his voice before. “YOU WOULD-BE PICKPOCKET, YOU – BRAINDEAD TROGLODYTE! HOW DARE YOU SHOW YOUR FACE HERE, YOU – YOU – YOU WASHED UP SHOPLIFTER!”

“Easy here, creepy guy…” the villain snorts, apparently unmoved by Kurogiri's tirade. Which is not the appropriate response at all; Kurogiri does not get angry often, and when he does, he expects contrition. Repentance. Perhaps a little grovelling. If All For One himself fears Kurogiri's rage, surely it's not that strange for him to hold Muscular to that same standard?!

“YOU TRAUMATIZE MY NEPHEW, BREAK POOR SHINO’S HEART, AND NOW – NOW YOU TRY AND RUIN IZUKU’S SUMMER?!” Kurogiri pauses for air, glances over at the forest and almost has a heart attack. “IS THAT GAS?! ARE YOU INSANE?! DO YOU KNOW WHAT MIDORIYA IS LIKE WHEN IZUKU’S IN HOSPITAL?!”

He’s having a hard enough time trying to win over Kota, he really does not want to add ‘Preventing the destruction of Tokyo’ to his list of chores. Especially so soon after the Stain Incident.

“Listen, Misty Guy, if you’re done…”

“FUCK YOU, YOU SHITHEAD!” Kurogiri tries to flip the villain off and then realizes he doesn’t really have very visible fingers. Which is incredibly annoying, and Kurogiri settles for throwing his arms up and letting out an enraged shriek that would leave most people questioning his sanity. (Which may, in fact, be justified - Kurogiri is feeling rather homicidal. If he grabbed his favourite muffin tray... Surely it could cave in the bastard's skull if swung with enough force...)

“Alright, that’s enough,” Muscular snorts at the spectacle, apparently more amused than threatened by Kurogiri’s breakdown. “They said to bring back anyone with interesting Quirks, but didn’t mention anything about not having some fun first.”

“JUST TRY IT, YOU BONEHEADED DUNCE!” Kurogiri glares up at the larger man. He has faced Midoriya, Gigantomachia, and Izuku, sometimes all at the same time – he does not get intimidated easily. Especially because he’s pretty sure this bastard has missed one very big advantage Kurogiri has.

Muscular laughs again even as he pulls off his cloak, and Kurogiri just shakes his head and wonders how someone this idiot ever succeeded in not only killing a team of pros, but also escaping from the scene. Then he feels Kota give a sharp tug on his apron and he looks down, distracted. The boy is desperately trying to pull him out of the way, clearly scared out of his wits, and Kurogiri's heart breaks all over again. The minute he's done with that Warp Gate to U.A., he'll have to make Kota a nice cup of hot chocolate, with marshmallows and whipped cream...

...Kota's eyes widen as the villain charges them, and he lets out a scream and grabs onto Kurogiri's leg, scrunching his eyes shut. Kurogiri just thrusts his arm out in the direction of Muscular, and...

...Then Muscular's eyes widen in shock as a Warp Gate appears in front of him and, unable to stop in time, he goes charging right through it and out into the open air. At least three hundred feet above the forest below. With absolutely no way to stop gravity from doing its thing.

“YEAH!” Kurogiri yells at the villain as he plummets to the ground. “DON’T MESS WITH THE HUMAN TELEPORTER!”

He smiles and then wonders whether he could accidentally lead Machia to the pile of not-very-mobile villain. He probably shouldn't; whilst this incident was a clear case of self-defence (and all of Midoriya's lawyers will undoubtedly agree), he should probably not test Shino's morals.

Then he feels a small hand tug on his apron and his heart sinks as he remembers he is not alone. Because, villain attack or no, Kurogiri is willing to bet Kota does not appreciate being referred to as Kurogiri's nephew.

Well, they’re under attack by villains. He can always pop out and pick a fight with another villain if he gets frustrated.

“Kota,” he carefully pries the boy off his leg and crouches down. The lad is staring at him in disbelief, some new, unfamiliar emotion in those eyes, and Kurogiri feels his heart sink further. He hopes he didn’t scare the boy. (Too much. It’s embarrassing to say, but maybe if he’s a little scared, he won’t dump Kurogiri’s futon in the hot springs again. That had been a very… awkward night.) “Kota, I’m sorry, but I need to help your aunt. I need you to…”

And then he hesitates. Kota is - he's only five. He's already scared, and - he may hate Kurogiri with a burning passion, but Kurogiri can't bear to leave him all alone to hide and wait, uncertain whether Shino is safe, whether he'll be found by another villain, with no way to call for help. He's only a child, a child who has already suffered far too much, and...

....And Kurogiri doesn't think he'd be able to stop worrying about him, either.

“…I need you to stay with me,” he finishes, and waves farewell to his relationship, because Shino is not going to be impressed. “Do not leave my side. And the minute I think there’s danger, I’ll Warp you back here, and you will hide. Am I clear?”

“Yes,” Kota slowly nods and then wipes at his eyes with his sleeve.

“Here,” Kurogiri manages a smile as he hands him a handkerchief; then he takes a deep breath, and picks Kota up. The boy thankfully doesn’t protest, squirming a little to make himself comfortable but otherwise going along with it.

And then, for the first time in years, Kurogiri activates his Quirk whilst holding a small child.

***

Katsuki almost trips. Thankfully Honenuki prevents him from going sprawling, but the momentary fumble is already costing them valuable speed. They can hear the villains close behind, and if he could afford the breath, Katsuki would be cursing up a storm. Because it's just his luck that the villains cut him and the others from the camp, just his luck that they're outnumbered. Just his luck that he has no idea how many of these villains there are, where to run, whether Izuku is safe...

And then, as if his pathetic luck wasn't bad enough, the two boys ahead stop dead in their tracks and he and Honenuki run straight into them. All four of them go down in a tangle of limbs, and Katsuki feels his fear mounting. Desperately, he tries to free himself, get up, get into a position where he can buy the others at least a few seconds...

“Who are you?!” a familiar voice booms, and Katsuki freezes. “Where is Little Lord?!”

Slowly, all four boys look up, up at the giant figure looming over them menacingly. And, for the first time since Mandalay’s announcement, Katsuki feels… Hope.

“Machia!” he yells and desperately scrambles to his feet; Monoma lets out a horrified gasp and tries to grab hold of him, but Katsuki shakes him off. “Machia, it’s me, Kacchan!”

“Kacchan!” the giant exclaims, delighted. “Oh, are you play…”

“You have to help us!” Katsuki cuts him off. It's a long shot, he knows, since the giant's first loyalty is to Izuku, but - he's seen what Machia's capable of. Maybe, since he's Izuku's... friend... some of that overprotectiveness could transfer onto him. “We’re being chased by villains – they want to hurt us! PLEASE HELP!”

The giant simply tilts his head to the side as he stares at him, and Katsuki pauses, worried. He can hear the villains closing in, can feel his heartrate speeding up. Did… Did Machia not understand? Is he only going to run off to save Izuku? Or... Or does he know about the bullying, and...

“LEAVE KACCHAN ALONE!” the giant suddenly bellows and charges the villains just as they emerge from amongst the trees. Katsuki stares at the empty space where he was just standing, his mind struggling to make sense of the bodyguard’s speed. Then he looks back to where Machia has... Just sent a villain flying several feet in the air, and... grabbed another and seems to be using him as an improvised club on his allies...

...Alright, Machia is seriously terrifying and Katsuki makes a mental note to buy Izuku something if they all survive this. He absolutely needs to keep in the teenager's good graces.

Monoma is making weird movements with his mouth, although no sound is coming out, as he stares at the carnage. Honenuki keeps pinching himself. The third one… Katsuki frowns, and then glances over his shoulder and realizes the final 1-B boy has decided to take cover behind him. Which – alright, he can kind of understand.

“You’re safe now, Kacchan! I will protect you!” the giant declares, turning away from the pile of unconscious villains. One of them lets out a soft groan and, without looking, Machia smacks his makeshift weapon down. Then he drops him like a ragdoll and treats all four of the shocked teenagers to a smile that has Monoma and Honenuki scurrying to join their classmate. Finally noticing them, the giant tilts his head and asks, “Oh, who are they?”

“They’re Izuku’s friends!” Katsuki blurts out, and hopes Monoma keeps his big mouth shut. “You’ve just not met them yet! Izuku’s very popular!”

“Oh good!” Machia beams, and Katsuki breathes a sigh of relief. He doesn’t know how he would explain to Vlad that a few of his students were killed by Izuku’s pet bodyguard. “Friends make Little Lord very happy! Where is he?”

“I don’t know!” Katsuki almost sobs. Now that they're apparently safe, the panic can no longer be kept back, and he bends over as he desperately tries to breathe. Because ever since that first villain mentioned Quirks, Katsuki knew - if these bastards are after Quirks, if they're targeting powerful Quirks, then All For One - then Izuku!...

“We must save him, Kacchan!” the giant declares firmly, and Katsuki glances up at him. And - there's something about his dedication, about his undoubted strength, that helps dull Katsuki's fears, because Machia's not a student. Machia's not even a hero. Machia is just - someone whose only purpose in life seems to be keeping Izuku safe, and if anyone can do it... Surely Machia can.

"Yeah," Katsuki manages to smile. It's small, and it's forced, but - they have to save Izuku. They have to save everyone, he realizes; that's what heroes do. "We need to save Izuku's other friends, too."

“…Does Little Lord have more friends I do not know?” Machia suddenly asks.

“Yeah, but – we know them!” Kaibara (Katsuki thinks that was his name) volunteers. He ducks past Katsuki, ignoring Monoma’s terrified whimper, and carefully approaches the giant, a (slightly forced) smile on his face. “We could come with you! And… Introduce them?”

“Oh, good!” Machia beams. “Little Lord would be very sad if I squished his friends!”

“Insane,” Monoma finally croaks out. “The whole of 1-A is insane.”

Katsuki finds it rather hard to disagree.

***

“Fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck,” Izuku mumbles as he sprints through the forest. He needs – needs to find Ragdoll, because he needs Search. He’s limited in the number of people he can Summon, but if he can just – just find out who is most at risk, he can prioritise. Except – as soon as he heard Mandalay’s announcement earlier, he tried to Summon Ragdoll, and, and, it failed, and now his mind is in overdrive, desperately trying to rationalize why it didn’t work. And he’s known Ragdoll for years, and he can’t face the fact that maybe Summon didn’t work because – maybe it failed because, because there is no Ragdoll anymore…

“Fuck!” he pauses and punches a tree. He winces, but then focuses on the pain in his bruised knuckles; if he can just calm down, just think about this rationally. Ragdoll is fine (she has to be fine, she can’t not be fine), he just – just needs to get back to Mandalay, he can see who else made it back, and then he’ll Summon those students still out in the woods…

His mind is so preoccupied that he doesn’t register the crashing of trees, doesn’t realize the danger he’s in. Instincts kick in only at the last possible minute, and Izuku dives out of the way seconds before something hurtles through the air and slams into the tree he was just standing against, snapping it like it’s nothing more than a twig. Fully prepared for whatever foul villain has found him, Izuku looks up, up at the swirling darkness that somehow gives the arm substance, and follows it back to the body it’s attached to. And then Izuku feels his blood run cold as he witnesses a scene straight out of a horror movie.

Tokoyami struggles in the grip of Dark Shadow, terror evident in his eyes as he stares helplessly at Izuku. His whole body is taut as he struggles to regain control of his Quirk, a Quirk that seems to be focused only on destruction. Seconds feel like hours as Izuku watches his classmate force his mouth to move, to finally force out the words, “Get… Away… From me!”

“Tokoyami!” Izuku shouts, very much unwilling to listen to that piece of advice. He pushes himself up and immediately has to dive out of the way as Dark Shadow lashes out, showering him in leaves and twigs. Desperate for cover, Izuku throws himself behind a bush and scrambles to move, because Dark Shadow is already rearing back for another attack.

Izuku is so focused on his classmate, he doesn’t realize there’s someone else nearby until a hand grabs him by the shoulder and tugs him behind a tree. He spins round, fists at the ready, prepared to fight whatever villain snuck up on him, and then breathes a sigh of relief.

“Shoji!”

“Midoriya, hush!” the larger teen immediately shushes him, and for several agonizing minutes they listen, barely daring to breathe, as Dark Shadow continues to rage. Thankfully, the Quirk doesn’t seem to have located them.

“What happened?” Izuku hisses. He’s not even sure his voice is audible and, for good measure, he signs the question.

“When Mandalay warned us, we went on high alert,” the teenager whispers back. “Moments later, we were attacked by a villain. I lost an arm protecting Tokoyami, but…”

“Oh shit,” Izuku mumbles at the sight of blood dripping from the appendage. He reaches out and grabs hold of his classmate’s shoulder, and calls up one of his Healing Quirks.

“Midoriya, what are you…”

“Healing you,” Izuku explains with a shrug, and then adds, “My Quirk is weird.”

“…Okay,” the teenager slowly nods, although Izuku doubts this is the last he’s heard of this. “…Anyway, Tokoyami couldn’t take it, and… Well, his Quirk started to rampage.”

As if to confirm, they hear a loud crash as Dark Shadow lashes out at something.

“And all his regrets, indignation and other emotions are probably making it worse.”

“Oh, fuck,” Izuku mutters. He glances out from behind the tree, but can’t spot anything in the darkness, and allows himself a small groan. He’ll have to do this blind. Which is - just great. Really. Fantastic. “I… think I have a way to help, but – I’ll need to focus. If we’re attacked, you’ll have to grab me.”

“…Sure,” Shoji nods.

For a second, Izuku stares at him. Because - he doesn't know Shoji, and although they're classmates, he doesn't quite trust him the way he trusts his friends. He almost Summons one of them, almost gives into childish fear, but - what if they're safe? What if Summoning them only puts them in harms way? He has to - has to practice trusting other people to have his back, so he takes a deep breath and closes his eyes.

He can feel Dupli-Arms clearly, pressed up close against him, but apart from that he has no way to orient himself. He consciously avoided sensing his classmates’ Quirks for much of the term, since it felt a little too voyeuristic, and now that’s coming back to bite him. Because he could recognize Engine in his sleep, knows Brainwashing almost as well as All For One, but Dark Shadow? Frog? Explosion? Quirks are weird and confusing, and often don't feel anything like what his friends expect; it's almost like they have a personality of their own...

He just hopes there isn’t anyone else nearby as he reaches out. The last thing anyone needs in a fight with a villain is to suddenly misplace their Quirk. Most of the woods nearby seem empty, until he stumbles across a weird Quirk he doesn't recognize, and then - there! A strange Quirk, that feels like two identities in one, pulling in different directions! That's got to be it, and Izuku grins and gently pries it away, hoping to spare Tokoyami unnecessary pain, because he'll undoubtedly be weirded out as it is.

“Got it!” he cheers as he opens his eyes.

There’s an ominous crashing behind him and Shoji’s eyes widen. He grabs Izuku and pulls him along just as Dark Shadow screeches and charges their hiding spot.

“Shit shit shit!” Izuku screams as he allows Shoji to drag him; desperately, he reaches back and feels the scorching power, the fury of Dark Shadow, and wonders how the fuck he ever confused the other Quirk for this. All thoughts of being careful, of trying to help his classmate go out the window, and he desperately wrenches Dark Shadow away. There's a final crash somewhere behind them as Tokoyami is suddenly released, and Izuku loses his footing and goes sprawling. He can feel Dark Shadow fighting somewhere within himself, hissing and screaming and raging, and desperately, he shoves the Quirk into a corner and - and slams a door closed, to try and get it to be quiet...

And then, finally, the Quirk settles down, blessedly silent, and Izuku wonders how quickly he can give it back.

"Midoriya... Are you alright?" he hears Shoji ask, and looks up to find him crouched by an unfamiliar boy. The clothes are what tips him off, and Izuku realizes that this is what Tokoyami looks like without Dark Shadow.

"Bit lightheaded," he groans as he clambers to his feet. "Dark Shadow is annoying..."

"That he is," Tokoyami chuckles. "Thank you for saving me. Midoriya, you..."

"...Yeah," Izuku winces, and then notices Shoji staring at him in confusion. Tokoyami probably already figured it out (considering he is very much missing a Quirk right now), but the their classmate obviously isn't sure what happened. "...I kind of took your Quirk. Don't worry, I can give it back any time!"

"I suppose we have finally found out your true Quirk."

"Yep," Izuku manages to smile. Then he realizes he still has that Quirk he mistook for Dark Shadow and hastily releases it, hoping he didn't accidentally kill anyone. Huh - he wonders who in 1-B has a Quirk that feels like that. "We should probably head back to camp..."

“Oh, no, Little Lord! The fun is only just beginning!”

***

“Pixie-Bob!”

Mandalay barely grabs Tiger in time. She wants so badly to let him loose on these villains, to run to their teammate’s aid, but it’s too dangerous. The way the villain is holding that giant club, it’s safe to assume Pixie-Bob’s a hostage, and beyond that – they know nothing about these criminal’s Quirks. They need to be careful.

“I don’t see Little Lord anywhere,” the lizardman remarks, and Shino feels her blood run cold.

She feels Tiger tense up beside her, but - they're wrong, they have to be. They're just paranoid because of Train Guy. These villains can’t be targeting Izuku, can’t know about All For One. They're talking about someone else, someone who - who isn't Kurogiri's almost-brother, who isn't the little boy that grew up playing tag in these very woods.

Izuku has to be safe here!...

“Well, that’s easily solved,” the one threatening Pixie-Bob grins. “Hey, heroes, if you don’t want her pretty little skull crushed like an egg, you had best point us in the direction of Izuku Midoriya!”

Mandalay sways as the words hit her almost like a physical blow. She may not know what these villains want, but it can’t possibly be good, and despite herself she glances out at the forest and hopes, more than anything, that Izuku is safe, far away from any of the other criminals. Hopes he's with his friends, who will keep him safe; hopes he's with Machia, who would fight All For One himself to protect Izuku.

Hopes he's with Kurogiri, who can get him far away from here.

She feels Tiger shift against her and glances up at him. Ever so slightly, he nods, a grim expression on his face. And Mandalay knows that she could make that decision on her own, but the knowledge of what it will undoubtedly bring weighs down on her. So she takes the tacit permission, closes her eyes as she steels herself.

“Sorry, Ryuko,” she whispers as she takes a deep breath, and then…

“Izuku, they’re after you!” she screams, broadcasting the message. She doesn’t know where he is, and if, heaven forbid, something happens to him – she needs his friends, his teachers, Kurogiri to know he’s most in danger. “Stay away from them – get to Kurogiri!”

“Shouldn’t have done that!” the one with the bat rears back to strike Pixie-Bob; and then, seemingly out of nowhere, a strip of cloth wraps itself around the weapon and pulls the villain off balance.

“Good timing, Eraserhead!” Tiger cheers even as he launches himself at the villain.

“Mandalay!” the teacher yells at her. “I need you to tell the kids they can fight back!”

“Roger!” Shino nods, and steels herself.

Kota and Izuku will be fine.

They have to be.

***

“Izuku, they’re after you!”

Hitoshi is almost sick. This - this has to be related to Train Guy, it has to be. He needs to find Izuku, needs to make sure he's safe, but he doesn't know. He doesn't know where his friend is, where to look for him, he can't think, can't breathe, there are villains after Izuku, he has to find Izuku, has to make sure...

“Hitoshi, look out!” someone yells, and Hitoshi dives; he rolls, comes up ready for an attack, and…

Stares in disbelief at the two masked villains before him as they start bickering.

“Why’d you go warn him?!” the blonde villain wearing a schoolgirl uniform complains. Hitoshi isn’t sure if he’s more concerned about the very sharp knife she’s twirling or the weird pointy thing in her other hand. Whatever it is, he wants her as far away from him as possible, and wonders whether he could leg it while she's distracted.

“I told you – you’re not laying a finger on my Hitoshi, you crazy bitch!” the other villain yells, apparently unconcerned with how stab-happy the girl looks. Then he turns and waves. “Hi, Hitoshi!”

And suddenly, Hitoshi no longer wants to run. Because he knows that voice; he hates that voice, hates that villain. He wishes he was dead, wishes he was never born, wishes he had never got on that train...

“You bastard!” Hitoshi yells as he charges Train Guy.

“Oh look, he recognizes me!” Train Guy cheers as he ducks.

Hitoshi doesn't even hesitate, doesn't even pause. He attacks, reckless, spurred on by all his rage and hate and fear, and Train Guy doesn't even have the decency to look put out as he ducks and weaves. And it just makes everything worse, because with every second, every smirk, Hitoshi hates him more. Because if not for him (if not for Hitoshi), Izuku would be safe. Izuku would be fine, Izuku wouldn't be in danger, wouldn't be targeted by villains, and it's all his fault - it's all their fault, and Hitoshi hates him...

“Got you!” a female voice cheers and Hitoshi suddenly realizes that in his rage he forgot about the girl. He turns, already knowing he will be too late, already anticipating the pain from the knife…

“HITOSHI! DOWN!” a familiar voice screams.

Hitoshi drops like a brick, covering his head, already knowing what's about to happen; Train Guy seems to see the danger he's in, because he tackles Knife Girl and the flames just miss them and hit the trees, setting branches alight. And then Hitoshi glances up and sees the two villains, and sees his opportunity, and...

"Hitoshi!" Shoto barely grabs him in time and has to drag him, struggling, back towards the flames. Hitoshi tries to free himself, because that's Train Guy, and it's his fault, and...

“Hey, no fair!” the girl yells as she scrambles to her feet.

“Hitoshi, is this one of your friends?!” Train Guy cheers as he looks at them with a creepy glint in his eye. And for some reason that's what helps snap Hitoshi out of his rage, because he may have helped put Izuku in danger, but - this is Shoto. This is his friend. He needs to protect his other friends.

"It's Train Guy, Shoto!" Hitoshi blurts out as his mind starts conjuring up all the secrets Shoto may want to keep hidden. "Don't respond to anything he says!"

“…So basically just pretend he has some sort of… Brainwashing Quirk?” Shoto mutters. “I can’t imagine what that would be like…”

“I seriously hate you right now,” Hitoshi responds, as he's reminded that yes, all his friends are traitors.

“Hitoshi, won’t you introduce me to your friend?” Train Guy chuckles. “Fine, I’ll go first – I’m Veritas!”

“If he gets one of us, the other shoves him,” Shoto whispers in Hitoshi’s ear. “If his Quirk's like yours, it should work. Deal?”

“Deal,” Hitoshi nods, and then Shoto steps past him.

“Hi, Veritas,” he says as he lights up his arm. “I’m pissed!”

***

“I told you I felt something freaky, didn’t I?! And I was right! We found him!...”

“…Who the fuck are you people?” Shoji asks.

Izuku stares at what he presumes are villains as he carefully edges his way back towards his classmates; one of them is dressed in what looks like spandex, with a mask over his face, another has a tophat and a cane, and the third…

…The third appears to be some sort of weird, black, muscular creature, without any eyes, its brain on full display. Almost despite himself Izuku reaches out with All For One, morbidly curious, and almost throws up. His dad… His dad is a weird, swirling mass of Quirks that makes it very hard to distinguish between them, yes, but they all fit together, like – like – like instruments playing in an orchestra. This thing, however – it feels wrong, like someone took different Quirks and forced them together, bashing them with a hammer until they became a big, jumbled mess of pain and misery and suffering and…

Izuku wrenches his consciousness away, slams down on All For One to shut it off, to get away from this pain. He swallows down bile and feels genuine fear. These people – who are they, that they could accomplish something like that? Who are they that they could even imagine doing something so, so, wrong? For a moment, Izuku is actually willing to Summon his father. Because Hisashi Midoriya would undoubtedly break any number of laws, and probably kill people, but at least – at least then Izuku wouldn’t have to face something like this. At least his dad could make this thing vanish, take it far, far away…

“Oh, us?” the guy with the tophat chuckles as he bows with a flourish. “Why, we are the League of Villains! And we…”

“Izuku, they’re after you! Stay away from them – get to Kurogiri!” they suddenly hear, and Tokoyami and Shoji immediately grab and shove Izuku behind them.

“What do you want with Midoriya?” Shoji asks, but Izuku doesn’t need them to answer. Because suddenly – he knows.

“…You want All For One,” he states. He may not know how these people found out about it, but a single glance at the, the creature is enough to tell him what they probably want him for, and he’s almost sick. Because he doesn’t want to create such, such abominations, doesn’t want to hurt people, but at the same time – at the same time he knows that all they have to do is threaten his friends. All they have to do is hold a knife to Tenya's throat, and he'll go with them.

“Midoriya, what…”

“Right you are, Little Lord!” Tophat cheers. “Don’t worry, we won’t harm you! After all, you are all that remains of our Lord!...”

“But why me?!” Izuku blurts out, desperate to stall, to try and think of something. And – if these people are after All For One, then why target a location with so many heroes? Why risk it, when by all accounts Hisashi Midoriya would be an easier target? Why attack anything tied to U.A., when they could just break into an office building? “Why not my dad?!”

Part of him, a very small part of him, feels slightly guilty for such a suggestion because dad might get hurt. A much larger part feels very, very guilty for suggesting it because these villains would almost definitely get hurt.

“Ah, my poor boy,” the man sighs. “What did your ‘father’ tell you? That you are adopted? That your Quirk is just a strange mutation? Have you never wondered why your Quirk is nothing like your parents’?...”

Izuku stares at the villain. He cocks his head to the side, and tries to parse out what he has just been told, but it doesn’t make any more sense than the first time he heard it.

“…I think you made a mistake,” he slowly says. Just to make sure, he reaches in and prods All For One, and – yes, it’s there, Izuku definitely has a Quirk that is very similar to his father’s. Which means… Do these people think Hisashi Midoriya isn’t his father? Is that it? That's probably what he meant, but - it doesn't make any sense. Why would they think that?...

“I suppose it must be hard to accept,” the man continues, and Izuku glares at him, because he really hates adults ignoring him. “But we will explain all, in time. If you will simply come with us…”

“Midoriya’s not going anywhere!” Tokoyami exclaims.

“Tut-tut-tut, I wasn’t talking to you,” the villain chuckles. “I was considering adding your Quirk to our arsenal, but – now that Little Lord has it, there’s little use…”

“Midoriya, run!” Shoji yells as the strange monster charges them.

And then – then something in the air shifts, and Izuku shivers as he feels dread wash over him.

Chapter Text

“Crap! Craap!” Awase screams. “He might’ve already killed one of them! This guy’s bad news!!”

He glances over his shoulder, at the – the monster (because this is so much more than a simple villain) with all these weird drills and chainsaws coming out of its back, and realizes – they’ll die. Whether it’s in a few seconds, or minutes, there’s no escaping the inevitable; maybe if he abandoned Yaoyorozu he’d stand a chance, but he can’t. He wants to be a hero; if he left her here, then… How would he live with himself?

So he tightens his grip on her and tries to go just a little faster; not for the first time, he wishes he had a Quirk that could give him the speed they need, or – or the ability to fight back.

And then the ground shakes, like faint tremors before an earthquake, and he almost trips. The ground shakes again, and then the trees part and Awase just sees a large hand descend down on them. It snatches him and Yaoyorozu up, and Awase almost cries, because – this is it. Hopefully they won’t be hacked to pieces, but this is where they die…

“What about them, Kacchan? Are they Little Lord’s friends?”

Awase pauses. He always though villains were more… grandiose in their speech…

“Yes!” he hears a somewhat familiar voice call out from the giant’s shoulder, and almost lets go of Yaoyorozu in his shock as he snaps his head up. Did… Did Bakugo switch sides?! “Good job, Machia!”

“Good!” the giant villain (who might not, in fact, be a villain) lifts his hand a bit more and beams down at them. “I will protect you!”

And then, with a surprising amount of care for someone the size of a small house, he twists and sets them down on his back, and Awase looks around in astonishment. There are at least… A dozen students here, from both classes. Are they… Are they hostages? Is this what the villains plan is, round them up, stick them on the back of some giant, and then have him… Walk them to the evil lair?...

“Yao-momo!”

“Oh, good!” Honenuki exclaims. “Awase, you’ll want to grab on! It can get a little bumpy!”

“What!... How!... Who!...” Awase gapes, because none of his classmates appear scared. In fact, as he looks around, he realizes most of them are unharmed, not trying to escape, and, apparently, strapped in with some sort of weird white tape...

“Strap in!” the boy from 1-A with the tape elbows tosses them some, and Awase realizes that this is the odd seatbelt everyone is wearing. Which just makes matters more confusing, because why on earth would they make matters easier for the villains?...

“Insane,” Monoma croaks. “Class 1-A is insane.”

Awase agrees with his classmate.

Seeing that he is pretty much paralyzed by shock, and Yaoyorozu is practically unconscious, Kaibara and one of the 1-A girls clamber over to help them strap in. Awase takes one look at the smile on his classmate's face and finally makes the connection between the giant they're on and that weird guy that charged them last night, apparently worried by Bakugo's explosions.

"This is Machia?"

“If the big guy asks, you’re friends of Midoriya’s!” Bakugo calls over from his perch on the giant’s shoulder. “It was the easiest way to get him to help!”

“Kacchan, is this Little Lord’s friend? He is very rude…”

“Oh, that… Fuck no! No! Get it away! It wants to kill us! Not a friend, definitely NOT A FRIEND!”

“You are very mean!” the giant informs the chainsaw monster; then he drops it, everything shifts as he lifts his foot, and…

CRUNCH.

“…I am never pissing Midoriya off,” Awase declares, pale.

“Insane,” Monoma gasps. “Absolutely insane.”

***

Shino gasps as she dives under the villain’s knife; she needs to stay focused, buy the kids a few more minutes until Kurogiri can summon help. Every now and then she catches glimpses of Tiger and Eraserhead, but she can’t afford to be distracted from her own fight. Lizard boy leaps at her, sword at the ready, and she prepares to dodge…

…And then a Warp Gate appears and, like something out of a cartoon, lizard boy goes flying straight through it and collides with… Magne, Shino thinks was the name she heard.

“More of you bastards?!” Kurogiri snarls as he appears in front of her, and Shino can’t help but smile. She takes great pride in being able to look after herself, but – there’s something adorable about how pissed off he sounds, like an overprotective cat. She almost expects him to start hissing. “Seriously?!”

“Auntie!” a familiar voice cries out, and the smile vanishes from Shino’s face. She rushes over just as Kota scrambles out of Kurogiri’s arms, and crouches down to examine her nephew, relief making her head spin as she realizes he is mercifully unhurt. She pulls him close and has to bite back a relieved sob, and glances up at Kurogiri, feeling so incredibly grateful that he isn't a hero. That he doesn't have to prioritize the good of the many over her young nephew.

That he did what she couldn't.

“Hey,” Magne grins. “He’s got a pretty good…”

“Oh, for – YES, I HAVE A VERY USEFUL QUIRK!” Kurogiri snaps, and Mandalay pauses, surprised. She has never before heard her boyfriend so… angry, and wonders what could have possibly set him off. She has seen him after Situations, after Kota's numerous 'pranks', and even after he was once caught in the middle of a villain attack and arrested by an overzealous policeman. She has never before heard him so worked up. “I’m also pissed off, tired, and NOT LOOKING FORWARD TO THE GALLONS OF COCOA I’LL HAVE TO MAKE BECAUSE OF YOU IDIOTS! So how about you call your friends, scrape Muscular off the ground, and GET THE HELL OFF MY GIRLFRIEND’S PROPERTY!”

There’s a moment of silence as everyone, hero and villain alike, stare in confusion at the villain-turned-cook. Then the criminals start to laugh.

“Kurogiri, maybe you should let us handle it…” Tiger finally suggests, moving to place himself between Kurogiri and the villains. Mandalay can't help but feel torn; on the one hand, she doesn't want Kurogiri to feel like she doesn't think him capable of looking after himself, but on the other - these guys are seriously dangerous (she ruthlessly squashes her worries for Ragdoll) and she doesn't want to see him hurt.

“Yeah, apron guy, what are you gonna do?”

“What am?... What am?...” Kurogiri splutters at the villains for a second and, for some reason, Shino feels a chill run down her spine.

“Kurogiri, I really think I should…” she starts as she stands up and takes a step forward. It would be best if someone took Kota and Pixie-Bob back to safety, after all, and Kurogiri is the only one present without combat experience. And anyway, they need that Warp Gate to U.A., and it would be best if Kurogiri could work without fear of an attack...

“I’ll show you what I’m gonna do about it!” Kurogiri screams and pulls out his phone.

The villains all laugh, and Shino resists the urge to facepalm. Honestly, she can understand Kurogiri probably didn’t have time to fetch reinforcements yet, but unless he has a direct line to All Might, she seriously doubts…

And then Kurogiri treats them all to a smile filled with pure malice and Shino freezes. Could… Could he not be calling for reinforcements? Could he be calling some villain he knows?... Desperately, she racks her brain, but it just – it doesn’t make sense. He was always honest that he was just a small-timer with a useful Quirk and no connections to organized groups, and the only person he keeps in regular contact with is some guy called Giran, who by all accounts is nowhere near threatening enough to warrant such behaviour…

“Sir,” Kurogiri declares into the phone in his best butler impression. “I am calling to report – we have been attacked by villains and I do not know where Izuku is. He may be dead. I will be opening a Gate to U.A. in approximately thirty seconds if you’d like to come look for him. Have a good night!”

Then he hangs up, and Mandalay wonders whether he’s suffering some sort of psychotic break.

“That’s it?” Tiger asks, doubt clear in his voice.

“Oh, no,” Kurogiri treats them to a beaming smile. “This is it.”

And then he opens a Warp Gate.

The very air around them turns oppressive, like taking a single breath would require more energy than Shino possesses. She collapses to her knees under the pressure, clutching Kota to her chest, desperately curling around him to shield him as much as possible. She blinks back tears; she can’t protect him from this, this – evil, whatever it is. They’re all going to die here, her teammates, Kota, Kurogiri – there is nothing she can do…

“Mandalay?” a familiar voice asks, and suddenly the pressure is gone. Shino slowly looks up, expecting some malevolent demon from the depths of hell…

“Midoriya?!” she gasps as she stares at Hisashi Midoriya, in his usual suit and tie. How – what – how?!

“Do you know where Izuku might be?”

Shino slowly shakes her head.

“Oh well, guess we’re doing this the old-fashioned way,” Midoriya mutters and then rolls up his sleeves.

“Sir, please remember you’re not supposed to kill them,” Kurogiri, apparently unaffected by the murderous aura from a few seconds ago, remarks, and Mandalay turns to stare at him. Tiger is curled up in the foetal position at his feet, shaking, and he’s just… Just… standing there, like it’s just another day at camp, like he didn’t just unleash some terrifying monster with a few simple words.

“Yeah, yeah, I know,” Midoriya sighs. Then he turns away and sprints towards the forest, that terrifying aura from earlier making a reappearance, and Shino shivers even though she’s no longer at the epicentre. “Izuku! Papa’s coming!”

Mandalay stares after him in disbelief. She never – never quite believed the tales about Izuku’s grandfather being a villain before, but after coming face to face with that… Believing Midoriya is the child of All For One is the only explanation for that – that aura, that will allow her to sleep at night. Because the alternative is that this man, who is one of the kindest and most generous people she knows, who she has seen beaten in snowball fights by literal children, who Kurogiri bosses around and Iida teases mercilessly, could kill them all in a matter of seconds. And it makes no sense, because he’s just – Hisashi Midoriya.

He can’t be evil.

“…Your ultimate move,” Tiger croaks out as they all – Shino, him and Eraserhead – slowly climb to their feet, still obviously in shock. There’s some movement that Shino spots, and she glances over just in time to see the villains running into the forest, obviously trying to escape while Midoriya is distracted. “Is to call your dad.”

“He is not…” Kurogiri protests just as Principal Nedzu and Ectoplasm emerge from his Warp Gate.

“Your ultimate move is to call your dad,” Tiger repeats. “And it fucking worked!”

***

“Oh, fuck,” Izuku mumbles as all six of them turn to stare in the same direction. Because he can take a wild guess at where that murderous aura is coming from, and he’s almost certain this will not be pretty. He turns back to the villains, suddenly very much aware that they may only have minutes left to live. “You should go now.”

“Oh no, Little Lord,” the villain with the tophat chuckles. “We’re not going anywhere…”

“IZUKU! PAPA’S COMING!”

“No, you don’t get it!” Izuku insists. He tries to swallow down his mounting panic and ignores the weird looks Shoji and Tokoyami are giving him. “That’s my dad, and – he is going to MURDER you!”

“Remember, don’t kill Little Lord!”

“MY DAD IS GOING TO KILL YOU ALL, FIND A WAY TO RESSURECT YOU, AND KILL YOU AGAIN!” Izuku screams. “YOU NEED TO GO RIGHT NOW!”

Unfortunately, his very helpful advice is ignored; instead, Tophat laughs and smacks the Quirk abomination, and the monster roars and charges them.

Izuku grabs Tokoyami and dives out of the way, allowing Dark Shadow to return to its owner; frankly, a terrifying shadow demon would be a welcome ally.

He just hopes they can deal with these villains BEFORE dad finds them.

***

“Hitoshi-ii!...”

“Duck!”

Shoto does not duck; instead he spins, and Veritas lets out a shrill scream as he narrowly avoids getting his stupid face torched. Unfortunately, whilst the flames do a very good job of keeping villains at bay, they also have the rather awkward issue of setting trees on fire. Which Shoto should know, considering – you know – half the trees near them are either crackling merrily away, or suffering from frostbite.

“Stop shooting flames, you pyromaniac!” Hitoshi screams as he dives out of Crazy Girl’s way. He just catches sight of Shoto freezing his latest arboreal victim, and could swear he sees the boy roll his eyes; then he has to focus on Crazy. “And you – get that fucking needle away from me!...”

“Yeah, leave my Hitoshi…”

“NOBODY ASKED YOU!...” Hitoshi yells, and then feels his mind go fuzzy. If he could, he would demonstrate his large repertoire of swearwords, because he just remembers he is dealing with someone like him…

“Hitoshi!” he hears a familiar voice, but can’t move; can only watch as Crazy charges at him, that large needle at the ready, aiming for his…

Someone unceremoniously shoves him aside. He falls awkwardly, his mind still struggling to regain control of his body, and a sharp pain shoots up his arm. It only serves to fan the flames of his anger, because how dare Veritas – how dare he have a Quirk like Brainwashing and use it for everything people assumed Hitoshi would use his own for. How dare he use it to endanger Izuku. How dare he…

And then Hitoshi looks up, and all his thoughts of revenge, of pain, of rage are forgotten, snuffed out by sheer, blood-curdling terror. Because Crazy Girl is lying on Shoto’s chest, and that huge needle is sticking out of his arm, and she’s, she’s sucking his blood…

“GET OFF HIM!” Hitoshi screams and tackles her. They both go rolling onto the ground, and then she headbutts him, and then – then all thoughts about being rational, of thinking things through go out the window. They roll back and forth, just a crazy mix of elbows and fists and knees. Hitoshi feels her stab him with something, but adrenalin dulls the pain, and it doesn’t matter anyway. What matters – what matters is stopping her, keeping her away from Shoto, and Izuku, and his friends…

“Hitoshi!” he hears Shoto scream, feels someone grab his arm, but he wrenches it away. It doesn’t matter, not right now, they need to…

And then – then, suddenly, it becomes almost impossible to breathe, and he freezes, one hand drawn back in preparation for a punch. Crazy is staring up at him, eyes wide, something that looks a lot like fear in them, and then instinct kicks in and they both scramble apart. Crazy grabs a shaking Veritas and half-drags him into the dark forest, and Hitoshi wants to run to, wants to hide, wants to find his friends and huddle together as they wait for someone to come save them…

Except when Hitoshi tries to stand, his leg gives out. Shoto catches him and then they both look down and stare in horror at a large gash still dripping blood. Hitoshi doesn’t dare look up at Shoto, but he feels his friend’s grip tighten, because they both understand what this means.

Hitoshi can’t run.

“Go,” he forces out, and tries to free himself. He knows what has to be done; he’d just slow Shoto down, and at least this way one of them can escape. Even if he wants his friend to stay, to help, to not leave him alone; he wants Mic, he wants dad – he wants someone to come save him from whatever malevolent presence he can feel drawing ever closer. But he’s already failed Izuku, and put them all in danger; and now he almost did the same to Shoto cause he lost his cool. The least he can do is make up for that.

“No,” Shoto manages to choke out, even though he’s shaking, even though they’re both trembling. He draws Hitoshi’s arm across his shoulders and then he turns, so they can both see whatever is coming, and Hitoshi could cry. Because he wants Shoto safe, but he’s scared, and… at least they’ll be together; at least, whatever this is, he won’t have to face it alone…

And then a familiar figure comes into view, and Hitoshi’s jaw drops.

“Uncle…” Shoto breathes, and then he’s half-sobbing, half-laughing as he yells, “UNCLE HISASHI! UNCLE HISASHI, OVER HERE!”

“Shoto, Hitoshi!” Uncle Hisashi exclaims, and then that terrifying aura is gone like someone flipped a switch, and both Shoto and Hitoshi collapse to their knees, gasping and shivering as Izuku’s dad hurries over. “Where’s Izuku?...”

“Don’t know,” Shoto manages to force out. “Hitoshi’s hurt!...”

“…And you’re dripping copious amounts of blood,” Uncle Hisashi groans and then crouches in front of them, and Hitoshi feels a sudden strange wave of calmness wash over him. “Alright, come on you two, let’s get you to safety…”

“No!” Hitoshi blurts out, his earlier panic reappearing. Now that he’s safe (because there’s nowhere safer than with Uncle Hisashi, some childish part of his brain insists), his earlier fears are coming back with a vengeance, and – Uncle Hisashi might not know that Izuku’s the one being targeted! And if they sent someone like Crazy after him and Shoto, how dangerous are the villains that Izuku might come face to face with?! “You have to find Izuku – they’re after him!”

“Hitoshi, I am not explaining to Izuku why I abandoned you,” Uncle Hisashi sighs. “Plus I’ll admit, I may have… rushed in without planning…”

“Well that sounds familiar,” Shoto snorts.

***

Katsuki shivers and moves closer to Machia’s cheek as the giant stills.

There is a part of his mind that scoffs at the dread pooling in his stomach. He is in the company of a fearsome giant, who has so far had no issue stomping these villains left and right. Whoever has just arrived cannot possibly be more dangerous than Izuku’s pet bodyguard, and yet…

…And yet, he can’t help but wonder just who these villains are working for, that can feel so terrifying from such a distance. And he isn’t the only one affected; Machia has frozen, staring back in the direction of the clearing, and Katsuki wonders whether it is possible the giant is afraid…

“Lord is here!” Machia suddenly cheers, and falls back onto all fours. “Don’t worry, Kacchan – he will kill everyone and you will all be safe!”

“Hang on,” Katsuki gasps. Understanding what the man means can be kind of tricky, but… “You know who this is?!”

“Oh yes!” the giant laughs as he sets off again, heading back to the clearing. “Lord will protect Little Lord! After all, Little Lord makes him happy!”

Lord. Little Lord. Izuku making someone happy…

“You mean that’s Izuku’s dad?!”

***

“Come along, Little Lord!...”

Izuku dives out of the way as Dark Shadow lunges at Tophat Guy, and ignores the Quirk's disappointed shriek, and then the clone (seriously, how many of them are there) dissolves into another pile of unidentifiable goo. Izuku can feel himself quickly losing his patience as he swings round, looking for the villain with the cloning Quirk. Because, for all he knows, dad is just about to appear, ready to kill all and sundry, and if that isn't a massive giveaway to All Might that maybe Hisashi Midoriya isn't a law abiding citizen, Izuku doesn't know what is.

Izuku spots the cloning villain and reaches out, ready to steal his Quirk, and almost throws up when he feels another - another thing bubbling up into existence as he watches another, another whatever it is slowly congeal into being. He tries to persevere, tries to push beyond, but he - he can't, can't face this, and so pulls All For One back, slams down on it, tries desperately to stop feeling this pain, make it stop make it stop make it stop...

"Midoriya!" he hears Shoji scream, and turns, turns to find Tophat Guy reaching for him, arm outstretched, ready to do...

"RECIPRO BURST!"

"TENYA!" Izuku cheers as his friend kicks Tophat Guy in the mask, sending him flying, and then doesn't quite stick the landing and collides with a rather large bush. He can't quite contain the overwhelming relief, not only that one of his friends is safe, but also - he won't have to face this thing alone. "Ingenium always first on the scene!"

Tenya scrambles to his feet between Izuku and Tophat Guy, risking a quick glare over his shoulder (Izuku regrets nothing), and Izuku tries to think of how to explain the thing to him, how to explain that Izuku can't take Quirks right now (doesn't want to, can't bear to feel that wrongness...).

“Izuku!” Mandalay’s voice rings out. “Your dad wants you to Summon him! Everyone else – try and find someone from 1-A!”

"I suppose we had best be going," Tophat Guy sighs as he stands up, his mask shattered only to reveal a weird balaclava underneath. He presses a finger to his ear, and says, "League of Villain!..."

"Hey, wait!..." Izuku can't help but blurt out. He involuntarily takes a step forward, only for Tenya to immediately grab him by the shoulder. "You still didn't tell me why you want All For One!"

"Poor, innocent Midoriya," Tophat chuckles as he retreats to where the other villain and the two things are. "I suggest you ask your... father. Ask him - ask him, where the name of your Quirk comes from. And then, when you know the truth about it... We will be waiting for you..."

And with that, they vanish into the darkness.

"Oh, for..." Izuku groans, takes a deep breath, and then screams at the top of his lungs, "I AM NOT ADOPTED!"

"...Izuku, what was that about?"

"How the fuck am I supposed to know?! For some bizarre reason, they seem to think dad is not my dad!" Izuku rubs at his head. He wonders whether this is what dad used to have to deal with before retirement, and then turns and fully takes in Tenya's bedraggled appearance. "Tenya, what the fuck happened to you?!"

"I was concerned," is Tenya's only response.

Izuku stares in shock at his friend. Tenya - prim, put-together Tenya - looks like he just lost a fight with a forest. His clothes are torn and covered in mud, there are leaves caught in his hair and even on his engines, his skin is scratched up, and he's missing his glasses. 

"...Tenya, did you just spend however long running around the forest looking for me?" he finally asks, because it's the only explanation he can think of, but it doesn't make sense. Tenya would never take such a risk, would never act so impulsively...

"Of course I did!" Tenya erupts, almost slapping Izuku as he waves his hand. And Izuku - Izuku finally notices the fear in his friend's eyes, notices his too-fast breaths, and he remembers. "There were - there were villains targeting you, and I - I promised that I would aid you, and - and..."

For a second, Izuku tries to think of what to say. But this whole night has been a rollercoaster of emotions, and his exhaustion is finally hitting him, and he still doesn't know whether his dad killed anyone, or whether his other friends are safe. And, more than that, Izuku just - he remembers that awful thing, and so he gives up on words and just throws his arms around his friend and hugs him with all his might. And it seems that it's the right move, because suddenly Tenya is clutching him desperately too, as if afraid he'll vanish, his whole large frame shaking.

"It's alright, Tenya," Izuku assures his friend, even as he reaches out, brushes against Engine, takes comfort from the familiar warm thrumming that is his friend's Quirk, so different-but-similar to Tensei's. "I'm fine."

"It's just..." Tenya whispers, and Izuku doesn't need him to explain, doesn't need him to tell him what he's remembering. "I was afraid... Again, you would... And I..."

And then a phone rings, and they reluctantly part. Tenya takes a deep breath, accepts the tissues from Izuku with a grateful nod, and then pulls out his smartphone and frowns.

"It's Tensei," he informs Izuku with a puzzled look. "What could he want now, of all times?..."

"...I think..." Izuku starts, and then shakes his head. If dad's here, Tensei would have obviously tagged along. The most obvious solution is probably the right one, though. "Maybe he wants to make sure you're alright?"

"I suppose so," Tenya smiles, even now pleased with attention from his beloved brother, and answers the call. "Tensei, how... Yes, we were indeed attacked by villains! How did... What do you mean Uncle Hisashi abandoned you?!"

Izuku shakes his head at his friend and turns to where Tokoyami and Shoji are standing, very obviously giving them a moment. Then he almost wipes out as he slips on something.

"No, I am quite certain Uncle Hisashi has not murdered anyone!" he hears in the background as he crouches down, and prays Tenya is right. Then he frowns, as he realizes he stood on some sort of - some marbles. Which quite obviously don't belong in the forest, and probably came from the villain. For a second he considers picking one up, but dad would probably have a heart attack if Izuku picked up an unidentified object that he found that probably came from a villain and put it in his pocket.

With a sigh, Izuku stands up. Shoji and Tokoyami don't look too badly injured, but he might as well take advantage and have dad heal them a bit once he's established that Izuku is most certainly not about to drop dead. With a grimace, Izuku braces himself as he calls up Summon; it's better for dad to get the worst of his fretting over with now, when he's not in front of his whole class.

"No, slow down Tensei, you're not making any sense at all," he hears just as his throat starts to itch and a shape starts to form. "A police van did what to your wheelchair?!"

Chapter Text

“LITTLE LORD!”

Kurogiri chuckles, relieved, as he watches Gigantomachia charge across the clearing, scattering people left and right. He glances over to a few paramedics, staring at the giant with their jaws dropped, and then winces and shakes his arm as he closes the latest Warp Gate. He may be experienced and know his Quirk and its limitations, but after several hours and having to make absolutely sure he didn't accidentally kill any first responders, he's starting to get tired.

“I PROTECTED YOUR FRIENDS!” he hears the giant report as he searches out Shino. “I DO NOT KNOW HOW MANY! MORE THAN FIVE!”

Kurogiri spots his girlfriend just as Gigantomachia starts purring. Which is good; it means Izuku is not seriously injured, is aware enough to take over controlling the giant (although Kurogiri will be the first to admit Bakugo did a very good job, especially considering that by the time Machia returned, he was the size of a small apartment building), and Kurogiri will not have to worry about the unholy union of a furious All For One and overprotective Gigantomachia.

Shino is busy talking with Nedzu and a pyjama-clad detective Tsukauchi, and Kurogiri decides he should probably go make another batch of cocoa. He'll take a few minutes in his kitchen, drink a cup of tea, and then he'll come back out and get back to work.

Work is good; work prevents him from worrying.

Work means he doesn't have to tell Izuku Hitoshi is already on his way to hospital.

He turns and passes the ambulance with its flashing lights, Tensei sat in an armchair (Kurogiri still isn’t clear about what happened to his wheelchair), students in varying stages of shock, clutching their mugs as they search from friends. Then he pauses.

Kota is next to the front door, his knees pulled up to his chest, his empty mug sitting next to him. He looks so small, so alone, and Kurogiri hesitates a second and then changes his path slightly.

“Hey, Kota,” he does his best to smile as he comes to a stop in front of the little boy. Then he hesitates, unsure what else to say. A quick glance confirms Shino is still busy, so he takes a deep breath. “…Would you like some more cocoa?”

Kota shakes his head.

“Alright,” Kurogiri frowns. “…Shino’s going to be busy for a while, so… Would you like to help me in the kitchen?”

He fully expects the little boy to refuse, to call him names. He does not expect Kota to obediently climb to his feet, pick up his cup and look up at him expectantly.

“…Okay,” Kurogiri wonders whether he should ask one of the paramedics to take a look at Kota. Maybe he suffered a concussion, or shock, or… Maybe he’s been abducted and replaced by one of the villains…

…Maybe Kurogiri just needs a good night’s sleep.

And besides, there's probably a rational explanation, he reflects as he opens the door. Kota is likely still in shock, but it won't last. Soon enough he'll remember that Kurogiri referred to him as his nephew, and then... Then he'll get upset, soak Kurogiri to the bone and run off.

Kurogiri wonders whether Kota will return to his secret spot on the cliffs or whether he'll find a new hiding spot.

"...Kurogiri?" he hears Kota speak up when they enter the kitchen, and almost trips, because Kota - Kota would never call him by name. "Why'd... Why'd you come save me?"

Kurogiri turns to stare at the boy, stunned, but Kota's not looking at him, just staring at the ground. What... What sort of question is that? Kurogiri knows the boy doesn't have a high opinion of him, but to think Kurogiri would just - just abandon him to his fate, when it would barely take any effort for him to get him to safety... It hurts. It hurts to know Kota thinks so little of him. Kurogiri may wish he could return to the easier times with Shino, but... Never at the cost of Kota.

"Because that's my job," Kurogiri states firmly and winces when he sees Kota flinch. But it needs to be said. Kurogiri is not going to let himself be scared off, and so he takes a deep breath and soldiers on. "Kota, I know you don't like it, but... I love your aunt. I want to be part of your family. And no matter how many times you scream at me, or soak me, or... Throw my futon in the hot springs, because we all know that was you, it won't change anything. I will always come save you, whether you like it or not. I may not be a hero, but it's my job as... As a parent, to..."

And then Kota lets out a sob and launches himself at Kurogiri's legs, and Kurogiri almost falls over. He looks down, bewildered, at Kota as the little boy hugs him, tiny frame wracked with sobs, and then looks up again, very confused indeed.

"...I feel like I'm missing something here," he informs the empty room.

***

“Little Lord!...”

“Izuku, darling…”

“Izuku, they’re after you!...”

“Izuku, sweetheart, you need to wake up!...”

“…Bad people will want it…”

“IZUKU!”

Izuku bolts upright, panting hard, still reeling from his nightmare. Then he hears a mumble from the futon next to him.

“No, Mic…” Hitoshi groans in his sleep. “You can’t shave dad…”

Izuku feels his shoulders sag in relief at the sight of his friend. By the time he had freed himself from Machia (because the best way to both reward and pacify Gigantomachia is cuddles), it was almost dawn. Dad had given him and Tenya a quick check up with the aid of Recovery Girl, and then they'd been sent off to bed with the promise that Hitoshi and Shoto would be there when they woke up. Izuku is fairly sure his dad used a Quirk to get them to fall asleep.

He's also fairly sure he knows why it's only the four of them still at the lodge.

“Hey, Hitoshi!” he shoves his friend as he stands up. Judging by the two empty futons, the others are already up, and although he doesn't have much of an appetite, the possibility of seeing Shoto and Tenya is enough to get him moving. “Come on, breakfast!”

"Hva..." Hitoshi mumbles, and then shoots up. "Izuku, wait up!"

Izuku stops by the door to allow his friend to catch up. He wonders what it was that forced Hitoshi to go to the hospital, and can't stop himself from asking, "Hitoshi... Are you okay?"

"Oh... Yeah, I'm fine," Hitoshi lies. "Uncle Hisashi fixed my leg up. How bout you?"

"I'm okay," Izuku responds in kind. "Just a few nightmares."

Neither of them challenges the other. Instead, they simply stumble into the bathroom to wash up, and reach the dining room just in time to catch the end of a very confusing conversation.

“…For the last time, Iida, it was stopped,” detective Tsukauchi groans. “You hit it!”

“Izuku!” Tenya exclaims from his seat next to his brother. “Hitoshi! I was beginning to get worried!”

“You missed a great story,” Shoto grins. “Apparently, Tensei destroyed a police van!”

“I didn’t do anything!” Tensei protests. “It was Hisashi’s fat head that did all the damage, I was just an innocent victim!”

"Friendship is overrated," dad mutters as he glares at the former hero.

Feeling very confused, Izuku slides onto the bench next to Shoto. Kurogiri materializes with two plates of food that he sets down in front of Shoto and Hitoshi, but Izuku can't bring himself to eat. Instead he takes stock of their odd little group; Tensei is sitting at one end of the table, although now that Izuku looks closely, he realizes that for some reason his usual wheelchair is missing and he doesn't look very comfortable. To his left is Tenya, Shoto and Izuku, and to his right Aizawa, who despite looking liable to fall asleep any minute, has actually set his coffee down and is just hugging Hitoshi, who seems torn between enjoying the attention and being incredibly embarrassed. Dad is sitting at the next table over, glaring at Tensei, and Nedzu is beaming in the seat next to him. Detective Tsukauchi is staring down at his mug like it might explain to him where his life took such a strange turn, Kurogiri has just sat down next to Mandalay, who is the only Pussycat present (Izuku feels his stomach roll when he remembers they still hadn't found Ragdoll when he was sent to bed), and to top it all off, Sir Nighteye is watching them all like this is the most entertaining thing he has ever witnessed.

“Izuku?” dad speaks up. “Are you alright?”

“Yeah,” Izuku hurries to assure the man. He doubts that his father's managed to track down these villains just yet, but better safe than sorry. “Just… bad dreams. Kind of to be expected, I guess!”

“Yes, unfortunately so,” Principal Nedzu sighs. “Now that all of you are here, I suppose we should get started.”

“Do you know anything about these villains?” Shoto immediately asks, and for some reason Izuku feels slightly queasy. “Why are they targeting Izuku?!”

“How did they find out about All For One?!”

“What I would like to know,” Kurogiri speaks up, “is why they were so interested in Quirks – Muscular said something about bringing me back…”

And suddenly everything clicks into place in Izuku’s mind.

The interest in powerful Quirks.

The Quirk monster.

With its brain exposed.

Shoto.

“Izuku?!” he hears Tenya call after him when he bolts from the table, but he doesn’t look back; instead he lurches for the nearest bin and barely makes it in time before he empties his stomach. Even once it’s empty he can’t stop heaving, because he can’t – can’t forget the wrongness of that thing, can’t forget the pain, the suffering, the inaudible screams…

“Izuku?” he hears his dad, feels his hand on his shoulder. “Izuku, what’s wrong?”

Except Izuku can’t answer; he can’t – can’t even see, can’t breathe, can’t stop remembering the Quirk monster, remembering the way it didn’t – it wasn’t – there was nothing left there, no consciousness, just pain, and misery, and…

“Izuku!” he hears Tenya’s voice, feels him press something into his left hand. “Izuku, focus!”

Except Izuku can’t focus, he can’t breathe, because he knows…

And then Tenya carefully moves whatever it is into his right hand, waits a few seconds, and then moves it back to his left. And Izuku immediately recognizes the gesture, and latches onto it with all the desperation of a scared child.

Right hand.

Left again.

Right.

Left.

The familiar feeling of his mum’s Quirk soothes him, and he focuses on that, matches his breathing with when he Attracts whatever it is from one hand to the other. Because mum will make everything better, and make the nightmares go away. That’s what mums do. Mum's here, and so is his dad, and they'll - they'll make everything alright. They'll make the monsters go away.

“Izuku?” he hears Tenya speak again, and manages to turn to look at his friend. “Izuku, what’s wrong?”

“I…” Izuku hesitates, distracted, because Tenya is not wearing his glasses. Then he glances down at his hands and realizes what Tenya gave him to calm down, and almost gives them back. But he isn’t quite brave enough to have this conversation without any sort of comfort, so he just Attracts the glasses again. “…Did the villains get anyone? Ragdoll?...”

“We found her an hour after you went to bed,” Mandalay speaks up. “She’s in hospital now – everyone is. Nobody’s missing.”

Izuku lets out a sigh of relief.

“…Why do you ask, Izuku?” Nedzu speaks up.

“…They had a Quirk monster,” Izuku manages to croak out as he looks up at them. He spots Shoto, staring at him in confusion, and his stomach gives a violent lurch. “…With its brain exposed, like… Like what grabbed Shoto.”

And that’s it – that’s the worst part about this whole incident, the fact that he knows, with absolute certainty, why that thing grabbed Shoto.

Why they wanted Half-Hot, Half-Cold.

“Wonderful,” he hears Tensei groan. “Another Nomu…”

“No, you don’t get it!” Izuku almost screams, panicked, because Tensei sounds almost, almost dismissive. And – why wouldn’t he be? He doesn’t know, can’t know, can’t even begin to understand, not when he doesn’t have All For One. Izuku – Izuku needs to warn them, needs them to know, because Tsukauchi said – he said that there were more disappearances, more people that weren’t saved…

Izuku's stomach lurches and he is almost sick again.

“Izuku?” he feels dad put both his hands on his shoulders, and looks up at his father. “What don’t we understand?”

“That Quirk monster,” Izuku tells him, still shivering. “That – that thing – that’s why they tried to take Shoto. To turn him into another of those… things.”

There’s a crash as someone drops a mug, but Izuku doesn’t dare look away from his dad. Cause dad – dad can protect them, dad can make these things disappear, except… Except the Quirk monsters, because there – there are more than one – they were once people too, people who had mums, and friends, and names, and - Izuku doesn't understand how such a thing is even possible.

How can you break a Quirk?!

“Midoriya,” he hears an unfamiliar voice and looks up to find sir Nighteye staring at him. And suddenly Izuku feels immensely grateful to the man, because - because he doesn't know Shoto like they do. He can remain objective when everyone else is still reeling, can ask the vital questions. “…You described what you saw as a Quirk monster – why?”

“Cause I – I felt it,” Izuku shudders. He doesn’t think he can get across just how wrong it felt, but he – he needs to try. “It – it had more than one Quirk, but it shouldn’t. It wasn’t supposed to, they didn’t fit.”

"...What do you mean?" Tensei asks. "Like... Is this the whole... Multiple Quirk thing? Like why you're not supposed to..."

"No," Izuku cuts him off. "All For One - it doesn't break Quirks to force them in. Machia - Machia's Quirks fit, they belong. This - it wasn't natural. They - the Quirks didn't want to be there, they shouldn't be there, but someone forced them in, and... They were in pain! The Quirks were in pain!"

"Oh dear lord," detective Tsukauchi wheezes, and Izuku manages to tear his eyes away from dad to see the man almost collapse back into his seat. "That... You're sure that's what you felt? Absolutely sure?"

And Izuku knows with alarming certainty and it's not really a question. It's just a desperate hope, because Tsukauchi - Tsukauchi will have seen a picture of every kidnapping victim that didn't get lucky, will have read statements from friends and families searching for missing loved ones.

Izuku steels himself to kill that last glimmer of hope and nods.

And then he closes his eyes and sobs.

***

“Alright,” Tensei declares once everyone has been issued with a cup of cocoa and relocated to the lounge. “I think we can all agree this League of Villains is way beyond supervillain status. I mean, how did they even manage to create these – what did you call them again? Nomu? I mean... If it wasn't a Quirk...”

"Probably some sort of genetic engineering," Hisashi offers. He tries to shut off his emotions, tries to look at this logically, but his eyes are always drawn back to Shoto, sandwiched between Hitoshi and Izuku. Because Shoto - Shoto may not be family in any legal sense, but Hisashi - Hisashi has watched him grow up. Shoto is as much family as Izuku, as Tenya, as Yoshito. To know how close they came to losing him, how it was only a lucky coincidence that saved him...

Hisashi no longer hates the League of Villains.

Hisashi fears them.

"I'll arrange for some tests to be run on the remains of the... Nomu... that Gigantomachia eliminated," Nedzu sighs. "It might give us some further insight into how these villains have achieved such a feat."

"It'll also provide some closure to the families," detective Tsukauchi states quietly, and the room falls silent.

"God," Hisashi groans. "I hate to say this, but... Whoever is behind this understands Quirks. I'll... I'll compile a list of all the experts in the field that might have the knowledge to do this. Hopefully, whoever this is works in Quirk research."

"I'll ask Giran to give me as much intel on the League as possible," Kurogiri offers hesitantly. "It may not be much, though. He has... principles."

"Ask him about lab equipment!" Tensei suddenly perks up. "Something like this - they'd need equipment, right? Fancy stuff you probably can't buy in a store! Unless they have access to a hospital or lab, they'd need someone to get the stuff for them!"

"Alright," Hisashi sighs and then winces as he realizes they still need to explain this whole sorry situation to the boys, who are staring at them in confusion. And, even worse, he realizes with a sinking feeling, he'll need to break the awful news about what could have happened to Shoto to Rei. To Touya.

Hisashi makes a mental note to stop terrorizing Hawks so much.

Chapter Text

“…I can hear you staring at me,” Katsuki groans. It comes out rather muffled, since he may or may not be trying to smother himself with a hospital pillow. With a sigh, he accepts he probably shouldn’t, and so he tosses it aside and sits up.

At least Shitty – Kirishima has the grace to look sheepish, glancing down at his hands as if to avoid looking him in the face. Sparky doesn’t even look away, and Tape Boy just appears amused, and not for the first time, Katsuki wishes he could have gotten a private room.

Then the door slides open, and the final member of the foursome bounces in, and Katsuki glances over at the window, wondering whether he could make his escape out of it. He doesn’t feel particularly up to being sociable, and surely, after everything he’s been through these past twenty-four hours a drop from the third floor wouldn’t be so bad…

“Ashido!” Sparky (his name is something-nari, Bakugo thinks as he decides he probably shouldn’t jump out of a window. Certainly not a hospital window. They'd probably make him stay even longer.) “Are you alright?”

“I’m fine!” Ashido (Katsuki commits her name to memory, because he really needs to finally learn what his classmates are called. Or at least their hero names.) bounces over to Kirishima’s bed. “Most of the others seem alright too.” Then she wilts a bit. “…Yao-momo’s still unconscious, though, and Jiro and Hagakure are having further tests. And no one knows where Midoriya, Yukiyama or Iida are…”

His four classmates look so worried, Katsuki can’t help but try to lift their spirits.

“They’re fine,” he grunts, and then feels his phone vibrate and pulls it out of his pocket. “Izuku’s dad probably shipped them off to some fancy hospital to get checked out.”

“How’d you know that, Bakugo?”

“You saw that guy in the suit back at camp?” Bakugo questions, as he opens his messages and frowns at a text from an unknown number. “That was Izuku’s dad, and if Stain is anything to go by, the guy’s a textbook helicopter parent.”

Unknown number: Bakubrat, are you alright?!

The phone buzzes again.

Unknown number: Right, course, you probably shouldn’t respond to random texts from strangers. Very responsible, good job, this is Chronos, you can totally text me back without getting into trouble.

Unknown number: I may have bribed Uncle Nighteye into sneaking me your number…

Bakugo: We literally just got attacked by villains. How do I know you’re really Chronos?

Unknown number: HE LIVES! Alright, Bakubrat, challenge accepted. You think some puny villains could get their hands on THIS?

Then the phone buzzes again, and Katsuki takes one look at his screen and bursts out laughing. Some small part of him makes a note to thank Chronos when he gets the chance, because for the first time since the attack, he can let go of his the last of his anxiety. No, not let go; more like he couldn't hold onto it if he tried as he collapses onto his back, uncaring that he probably appears absolutely deranged to his four classmates.

“…Hey, Bakugo, what’s so funny?”

Katsuki tries to get himself under control, makes the mistake of glancing at his phone screen and starts laughing again. So he gives up on trying to speak, and just hands his phone over to Kirishima.

With the photo of All Might, an electric toothbrush sticking out of his mouth and dressed only in Best Jeanist brand boxers, on full display.

“…That’s All Might,” the teenager gasps.

“What? Let me see, let me see,” Ashido snatches it away. “Oh my god!”

“…Hang on, I’ve got those boxers…”

“…We didn’t need to know that, Kaminari…”

Katsuki finally manages to calm down and accepts his phone back, taking care not to look at his screen in case he loses control again. As it is, he can’t quite stop smiling, and he glances around the room and makes a decision.

“So, like… what were your names again?” he asks, and takes a deep breath. “I – kind of forgot them.”

“Seriously, man? We’ve been in the same class for weeks…”

“Hey, come on, give him a break!” Kirishima interrupts, and then treats Katsuki to a grin. “Eijirou Kirishima! And don’t worry – I think it’s really manly of you to admit that!”

“Mina Ashido!” the girl beams. “Hero name Pinky!”

“Denki Kaminari, and this is Hanta Sero!” Sparky recovers quickly.

“…Right,” Katsuki nods as he tries to commit the names to memory. “…Katsuki Bakugo.”

“We know,” Sero deadpans, but then he smiles. “Guess we can let you off, though. Thanks for the save back in the forest.”

And just like that, they seem to accept him into the fold. Katsuki does his best to endure it for the better part of an hour, and will admit it’s… Nice. It’s nice to feel included; nice to have someone cracking jokes that he’s allowed to laugh at, nice to have someone to reassure his father when he calls that he’s really alright. But Katsuki’s also not the world’s most social person, has not exactly spent much of his life interacting with people his own age of his own free will. So when it comes up, he volunteers to go grab them some drinks from the vending machine, eager to take a break from trying not to offend anyone.

That is how Katsuki finds himself out in the corridor, desperately trying to remember what flavour of Fanta Kaminari wanted. He’s just staring, wide-eyed, at the selection, because he doesn’t remember there being so many, when he hears someone emerge from the room.

“Oh, thank heavens,” he breathes when he glances over his shoulder, because Kirishima seemed nice enough to not make fun of him for failing at his very first errand. “…What did Kaminari want to drink again?”

“Strawberry Fanta.”

“…They don’t have Strawberry Fanta,” Katsuki groans.

“Get him pineapple,” Kirishima advises with a shrug. “He likes it more, it’s just Ashido teases him about it.”

“Thanks.”

Weirdly enough, though, as Bakugo gets to work with his errand, the other teenager doesn’t leave. Katsuki assumed he was on his way either to the toilets or to check on some of their classmates, but instead he just leans against the wall and watches.

“…Bakugo, could we talk?”

“We’re talking right now,” Katsuki points out as he finally grabs his own Dr Pepper. “What is it?”

“It’s just…” Kirishima is looking down when he turns away from the vending machine, rubbing the back of his neck. “…I kind of wanted to apologize.” Then he takes a deep breath and looks up, squaring his shoulders. “Back at the beginning of the year, I didn’t think you had what it takes to be a hero. I just… I thought, ‘There’s nothing chivalrous about that guy! He’s just a bully!’”

Katsuki flinches.

“Only then,” Kirishima lets out a humourless laugh. “Then, when I was cleaning up trash, you were fighting the Hero Killer! You – you put your life on the line to protect someone, and I… Now that I’ve actually faced villains, I can see I was wrong. You’re a better hero than me, Bakugo, cause – I froze up. I couldn’t even protect myself, and you – you saved us. All of us.” He chuckles. “Guess I’m not so manly after all…”

“…I almost pissed myself,” Katsuki blurts out, and then wants to slam his head against the wall. Desperate, he glances around, hoping someone will come save him, because he’s no good at this whole feelings business, not like Chronos…

…Except isn’t that a hero’s job, to inspire people? To find those that need saving, and reach out a helping hand?

And Katsuki takes a close look at Kirishima, sees the shadow in his eyes, and remembers what it was like when he thought his best option was to drop out. And then he thinks about what could have happened if Chronos hadn't spoken up, hadn't recognized he needed saving. Would Izuku have died in that alley? Would the attack have gone differently without Machia's aid, would the giant have perhaps harmed someone by accident? And what about Katsuki himself, would he have recovered, or would the guilt and shame that drove him to give up on his dream have, as Chronos put it, drowned him?

If Kirishima starts doubting himself, will there be people that won't get saved?

“Back with Stain,” Bakugo quickly clarifies, and shudders. No matter how much time passes, he doubts that the look of sheer malice in the villain’s eyes will ever stop haunting him. But he steels himself, and takes a deep breath, and hopes desperately he doesn't screw this up. “We actually – we tried running, but he hit Izuku with this creepy paralysis Quirk.”

“So you went back, like a…”

“I went back cause Izuku was about to die!” Katsuki snaps. No matter what people say, he knows why he fought the Hero Killer. “Not because it was brave, or heroic, or the right thing to do, but because he was right there! You’d have done the same, and you’d have done it better, cause Stain would have had a hell of a time getting past your Quirk! And this time – you know how I managed to save you all?” Katsuki snorts. “I saved you all cause Izuku introduced me to his pet bodyguard, who could probably take on All Might and win! It was only dumb luck that I ran into him, and I was bloody terrified before that!”

“Bakugo…”

“And you’re right,” Katsuki takes a deep breath. No matter how much times passes, his shame is still there, but he embraces it. “I was a bully. When I was little, I - I hurt people. With my Quirk. And I thought it was funny. But, I - now I understand the damage Explosion can do, but I've seen that it can - it can help people. I can help people. So I'm - I'm trying to be a better person, to figure out the sort of hero I want Kacchan to be. And - fuck, it's not easy, and sometimes it feels like I'm screwing everything up, but I know - if I'd dropped out at the beginning, I know I'd have regretted it."

"Wow, that's so manly..." Kirishima breathes and then frowns. "...Hang on, you considered dropping out?"

"Yeah," Bakugo shrugs. "Back... just after, you know, I kind of Exploded Izuku. Chronos... Chronos has helped me out a lot. If you... If you want to talk with someone about the attack, maybe he could help you?..."

“…Thanks, man…”

“Hey, where are our drinks?” Ashido chooses that minute to poke her head out of the room. “Come on, guys, I’m thirsty!”

Chapter Text

Rei carefully adjusts her hold on her bag as she pulls her keys out of her pocket. The trains were running late, of course, due to some minor incident along the line, which hasn’t exactly improved her mood. She knows that she needs to work to pay rent, knows that even if Shoto were attacked, she wouldn’t be able to do much to protect him, but she still picks up the pace as she rounds the corner, eager to see her children again…

…There is a stray hero in front of their apartment building.

Her haste forgotten, Rei stops and watches him, bemused. She recognizes him, of course, would recognize him even without Izuku, and is fairly certain she knows why he is here. Just the thought of it is enough to lift her spirits, and so she decides they should probably both get inside before it finally starts to rain.

“Hawks, right?”

“Yeah, that’s… Mrs Touya’s Mum!” the hero exclaims, snapping to attention. “Good evening!”

Mrs Touya’s Mum. Rei rather likes the sound of that.

“Let me guess,” she sighs fondly. “Touya insisted on coming home early, to make sure Shoto’s alright.”

“…Yes, ma’am.”

“And he was in such a hurry to see him, that he didn’t think to check you were following and so you’re stuck out here with no idea how to get into our building or even which apartment is ours.”

“…Yes, ma’am,” Hawks admits, as he wilts, and Rei has the sudden urge to wrap him up in a nice warm blanket. And possibly force-feed him cocoa. Kurogiri is obviously rubbing of on her.

“Well, luckily, I happen to know where I live,” she laughs as she holds up her keys. “Come on, you’re just in time for dinner.”

“I don’t want to be a bother…”

“Don’t be silly,” Rei gently tugs the hero along. “I’m used to my kids bringing friends home at random. It’s Natsuo’s turn to cook, which means curry… Are you allergic to anything? Vegetarian? Vegan?”

“No, ma’am,” Hawks smiles, and Rei decides she really needs to figure out what he should call her. “But you really don’t have to…”

“Hawks, what sort of mother do you take me for?” Rei exclaims dramatically, because Natsuo gets it from her, thank you very much. “How could I call myself a mother if I didn’t use this opportunity to tell you all of Touya’s most embarrassing childhood stories?”

“Well…” Hawks hesitates, and Rei moves in for the kill.

“I also have pictures. Touya was such a cute baby…”

“…You know, curry sounds nice,” Hawks relents.

Rei just laughs as she tugs him along.

It wasn't exactly a lie when she said her children have a habit of bringing people over. Although she suspects most people wouldn't be able to guess their true motivation; most people, thankfully, will never know what it is like to fear going home at the end of the day. And Rei - Rei remembers all too well what it was like to look around her big, luxurious house and see only a prison cell. So she always makes sure they can manage that extra portion of food, always makes sure she has a smile ready for their unexpected guest. Always makes sure they know they are welcome back anytime.

Part of her hopes they will never feel the need to come back.

But Rei quickly shakes off her melancholy, because this time isn’t like that. This isn’t a teenager with a few too many bruises, isn’t a child who knows no matter what they do, it will never be enough. This is Hawks, the Number Two Hero, and Rei can relax and just enjoy embarrassing Touya.

As soon as they step through the apartment door, they can hear the sounds of a scuffle in the kitchen. Hawks hesitates; Rei just sighs as she shrugs off her coat, because her children are so, so… consistent.

“Mum!” she hears Fuyumi shout. “Touya’s strangling Shoto!”

“Let your brother breathe, Touya!” Rei calls out as she toes off her shoes. “I found something of yours outside!”

“Was it my phone?!” Touya calls back.

“No, your better half!” Rei shakes her head as she hands Hawks the guest slippers. “Natsuo, please grab another plate!”

“Sure thing, mum!”

“Come on, Hawks, make yourself comfortable,” Rei ushers him into the main room. Just because Touya has probably told him far too much about their family already is no reason for her not to at least attempt a good impression. “Touya, help me with the table! Shoto, go grab Touya’s baby book!”

“VENGEANCE!”

“Mum!” Touya splutters as he emerges from the kitchen. “Good to see you again… How can you do this to me?!”

“I’m your mother,” Rei points out with a smile as she hugs her eldest. It is always such a strange experience; she could swear it was only yesterday Touya was shorter. “And it’s your own fault for leaving him unattended. What if Hisashi stopped by and found him?”

Hawks makes a very interesting noise.

“Uncle Hisashi gave you the shovel talk, didn’t he?” Fuyumi laughs as she brings out the first few plates. “I’m Fuyumi, by the way, Touya probably mentioned me.”

“Absolute genius, got a scholarship to Tokyo Gakugei, favourite food is any sort of ice cream,” Hawks recites. “He did. Once or twice…”

“Ooh, what about me?” Natsuo pokes his head through. “Natsuo, just in case you didn’t know.”

“Hey,” Hawks nods. “Heart of gold, wants to work with troubled kids. Also had an adorable lisp.”

Natsuo stares at him for a moment. Then he informs them all, "Touya has a copy of a magazine you did an underwear shoot for. If you want proof, he keeps it in his backpack. I don't know what he does with it and I do not want to know!"

“Absolute traitors, the lot of you!” Touya throws his hands up. “I don’t know why I love you. Keigo, what do you want to drink?”

“Oh, erm… Water’s fine,” the hero answers as he moves to help Touya move the table into the center of the room. “Hey, baby Shoto!”

“…Baby Shoto?” Natsuo snickers as he reaches out to ruffle Shoto’s hair.

“Natsuo, leave your brother alone and get the food,” Rei intervenes before her two youngest get into another squabble. “Remember, Hawks is our guest…”

“No he’s not, he’s Touya’s boyfriend,” Shoto points out as he sets the albums down. “Therefore, he’s family. Therefore, he’s fair game and I can kill him for calling me baby Shoto.”

“I think it’s cute, Sho-chan!” Fuyumi laughs. “Come on, help me with the drinks.”

Rei can't help her fond smile as she sits down on the floor, taking care to ensure Hawks is between her and her eldest. There is a part of her that for so long felt guilty when she returned home to find the kids had already cooked, that same part that felt that she had failed them, again and again. But over the years - over the years she has accepted that she cannot be perfect. And, really - she wouldn't want perfection. Not when the alternative is coming home to this; to squabbling teenagers, to a homecooked meal which is slightly burnt.

Remembering their guest, Rei glances over to find him glancing around the room, his eyes lingering on the personal touches she couldn't resist: the collage of school photos throughout the years, the display of various certificates, with Touya and Fuyumi's in pride of place, waiting to be joined by Natsuo and Shoto's; the haphazard collection of family photos from various outings, ranging from their rather disastrous first attempt at camping to Ueno Zoo.

Rei hopes Hawks is smart enough not to want perfection in his relationship with Touya. Not when flaws make everything so much... warmer.

“Alright, no eating competitions,” Fuyumi declares once everyone is settled around the table, and Rei snaps out of her melancholy mood. “We want to make a good impression.”

“Hawks isn’t about to dump Touya just cause we’re messy eaters,” Natsuo snorts. “Right, mr Hero man?”

“…Course not,” the hero shakes his head even as he inches slightly closer to his boyfriend.

“Knock it off, Natsuo, you don’t have to scare him,” Touya snorts. “He met Uncle Hisashi.”

“Spoilsport,” Shoto mutters.

Somehow, the conversation moves away from Touya’s relationship and onto the ever-fascinating subject of Hisashi Midoriya. Which is not, perhaps, surprising; Hisashi may be family, but he is also entertaining, surrounded by the most bizarre cast of characters, and a wonderful conversation starter. After all, who would want to talk about the weather when her kids still have not manage to decide whether he is in fact a clone of All For One gone rogue (Fuyumi), an ancient alien from another planet masquerading as a human so he can subjugate Earth (Natsuo), All For One himself claiming to be his own son to escape detection and make amends for past crimes (Touya) or in fact, as he claims, the son of All For One (Shoto). Rei never really voices support for any theory, preferring instead to act as the impartial judge; it doesn't seem important where Hisashi came from, only that he is here now.

So Rei eats her meal in peace, watching as Natsuo and Touya take turns explaining the Midoriya household to Hawks, until one of them pulls up a picture of Machia and Fuyumi confiscates the phone and sends Touya off for a glass of water before the poor hero faints; Shoto laughs at them all and then without prompting starts telling the story of how he first met Izuku. Rei feels herself relax as Touya returns, because this - this is nice. Normal. Everything she ever wanted for her children. 

“So, how did the big revelation go?” Fuyumi asks once everyone has finished eating.

“Oh!” Hawks almost drops his plate. He turns, and Rei is suddenly face to face with an absolutely mortified hero. “I am so sorry for what I said, back when I met Touya! I swear, I had no idea, if I had, then…”

“It’s fine, dear,” Rei quickly interrupts his apology. She gently frees his empty plate from his grasp and hands it over to Shoto. “You had no way of knowing.”

“Besides, you’ve suffered enough, what with Officer Oblivious here,” Natsuo adds.

“Yeah, it was karmic justice at first,” Fuyumi shrugs and then frowns. “…Then it got kind of sad.”

“Hang on,” Touya frowns. “…Did you suspect Hawks had a crush on me?”

Everyone groans.

“Suspect – no,” Shoto states as he gets up to clear the table. “More like know with absolute certainty. And not just us!”

“…It was kind of obvious, darling…” Rei reaches over to pat Touya's shoulder.

“Izuku knew! Tenya knew!...”

“Yeah, like I said, you suffered enough,” Natsuo treats Hawks to a smile as he hands over his plate. “Please don’t dump him, or he’ll die alone surrounded by twenty cats. And mum and I are allergic, so we'd never be able to visit.”

“Hey!”

“…Hitoshi knew!” Shoto continues. “Kurogiri knew!...”

“If you all knew, why didn’t you say anything?” Touya asks.

“Like I said, karmic justice.”

“Plus it was pretty hilarious!” Natsuo adds.

“…Tensei knew! Mic knew!” Shoto’s voice grows fainter as he carries the plates through to the kitchen. Then there’s a beat of silence, and he raises his voice. “Aizawa knew, Touya! Freaking Aizawa!”

But despite the relaxed atmosphere, Rei can feel worry bubbling up. Because this conversation has reminded her of a letter that headmaster Nedzu dropped off at her office today, a letter that is even now tucked away safely in her handbag. She wishes she could simply leave it there, or even better - wishes she could go back in time, so she could stop herself from receiving it at all. But then she glances around the table at her children; her children who have grown so much over the years, who are almost all adults now. 

And she reminds herself - she reminds herself that, if they are truly adults in her eyes, then she needs to treat them  as such. Needs to allow them to make their own decisions. So she takes a deep breath and stands up, and lies to herself that it will be alright. That everything will be fine.

"Your... your father wrote you a letter," she tells them as she retrieves it, because saying the words means she now has to hand the envelope over. "I... I think he wants to get on contact again."

None of the children reach out to take it, and after a second's hesitation she simply places it on the table. The only one to move is Touya; after a second of staring at the envelope he frantically looks away towards where Shoto is leaning against the wall, arms wrapped around himself. Natsuo simply examines the letter, face void of any expression; Fuyumi seems to be glaring at the table immediately to the right of the envelope, face pinched.

Then, finally, as if he can't stand the tense atmosphere anymore, Hawks scrambles to his feet.

"...I'll just go now," he announces and almost trips over Touya. "This sounds like a family conversation."

"Keigo..."

"I'll see him out," Rei assures her son. She can't quite resist leaning down and pressing a quick kiss to his forehead. "This is your... your father, and your decision. Whatever choice you make, I'll respect it."

"So, I... guess this is bye," the hero smiles awkwardly. "Thanks for the food, Not-baby Natsuo. Love you, Touya..."

“I love you too, you overgrown pigeon.”

“Please try not to die,” Fuyumi sighs. “Remember we have to live with him…”

“What’s that supposed to mean?!”

“Take care, future brother-in-law!” Natsuo grins.

“If you stop by U.A., I’ll try and sneak you a baby photo of his!”

“SHOTO!”

Rei follows Hawks out to the door. If she strains herself, she can just make out the kids talking, but she tries to ignore it. She has… Things she wants to tell the hero, things she would rather say in private.

“Well, thank you for the curry, Mrs… Ma’am…”

“Call me Auntie Rei,” Rei offers. It’s far too early to jump straight to mum, but it feels… Awkward, hearing him speak so formally. “Feel free to stop by again, whenever you’re in Tokyo. Almost any time – the apartment's empty most weekday mornings, but apart from that someone can let you in. I’ll tell Touya to give you my number, in case you need it…”

“…Thanks, Mrs… Auntie Rei,” Hawks stares at her, obviously taken aback, and he suddenly looks so young, so... lost.

Perhaps that is why Rei finally gives in to her instinct. She steps forward and hugs him. It’s awkward at first, both because of the large wings and the way the hero stiffens. Rei feels something unpleasant in her gut, but pushes it away, because – at least for now – Hawks is safe.

“I really mean it,” she tells him quietly. “If you ever need somewhere to sleep, just come round here. It’s not a luxury hotel, but we have spare bedding and Touya. Honestly, it's the least I can do.”

How strange, she reflects, that she should be offering somewhere safe to a top-ranked hero. But then, she supposes, if anyone knows that fame and recognition don’t guarantee happiness, it is her.

“…Thanks, M… Auntie Rei,” Hawks chuckles as he pulls away, his cheeks pink and his eyes suspiciously shiny. “But, you know, that thing with baby Shoto was just…”

“It’s nothing to do with Shoto!” Rei cuts him off firmly. “Shoto was just you doing your job as a hero, no matter how grateful I am. This is just…” The right thing to do, she wants to say. What you shouldn’t have to receive from a woman you barely know. But she knows he needs an explanation, and so settles on a comfortable half-truth. “…This is about Touya. He worries so much about making all of us happy, he forgets about himself. And… You make him happy. And that – that’s all I want for him. For any of my kids. For them to be happy.”

“…Thanks, Auntie Rei,” Hawks smiles, delighted, and Rei wonders... She wonders if there was ever anyone who worried about making... What was it Touya called him... Keigo happy. Not Hawks, not the hero, the Number Two... A little boy with crimson wings, who deserved unconditional love every bit as much as four little children in a too-big mansion. And then the hero glances down, and Rei forces those thoughts away, tries not to let him see. “…You know, I’ll probably be in Tokyo a few more days…”

“Then I expect you to stop by at least once,” Rei states firmly. “I’ll have the baby photos ready.”

And then Hawks opens the door and steps out, and Rei watches him until he has reached the stairs. Then she locks the door and leans her forehead against it.

She wasn’t lying when she said all she wants is for all her children to be happy.

Including Hawks.

***

 Izuku is starting to get really fed up with villains.

He yawns as he adjusts his tie, because he – once again – didn’t sleep well. Since the attack he’s been plagued by nightmares; nightmares that consist of being chased by a nomu with familiar pipes coming out of its legs, with flames licking at his heels, until finally Izuku is faced with a wall of ice and is forced to turn and see the bushy purple hair sprouting from the exposed brain…

…No one ever claimed nightmares had to make sense.

And as if that wasn’t bad enough, one of the villains apparently has a weird dream-walking Quirk that means Izuku has been hearing a creepy female voice in between his nightmares. Which is really all he needs.

It’s gotten so bad, that he is actually willing to ask dad for help. Even if it means potentially setting an overprotective retired supervillain on a bunch of poor, unsuspecting amateurs.

Except, when he catches sight of the living room, he stops in his tracks. Then he takes a deep breath, reminds himself that he kind of needs to use the front door and can’t just climb out his bedroom window, and forces himself to move again.

“…Dad?” he asks as he descends the last few stairs. “…What are you doing?”

“Narrowing down our pool of suspects,” dad answers, not even looking up from whatever he’s reading.

Izuku glances around the room. There are papers everywhere; on the sofa, the armchair, the coffee table and even the floor, scattered around dad who looks like he’s barely slept. Curious, Izuku picks up one of the sheets of paper and realizes he’s staring at a picture of an elderly woman in a labcoat.

“Make sure you put that back where you got it!” dad exclaims, finally looking up. “I have a system!”

“…A system?” Izuku asks as he picks up another page and frowns at the young man with eight eyes. A system is not how he would describe what he is seeing; more like a disorganised mess, or... Maybe the answer to the question of What happens when a filing cabinet gets drunk.

“Sofa is rejects, armchair is possibles, and coffee table requires further investigation,” dad glances down at the floor and groans as he picks up a new page. “And this lot still needs checking.”

“…Right,” Izuku nods and sets the papers down. He’s just about to head off to make himself some breakfast and his father a much-needed cup of coffee, when he notices another picture and, for some reason, picks it up. “Who’s this?”

“There’s a name on the back,” dad informs him, already focused back on his task.

“Doctor Kyudai Garaki…” he reads, and frowns. That name seems vaguely familiar, but he can’t quite place it. He flips the photo back around and stares at the elderly man, because… That moustache is familiar…

“Course that’s not his real name,” dad shrugs as he discards his file.

“How do you know that?!”

Dad levels him with a look.

“Garaki, Garaki…” Izuku frowns as he tries to puzzle it out. It’s probably something obvious for dad to look like that, something Izuku is missing in his tired state… “…Hang on, Garaki? Like… Shi-Garaki?”

“Right you are,” dad smiles and then grimaces as he glances down at the pile of papers still waiting for him. “Come on, I’ll make you breakfast. I need a break.”

“But that means he knew your birth name, doesn't it,” Izuku frowns as he follows his dad into the kitchen, photo still in his hand. "So, like... He knew about All For One?"

Dad nods as he switches on the kettle.

"So he... Hang on, if he knew your name before, he was in your inner circle, wasn't he?! Why's he in the rejects pile? Is he dead?"

That makes sense. It’s the most logical explanation for why dad is not even the slightest bit suspicious that one of his former minions, who was close enough to know dad’s birth name, might be in some way involved with the League of Idiots. Izuku relaxes as he sits down.

“Of course not,” dad shrugs as he pulls some eggs out. “The good doctor still has a few more years left in him. But I can state with absolute certainty that he has nothing to do with the League.”

“…But if he’s still alive…” Izuku sits bolt upright as he finally places the name. “Hang on, he’s that Garaki? A Brief Overview of the Evolution of Quirks Garaki?! Quirks and their possible strain on the human body Garaki?! Recipient of the Quirk Research Award three years in a row Garaki?! And he knows about All For One?! How is he not a viable suspect?!”

“Because he’s not!” dad slams his frying pan down and Izuku flinches. “He may have the knowledge to create these nomu, but he’s not involved! End of discussion!”

Izuku takes one look at the thunderous expression on his dad’s face and decides to drop the subject.

When he goes to grab his bag for school though, he slips the picture of doctor Garaki inside.

Chapter Text

“…What are you reading?” Shoto asks as he joins his friends. “Did Tenya finally forget to remind me about some piece of homework?”

“No, it’s nothing like that,” Izuku sighs as he marks the page and closes the brick-like tome. “…Just some personal research.”

“A Brief Overview of the Evolution of Quirks: Revised Edition,” Shoto reads the title and winces. “Sounds absolutely delightful. I think I’ll stick with Percy Jackson.”

Izuku groans and lays his head on the table.

“…You too, huh?” Shoto sighs as he slumps into Bakugo’s seat.

“You too what?” Hitoshi asks as he joins them, perching on the corner of Izuku’s desk. “Hey, Tenya, knock it off and get your ass over here! You’re better at this supportive friend thing than me!”

“Shoto, Izuku, what’s wrong?” Tenya asks as he immediately rushes over. “I really think you should look into exchanging your mattress…”

“My sperm-donor wants to meet us,” Shoto blurts out before he can chicken out. Normally he would be amused at the shocked expression on Izuku’s face, or how he actually managed to stun Tenya into silence, but that same mix of confusing emotions he’s felt ever since Fuyumi sliced open the envelope is too overwhelming. “…He… His letter said whichever of the four of us are willing to come, but… Like hell any of us are going alone.”

“And…” Hitoshi clears his throat. “…Are you going to meet him?”

And that’s the million-dollar question, Shoto knows. The question that caused them to argue for three straight hours last night, that caused Touya to start smoking (literally) and Fuyumi to lose her cool and cuss him out. But he’s already made up his mind, already come to an agreement with his siblings, and they’re the only ones with a right to talk him out of his decision. So he takes a deep breath, looks up and nods.

“Yes.”

“…Very well,” Tenya responds, although his expression makes it clear he thinks this is a Very Bad Idea. “Then… I would suggest you do so in a public location! Perhaps an area patrolled by Idaten – yes, I could give mother a heads up so she can inform whoever is on duty!...”

“Thanks, Tenya,” Shoto manages a smile.

“Why?” Hitoshi asks, and then shrugs when they all turn to stare at him. “Hey, it’s your decision, but – you’re meeting him for a reason, that much is obvious. And I just want to know… What do you want to get out of it?”

“Information,” Shoto admits. Because this is the main reason, the argument that finally convinced Touya. “Like it or not, he’s… successful as a hero, even if he’s not super popular. He understands his Quirk, and – he’s where half my Quirk comes from. The only other person I could ask for help with my flames is Touya, and… Well, you know what he gets like when he uses his Quirk…”

All three of his friends nod, because there is a very good reason Touya only ever trains with Shoto when Uncle Hisashi is present, a reason that has less to do with accidental fires and more to do with ensuring there is adequate medical aid on hand.

“And if these villains try again, I want to be ready,” Shoto shrugs. Then he sighs and hangs his head, because there is one more reason, which he hasn’t told his siblings. “…And I guess I’m – I’m curious. I barely have any memories of the guy, and… I don’t regret us leaving, but… I kind of want to know...”

“…I get it,” Hitoshi states, and Shoto manages a smile as he feels him squeeze his shoulder in solidarity.

“…Yeah, I… I think I do too,” Izuku adds.

Tenya refrains from saying anything, which - Shoto weirdly enough appreciates him not pretending to understand.

“You’re in my seat,” a familiar voice declares, and Shoto rolls his eyes as he looks up at Bakugo.

“Come on, Kacchan, be nice,” he says as he stands up. “If we’re supposed to be friends, this is the point at which you’re supposed to say something comforting.”

“What the fuck do you want me to say?” the blonde huffs as he slumps into his seat. “It’s not like you need me! Your siblings would happily commit murder for you, and you know it!”

“…Thanks, Bakugo.”

“Whatever!” the blonde mutters just as the bell rings, and with a laugh, Shoto heads for his seat.

***

“Morning, everyone!” Tenko treats his (they’re his for this lesson, dammit, teaching license or not) adorable students to a smile as he swaggers in like the smooth operator he absolutely is. Or will be. Details, details. “Good to see you’re back with all your limbs still attached!”

“Chronos!” Uraraka, who is basically sunshine personified and will therefore be an amazing rescue hero, he can tell with his Amazing Hero Instincts, smiles. “What are you doing here?!”

“…Why is there a cast on your arm?” Bakubrat asks.

“Because, unfortunately for me, U.A. neglects a vital part of our education,” Tenko sighs dramatically. “Specifically, assessing the structural integrity of the building we’re about to run into. I have a rather unfortunate habit of getting buried in rubble.”

Several of the little demons snicker, and Tenko takes a moment to examine them.

Of course he’s relieved they’re physically unharmed, but that’s just one aspect of it. Any semi-competent hero is aware of the mental toll the job can take: the paralyzing fear, the crushing guilt, the overwhelming grief. No school, no matter how prestigious, can ever fully prepare its students for that. And so Tenko arrived, fully expecting to see teenagers traumatized by their first proper villain encounter.

Except they look… Alright. Cinnamon Roll has bags under his eyes, yes, and his friends look grim and determined, but that’s to be expected. And, by contrast, Bakubrat has a fire in his eyes that wasn’t there before.

So Tenko takes a deep breath, summons up his most charming smile, and soldiers on.

“Anyway, since you hopefully got some actual training done before your unexpected guests showed up, the time has come for the next step on the path of getting your hero license,” Tenko grins as he holds up his own. It admittedly looks a little battered since he accidentally Decayed a corner of it and could not bring himself to face the lady that issues replacements for the seventh time in a month, but it’s his second most treasured possession. (First is his Limited Edition signed Septem figure, courtesy of Grandpa Torino. Yes, it's creepy that he has a figure of his grandmother. No, he doesn't care.) “And since I’m the member of staff who most recently went through the hell that is the licensing exam, you’ll be seeing a lot of me! Now, because I can feel Eraserhead glaring at me, time for me to shut up and tell you what you’ll be doing for the rest of the summer. IT’S ULTIMATE MOVE TIME, BABY!”

Tenko grins as the kids cheer. He waits a few minutes, glances at his watch as he allows them to get the worst of their excitement out of their system, and then clears his throat, because he has a schedule to keep.

“Now, of course, your ultimate move doesn’t have to be an attack,” he shrugs. “I mean, look at me – I’m legally not allowed to use my Quirk against villains, at least not directly.”

“…Why not?” the blond – Kaminari – pipes up.

“Cause a bunch of judges decided that it would probably count as first degree murder,” Tenko frowns. “Or maybe it’s manslaughter… Anyway, the point is, I don’t like court, so no Decaying villains for me. And now back to the subject at hand – your ultimate move is going to become integral to your identity as a hero. It’ll be your finisher, which makes the villains tremble in their boots and leave your fans screaming your name. It’s what the all the little kids will be shouting in the playground. And I, as the totally incredible T.A. that I am, have managed to secure for you a guest speaker who knows the value of ultimate moves better than anyone. So please, put your hands together and welcome the king of ultimate moves himself, the one, the only!...”

He spins, waiting for a familiar figure to burst through the door.

Nothing happens.

Tenko gives it a few seconds, praying that maybe he just got momentarily delayed. Or lost. Then he treats his very confused students to a tight smile and dashes over to the door. He glances up the corridor and then down, but there’s no one there.

“He’s just running a little late,” he assures the teenagers; then he steps out into the corridor, slides the door closed, and lets fly a string of curses as he pulls out his phone.

“…Alright,” he tries to calm down as it rings. “Everything… Dad, where are you?!”

“I AM HERE to take your message! Please leave it after the tone!”

“I am going to murder you and they’ll never find your body,” Tenko dutifully records, and then hangs up.  He takes a few deep breaths and then opens the door again. “Alright, well, how about you all go get changed and we’ll relocate to Gym Gamma. Maybe by the time our guest speaker joins us, I won’t want to strangle him anymore!”

The kids hesitate for a moment, but then dutifully traipse off to get changed, casting curious looks in his direction that he dutifully pretends not to notice. Instead he heads out to wait for them, focusing on his anger, clenching his fists, fanning the flames of his resentment...

…And he is seriously craving gooey marshmallows by the time Bakubrat emerges, the redhaired sharkboy in tow.

“Hey, Chronos,” his protégé greets him. “…Do you have a moment?”

“Since I am currently on the clock, I am legally required to say yes,” he drones, but then he makes a point to smile. Whatever the kid wants is sure to be important, and Tenko doesn’t want to lose all the progress he made these past few months just cause of a misunderstanding. “Good to see you again, Bakubrat. What’s up?”

“It’s just…” the teenager shifts awkwardly. “…You’ve really helped me out, so I thought… maybe…”

“I could work some of my magic for your friend here?” Tenko finishes, both flattered and very much terrified. Bakubrat was – a fluke, if he were to be honest. It had less to do with wisdom, or training, and more to do with shared trauma. Because no matter how many diplomas Nedzu has on his wall, no matter how understanding Eraserhead may be, Tenko knows they can never fully comprehend what it is like to be afraid of your own Quirk, aware of the damage it can cause not because of abstract musings, but because of having witnessed it first-hand at far too young an age. But although Tenko wishes he could send the two boys to someone far better equipped, he’s not willing to risk losing Bakubrat’s trust. “Kirishima, right? What’s up?”

“Well, it’s just…” the kid glances down, suddenly shy. “…I kind of…”

He trails off.

“Alright, I’m going to take a wild guess and say your little… No, not little, more like bloody traumatizing run in with creepy villains left some scars,” Tenko sighs. “They’re nothing to be ashamed of, kid, we’ve all got them. You sure you want to talk to me? Cause if there’s a teacher you’re particularly close to…”

“No, not really,” Kirishima shakes his head, destroying Tenko’s hopes of handing him over to – you know – someone with an actual teaching license.

They pass a few seconds in awkward silence, and Tenko makes a mental note that apparently traumatized teens are not the most forthcoming. Who could have thought it wasn't just a Bakugo thing?

“…Okay,” he does his best to smile, and then hopes that it doesn’t look like he’s trivializing what the kid went through. “Could you maybe tell me what happened?”

“He froze up,” Bakubrat states bluntly.

For a minute Tenko stares at them, certain there has to be more. Then he gallantly resists groaning and instead takes a deep breath, because apparently U.A. really needs to give its students a reality check earlier.

“You got attacked out of the blue by a bunch of villains that, by all accounts, sound like the sort of people I wouldn’t want to meet without my dad as back-up,” Tenko points out. “I know pros that would freeze up – hell, I probably would, because I wouldn't be allowed to just Decay them. And – you’re still only a kid. I’m not trying to be rude, but – you’ve still got a lot of learning to do, and, speaking as a U.A. alumni… It won’t all happen before you graduate. U.A. is great and all, but they can’t give you your firsts.”

“…Firsts?” Bakubrat asks.

“First life-or-death fight, first time you save a life,” Tenko smiles, but then he remembers that not all firsts are pleasant. “…First person you couldn’t save, first teammate you lose. Sooner or later, you’ll tick them all off, that’s almost certain. You get to cross first villain encounter off your list, yay, congrats!” He shudders, but soldiers on, because – Kirishima needs to hear this. “You wanna know what happened at my very first rescue? I threw up. Puked my guts out, almost dropped out – all because, before then, I never quite understood what being a hero really means. Yeah, it’s autographs and interviews, but it’s also digging through rubble to find a body you can return to a grieving family. It’s villain fights at 3 A.M., and being on a first-name basis with doctors. It’s not for everyone, but once you know what you’re getting yourself into… Once you understand, but are still willing to put your life on the line to save someone… That’s when you earn the title of hero.”

“That sounds… That’s so manly!” Kirishima sniffs. And then he perks up. “Actually, Crimson Riot said something similar once!”

“Crimson Riot?” Tenko asks, making a mental note to look the guy up. The name seems familiar enough, so hopefully he’ll be able to at least track down an interview or something. Then something occurs to him. “…Hang on, isn’t your hero name… Red Riot?”

“Yeah, I’m… kind of a fan,” Kirishima admits, blushing, and Tenko makes a note that he needs to learn everything about Crimson Riot ASAP. Goodbye sleep. “It’s just… hard, cause he always seemed so fearless, and…”

“…And I’m going to stop you right there,” Tenko interrupts him. “Kid, no hero is fearless, not unless they’re an absolute moron. We all know the risks we’re taking, like – firefighters running into a burning building. But we still do it, though we have different motivations. Some do it for money, some because they just want to help – some because they were once in need of a hero. Crimson Riot – he had his own reason for being a hero, I’m sure, and maybe they’re different from yours. That’s fine, cause Red Riot isn’t Crimson Riot. Red Riot is still figuring out what sort of hero he is, and from what I’ve seen of him – he has a lot of potential. Just... Give yourself time to grow." Tenko grins and shrugs. "So you froze up, big deal. You wanna know what I think would be real... manly? Admitting when you fail, examining what happened and then using that to become a better hero. You can learn a lot from failure."

“Thanks man…”

Something whirls past them, ruffling their hair.

“…What was that?” Bakubrat asks.

“Just a passing idiot,” Tenko treats him to a smile and waves as the rest of the class joins them. “Okay, Kirishima, if you want to talk some more, come find me later, alright? Everyone – you head off to Gym Gamma, and I’ll catch up in a minute.”

He waits until the teenagers are out of hearing range (except perhaps for Jiro, but Tenko is only human and therefore has limited patience) and then pulls out his phone.

“Tenko!...” a familiar voice greets him. “I’m at Class 1-A, but…”

“But you’re ten minutes late,” Tenko hisses, his earlier frustration returning. It took him two hours yesterday to persuade Nedzu to give dad a visitor's pass, and he does not appreciate the man endangering all that hard work before even setting foot in U.A.. “Ten minutes!”

“I’m sorry, but I had to…”

“You didn’t have to anything!” Tenko cuts his dad off. “There are, like... I don't know how many hundred heroes in Tokyo that are not All Might! They can do their fucking jobs for once, because I have a bunch of traumatized kids here!”

“Tenko…”

“Dad, they’re still only kids,” Tenko sighs. This... This was what gave him the strength to suggest the idea to Nedzu in the first place. This was what had him Decaying the bathroom door to send Bakubrat a ridiculous photo. “I just… I want them to have some fun, you know, relax after their ordeal. And – you’re All Might. It’s your job to reassure people. So…”

“I’m on my way!”

“Thanks, dad,” Tenko chuckles. “And don’t forget, you’re doing 1-B later!”

He doesn’t give his dad time to answer, hanging up instead and sprinting in the direction of Gym Gamma. By the time he gets there he’s got a stitch in his side, but he still manages to treat all of the very confused kids to a grin.

“Good news, our guest is almost here!” he declares. “Now, boys and girls, without further ado, may I present…”

“I AM HERE! – to teach a class!”

“OH MY GOD, IT’S ALL MIGHT!”

Chapter Text

It is four days before Tenko finally gets a chance to talk with Cinnamon Roll.

Day one he is, admittedly, rather preoccupied babysitting his idiot of a dad and ensuring they don’t both call down the wrath of the vengeful, overprotective deity that is Eraserhead. Day two he spends imparting his years (okay – yes, he’s young, but it is still years, plural, thank you very much) of experience on a few appropriately impressed teenagers. (Once again – Uravity will be a wonderful rescue hero, and Tenko now seriously wants a Froppy plushie – is that weird? Okay, it probably is, he still wants that plushie.) Day three Tenko somehow allows himself to get roped into a weird game that he still doesn’t understand the rules for, but somehow ends with him, Bakubrat, Kirishima, Kaminari, Sero and Ashido all tied up in Aizawa’s capture weapon. (Tenko regrets NOTHING.)

And so it is on day four that Tenko sees his opening. And so he gives Tokoyami a discreet thumbs up (because creepy angsty heroes stick together), flashes Kirishima a smile (although unfortunately he is no longer allowed to talk to the kid or his friends unsupervised), and ever so casually meanders his way over to where Cinnamon Roll is staring down at his hands.

“Hey, Cinnamon Roll!” Tenko greets the kid, startling him. “How are things going?”

“Okay,” the kid answers and then yawns.

“Oh, sure, cause finding out there’s an evil organisation out to kidnap you is definitely not going to lead to some mental health issues whatsoever,” Tenko snorts and rolls his eyes. Then, however, he takes a deep breath and attempts to adopt a more serious tone. “Look, nobody is going to blame you, or think you’re weak, if you’re… affected. Especially considering what Uncle Nighteye told me about those… nomu,” he can’t quite hold back a shudder at the thought of the creatures. “And if you need to speak to someone… Reach out. Talk to your dad, or Kurogiri, or Aizawa, or… Ingenium seemed pretty cool, talk to him. I totally get why you wouldn’t want to come to me.”

Cinnamon Roll looks at him, apparently surprised, and Tenko shrugs and tries not to take it personally. Despite outward appearances, he is not that dumb.

“Hey, I’m not a total idiot, kid. I basically got sent here to keep an eye on you in case you turn out to be dangerous,” he simply can’t resist rolling his eyes at that. “Like most U.A. students aren’t dangerous even without supervillain relatives. Thing is, if you reach out, it should be to someone you trust. I’m not dumb enough to think I fall into that category, at least on matters relating to dear old grandpappy.”

“…Thanks,” Midoriya smiles at him.

“And on that note, sorry for inviting Captain Oblivious, but I wanted to cheer your classmates up after the whole villain thing,” Tenko winces. He’d felt guilty when he decided on his little surprise, and spent much of his time steering dad’s attention away from Cinnamon Roll to both assuage his own conscience and save himself from being disappeared by Nedzu. “…He didn’t do anything to upset you, did he?...”

“No.”

“Oh good,” Tenko nods. “If Principal Nedzu asks, could you tell him that? Cause I’ve kind of already been orphaned once, and I’m not keen to repeat the experience.”

Midoriya smiles and agrees, and, with his filial duties suitably fulfilled and the Symbol of Peace saved from an overprotective sentient rodent (?), Tenko decides they both can turn their attention to more mundane concerns.

Mundane in the context of U.A., of course.

“So, how’s your little assignment coming along?” he grins. “Any super-cool moves I can look forward to?”

“Well, I was thinking…” the kid hesitates and then takes a deep breath. Then he lifts his hand and a pile of cement lifts in the air and comes flying over.

“Ooh, we can work with that!” Tenko nods, ideas already flitting through his head. “You can use that to clear rubble – bit like Uravity! Not sure about special… I’ve got it!”  he cheers. “I’m guessing that works on smaller things too, right? Cause it would be pretty neat for disarming people! Or, if not outright disarming, at least seriously throwing off their balance!”

“…I could probably do that,” Cinnamon Roll smiles and glances down at his hands, some deeper emotion in his eyes. “…It would be pretty cool to use Attraction to save someone.”

Attraction. Tenko pauses a moment to examine the kid, wondering what it is about this Quirk that has him so emotional. Because he's seen this Quirk before, of course, and - there's something there, some connection than runs deeper than simple functionality. For the first time, Tenko realizes guiltily that all the Quirks All For One had - they once belonged to people. Did he steal them all? Or perhaps - were there people like the tiny child Tenko once was, who were eager to jump at the chance to rid themselves of their Quirks? Does Midoriya sometimes lie in bed at night and wonder where his Quirks came from, try and imagine who...

Tenko shakes himself, because, despite what Grandpa Torino and dad would doubtlessly say, this is none of his business.

“I’m surprised though,” he grins instead. “I could have sworn you’d have some cool… switcheroo thing, you know – blast the villain with his own Quirk!”

Because that would be totally awesome, like some OP move in a video game, and Tenko would love to see it on TV.

“Ah,” Midoriya winces. “It’s not that easy.”

“Hm?” Tenko hums, not entirely paying attention. Oh, wouldn't it be awesome if All For One wasn't in fact dead, tried attacking Tokyo and suddenly found all his Quirks missing? Or - he'd have some longevity Quirk, right? Maybe he'd just crumble to dust without it and they could just sweep him up with a broom?!

"It's just, Quirks can be kind of tricky, especially at a distance," Cinnamon Roll admits, and Tenko forces his thoughts away from cool visuals and back to the job that pays for all his gaming needs. "They... Often, they're nothing like what you'd expect. Like..." the kid scrunches up his face in concentration. "...Decay feels kind of scratchy and itchy, but also like I want to give you a hug. There's... Nothing there that would clue me in on what it does, and... Well, the problem is, if I'm up against a villain and there are other heroes there, what if I don't recognize their Quirks? I mean, simple example - what if I accidentally take Fierce Wings while Hawks is flying overhead?"

“Okay, valid point, let’s maybe leave the whole stealing Quirks for absolute emergencies,” Tenko winces at that visual, and also all the inevitable red tape that would come with accidentally killing the Commission's pet hero. “Accidentally killing the Number Two is a sure way to get yourself some really pissed off antis.”

“Not to mention, get me disowned by my cousin,” Cinnamon Roll smiles and then explains. “…They’re dating.”

“Well aren’t you well connected,” Tenko chuckles. He glances away, at the other kids hard at work, takes a deep breath, and leans closer to ask, “I’ve been wondering – where do you get your Quirks?”

Hopefully not from accosting random strangers in the streets. If it turns out Cinnamon Roll is in fact a serial killer, Grandpa Torino will never let him hear the end of it.

“Dad, mostly. He gave me a bunch of Healing and Regeneration type Quirks when I was little, cause he’s… kind of overprotective. Now… I have to write applications for Quirks,” Midoriya groans. “And then I have to go through a very long talk about potential risks, drawbacks, etc.”

“Well that sounds boring,” Tenko mutters. It’s weird to hear someone talk about All For One like this; Tenko has for years known it as some dark and dangerous Quirk that could threaten the whole of society. It’s really… weird, picturing an overprotective dad sitting his son down to give him a lecture before passing on a new Quirk. But it still begs the question - why ask for a simple Quirk that only attracts objects, when Midoriya senior doubtless has countless cooler Quirks on hand? “Is that how you got that… Attraction thing from before?”

“No,” the kid pauses. Then he takes a deep breath and looks up. “I… It was my mum’s Quirk. She – she asked dad to take it before she died. To pass it on to me.”

“Oh,” Tenko nods.

Because with that simple statement, everything makes sense. Why this is the Quirk used for Midoriya's cover story, why the kid reaches for it so easily. Why it is so important that he can save people with it. And Tenko - Tenko understands, he does, probably better than most, and he just hopes... He hopes suddenly that whatever Attraction feels like, it's something... Pleasant. Comforting.

Like mum.

“…Has your dad ever mentioned something called One For All?” Tenko finds himself asking. He knows he shouldn't, he isn't supposed to reveal the truth about All Might's Quirk to anyone, but... He can't help it.

Cinnamon Roll nods.

“Then you know I… sort of get it,” Tenko smiles down at the kid. How old was he when he lost his mum? Does he even have those few memories Tenko treasures, or is it like with Nana, trying to take comfort from a simple Quirk? “My gran’s gone, but… in a way, with dad out there… A part of her is still alive, saving people.”

“And with you.”

Tenko stares at the kid, confused.

“It’s just… I read up on Septem quite a lot, when I was younger,” Cinnamon Roll shrugs. “My mum… She was a big fan, and I wanted to feel closer to her. And it’s just… From the sounds of things, she understood that sometimes… This is going to sound really cheesy, but sometimes it’s people’s hearts that need saving. And with what you’re doing… It just seems like she’d be really proud of you.”

“Thanks, kid,” Tenko laughs. There is a part of him that wishes that were true, but… Nana was a true hero, someone willing to sacrifice whatever it took. By comparison an awkward, traumatized rescue hero is hardly a worthy successor. “Your mum had great taste. But I…”

“Look, I know you’re only here because I need watching,” Midoriya interrupts him. “I know you’re ‘just’ a rescue hero, and aren’t that high in the charts, but… If not for you, Katsuki would have probably dropped out. When we got back from camp, traumatized and shocked, you called in the Symbol of Peace to cheer us up and get us excited about training. You really get the whole saving hearts thing, and honestly… Honestly, maybe you should look into getting a proper license, cause you’re a pretty good T.A..”

“And what, willingly sentence myself to a lifetime of angsty teenagers?” Tenko jokes as he tries desperately not to tear up.

“I dunno,” Cinnamon Roll grins. “You seem to like Kacchan!”

And then and there, Tenko resolves to never let him know about the teaching course he signed up for.

***

In a seedy corner of Tokyo, nestled far away from the well-lit streets, the bustle of crowds and, crucially, the close scrutiny of heroes, is a bar. It is well-known amongst a… certain clientele, a clientele that does not mind the dark, windowless interior, the smoke-filled room, or the ominous bartender that is rumoured to have once killed a man with a single punch. And, as up in the law-abiding corners of Tokyo countless gainfully employed workers hurry home, an ominous figure takes a deep breath and enters this very bar.

“Who the hell are you?” the barkeep growls when he catches sight of the newcomer, pausing in scrubbing the countertop. “What’s yer business?”

“Dropping off a food parcel,” Kurogiri smiles as he holds up his green canvas bag.

“…What the fuck?”

“He’s with me!” a familiar voice calls from further inside, where Kurogiri can just make out a dingy couch. “Put his drink on my tab!”

“Right,” the bartender nods, satisfied with that introduction. Perhaps there is also the small detail that no hero or policeman would be foolish enough to introduce themselves in such a suspicious manner. “So, what’ll it be?”

“Could I have a gin and tonic?”

There is a horrified groan from the direction of the couch, and Kurogiri chuckles as he waits for his drink. He glances around the dingy room, resisting the urge to point out that there are several spots that could do with a good dusting. He may no longer move in these circles, but he grew up in places like this, and knows advice rarely goes down well in these parts. Good housekeeping is not something people care about when their house could be destroyed at a moment's notice by an overzealous hero. Instead Kurogiri accepts his glass with a nod and a smiles, and, ignoring several curious glances, heads towards the couch.

“Gin and tonic – gin and tonic!” Giran groans as soon as Kurogiri has sat down opposite him. “You’re gonna cost me my reputation, kid!”

“Oh, please, like you have a reputation, what with your ridiculous taste,” Kurogiri narrows his eyes at that stupid scarf. He can’t quite keep the smile off his face as he takes a sip of his drink. “Good to see you again, Giran.”

Because it is. Kurogiri knows how dangerous the underworld can be, sought out All For One just for that one reason. Every time he meets Giran, he leaves knowing it might have been their last meeting. And Kurogiri knows that any kindness shown to him during his youth was because Giran had his uses for him, because that is the way things work, but he also is fully aware he would never have survived those first few months in Tokyo without Giran's assistance. Would never have gotten together the funds to pay for information if not for Giran hooking him up.

And, although Giran will never remember it, Kurogiri would never have met Inko Midoriya if Giran hadn't taken a risk and passed on a message from one of All For One's lieutenants.

“Glad to see you made it out of that little attack without losing any parts,” Giran grins back as he lights his cigarette. Then he frowns. “You aren’t missing any bits, are you? It’s kind of hard to tell, what with the fog thing…”

“Everything is accounted for, which reminds me,” Kurogiri puts his glass on the table and takes a deep breath. “WHY THE FUCK DIDN’T YOU GIVE ME A HEADS UP, GIRAN?!”

Every head in the bar snaps round to stare at them. Then they quickly look away, because the saying curiosity killed the cat holds especially true in these parts.

“I mean – you must have heard at least rumours, ahead of time!” Kurogiri continues, shivering as he remembers coming face to face with Muscular. “At least – send me a text, you know, something like There’s a bunch of crazy freaks that might try to murder your family, thought you should know?!”

“Come on, kid, you’re not dumb,” Giran takes a whiff of his cigarette, apparently unaffected by Kurogiri's outburst. “You know how this works – you can put the pieces together.”

“Oh, for…” Kurogiri groans, because he does, indeed, know how this works. “The League is paying you, isn’t it?”

“Got it in one, kid!”

“They’d better pay you well, at least,” Kurogiri grumbles as he picks up his glass again. He eyes it, wondering whether the petty revenge of forcing Giran to pay for several more drinks is worth the risk of getting jumped before he can Warp to safety. Probably better to keep his wits about him. “I was forced to save Kota from the man who murdered his parents.”

“…Ah,” Giran at least has the good graces to look down sheepishly at his lap. “…Sorry about that. How’s the kid doing?”

“He’s very, very traumatized.”

“…Yeah, that tracks…” Giran winces. “…How 'bout we agree I owe you some favour in the future and you don’t stop feeding me?”

“Sounds good to me,” Kurogiri chuckles as he passes the bag over. “And while we’re on the subject of your work, I’m here seeking your professional opinion.”

“…Oh?”

“If I wanted to get hold of medical equipment to, say, create an army of freakish monsters, how would you suggest I go about it?”

“Pay me a deposit, come back in a week and give me the remainder,” Giran deadpans and then opens the bag. “Say, you didn’t pack me any of that green stuff again, did you?”

“…You mean kale?”

“Yeah, that’s it! Got a piece of it stuck between my teeth last time. Real an – ooh, scones!” Giran grins. “Back to your question – since you aren’t interested in opening a clinic, you’ll be real happy to hear only medical I’ve dealt with in years was… Think it was, like… two years ago? Was for one of 'em yakuza. Sub-contracting, not a direct request, and I didn’t ask any questions, but – you know how they feel 'bout Quirks.”

“Your fee will be in locker 17 at the usual station,” Kurogiri smiles and takes a sip of his drink. “Key’s taped to the box with the cookies.”

“See, kid, this is why you’re my favourite customer.”

“And here I thought it was my charming personality.”

“You? Charming personality?” Giran snorts. “Hate to break it to you, kid, but only reason that lady of yours keeps you around is cause you’re cheaper than a private chef.”

“At least I have a girlfriend,” Kurogiri shoots back with a cheeky grin.

“What can I say? I’m a career man – married to my job,” Giran laughs. Then he spots something in the bag and the smile slips from his face. “…Kid, what are these?”

“What are what?” Kurogiri asks, confused. He starts going through what he packed - scones, of course, several different portions of vegetables... Then the villain slowly pulls one of the offending items out and he perks up. “Oh – aren’t they adorable?! And, if you freeze them, they’ll last you up to three months!”

Giran just glares at the cat-shaped onigiri.

Chapter Text

Kurogiri returns to the Midoriya house late one night. As might be expected from a human teleporter, it is not some grand entrance, but rather the customary sudden change of the number of occupants from three to four. Nobody would be any the wiser of the exact moment it occurs, if not for a familiar voice yelling, "I don't care, go to bed!"

Izuku bolts upright in bed, half expecting to find the League of Villains standing around his bed. Bleary-eyed, he looks around his room, confirming that he is alone. He hears the faint sound of someone climbing the stairs, and then whoever it is pauses, and...

"BED!" a nightmarish voice commands, and Izuku smiles and lies back down.

Kurogiri is back.

A few hours later, feeling only marginally more rested than during his unplanned wakeup, Izuku stumbles down the stairs. Once again, the weird female voice made a reappearance, and Izuku really wishes whoever it is would take a break. Or at least stop being so familiar and using his first name, he reflects and then he notices something has changed in the living room and, bemused, stops on the bottom step and watches Kurogiri toss the last of dad's papers into a black bin bag and give it a vindictive shake.

"Hey, Kurogiri," Izuku greets the man with a yawn. He hesitates, wondering what dad will say when he wakes up, and says, "You do know dad has a..."

"If you say system, I shall warp you to Aokigahara and leave you there," Kurogiri snaps. "This is not a system, this is an ungodly mess!"

"Yes, sir," Izuku hastily agrees, because he has an exam to get to and getting stranded in the middle of a forest by his pissed off nanny/taxi/sort-of uncle is probably not an excuse that would satisfy the Hero Commission, no matter how true. Instead he leaves Kurogiri to get the worst of his outrage out of his system and moves through to the kitchen, switching on the kettle and pulling out both a mug for himself and Kurogiri's favourite mug.

It's green, with a rather clumsy cat painted on it. Izuku had proudly presented it to Kurogiri when he was about seven.

Now that Izuku thinks about it, most of his family's favourite mugs have rather embarrassing origin stories.

“So, how are you feeling?” Kurogiri asks, startling him. “After all, it’s exam day.”

"Don't remind me!" Izuku groans as he pulls out cutlery. There is a reason he switched off his phone last night; he's not ready to deal with the barrage of messages waiting for him until after breakfast. Best friend or not, Tenya can be a bit overbearing. Then something occurs to him, though, and he pauses before turning to look at the former villain. "Kurogiri... When exactly did you... join... dad?"

"Depends how you define join," Kurogiri shrugs. "Tamago gohan alright for breakfast?... Anyway, he first made contact sometime in... January. You would be a few months old, because I met you and Inko the following summer and you turned one not long after. Why do you ask?"

"Did you ever meet one of his followers?" Izuku asks, trying for nonchalance. "An old doctor guy. Goes by the name Garaki..."

Kurogiri freezes. Then he seems to take a deep breath and straightens his shoulders.

"Does..." the Warper clears his throat. "...Does your father believe that's who is behind the League?..."

“No, dad’s convinced he has nothing to do with it,” Izuku sighs and notices the exact moment the man relaxes. "It's just I... I don't know."

“Well, I… I hope he’s right,” Kurogiri winces. “My introduction to him was getting pulled aside by one of your dad’s… lieutenants and being told to never, under any circumstances, be alone with him. And never, ever enter his lab without your dad present.”

Izuku stares at the man, shocked. There is something… Incredibly unsettling about that statement; it conjures up the image of an old genius tucked away in a dark lab somewhere, someone so dangerous, that even other villains – even his own allies – fear him. Oh, it fits all too well with whoever might have created these nomu, but it doesn't make things better.

“…Why?”

“Because…” Kurogiri hesitates; then, he turns around and Izuku straightens under his full attention. “…Because he was a genius, yes, but he also… There was something not right, in his mind. He was… fanatical about his research, and devoted to All For One, but… He despised you and your mother.”

"What?" Izuku exclaims, shocked. He did not see this coming. "Why?!"

“Because he saw you as a distraction,” Kurogiri winces. “He thought that All For One had better things to do than play house. If he could have got away with it… I truly believe he would have eliminated you and your mother. When your dad… retired, most of your dad’s followers willingly submitted to having their memories rewritten. The doctor had to be held down and forced. He is… He is both the sort of man who is capable and willing to create these nomu, and also the sort that has me hoping your father is right.”

Izuku digests this information. If – if Kurogiri is right and Garaki did get his memory wiped, then he’s probably not behind the League. Because if he remembered enough to connect Izuku with All For One – he would probably also remember enough to know that he hates Izuku, and then – why would the League seem so keen to almost… recruit him?

Izuku frowns as Kurogiri sets his breakfast down in front of him.

“Hey, what… Good morning, Kurogiri!” dad pauses in the doorway and then slowly edges away from the warper. “Izuku, good morning! So, excited to finally get your license?”

Izuku groans. Of course, it's not enough that there is a group of dangerous villains that are convinced he is the key to... some undetermined probably-not-good thing and Izuku has to worry not only about said villains harming people but also being harmed themselves. No, Izuku also needs to pass an exam. And graduate. And also somehow survive puberty. Yay.

“You’ll do fine,” dad smiles as he pours his morning coffee. “Just watch out for the U.A. Crush.”

“The what now?”

“Aizawa didn’t warn you about it?” the man frowns as he sits down. “Or – do they not do the U.A. Crush anymore?...”

“Dad, what is the U.A. Crush?” Izuku takes a deep breath.

“Oh, it’s fun!” dad grins and then something seems to occur to him. “…Though probably not for U.A.. Basically, it’s tradition for everyone to gang up and try and take out as many of the U.A. students as possible.”

“And you know this because…” Izuku trails off, already feeling a deep sense of foreboding.

“…I may have been sort of responsible for starting the very first U.A. Crush,” dad admits. “Look, there was this annoying kid, and I was undercover and needed an excuse to punch him in the face…”

“Okay, back up,” Izuku takes a deep breath. Then he focuses on his dad. “You took the licensing exam.”

“Well, of course,” dad shrugs. “Several times. Of course I used various identities, and made sure not to pass every time. But it was helpful in figuring out what the Hero Commission was searching for over the decades, and it was a wonderful excuse to beat up heroes.”

Once again, Izuku is reminded that his dad is unfortunately slightly insane. Then he also realizes that he'll have to warn his classmates about a wonderful tradition, started by his father, that could very well see them all... what, eliminated?

It's probably best not to think about it, Izuku reflects as he turns his attention back to his breakfast. Breakfast is nice. Breakfast is normal. Tenya probably has breakfasts just like this one.

“So don’t worry, Izuku!” Hisashi Midoriya smiles. “Take it from someone who passed the exam six times – you’ll do fine!”

***

Mera yawns as he adjusts his tie. He checks his watch once again, wishing time would speed up; the sooner this exam begins, the sooner he can crawl into bed and get some well-deserved rest.

He surveys the room around him, as his colleagues hurry to put the final touches on the exam. They have maybe twenty minutes before the examinees start showing up, and of course there are about a million tiny things that will undoubtedly go wrong within that short span of time…

And then he spots a familiar figure across the room and almost has a heart attack.

“What the hell?!” he hisses as he grabs a random intern. “What the hell is secretary Kuse doing here?!”

The random intern turns, spots the small man and pales.

“Ah, Mera!” secretary Kuse gestures for him to come over, and the random intern flees.

Mera wishes he could do the same. Secretary Kuse may not have as much outright power as the president, but everyone knows that crossing him is tantamount to political suicide. And now, that same secretary Kuse is smiling and beckoning Mera over.

“Secretary Kuse!” Mera hurries over to the man, only pausing long enough to bow. “What brings you here?...”

“I’ve come to observe the Licensing Exam,” the man answers. “After the recent attack on this year’s U.A. students, the Commission is… interested to see how they will perform. I trust that won’t be a problem?...”

“Of course not, sir!” Mera shakes his head. “You there – make sure secretary Kuse has a good seat!...”

He waits exactly ten seconds, until he is no longer the focus of the man’s attention. Then he races off to make sure they have enough sugar.

***

“Now then, children!” Chronos grins once the last of Class 1-A has disembarked from the bus. “Gather round, gather round… Bakubrat, come on! Don’t hold us up!”

Katsuki rolls his eyes at Shimura-Yagi as he looks around. He can see other groups already heading in the direction of the building their exam is in, and for the first time wonders – how many people are there? When he thinks about it, presumably they won’t all be students – there are probably adults mixed in, people who have gone through this same song and dance before…

“Bakubrat, come… there we go!” Chronos nods when Sero and Kaminari grab an arm each and drag Katsuki into the group gathered around him. “Right, now one last time – what did I tell you?”

Earphones raises her hand hesitantly. “…Everybody here hates us?”

“Exactly!” Shimura-Yagi beams at her. “What else – Kaminari?”

“We need to assume everyone here knows our Quirks,” the blonde answers confidently.

“And?...”

“Shiketsu thinks they’re hot stuff just cause they have a shitty hat!”

Nineteen teenagers ever so slowly edge away from an oblivious Yoarashi.

“Gee, great job, Yoarashi,” Chronos winces. “Way to piss off the only school here that can go up against U.A..”

“Oh, I’m sure!…”

“Okay, whatever you’re about to say – please don’t,” Chronos holds up his hand. “I know you did well against Mustard and all that – good job, gold star by the way, congrats on not dying – but please try not to piss off a whole school just before they have a legally sanctioned opportunity to beat you up. Please. Got that?”

The large teen slowly nods.

“Okay, now that we’ve hopefully averted that crisis – does anyone have any last minute questions?”

Katsuki hesitates for a minute. Then he takes a deep breath and, both curious and with a peculiar sense of foreboding, asks, “Why do you have a bag with you?”

“Cause for some weird reason they don’t sell snacks here and this is going to be a better show than the Sports Festival!” Shimura-Yagi grins and then glances over at Aizawa. “Don’t worry, Eraserhead, I brought enough to share!”

Their homeroom teacher just groans.

“Well, off you go, time to get changed!” Chronos makes a shooing motion. “Oh – not you, Bakubrat, I want to have a final word with you. In private.”

Katsuki buries his hands in his pockets and ignores the curious glances of his classmates as they start to leave. He’s familiar enough with this weird little arrangement between himself and the T.A. to know what will undoubtedly come; reassurances, a reminder that he doesn’t have to be perfect… It’s all so predictable, and yet at the same time he can’t help but appreciate the rather… awkward attempts at comfort.

“Hey, man,” Kirishima nudges his shoulder, and Katsuki looks up, surprised, to find that the redhead, Kaminari, Sero and Ashido are still there. “We’ll wait for you in the changing rooms.”

“Oh, look at you, making friends, Bakubrat,” Chronos grins. “With your own little… Bakusquad.”

“My own what?”

“Don’t worry, Bakusquad,” Shimura-Yagi continues, ignoring Katsuki’s glare as he swings and arm round the blonde’s shoulders. “Bakubrat will catch up to you in no time, I just want a final word in private.”

“You are not calling us the Bakusquad,” Katsuki hisses.

“Good luck, Bakusquad members 2 through 5!”

Katsuki promptly buries his face in his hands, much to the amusement of his so-called friends. He waits until their laughter has faded; then he sighs and lifts his head to glare at his mentor.

“…You couldn’t have given us a better nickname?”

“I probably could have, but I didn’t want to,” the young hero grins and shrugs. “I like Bakusquad too much, and it’s easy for my dumb brain to remember. And besides – it’s good that you’ve made some new friends, kid. Especially since you might need to trust them one day to have your back.”

“I wouldn’t trust Chargebolt with a hamster,” Katsuki grouches. He watches Chronos’ face fall, and then grins. “Guy can’t even remember my lunch order.”

“Oh my gosh, you’re actually teasing me!” Shimura-Yagi laughs and ruffles his hair. “Look at you, eating lunch with actual friends. Good job, Bakubrat!”

Katsuki endures the familiar gesture, and tries and fails to stop from smiling. Because he likes this… weird little group that he has joined (even if he refuses to call them the Bakusquad). He likes that although he’s the newcomer, he’s already well on his way to becoming part of their group (even if some of it comes from Kaminari’s realisation that he’s a top student academics-wise and therefore an easily-accessible source of extra tutoring). He likes having people he can hang out with, likes that his mother’s only response to the sudden increase in his phone bill was to sign him up for a new plan.

“Did you know I was the last in my year to get my license?”

“This is your way of letting me know it’s okay to fail, isn’t it?” Katsuki asks in return.

“Well – yes, okay, it is,” Chronos rolls his eyes. “But it is still a valid point, alright? Just cause U.A. wants you to pass as soon as possible doesn’t mean you’re hopeless if you fail. I mean, just look at me! I flunked it twice, and yet – here I am, U.A. alumni, guiding the next generation…”

“Straight into a wall,” Katsuki mutters with a smile.

“Hey! I’m good at this teaching business, alright?” Shimura-Yagi sniffs. “I mean, I managed to stop you from dropping out, and look at you now, Bakubrat!”

Katsuki rolls his eyes.

“No, I mean it, kid,” Chronos’ smile turns gentle. “You’ve earned your right to take this exam, Bakugo. Sure you’ve made mistakes along the way, but… You’ve also done some truly heroic things. You’ve saved people. You’ve persevered, even when nobody believed in you…”

“You believed in me.”

“Yes, but only because I’m living proof that massive screw-ups don’t automatically disqualify you from being a hero,” Chronos snorts. “I just want you to do your best out there today. Pass or fail, when this is all over, you can hold your head up high.”

“Thanks, Chronos,” Katsuki smiles and endures one last hair ruffle.

“Now off you go, kiddo!” Shimura-Yagi grins. “Same as the Sports Festival – no holding back!”

“No holding back,” Katsuki nods and turns away.

But as he heads towards the changing rooms, Katsuki can’t help but hope he passes. It won’t be the end of the world if he fails – his mother will probably make him his favourite meal, his father will offer to take him hiking on Sunday. Chronos will be prepared to help him identify the mistakes he made.

But Katsuki can’t help it.

He wants to make Chronos proud.

Chapter Text

“…I sense a conspiracy afoot,” Hisashi states when his secretary shows Principal Nedzu into his office only seven minutes after he himself has arrived. He glances over at the screen of his PC, taking a moment to mourn all the work he won't get done, and then switches it off with a sigh.

“I have no idea what you are talking about,” the hero chuckles. “I simply realized today that I have never, despite our many years of friendship, seen your workplace, and so decided that the time had come to remedy it. I do not know why you are so paranoid…”

“Oh hey, Principal Nedzu!” Tensei chooses that exact moment to wheel himself out of the private bathroom. “You here to make sure Hisashi doesn’t try sneaking off to the National Takoba Arena too?”

“That,” Hisashi sighs as he points to his supposed best friend. “That is why I am paranoid.”

“Okay – that’s rude!” Tensei huffs. Then he treats the clearly amused secretary to a wide grin. “Tensei Iida, nice to meet you!”

“Oh, are you related to Tenya, by any chance?...”

“We’ll have two pots of Earl Grey and a grapefruit juice from the cafeteria,” Hisashi interrupts the woman before she can torpedo his reputation any further. He really would rather Tensei not find out that for years he has forbidden her from scheduling any meetings on Tenya's birthday. “Please ask the newest employee to bring them up. Also – if you could find something pretty and shiny to keep Tensei distracted…”

“Hey!”

“I’ll see what I can do, sir,” the secretary smiles and nods, and Hisashi is once again reminded why he pays her so well, because she is a skilled professional. Then he remembers she also possesses a worrying amount of blackmail material, and thanks his lucky stars he isn’t going back to a life of crime.

If All Might ever found out he provides employees with free daycare, he would never live it down.

With a sigh, Hisashi turns his attention back to his uninvited guests. Nedzu is examining several of the certificates on the wall, clearly interested, and Hisashi decides he could probably distract the headmaster by handing over a few of Onecore’s patents. As for Tensei…

“Hey, Hisashi, can you get Netflix on this TV?”

“This is going to be a long day…” Hisashi mutters.

***

Once the last of the examinees have filed into the room, and Mera steps up to greet them, Kuse takes a sip of his tea and surveys the crowd, searching for a mess of green curls. It’s not easy at first, but then he spots the first of the U.A. contingent and smiles. There, between Endeavor’s youngest brat and the Idaten heir. It took some shuffling of paperwork, a few frowns, but in the end he managed to ensure he was sent off to the same test site as Class 1-A.

He feels the first twinges of an impending headache, but resists the urge to rub his forehead. Arata Kuse has come as far as he has by being inconspicuous. Not drawing attention to himself. And so, confident he appears to the crowd as just another man in a suit, Kuse examines Izuku Midoriya. The kid looks disappointedly… Normal. Puny. Cute.

Confused by where that particular thought came from, Kuse glances around the general crowd and notices they have started muttering. Ah, so Mera must have informed them that things are a little different this year. Yes, the broad structure will be the same, with examinees expected to defeat two opponents before they can pass. But the part that took so much work, so much manoeuvring on his part… That would be the stipulation that only the first two hundred will proceed on to the second stage on the exam.

But Kuse is sure all his efforts will be worth it. After all, under such pressure… Even the students of the illustrious U.A. might struggle. Perhaps even slip up, once or twice.

And if Izuku Midoriya truly does possess All For One, Kuse intends to confirm it with his own eyes.

***

“This is going to be so awesome!” Chronos grins as he takes his seat. “Hey, Eraserhead, when someone passes, do they announce…”

“Only general announcements,” Aizawa cuts him off as he slouches next to the younger hero. He resists the urge to smile at Shimura-Yagi’s enthusiasm, determined to preserve his reputation as a callous, uncaring grouch. “At least in the past, they never announced who had passed, only that someone had.”

“Good thing I packed binoculars, then!”

“…Why do you have military-grade binoculars?” Aizawa asks, half dreading the answer.

“I nicked them from Uncle Nighteye,” Chronos shrugs. “Do you want the spare pair?...”

“Heya, Eraserhead!”

Aizawa groans. Unfortunately, the universe has never cared for his discomfort, and so the familiar annoyance does not go away; instead, she drops into the seat next to him and grins wider. (And no, it is not Present Mic. Annoyance or not, Aizawa was fully aware of what he was getting into where his boyfriend is concerned.)

“I thought I saw you earlier! Oh, who’s this?”

“Hey, I’m Chronos!” Shimura-Yagi leans around him to introduce himself, and Aizawa turns to glare at him, futile though the gesture may be. An unfortunate side-effect of caring for his students is they gradually realize he's not a heartless bastard. “Rescue hero and resident T.A. for Class 1-A! And you are?...”

“The Smile Hero, Ms Joke!” the woman introduces herself. “I teach at Ketsubutsu!"

"Oh, cool!" Shimura-Yagi doesn't seem keen to move. "Your class is taking the exam, then?..."

"Yep, although obviously they're second years," Joke hums, and then asks, "So, how many has Eraserhead failed this year?”

“None!” Chronos grins, clearly proud. “No expulsions, no drop-outs – we still have the original twenty!”

The original twenty. Aizawa resists the urge to wince, because it’s a reminder that Hitoshi is still stuck in General Studies. His son had been rather quiet at breakfast, and now Shota wonders - is it because of what his friends are doing today? Would... Would Hitoshi have better chances of passing if he could take this exam without his friends? Two hundred spots isn't that many, but if Hitoshi could find an opening to use his Quirk, he could secure a pass for more than himself. Except that still leaves the second half, and... Hitoshi is still lacking in regards to practical skills. And perhaps Aizawa would feel more comfortable with Hitoshi picking up those skills on the job, under the guidance of a pro, but... With the League out there, with Veritas apparently so fixated on Hitoshi...

Aizawa will never admit it to his son, but he would rather Hitoshi never get a license if it meant he would be safe.

“…So, how’d you two meet?”

“Our agencies were nearby, back in the day,” Joke sighs dramatically, and flops onto Aizawa's shoulder. “He saved me a few times, I saved him… I fell in love, he broke my heart…”

Aizawa rolls his eyes, because he highly doubts Joke was ever seriously attracted to him. To be perfectly honest, he still doesn’t know what Hizashi sees in him, and his own attractiveness aside – even straight out of highschool, he was probably more than half in love with Hizashi…

Wait a minute.

“Joke, you’re a genius!” he exclaims as he scrambles to his feet.

“What?...”

“Eraserhead, what…”

“Chronos – keep an eye on the kids! I need to make a call!” Aizawa yells, already halfway up the stairs. He barrels past a confused hero and through the doors, phone already in hand, and barely makes it three steps before hitting call on a familiar number.

“Come on, come on…” he mutters as he waits for someone to answer. “Hizashi!”

“Shota? Shota, what’s wrong?!” his boyfriend exclaims.

“Nothing – nothing’s wrong, Hizashi,” Aizawa takes a deep breath. He knows how this looks, knows he could have easily waited for the end of the exam, but… They’ve gone weeks without a lead. This - this could be the breakthrough they've been looking for. “Hizashi – my old paperwork details my patrol areas, right?!”

“Shota, why on earth are you calling me RIGHT NOW to ask about old…”

“Hitoshi,” Aizawa states simply, and Mic immediately falls silent. He clenches his fists and tries to explain, because once he understands... Once he understands, Hizashi will find that paperwork if he has to tear apart their apartment, will storm into whatever meeting Tsukauchi is in to slam it down on his desk. They've gone so many weeks without being able to answer their son's question, spent so long watching helplessly... "Hizashi - Tsukauchi hasn't been able to find any leads concerning Hitoshi because any direct reference in electronic records is gone. There might be something out there, but - he has to search the whole of Tokyo. But if he could narrow down the search area, though..."

“…Say, to a few specific neighbourhoods at a specific time,” Mic catches on. “And - we know Hitoshi lived in your patrol area not long after we graduated! Shota, you're a genius! I love you so much!"

“…Actually, it was something Joke said that gave me the idea,” Aizawa admits selfconsciously.

“…I am not having thank-you sex with Joke.”

***

“…Oh, wow,” Shoto breathes once the room they were all gathered in has fully opened. He surveys the surrounding landscapes; a city block, a mini-mountain range, some sort of industrial plant, a small lake with a waterfall…

Where should he go? He has almost every possible environment spread out in front of him, beckoning him, tempting him. The choice is up to him though, and it is a crucial one – where will he be able to make best use of his talents?

“Holy shit.”

“Language!”

Of course, Shoto smiles as he turns his attention back to his classmates. With his friends, just like they always planned, always envisioned as children.

Because yes, he wants to be a hero, wants to make his mum and siblings proud just like the rest of his class undoubtedly does, but he needs that license. He needs to be able to act if – when these villains attack again, needs to be able to focus on protecting Izuku without fear of possible repercussions.

“Alright, so what’s the plan?” he asks as he moves closer to Izuku, and then glances around and notices someone’s missing. “…Where’s Yoarashi?”

“He said he’d be better able to use his Quirk on his own and that if Shiketsu wants to fight him, he’s not going to turn them down,” Jiro reports.

Everyone groans.

“Well, that sounds like a terrible idea,” Izuku groans. “We should stick together – remember what Chronos said about the U.A. Crush? And our Quirks are known, so we’re at a serious disadvantage even without considering we’re the youngest here – if we go off on our own, they’ll gang up and pick us off.”

“Alright!” Shoto grins. He can see a few of the other students shift uneasily, and tries to lighten the mood. “So basically – same rules as when we played heroes!”

A few of the girls giggle, and Tenya lets out a longsuffering sigh and puts on his helmet.

“Yeah, only we don’t have Hitoshi on hand…” Izuku winces at the reminder of their friend. And – Shoto gets it, he does, because Hitoshi deserves to be there just as much as they do, but they can mope about that later. The exam is about to begin, and they can’t afford to get distracted.

“Hey, if you ask me, he’s got it easier!” Shoto rolls his eyes. “Extra time to practice, and he gets a detailed account from people who just took the exam? Don’t pretend you’re not going to spend the entire ride back writing out what happened!”

“But he doesn’t get to take it with us,” Izuku points out quietly, and the three of them stand in silence for a moment. Then however Izuku takes a deep breath and straightens up. “Right, everyone clear on the plan?”

“Stick together,” Bakugo nods. “Got it.”

“Let’s go, Bakusquad!”

“WE’RE NOT CALLED THAT!”

“Do I even want to know?...” Shoto whispers to Tenya.

“Probably not.”

“Alright, 1-A – let’s move!”

Shoto grins as they start running. He wishes he could move forward, could be closer to Izuku’s side, but it’s better to guard their flank. If they get ambushed, if people pop out of nowhere – he can call up an ice wall in seconds, give everyone enough time to take stock.

He hears the signal that the exam has become, and can't help but laugh, attracting a few odd looks. But he can't help it, because - he's here, he's taking the exam to get a License. His whole life, from the moment he first saw All Might on TV, from the first time his mum told him he could be a hero... It's been leading up to this moment, and he can't wait to get home, can't wait for her to ask him how it went.

“Incoming!” Izuku yells, and Shoto twists as he skids to a stop, ice forming around his feet and spreading fast. Several balls hit it, in some places hard enough to cause it to crack, and Shoto winces even as he focuses on breathing, chases the faint chill he feels away as he melts the ice to give them a better view.

“Everyone get back!...” he hears a familiar voice, and…

He makes a crucial error. He lets himself get distracted, glancing towards the front. It’s a few seconds, but it’s enough, and he knows he made a mistake before he hears someone yell a warning. He can’t react in time, not when his classmates have moved closer to him, not when he has to be cautious of harming them with his Quirk…

And then, something hard, and heavy, and above all fast slams into him, knocking him out of the way of the balls; he feels one of them hit his arm, mere inches from his target. They slam into the ground with enough force to rattle Shoto’s teeth, and he struggles to gasp in air as his saviour scrambles off him.

“What the fuck, Frosty?” said saviour snarls.

“Thanks, Kacchan!” Shoto grins up at the blond. “Nice save!”

And just then, the very ground beneath them trembles and, with an almighty crack, splinters apart.

***

“Alright!” Inasa Yoarashi grins as he makes his way to the anteroom, to wait for the others to finish the exam. He is a bit disappointed he didn’t have a chance to go up against any students from Shiketsu, at least as far as he is aware, but he was just so fired up! Finally, a chance to go up against other people equally as passionate as himself!

Admittedly, it was a bit of a let-down.

Then again, these past few months at U.A. have been all very eye-opening, he will admit. He was disappointed, when he first met his classmates, to find they seemed to lack that fiery passion he had been hoping for. He had been further appalled when he had witnessed Shinso manipulate his supposed friend during the Sports Festival, except…

Except Shinso had been hiding his own passion deep inside, and proved that he truly deserved that win more. And it got Yoarashi thinking – perhaps he had misjudged his classmates?! Perhaps they too kept their enthusiasm hidden, and perhaps his mother was right when she said he has a habit of rushing into things headfirst? Perhaps it would do him good to become closer with a few of his classmates, especially the ones that were a little more… Cautious?

And, as if the universe itself was showing its approval for this plan, as soon as he enters the room he spots a familiar figure and he grins.

“Oh hey!” he shouts. “I didn’t know you’d passed already!...”

***

“I can’t believe I got stuck with you!” Bakugo grumbles.

“Well, it could be worse,” Shoto points out with a small smile. “At least you’re not stuck with Tenya. Or Yoarashi. You wouldn’t get five feet before half the field found you.”

He fancies he spots a faint smile on the blonde’s face. Then, however, he takes a glance around the surrounding cityscape and shivers.

When they first got separated from the rest of the class, it seemed only sensible to put as much distance between themselves and the older students. They were outnumbered after all, and with no clear way of locating their classmates, heading for the cityscape seemed like a decent plan. They could hide out, find a few other examinees, and hopefully pass before anyone realizes there are two U.A. students running around alone.

Except now that they’re here, there is one very serious flaw with the plan, and Shoto really wishes they has taken their chances with Ketsubutsu.

“You know what’s kind of weird, though?” Shoto asks, as he glances around the cityscape nervously. “There’s, like, 1500 people in this arena.”

“So?”

“…So why’s it so quiet?” Shoto hisses. Since they first entered, he hasn't seen a trace of another examinee. And they’ve been walking for several minutes, and yet – no noises, no people… Nothing.

“…Shit, you’re right,” Bakugo shivers as he edges ever so slightly closer. “It’s fucking creepy.”

“Yeah, I mean…” Shoto edges around a corner and stops at the sight in front of him. Then he pinches himself, because even considering the weird stuff his family attracts, this is next level. “…Bakugo, did you see a blue police box anywhere around here?”

“What the fuck are you talking about?...” Bakugo shoves past him and freezes. “…What the hell is this?”

“…Alien invasion?” Shoto suggests hesitantly and shrugs when the blond turns to glare at him. “Hey, it’s the best I’ve got.”

Because, spread out in front of them like… like… like the aftermath of an alien invasion are dozens of creepy, fleshy… globs. That’s the word, Shoto decides, a horde of globs that make him want to turn tail and run back to his friends, Ketsubutsu or not. This looks… Unpleasantly like Shoto stumbled into an episode of Doctor Who.

“Think it’s a Quirk,” Bakugo mutters as he tenses.

“What? How’d you figure…”

“Well, there’s a guy over there that hasn’t been turned into mush.”

Shoto squints just as a figure straightens up and turns towards them. Sure enough, this boy at least is still fully… humanoid, dressed in a long coat and a familiar hat. And perhaps it is the relief that they are not in fact at ground zero for an alien invasion that has Shoto smiling, and saying, “Oh, a shitty hat! Shiketsu!”

The figure freezes.

Bakugo facepalms.

Shoto rather wishes he could slam his head into the nearest building.

“…I’m an idiot, aren’t I?” he asks rhetorically as he takes a step back. Hat Guy doesn’t look like he’s about to kill them, but then again, appearances can be deceiving. Uncle Hisashi is the perfect example of that. Plus, they're surrounded by disturbing piles of fleshy mush that were probably once they're fellow examinees and yes, Shoto is absolutely stupid and about to join the ranks of the turned-into-weird-globs.

“No argument here,” Bakugo sighs. “Maybe we should… RUN!”

Shoto doesn’t need any convincing as he turns and makes a break for it. Whatever this guy’s Quirk is, it doesn’t look like something he wants to be on the receiving end of. Better to retreat, find another opponent he didn’t just piss off, and…

“He’s chasing us!”

Well fuck.

“Split up!” Shoto decides, turning into a sidestreet. If he were with Izuku and Tenya, he wouldn’t hesitate to face this guy together, but it seems rather unfair to drag Bakugo down with him. Hopefully this guy took note of who pissed him off and won’t go after Bakugo. Hopefully, Shoto will manage to lose him. Hopefully, he isn’t about to get himself turned into a weird fleshy lump, and if he is, it’s reversible.

…That’s a few too many hopefullys for comfort.

Even without a speed Quirk, Shoto is fast on his feet, and his costume is fairly lightweight. So he sprints down the street and makes a sharp turn at the end; he barrels down the next, darts round a corner, dashes into a sidestreet, risks a glance over his shoulder, and then almost runs into a wall.

“Oh, crap!” he hisses and turns, and then backs up and presses up against the wall when he sees a figure at the mouth of the alley. “Erm… Hi?”

Shit shit shit, he’s trapped. If he could get a running start he could use his Quirk to propel himself over the wall, but that would mean getting close to Hat Guy. He doesn’t know enough about the guy’s Quirk to risk that. Maybe he could freeze him, but – that might take crucial seconds. If the guy manages to activate his Quirk in that time, it could take them both out of the running, and Shoto isn’t sure he’s that spiteful.

Crap, he is so screwed.

“Do you know why we students of Shiketsu wear these caps?” the guy asks as he takes a step forward. “It is because we understand our every action reflects back on the legacy of Shiketsu High School. We cultivate a sense of duty and pride, especially in a public setting, and yet you dare to mock us.”

“…Yeah, sorry about that…”

“I had such high hopes for U.A.,” the guy sighs as he comes to a stop. “I respected U.A. high school - I felt that you might actually be able to measure up to our school. And yet now I find you are just like the rest of this rabble. You do not act with the class befitting your institution. I saw you on TV, saw the way you and your friends made a mockery of the...”

“Oh, shut up,” Shoto snaps.

The guy stares at him, mouth agape.

“Look, sorry about the hat remark, that was insensitive, our T.A. is an idiot,” Shoto snorts. There's no way out of this, and - Shoto was an idiot, he'll admit that, but he's not about to let some guy talk shit about his school, about his friends. He takes a step forward, feels the first flames curl around his arm. "But that's on me, and it does not mean I won't kick your ass for dissing my friends."

"And once again, you prove me correct. You show you are not worthy of the lofty title of hero..."

"Oh, like you know anything about me!" Shoto snarls, his flames jumping higher. "You know what? If I fail this exam - it doesn't matter. Because it won't change anything, except make me train harder, because... I will still be me. And you know what? I live every day knowing that my every action reflects not only on my mum, not only on my school, but me. And on the hero I want to be."

It was... something he learnt long before starting high school, though he couldn't put it into words at the time. Because he remembers getting to know Tensei, visiting Idaten, and realizing – Tensei was everything he wanted to be as a hero. Tensei was kind and encouraging and – consistent. Because whether he was in costume or swimwear, at Idaten or the park, Ingenium or Tenya’s brother – Tensei was always Tensei. Yes, he sometimes tried to put on a brave face, tried to be more confident in front of his team than he felt, but there was no public façade, no hidden skeletons. Tensei was the sort of hero who didn’t pretend, and to little Shoto – that was mindblowing.

And as Shoto grew up, as he started to become set in his desire to be a hero - it was Tensei that he started to model himself on. Because All Might was some far off, near-mythical figure, but Tensei - Tensei was a real hero that was right there. And perhaps Shoto wouldn't be exactly like Tensei, wouldn't lead a team of sidekicks... But he could try and be like Tensei in the ways that mattered; could try and act the same whether in costume or not, could live his life in a way that his mother would not be ashamed.

All Might taught Shoto that heroes could be good, but Tensei... Tensei taught him heroes could be human.

“And anyway, the school we go to does not determine our worth as heroes,” Shoto adds as he spots movement behind the Shiketsu guy. For a moment, he feels hope flare in his chest, but it's quickly chased away by the dreadful realization of what could happen if this guy just turns around. He needs... Needs to distract him. “There are U.A. alumni who suck. But, on the flipside... There are people who go to crummy schools, who are some of the greatest heroes I've ever met. Because they don't care whether they get in the charts, they don't care they never get sponsorships - they care about helping people. That is what makes them heroes."

"A pretty speech," the Shiketsu guy sneers. "But in the end it does not matter. This is where..."

Shoto jumps forward suddenly, ice shooting out, towards his opponent. The guy staggers backwards, clearly surprised, and...

...Then Bakugo's fist connects with his head, slamming it forward and into the ice and knocking the guy out cold.

"...Well that was sort of anticlimactic," Shoto remarks.

"WHAT THE FUCK IS WITH YOUR FAMILY AND ALLEYS?!" Bakugo screams, letting off a few explosions.

"Hey, I'm still better than Izuku!" Shoto feels the need to point out. "A self-important jerk from Shiketsu is not comparable to the Hero Killer!"

"Whatever!" Bakugo huffs and nudges the unconscious guy with his foot. "Go on then, better take him out of the running before he wakes up."

"Hey, no! He totally had me - you deserve this win more than me!"

"You kept him talking so I could find you!"

“I got pissed off at him – I didn’t expect you to come save me!” Shoto groans. This is going to take them forever unless they figure something out. “Alright, how ‘bout this – you take him, then we head back to where we ran into him and, if his Quirk's worn off, you help me out. Deal?”

“…Deal,” Bakugo nods, and they shake hands.

As he waits for the other teen to get his first win, Shoto wonders how his friends are doing.

He kind of hopes him and Bakugo pass first.

***

“Two, Uravity!”

Tenya doesn’t even glance in the direction of Uraraka; he doesn’t have to look to know that those of his classmates close to her will immediately round on the two opponents materializing in their midst. Undoubtedly taken by surprise, numbers alone should be enough to overwhelm them.

Instead, he heads straight for Izuku, skidding to a stop next to his friend just as Izuku starts to cough. Not surprising, perhaps, because Tenya has lost count of how many times his friend has used Summon. At first it was to gather those of their classmates Tenya tracked down. Then, Izuku came up with the highly amusing tactic of Summoning random opponents and overwhelming them with sheer numbers.

Except now, Tenya can see he should have paid closer attention to Izuku. To an outsider the signs might not be obvious, but Tenya has known Izuku for so long, and it is obvious - his friend is starting to lag. Already he may have pushed himself past the point of being able to use Summon without losing his voice for the rest of the day, even with other Quirks working hard to mitigate the damage. If he wants to stand a good chance at passing, Izuku needs to pass soon; he needs time to rest, time to Heal himself before the second half begins.

And yes, that would mean leaving their remaining classmates behind, classmates that Izuku undoubtedly feels responsible for, but... Surely, Tenya can persuade him to entrust their remaining classmates to him. Surely Tenya can persuade Izuku that he will prioritize them over his own win.

“Izuku!” he exclaims, concerned, even as he surveys the field and sees Uraraka and Ashido high-five. "We're down to four apart from us - you need to go rest!"

"Yeah, but..." Izuku begins, and starts to cough, and Tenya wishes he had something to help. He hopes Shoto has already passed; their friend makes sure to carry a packet of lozenges in his costume.

"I will look after the rest of our class!" Tenya interrupts him. "I promise I will ensure they pass - you can trust me in this!..."

"I know Tenya," Izuku cuts him off, and manages to straighten up enough to smile at him. "...There's no one I trust more than you."

So many years have passed since they first met, but Tenya is still honoured by Izuku's friendship. Because no further words pass between them, no further words are even necessary. Instead, between one heartbeat and the next, he feels the familiar itch of Summoning settling into the back of his throat. Ignoring it he casts his mind back, remembers seeing a few examinees not too far away and takes a deep breath.

"Three, incoming!" Tenya yells, and slams a ball into a target the minute it materializes, the rest of the examinee's body still half obscured by familiar black sludge. Another examinee is still missing their legs when tape wraps around his torso, and Tenya turns to his friend just in time for Izuku to cheer and hold up his hand as his targets light up.

"Alright!" Izuku grins as they high-five, and then coughs. "Good luck, Tenya!"

Tenya just smiles at his friend. Then he tries to refrain from shuddering as he feels Engine return.

No matter how many times you experience it, feeling your exhaust pipes regrow at an unnaturally fast pace is not something you get used to.

Chapter Text

“See anything?!” Izuku croaks out as the final students to have passed file into the room. Then he winces and unwraps another lozenge, grateful Shoto had the foresight to include several packets in the supplies he keeps on his belt.

“Still nothing!” Shoto calls down from where he’s standing on the table. “Oh – I see Kaminari…”

“Alright! Way to go Bakusquad!...” they hear Ashido cheer, closely followed by...

“WE’RE NOT CALLED THAT!”

Izuku is just starting to worry, when he hears the familiar, beautiful opening lines of a lecture.

“Shoto, I insist you get off that table this instant!...”

“Yes! WE ALL PASSED!” Shoto cheers as he jumps down and grins at Tenya. Then he turns to Izuku. “See, I told you this was the quickest way to find him!”

“…Sometimes, I wonder why I put up with your childish antics,” Tenya sighs as he removes his helmet.

“Because you know that sometimes even the most serious people need to let loose,” Shoto declares with all the wisdom of his fifteen years. “And we provide you with plausible deniability – whatever mess we drag you into, you get all the enjoyment of rule-breaking coupled with the opportunity to say I told you so.”

Izuku laughs, especially at the way Tenya doesn’t protest that assessment.

“So,” his friend asks instead, “how have we fared? How many have passed?”

“I counted sixteen,” Shoto shrugs. “Didn’t see you, Sero, Aoyama or Yoarashi.”

“Aoyama was with me,” Tenya reports. “We both passed…”

“Sero’s over there,” Izuku rasps and points to where Sero and his friends are all doing some weird dance, apart from Kirishima, who… appears to be trying to get Katsuki to join in.

“Hang on… We’re missing Yoarashi of all people?” Shoto frowns. “Mister Recommended Student? How did that happen?!”

“I must admit, I am surprised too,” Tenya adds, looking around as if searching for their missing classmate. “I know running off on his own was ill-advised, but…”

“…Yeah, it’s weird,” Izuku nods. Now that he has a moment to think… Something seems off about this. Something’s not right. It makes no sense for Yoarashi to fail, out of all of them – the exam setup, the balls… Everything would play to his strengths. Even the countdown would just encourage him, what with his ridiculous enthusiasm…

And yet the only member of Class 1-A to fail is the one that should have no problems passing whatsoever.

“I’m going to ask around,” he decides as he stands up. “We should have a few minutes before the second half begins – maybe someone remembers him.”

“I shall accompany you!” Tenya volunteers. “Perhaps we should begin with Shiketsu. If they are as skilled as Chronos claimed…”

“In that case, I’m going to wish you luck and stay right here.”

Izuku and Tenya turn judgemental stares on their friend.

“What?!” Shoto shrugs. “I already pissed off one Shiketsu student today. I really don’t want to make it a habit.”

“Fine,” Izuku rolls his eyes, although he makes a note to ask about it later. “Suit yourself – hey Tenya, wait up!”

Tenya does not wait up. Thankfully, after years of friendship, Izuku is used to scurrying to catch up with his friend when he’s on a mission. So as a determined Tenya ploughs through the crowd, his sights set firmly upon the group of students with those characteristic caps, Izuku swallows the remains of his lozenge and hopes his voice doesn’t sound too raspy.

“Excuse me!” Tenya draws himself up, immune by now to the way everyone immediately turns to stare at him, both the people he is addressing and bystanders. “I apologize for the inconvenience, but we were wondering if, by any chance, you had seen one of our classmates!”

“Big guy,” Izuku adds, even as he ruthlessly tamps down on his curiosity. He really shouldn’t get distracted by Quirks when one of his classmates is missing under possibly suspicious circumstances. (Even if the hairy guy is really… Hang on a second, why is that guy wearing a black face mask?... Okay, FOCUS!)  “Wind Quirk, yells a lot about passion? Won the Sports Festival?..."

“Our apologies,” the hairy guy shakes his head, even as Izuku tries to parse what his Quirk might be. Surely all that… hair… is related… “We have not…”

“I saw him!” a female voice cheers, and suddenly there’s a girl grabbing hold of Izuku’s arm and pressing up way too close. Personal space is a wonderful concept, and Izuku almost falls over as he cringes away. “He was talking with someone when I came in! Then they left, and…” she purses her lips as she glances around. “…I just realized they’ve not come back.”

“Great,” Izuku groans, suitably distracted from fascinating Quirks. The second part of the exam is liable to begin any minute, and Yoarashi has wondered off like a five-year-old in a supermarket. “Could you show me which way he went?”

“Izuku, the exam…”

“Is about to start, I know,” Izuku sighs and winces, because his throat still aches. But he is Class President, he is responsible for taking care of his classmates, even if there is a part of him that thinks Yoarashi should really know better. Huh - maybe, once he finds Yoarashi, he should set Tenya on him. Yes, that sounds suitably responsible. “Tenya, go tell Yaoyorozu where I’ve gone; I’ll be back as soon as I can.”

“Great!” the girl gives him a sharp tug. “He’s this way!”

“Camie, make sure you’re back before the break is over!” the hairy guy calls after them.

“Yes, Izuku!” Tenya’s voice brings a smile to Izuku’s face. “Please do not be late!”

***

As the fake cityscape crumbles, Kuse takes a sip of his tea and smiles. There is something so… calming about destruction. So… gratifying. He may not revel in violence for violence’s sake, but… Seeing such mighty buildings turned to rumble, seeing homes turned into prisons… It helps remind one of the fleeting nature of life. Of how important it is to make time for the small things, how they should not be sacrificed when everything could be obliterated in an instant.

He has been in a rather reflective mood of late, he will admit. Perhaps it is nostalgia, he ponders, as he helps himself to a cookie. He deserves a reward, after all; perhaps he did not see what he was hoping for, but Izuku Midoriya is still in the running. There is still time.

He turns to check the screens displaying the anteroom just in time to catch sight of a figure slipping out of the room. The smile freezes on his face and he leans over to survey the gathered crowd, hoping to somehow figure out who is missing. It is a futile gesture, he knows, considering how many people have passed, but he barely caught a glimpse of…

…He can’t spot those characteristic green curls anywhere.

“One of the examinees is missing!” he hisses at the man next to him.

“Probably dropped out,” the official shrugs without even glancing at the screen.

“Or went to the toilet,” someone else suggests.

Dropped out?... No. No, Kuse’s every instinct is screaming at him that something is very wrong. Already he can feel dread, deep, bone-chilling heart-stopping dread the likes of which he has not felt in a long time, and he scrambles to his feet and grabs a walkie-talkie.

He is not fool enough to ignore that feeling.

“Send someone down there, now!” he snaps, grateful that he is the most senior person in the room. No matter how irrational he may seem, someone will have to go. “I want that examinee found, and…”

And then an alarm sounds, alerting them that one of the emergency exit doors has been opened, and Kuse swears.

“Get this building on lockdown, now!” he yells. “Get a team to secure that entrance, and FIND THAT KID!”

“But sir…”

“THAT’S AN ORDER!” Kuse screams, and then pulls out his phone to summon reinforcements.

They need to find Midoriya. If something happens to Izuku…

He shudders and then frowns.

Where did that thought come from?...

***

“Hey, slow down!” Izuku gasps as the Shiketsu girl – Camie, was it? – tugs him round another corner. He knows they need to find Yoarashi soon, but there is something unsettling about these corridors, something that makes him feel like a character in a horror movie.

“But we’re almost there!” she giggles without glancing back. “Just a little further, Little…”

Time seems to stand still, and the surrounding world falls away as Izuku feels his blood turn to ice. Suddenly the hand grasping his wrist doesn’t comfort him, doesn’t remind him that he’s not lost all alone in a maze. Suddenly it feels a lot more like a shackle, dragging him towards certain doom, because…

…Little what?

“…Little further!” the girl repeats and giggles.

Izuku almost snatches his hand back, almost turns to flee, because – every instinct, every nerve in his body is in agreement. He’s in danger; he needs to turn around, needs to go back to his class, find his friends, find his teachers…

…Except where’s Yoarashi? Yoarashi, who came top during the Recommendation Exam? Yoarashi, who won the Sports Festival? Yoarashi, who has a powerful Quirk on top of physical strength?

Where is Yoarashi, who would make excellent material for a nomu?

Izuku needs to play along. If this is the League, they won’t hurt him (probably). If they have Yoarashi – there’s a chance he is still unharmed. And – oh no, what if he’s not being led by a Shiketsu student named Camie? What if Yoarashi isn’t the only hostage? After all, dad is living proof that it’s possible to change your appearance using a Quirk. And - it makes sense, in the worst possible way. Target someone who no one would expect to be in danger, who likely wouldn't see them coming. Get into the Licensing Exam, right under the noses of the Hero Commision. It's a reasonable plan, which begs just one question...

...Where's Camie?

“This way!” the girl cheers and pushes a door open.

An alarm goes off, but she doesn’t seem to care as she drags Izuku out. He glances around, blinking in the sudden sunlight, almost unbearably bright after the muted lighting of the tunnels. Back in the Arena, a horn sounds, and Izuku winces. Tenya is not going to be happy with him.

Then again, Izuku doubts even Tenya could argue that he should have foreseen this.

“I’m not taking another step without seeing Yoarashi,” he declares as he wrenches his hand away. Better to make his stand here in the open, before she leads him somewhere further away from the heroes. Before she leads him somewhere there might be more villains waiting in ambush.

He wishes he could just turn and run.

“But he’s just…”

“I know you’re with the League,” Izuku interrupts her. “And I’m not dumb enough to just walk into a trap for no reason. Either you prove you’ve got Yoarashi, or I turn around.”

“Oh, well done, Little Lord!” a familiar voice exclaims, and Izuku spins around to find himself staring at the villain with the tophat he ran into at Summer Camp. Izuku shudders as he remembers the nomu, and takes a step back, even as he realizes he's cut off from the Arena.

And he has no idea how many more villains might be hiding nearby.

“Where’s Yoarashi?” Izuku demands, wincing at how his throat aches. He reaches out with his senses, trying to locate his classmate, to figure out how many villains there are…

…And then he reels back when two nomu materialize out of mid-air on either side of the villain.

“How about you two go ensure we are not disturbed, hm?” the villain chuckles. “Run along now!...”

No. Izuku can’t seem to look away from the two… abominations as the turn and amble off into the Arena. No, Yoarashi – he saw Yoarashi this morning. Yoarashi was fine a few hours ago. Surely not enough time has passed for him to be turned into, into one of those. Maybe – maybe if Izuku could bring himself to reach out, he could confirm that Whirlwind isn’t one of those Quirks in pain…

Except what if it’s already broken beyond all recognition?

Or worse – what if Izuku recognizes it?

“Where’s Yoarashi?” Izuku rasps out, even as stares in horror after the two nomu just as they turn a corner. He doesn’t think he has ever felt fear like this before; deep, chilling, soul-destroying dread.

“Now, Little Lord, you need not worry for your little friend!” the villain chuckles as he flicks something into the air and catches it theatrically. “We simply required his… assistance to make this meeting possible! If you’re a good boy and come with us – I am sure no harm need come to him!”

It’s a marble, Izuku realizes. It’s one of those marbles he found in the forest – after Tenya kicked this same villain! That was why they couldn’t find Ragdoll for hours, that’s why he couldn’t Summon her! That must be where those Nomu came from – this villain’s Quirk somehow lets him... imprison people in marbles. And, if he runs now – perhaps he could get away, but it would mean abandoning Yoarashi, when he knows Summon won’t work.

It would mean that these villains no longer have any use for Inasa Yoarashi, U.A. student.

Worse, however - they might still have a use for Whirlwind.

He can’t just leave his classmate, Izuku knows. He has no choice except to play along and hope he has a chance to escape with Yoarashi.

***

Something is wrong.

Tenya takes a moment to step away, allows other examinees to take care of the ‘wounded’ as he focuses on his breathing. Izuku is likely somewhere out there amongst the rubble, hard at work. Maybe he’s using Attraction to free the professional rescuees; maybe he’s utilizing one of his Healing Quirks. Maybe he’s using All For One to locate people.

Maybe he’s in danger.

No, Tenya’s just overthinking things, he tries to reassure himself. Just because he hasn’t seen Izuku since before the exam began doesn’t mean anything…

Except Tensei said he should trust his instincts. Tensei, who has years of experience as a hero, Tensei, who is everything Tenya wants to be.

He needs to find Izuku.

“Iida?!” he hears Uraraka call after him as he hurries away from his classmates, back towards the now-unfolded room, but doesn’t stop, doesn’t even look back. If he can just – find Izuku, make sure he’s alright, Tenya can get back to the exam. There is no real danger to these people, no need to rescue them before they succumb to injuries. They will be fine.

Tenya just needs to find Izuku, and everything will be alright.

An alarm sounds somewhere in the arena, and Tenya jolts to a stop. His breathing is so loud, he realizes as he stares at the anteroom. It’s been turned into a triage area, already occupied by some of the professional rescuees who are being cared for by some of the examinees. Perhaps – perhaps, when Izuku returned, he decided he would be best served Healing people? He was clearly tired after the first part of the exam…

Except Izuku isn’t there. No matter how hard Tenya looks, Izuku's not there amongst the examinees, and Tenya feels his anxiety reach a new level.

“What now?” one of the examinees, a young woman, asks with a groan as she looks around the field.

“Is this part of the exam?” a teenage boy asks, a note of uncertainty in his voice.

It might not be, Tenya realizes with a jolt, and he starts moving again. There is no shame in failing, his brother once assured him. All that mattered was whether he had tried his best, whether he could look back on his conduct without shame. If this is a false alarm – if this is a false alarm, there is no shame in being concerned for his friend, Tenya is certain.

If this is not a false alarm, the exam can go to hell.

He can see the exit Izuku left by, the exit he vanished into, like a dark, cavernous mouth waiting to swallow unsuspecting passers-by, and Tenya tries to calm himself. He is being ridiculous; it is simply a corridor, completely normal. They likely have identical corridors at U.A., at Idaten…

And then – then he sees a figure slowly step out from the shadows and pause in the sudden daylight, as it – because it is, unmistakeably, an it – takes in its surroundings, the people, some of them watching it in confusion, others unaware of the sudden danger. All thoughts of the exam are forgotten, as terror, sheer, indescribable terror turns his blood to ice.

Because that is, unmistakeably, a nomu.

“Oh, fuck,” Tenya breathes, because such a situation certainly calls for a certain level of vulgarity. Then he pulls himself together, and yells, “Get away – that’s not part of the exam! IT’S A VILLAIN!”

People turn to him, confused, people who don’t understand the danger they’re in, people who should be running. One of them – Tenya watches, almost as if in slow-motion, as one of the examinees takes a step closer to the creature. The nomu tilts its head, almost like Machia when presented with something new, and then it lets out a roar, grabs the unfortunate applicant and hurls them through the air.

Then chaos breaks out.

The rescuees scramble to their feet, their imaginary wounds forgotten, as they desperately flee. Some of the examinees try to help, others appear frozen in shock. A few have already run, whether from fear or to alert others Tenya cannot say. The nomu roars again and rips up a set of chairs to throw at the crowd, and Tenya… Tenya feels like he’s watching everything from far away.

There is only one reason a nomu would be here, amongst so many aspiring heroes and their teachers. Only one reason that makes sense.

Izuku.

He’s moving before he realizes, Engine roaring to life as he sprints towards the nomu, towards the exit it is guarding. People are screaming around him, the nomu is roaring – Tenya doesn’t care, isn’t about to run away when his friend is out there, in danger. People dart out of his way as he ploughs ahead; he swerves, barely avoiding a table, almost collides with an elderly gentleman. He pushes on, desperate, even as he wonders how he can get past the nomu he can now see so much clearer. He braces himself, ready and willing to tackle it if need be, desperate to get past, and then – then the monster screeches and barely dives out of the way of a blast of fire, and Tenya seizes his opening.

He runs into the corridor, ignoring the heat that makes him break out in a sweat, ignoring the scorch marks on the walls; he speeds along, the roar of Engine almost deafening in such an enclosed space, he narrowly makes a corner, his costume scraping against the wall. He wants to scream for Izuku, but at the same time doesn’t want to alert the villains. Logically, rationally, the Arena is massive, but – if he stops, he might not make it.

Another turn, more scratches; still he doesn’t slow down, doesn’t stop, because he remembers – he remembers Izuku vanishing in front of him, remembers reaching out for his friend, unable to stop it, unable to grab him in time…

A door opens in front of him, two figures rushing out, and Tenya desperately tries to brake. He crashes into the wall, skids to a stop mere inches away from the two men who must be members of staff. Tenya vaguely remembers seeing them… whenever the exam first began. They stare at him in confusion, clearly not knowing what he is doing here, and Tenya - Tenya wants to scream at them to move.

He needs to find Izuku.

“What on…” the first man exclaims.

“First left, straight, then second right!” the second interrupts him, and Tenya looks at him, confused.

“Sir?...”

“Oh, shut up,” the shorter man snarls, and then rounds on Tenya. “What are you waiting for? GO!” 

Tenya doesn’t question it, doesn’t hesitate, he just moves. He has a direction. Left, straight, second right. He can make it in time.

Izuku.

Left - he almost crashes into the wall, still pushes himself to go faster. Bruises will heal. Bones will mend. He needs to go faster. Faster. Faster.

Straight, even as he hears another, louder alarm go off. He can see the turn ahead, grits his teeth as he prepares himself for another tight turn, and then - then, daylight up ahead. An open doorway. He pushes himself, certain this is the final stretch, only a bit further...

And then Engine vanishes.

Tenya crashes through into the sunlight, momentum carrying him forward; he slams into the pavement hard, air forced out of his lungs by the force of the impact, body screaming in pain. Still he pushes himself upright, because Izuku is here. Izuku has to be here…

“Such a shame!” a familiar voice sings, and Tenya stares, aghast, as the villain from Summer Camp bows to him with a sweeping flourish of his tophat. “Just a few seconds too late! Farewell, young hero!”

And then he turns and sprints away, and Tenya can only watch him go.

He collapses to the ground and screams in agony.

Chapter Text

Izuku is gone.

Tenya stares down at his hands, numb. The world… The world continues on, the planet still spins, people go on about their business, but it all seems so… distant. So far away, so muted, so… unimportant.

Izuku is gone.

It wasn’t supposed to be like this, Tenya reflects as he watches his fingers flex. Him and Izuku – they were always meant to be there for each other. They were meant to be inseparable, to become heroes together… And more than that, they’re – they’re the good guys. Tenya should have made it in time because that – that’s what heroes do. Heroes are supposed to save people. Villains aren’t supposed to win.

Izuku is gone.

Izuku trusted him, and now he’s gone.

Someone gently shakes his shoulder and, reluctantly, Tenya looks up at the two figures standing over them. He stares at them for a moment, confused. It feels like he is battling through thick sludge as he tries to understand what it is that is wrong (apart from how Izuku should be here), and finally gathers enough awareness to ask, “…Hitoshi? What are you doing here?”

“Mic sent me over,” his friend (the one he didn’t fail) answers, and then adds, hesitantly, “…Tenya, I got here almost an hour ago.”

“They think he’s in shock,” Shoto explains quietly and presses something into his hand. “Tenya, you need to eat.”

Tenya just stares down at the protein bar. Is Izuku being fed? Is he even being provided with something to drink? His throat is likely sore after using Summon so much; he needs something to soothe it…

Mechanically, Tenya unwraps the protein bar and takes a bite.

It tastes like sawdust.

“So… They got Izuku and Yoarashi,” Shoto says as he sits down on the mattress beside him. “…Anyone else?”

“Just injuries,” Hitoshi reports as he claims the only chair. "I overheard dad in the car."

Yoarashi. Of course. Tenya can’t help his bitter laugh. And then he can’t stop, and he laughs and he laughs until the world blurs, his shoulders shake and he buries his face in his hands and he sobs. Of course Izuku would never leave Yoarashi. Of course the self-sacrificing fool would not abandon their classmate.

Of course Izuku wouldn’t run.

He feels someone – Shoto – wrap their arm around his shoulders in a feeble attempt at comfort.

“…They’ll get him back, Tenya,” his friend tries to reassure him, and Tenya laughs bitterly and shrugs himself free. He doesn’t deserve comfort, not when Izuku is out there somewhere, surrounded by villains and those awful nomu. He almost hopes Izuku is unconscious, if only so his friend doesn't have to suffer from being in close proximity to them.

“When?” he simply retorts, and suddenly – everything is just too much. All the energy is suddenly gone from his body, and he sighs as he collapses backwards onto his hospital bed, content to stare at the ceiling. He wishes he could just… fall asleep and wake up when Izuku has been rescued, but his brain won’t let him.

If only it hadn’t been Izuku. If it were anyone else, Tenya knows his friend would already be planning a rescue operation. But Tenya… Tenya is supposed to play by the rules, to be rational, and… wait. Wait for the adults to rescue Izuku, wait to hear whether his best friend is even still alive. It’s not like he’d even know how to begin planning a rescue operation, he admits bitterly. He has no clue where to look, no concrete plan – hell, he doesn’t even have a Quirk…

…Why did Izuku take Engine?

Tenya stills, almost afraid to breathe.

Izuku knew he was in danger. Izuku must have sensed Tenya coming. He would have recognized Engine, so then… Why take it? Why would that be his last act? Was it to try and save Tenya? To keep him safe? Or maybe…

Tenya forces himself to take a deep breath and closes his eyes. He focuses on his body; on how light and strange his legs feel without Engine, on how his eyes burn and his palms itch…

…On that familiar tickle at the back of his throat.

“…I’ve got Summon,” he breathes, and then bolts upright. “I’ve got Summon! Izuku gave me Summon!”

“…That’s… great, Tenya,” Shoto slowly nods. “So…”

“Don’t you see?!” Tenya jumps down from his bed. “Izuku obviously wants us to save him!”

After all, why else would his last act be leaving Summon with Tenya? If these villains incapacitate Izuku, or knock him unconscious, he would be unable to use it to get reinforcements. But, no matter whether he is conscious or not – so long as Izuku is breathing, Tenya shall be able to Summon him! Tenya scrubs at his eyes, touched, because – Izuku trusted him until the bitter end. Izuku knew that if he only left Summon with Tenya…

“…Okay, let’s pause for a second,” Hitoshi raises a hand. “I’m not very good at being a wet blanket, but since Tenya’s too busy being in shock, I guess I’ll have a go – how? I want Izuku back as much as you do, but – he could be anywhere by now! We can hardly just hitchhike round the whole of Japan, trying to Summon Izuku at random!”

“Good point,” Shoto frowns, and Tenya has just opened his mouth to chide his friends, when he adds, “We need to find out where the League is.”

“Again – how?” Hitoshi sighs. “None of the adults will tell us, after all. Maybe we could spy on them…”

“…But that would take time,” Tenya finishes for him. “Time Izuku doesn’t have.”

“Great,” Hitoshi groans. “So we’re back at square one – if only we had someone who could find out where the League is…”

“…Actually…” Shoto straightens up. “…I have an idea.”

***

“Hello?! Yes?! Yes?!”

“Kurogiri, we need your help!”

“…Shoto,” Kurogiri sighs as he stumbles back to the table and collapses into a chair. He looks up and shakes his head.

Shino switches on the kettle, and Ragdoll heads back out to call Tiger and warn him to keep distracting Machia.

“…giri? Kurogiri – KUU – ro -GII – RIIIIII…”

“What is it, Shoto?” Kurogiri sighs.

He doesn’t want to know. He doesn’t want to spend any longer on this call than is necessary, because what if the police call? What if Midoriya calls? Heavens above, he knows it’s almost impossible, but – what if Izuku calls?

He wants so badly to hear Izuku’s voice.

“We need you to find out where the League is hiding!” Shoto announces with all the determined stupidity of a teenager.

Kurogiri stares at the tabletop for a long moment, dumbfounded. Then he covers the phone receiver and looks up at his girlfriend.

“There’s a bottle of brandy hidden behind the muscovado sugar.”

“…Kurogiri, you are not getting drunk,” Shino protests, a rather strange expression on her face.

“…You can have some too?” he offers.

“No brandy.”

“…What about the sake?”

“No booze.”

“…I think I finally get what Giran meant about the old ball and chain,” Kurogiri mutters.

Shino, wonderfully supportive partner that she is, makes a rude gesture at him. Then she looks pointedly at the phone and, with a sigh, Kurogiri decides he probably needs to at least try and be responsible. Izuku…

He swallows. Izuku would want his friends safe.

“Alright, Shoto, I’ll bite – why do you want to know where the League is?” he asks.

“Cause we’re going to rescue Izuku!”

Ah, teenage stupidity. His old adversary, which he would be far better equipped to deal with if he wasn't on the verge of a nervous breakdown.

“Shoto – none of you are old enough to even drive a moped,” Kurogiri snaps, the last reserves of his patience gone. “I am not about to enable you to go and… battle it out with a gang of villains that have at their disposal an, an army of nightmarish monsters! No! Go to bed, go to sleep, let the adults handle this!...”

“But we’re not going to fight them!” Shoto exclaims. “We’ll just grab Izuku and Yoarashi and run – Tenya’s got Summon, so they wouldn’t even know we’re…”

Summon. Kurogiri freezes, because he can picture it so clearly – Izuku could be rescued in a matter of seconds, without alerting the villains. Izuku could be safely tucked up in bed in a matter of hours. They wouldn’t have to worry about him getting injured in a fight, wouldn’t have to worry about him being taken hostage, wouldn’t have to worry about him dying…

Izuku would be safe, and Kurogiri wants that so badly, but the question remains...

“…How on earth do you expect me, of all people, to find out where Izuku is?” he sighs, defeated. “I’m not a hero, I’m just…”

And then it hits him.

He’s not a hero, no.

He’s a former villain.

“I’ll call you back!” he snaps and hangs up.

“Kurogiri, what is it?” Shino asks as she sets a mug down in front of him.

“I’ve got an idea!” he explains without looking up from the phone. As he listens to it ring once, twice, he wills for it to be answered. He pleads with the universe, that – just this once – things go his way… “Giran! I need to know where the League is!”

There’s a momentary silence on the other end; then the villain swears, and asks, “…Are you fucking insane, kid?”

“I’m calling in that favour!”

“You are insane,” Giran mutters. “Kid, you know as well as I do I can’t…”

“They’ve got Izuku,” Kurogiri blurts out, and suddenly – suddenly everything is just too much, and he lets out a heartbroken sob. “They’ve got Izuku, and, and… Giran, please, I’m begging you! You know I’d never ask normally, but – name your price! This – this is Izuku! I, I watched him grow up, and – I made him breakfast this morning, and it was only tamago gohan, and – oh, god, Inko would be heartbroken if she knew!...”

And he breaks down completely at that, because Inko would be beside herself with worry. He can picture it so, so clearly, and it only makes matters worse, because... He promised himself that he would do his best for Izuku. That, after Inko's kindness, the least he could do for her was make sure her beloved son was well-cared for. And now, he failed her so spectacularly - if only he'd been there. If only he'd kept in closer contact with the underworld, rather than cutting himself off from it. If only he'd found another source with less scruples than Giran...

“Give it here,” Shino hisses, and he passes the phone over and grabs some tissues, tissues that should be used by Izuku. “Giran, right?”

Kurogiri blows his nose.

“I’m Shino Sosaki, Kurogiri’s girlfriend,” she introduces herself. “What was it you called me? The old ball and chain?”

Kurogiri takes a deep breath and tries to calm down.

“Because Kurogiri is beside himself with worry,” she sighs. “Look, I have no idea why he called you, but – if you know something, please. Villain or not – Kurogiri speaks highly of you. He respects you, and…”

“Tell him we don’t need an exact location,” Kurogiri manages, and adds, “…Tenya’s got Summon.”

“Right,” Shino nods, not even needing a second to factor in that new information. “Giran – we don’t need to know exact details, just… Give us a general area to start looking. A train station. A landmark. A random street a mile away – hell, at this point we don’t know if he’s left the city…”

Then she sighs and lowers the phone.

“He hung up.”

Kurogiri accepts the phone back, defeated. That – that was all he had to offer. All he could do. And now they’re no closer to finding Izuku, to finding Inko’s son, and – worse, the boys will expect to hear back from him. He’ll have to break the news to them somehow…

His phone buzzes, and he glances at the screen, dread already forming in his stomach, expecting a message from Shoto. Then he freezes, staring at the device in shock, and then – then he scrambles to his feet, knocking over his mug and spilling tea everywhere. He doesn’t care though, not when – when…

“Kurogiri?...”

“Giran texted me a location!” Kurogiri yells as he flings open a cupboard and grabs the first-aid kit. It’s one word – a street? A train station? He doesn’t care. It's something, and even if he ends up having to search the whole of Tokyo on foot - he'll take it over sitting in the kitchen, feeling useless.

“Great! Text the boys to meet us at the nearest station!” Shino grins as she wrestles the phone from him. “Oh – it is a station!”

“…Hang on, us?”

“We’re partners, Kurogiri,” Shino smiles. “Give and take – you save my nephew from a homicidal maniac, I help rescue your sort-of brother from a gang of insane villains.”

“…I’m not entirely sure that’s what Midoriya meant.”

“Well, think of it this way – as a hero, I have a duty to protect people. Therefore, the sooner I get Izuku back, the better,” Shino shrugs. “Less chance of Machia destroying a street in a fit of overprotectiveness, or worse – Midoriya getting loose and causing half of Tokyo to keel over from a heart-attack.”

Well, she does have a point, Kurogiri will admit. They probably were incredibly lucky no one present during the Summer Camp attack had any heart condition.

“TOMOKO!” Shino yells as she tosses his phone back. “I’m going with Kurogiri on a probably-not-quite-legal mission to rescue Izuku! Wanna come?”

“HELL YES!” Ragdoll cheers from somewhere upstairs, and Kurogiri smiles.

“…I love you so much.”

***

“…Alright,” Shoto licks his lips nervously as he stares down at his phone. “…So… We’re really doing this, huh?”

“Just so we’re all clear… We are going to be grounded for life,” Hitoshi says. “Possibly murdered. Or… We could get killed by the League.”

“We could face criminal charges,” Shoto adds, because they need to cover all eventualities. “We could get expelled.”

They sit in heavy silence for a minute. Shoto doesn't know about his friends, but he can't seem to care. Not when all he can think about is Izuku - Izuku, his first ever friend. Izuku, who helped him embrace his Quirk as his own. Izuku, who brought them all together.

“…I am still going,” Tenya is the first to speak. “Izuku would not hesitate to break every rule under the sun to rescue me. I owe it to him to reciprocate.”

“Same,” Shoto manages a weak smile. “Izuku’s my family.”

“Well, as someone who was rescued by Izuku, I can hardly stay behind,” Hitoshi snorts. “Let’s go break some laws!”

“Not so fast, kiddies!”

Chapter Text

“…Touya?” Shoto tries to smile at the couple by the door. “Hawks? What are you doing here?”

“We’re here to keep an eye on you chicks,” the hero states, levelling them all with an unimpressed look. “And by the sound of it, not a moment too soon.”

Crap. Shoto doesn’t have to look at his friends to know they’re likely panicking; he certainly is. Hawks is one thing, but Touya – Touya is a problem. Because Touya knows them, has known them all for years, and worse – he has always been able to tell when Shoto’s lying. And, considering he is almost as protective as Uncle Hisashi…

Their rescue might be over before it’s even truly begin.

“We have no idea what you’re talking about?” Tenya tries, and Shoto hears Hitoshi facepalm. Tenya is absolutely the worst liar in the history of lying. If Touya didn’t suspect something was up before, he knows now.

They are so screwed.

“Seriously, kid?” Hawks rolls his eyes. “You’re a terrible liar…”

“We keep telling him that,” Hitoshi mutters, and Shoto sighs as he sits back down.

So much for their heroic rescue. They'll have to stay here for hours, possibly for - for days, all while Izuku is somewhere out there, surrounded by villains. By nomu. Shoto clenches his fists, because - what will the League do to him? Izuku would never do anything to harm others, but if he refuses to help them - will they punish him? Will he get hurt? If they get him back...

...Will he still be the same Izuku?

“…Which one of you has Summon?” Touya asks, and Shoto snaps his head up as he feels hope spark in his chest.

“I do,” Tenya immediately volunteers.

“And Kurogiri found a lead – we’re meeting him at the station!” Shoto immediately seizes his chance. Touya might be overprotective, but – blood or not, Izuku is family. Surely, if he can just persuade his brother that they won’t get hurt, he’ll let them go. Surely Touya loves Izuku enough to take this chance. “We’ll grab Izuku and Yoarashi as soon as they’re in range, and get out before the villains even notice us! We won’t fight, we won’t even use our Quirks…”

“…Apart from Summon,” Tenya, boy scout that he is, admits.

“Please, Touya,” Shoto begs. “We’ll be back as soon as we can!...”

“You kids seriously think we’re about to let you run off to challenge these villains?” Hawks scoffs. “Hate to break it to you, but they won’t let you take your friends without a fight. And – you don’t even have your licenses yet!...”

“I’m coming with you.”

“Exactly, To – wait, WHAT?!” Hawks spins to face his boyfriend. “Touya – I know I’m new to this, but – even I know you’re not supposed to encourage teenage stupidity!”

“I’m sorry, Keigo,” Touya smiles softly, and Shoto almost wonders whether he should give them a moment. (He doesn’t, though, because if they want privacy, the corridor is right there.) “But – I have to try. Izuku – Izuku is family.”

“You’ll be fired the minute anyone finds out,” Hawks points out. “You’re a police officer – Touya, you love your job…”

“I know, Keigo,” Touya shrugs and then presses a kiss to Hawks’ cheek. “And I’m sorry to put you in this position, but – you know me. I need to do this. And besides – even if we try to stop the boys, they’ll find a way to sneak out. At least this way, I can keep an eye on them.”

“Fuck,” Hawks groans. “You know – I’ve figured out why you’re so cute. It’s to trick people so they don’t realize just how troublesome and – insane you and your family are!...”

“To be fair, that’s mostly Uncle Hisashi,” Shoto feels the need to defend his family. After all, they’re just a little… weird. Most of the insanity is because of their relationship with the Midoriyas. “Everyone else is just sort of… insane by osmosis.”

“Don’t interrupt me, baby Shoto!” Hawks huffs. “And now you’re running off to take on villains, and expect me to just… stand back and let you and not do anything. Well, guess what? That’s not gonna happen!”

And with that the hero turns and storms out of the room. Touya’s face falls, and Shoto clenches his teeth as he hurries up to hug his brother. If Hawks is going to be a jerk, if he’s going to end things with Touya, he could at least have the decency to wait until Izuku has been rescued. But perhaps this is for the best; if Hawks can’t be relied upon during a crisis, better for Touya to learn now, so he can move on and find someone who actually deserves him…

“Well?!” Hawks pokes his head back in the room. “You idiots coming?”

“Keigo, what…”

“If you’re so insistent on committing suicide, I have a duty to tag along and ensure you don’t succeed!” the hero shrugs. “Fortunately for you lot, I have got a license.

***

“I still don’t trust that Midoriya bastard!” Torino grumbles. “How do we know he didn’t have anything to do with this?!”

There’s a crash as Tenko stands up, knocking over his chair, and storms out of the room. All Might winces, but doesn’t bother going after his son.

Because he can understand Tenko's reaction; he's seen how his son has grown since beginning work at U.A., seen how Tenko seems to have found something to lighten his spirits. Because All Might or not, Toshinori is no fool - he knows how difficult rescue work is, knows it has perhaps the highest turnover of all branches of heroism. And although initially Tenko joined U.A.'s staff to keep an eye on Izuku Midoriya, Toshinori can't even care about the lad when Tenko has found something that makes him truly happy.

Only now - now, Izuku Midoriya has been kidnapped, right from under Tenko's nose. All Might doesn't think he'll ever be able to forget the anguish on Tenko's face when he was informed. Because, All For One or not... Midoriya was Tenko's student, and no matter how many people he saved in that arena - he failed on of the kids he was meant to protect.

All Might pokes his head out of the room his group claimed and glances up and down the corridor, meaning to check up on his son. Only - the conference room door is open, and sitting there, next to the eldest Iida son, is Hisashi Midoriya. Toshinori's heart twists painfully in his chest as he steps out into the corridor, and stares at the two. Perhaps, if things had gone differently, he would be more willing to believe Torino's conspiracies. Perhaps, if not for one rash, spur-of-the-moment decision, he could buy into the belief that Hisashi Midoriya kidnapped his own son and is just playing them all.

But in this moment - the Symbol of Peace doesn't matter. One For All doesn't matter, because Toshinori Yagi is a father. And true, Toshinori Yagi is likely one of the most incompetent fathers in existence, but... He loves Tenko with his own being. There have been moments, over the years, when he came close to losing his son, and he can remember the fear all to well, remember the realization that if he failed this one boy, none of his other rescues would matter.

And Midoriya right now - he reminds Toshinori so much of that same man from so long ago, alone and almost broken by grief. And it just magnifies the tragedy more, because - Izuku Midoriya is not only a beloved son. He is also his mother's son, the reason Midoriya found to carry on, the focus that helped him push through his grief. Izuku Midoriya is proof that Inko Midoriya lived, is in some sense proof that she is still alive.

And Toshinori can understand that all too well, because - Tenko, his smile, his snark... They're proof that Nana was once alive.

And thinking of Nana does something to him, because for just a moment, as he stares at the distraught (broken) figure of Hisashi Midoriya... He sees her. He sees Nana, sitting there, holding the man's hand, and then she looks up and they make eye contact.

And then Toshinori blinks and she's gone, but now - now, he knows what he must do.

He knows what Nana would want him to do.

“Hey, Toshi… Toshinori! No, get back here!”

All Might ignores his mentor. Instead, mind made up, he strides down the corridor and into the meeting room. Then he takes a deep breath and slips into a seat opposite the two men.

“We’ll get him back!” he assures Midoriya. He almost treats him to his trademark smile, but at the last minute stops himself. If Tenko got kidnapped and someone treated him to a cheesy grin, he’d Texas Smash their face. “You have my word – as soon as we hear anything, I’ll be there!”

Midoriya looks up at him, a shocked expression on his face; then he lets out a slightly hysterical laugh and buries his face in his hands.

“I’m sorry!” All Might flounders a bit. “Can I get you something?...”

“Another cup of tea?” Iida suggests, lifting his empty mug. And that is when All Might notices something strange.

“…Why are you two handcuffed together?”

“Yes, Tensei,” Midoriya straightens up and wipes at his eyes. “Why don’t you tell the nice man why I am handcuffed to you?”

“Hey!” Iida huffs and tries to fold his arms, only for Midoriya to give a small tug on the chain, almost pulling him out of his wheelchair. “I told you, it was all Nedzu’s idea!”

https://imgur.com/FcgGwuC

Chapter Text

“…Let me get this straight,” Hawks slowly follows his boyfriend off the train. He was annoyed when they first boarded, since public transport takes so much longer than – you know – simply flying, but now he wishes the journey had been longer. Preferably by about twenty-four hours. He needs more time to process what he’s just been told. “…Your baby cousin is related to the All For One.”

“Yes,” Touya smiles as he takes his hand. “It’s so much easier since you heard of him. Natsuo just couldn’t wrap his head around it when Uncle Hisashi first explained!”

“…Right,” Hawks slowly nods as he tries to imagine the kind family that he met hearing about the terrifying All For One. It was... oh my gosh, they probably heard about it in the same apartment he ate dinner in. “…Back to our… mission, though – said baby cousin took someone’s Quirk before he got nabbed by villains. And now we’re going to get him back by walking around and wishing him and the other kid to you.”

“We explained all that on the train,” Purple Fuzz states, apparently unimpressed. Then he spots something, and Hawks watches as he hurries over to a nearby vending machine.

Hawks resists the temptation to stick his tongue out. After all – he’s just had a terrible shock! Touya’s uncle was terrifying enough when Hawks thought he was simply a regular office guy! Now – now, he’s learnt that the guy is son of one of the most terrifying villains ever, and likely has an arsenal of Quirks at his disposal! And - oh goodness, he probably is actually capable of skinning Hawks alive!

In short – Hawks is never meeting Hisashi Midoriya without Touya to hide behind.

“Oh, hey – Kurogiri! We’re here!” baby Shoto exclaims as they step out onto the street.

“Shoto, Tenya, Hitoshi,” a weird guy whose entire face is obscured by creepy mist appears out of thin air, holding what looks like a first aid kit in his hands. Hawks mentally ups the weirdness factor up another notch. Which is - impressive. How is it possible to top 'My uncle's dad was All For One' and why is Hawks ever so slightly impressed?! “…Touya? What are you doing here?”

Alright, so weird creepy fog guy isn’t a villain. Or if he is, he is disturbingly familiar with Hawks’ boyfriend and Hawks can look forward to an even longer lecture when the Commission inevitably hears about this whole… spectacle. He wonders idly whether they know about Midoriya's connection to All For One and then decides they probably don't. If they did, they'd be a lot more supportive of Hawks' relationship.

“I overheard the plan and tagged along,” Touya explains with a shrug. “Hawks, this is Kurogiri, Uncle Hisashi’s… I’m still not sure what, exactly. Kurogiri, I’m sorry, but Hawks insisted on coming…”

“Well, I’m hardly one to talk,” the creepy guy sighs.

Hawks opens his mouth to ask what he means, when Glasses exclaims, “Mandalay! Ragdoll!”

And sure enough, there are two women hurrying up to them, and Hawks feels his jaw drop as he recognizes them. Because, apparently, he needn’t have worried about Touya and the brats getting done for illegal Quirk usage. After all, he is staring at two professional heroes.

“…Holy fuck, Touya,” he chokes out as half of the Wild, Wild Pussycats greet the boys. The weirdness meter is officially broken. “Your family’s insane.”

“Oh, I know,” Touya smiles as he presses a kiss to his cheek. “Right, everyone, let’s go!”

***

Izuku is not ashamed to admit that his first thought, upon being… released from the marble and seeing the crowd of villains, is Crap.

His second is that he could really use something for his throat.

It’s strange the way the mind works, because it… calms him. Because it reminds him of Shoto, who made sure to include a pack of lozenges in his medical supplies; of Tenya, who would undoubtedly hurry off to the nearest vending machine to get him a drink, of Hitoshi, who would take over speaking for him so he could just sign and let his voice rest.

His friends know he’s missing. His friends, who have undoubtedly already raised the alarm and possibly are already on their way to rescue him and Yoarashi. (Hopefully with a few heroes in tow. Izuku loves his friends dearly, but… They’re all still teenagers. He’d like their odds a lot better if they had a few people like… Gang Orca. Or Best Jeanist. Hopefully not dad though, because Izuku wants to hug him as soon as he’s safe, and that would be very awkward if dad got locked up in Tartarus. Does Tartarus even have visitation?!)

But until help arrives, Izuku needs to play for time. If he can - he needs to try and get information from these people, to learn how they connected him to All For One, to find out how they're created these nomu...

And, most importantly - he needs to keep Yoarashi safe.

“Where’s Yoarashi?!” he demands, clenching his fists. Surely his classmate is alright; surely not enough time has passed since the exam for anything to happen to him. Surely - surely these villains know that the easiest way to keep Izuku in line is to have a hostage.

"Oh, don't worry about him, Little Lord!" the villain with the tophat chuckles. "He is in safe hands! Welcome!..."

And Izuku has had it. He has not been sleeping well; he is tired. His throat hurts. He’ll have to wait months before he can take the Licensing Exam again. He doesn’t know if his friends got hurt or are even safe, he’s been kidnapped and his father could very well get put away for murder if the heroes don’t find the League first. And he’s also hungry. And worried Yoarashi might get turned into a nomu.

In short - Izuku is pissed.

“I don’t care,” he snarls, putting as much malice into his voice as he can manage. Something in the air shifts, but he doesn't pay it any attention as he focuses on the villain in front of him. “Where is Yoarashi?!”

The whole warehouse is suddenly silent. Confused, Izuku blinks and shakes his head and, glancing around, realizes all of the villains are just... staring at him, wide-eyed. Izuku glances over his shoulder, half-expecting to find his dad there, but - no, it's just... Him. He looks back to where Tophat shrinks back violently and hastily pulls something out of his pocket and flicks it through the air.

And then - then, Izuku almost collapses from sheer relief when Yoarashi appears before him, seemingly unharmed.

“Midoriya!” the teen exclaims as he stumbles over to him, wide-eyed. “What happened?! Where’s Yukiyama?!”

“Hopefully back at the arena,” Izuku tries to smile, even as his heart twists painfully. Because – what if these villains grabbed more people? What if… No, he needs to stay calm for Yoarashi. “We – sort of got kidnapped by villains.”

“What?! Why?!”

“An excellent question!” Tophat seems to have recovered. “Welcome, Little Lord! We are the League of Villains, and we are dedicated to carrying out the will of our Lord!...”

“All For One, I know,” Izuku interrupts him and valiantly resists the temptation to point out that carrying out his dad’s will, right now, would probably mean giving his son enough money for the train home and walking him to the nearest station. “…What exactly does that mean, though?”

“Ah! So the traitor finally revealed to you…”

Nope, Izuku is not dealing with this. He knows from experience what it can be like when certain people with a flair for dramatics start getting carried away (*cough* Present Mic *cough*), and he isn't in the mood to entertain the weird ramblings of confused villains. He highly doubts they'll be more informative now than at Camp.

“Actually, my dad,” Izuku emphasizes the word. “Told me about All For One – the man I mean, not the Quirk – years ago.”  

…Technically more like a year and a bit, but – details. Izuku is not exactly planning to build a deep, meaningful relationship with any of these people that actually requires any level of honesty. After all, if he was to be honest with them, he'd prefer to start off with the detail that All For One is still alive.

Closely followed by, 'And he's already pretty mad at you for trying to kill him - how pissed do you think he is now?'

“But… But… You didn’t say anything!” Tophat exclaims, too stunned to bother with his usual theatrics. “Back at the Camp…”

“I never met you people before and you were attacking me and my friends!” Izuku facepalms. Dear heavens, is this the standard for villains nowadays?... Great, now he’s starting to sound a bit like dad. All he needs now is to start drawing up study plans and reports. “You had a terrifying Quirk monster, I didn’t even know it at the time but you had just tried to kill my dad, and – my only previous contact with you lot was when you assaulted Hitoshi!...”

“I didn’t assault!...”

“You used your Quirk on him!” Izuku turns and snaps in the direction of the voice. “He was beside himself when I saw him – it took us two cups of cocoa to calm him down! Just because you didn’t physically attack him doesn’t make it okay!” Then he spins back to glare at the guy with the tophat. “So excuse me for not trusting you people with my deepest darkest secret!”

And then he finishes off his tirade by doubling over as his throat decides that it really does not appreciate him using it so much.

“Uhm… Midoriya? I hate to bother you, but… Who is All For One?”

“Stupid villain,” Izuku manages to wheeze in response. He knows this isn't technically dad's fault, but - being angry is much preferable to being scared, especially when dad is such a safe target. “Very dead and very annoying. His Quirk let him take other people’s Quirks, only – surprise!” he coughs, and wishes Tenya was on hand with a bottle of something. Then he almost giggles, because Tenya would absolutely let these villains have it for interrupting an official examination and abducting minors on a school night. “I’ve got the same Quirk. Yay. End of story.”

“…I feel like you’re leaving some stuff out.”

“Look, we’re surrounded by like a hundred villains,” Izuku points out as he ruthlessly squashes his guilt. Even if he dragged Yoarashi into this mess, he’s not about to tell him the full truth. Not when his closest friends don’t know the whole story and they’re surrounded by so many villains who really don’t need the encouragement of knowing their precious Lord is still technically alive. Even if said Lord is not likely to come out of retirement anytime soon. “I can hardly…”

“You insolent BOY!” a crackly voice screams, almost causing Izuku to jump. “How DARE you speak of our Lord so dismissively. The greatest mind to have ever lived, to see beyond the constraints of society, to envision a greater future for us all, to see the POTENTIAL in my work! If you were anyone but out Lord’s chosen successor, I would kill you for your insolence!...”

Izuku wonders how this person, whoever they are, would react if he told them about that time dad almost walked off a cliff because he was distracted by some new Quirk research. He gallantly resists the temptation; instead he moves closer to Yoarashi, an unpleasant knot forming in his stomach.

It's so easy to forget the influence and power All For One possessed. And Izuku - he isn't sure he'll ever fully understand it, be able to grasp the awe that just the spectre of All For One seems to inspire in these people, the fear others still feel at the mention of his name. To Izuku it's all just... Part of his dad. And it's not a part that really mattered all that much, except to explain some of the weird things dad would say or do. It was something Izuku could mock and gripe about, and dad never seemed to mind, except suddenly - suddenly, Izuku is out of his depth, in some strange parallel universe where All For One is a mythical, godlike figure to be revered.

It's... honestly, it's almost as scary as those nomu.

“But we can soon get to work on your manners,” the disembodied voice chuckles. “Our lord was always so… organized. I am certain he left a way to ensure you could be brought back in line…”

Izuku feels a chill run down his spine.

Next to him, Yoarashi coughs.

Chapter Text

“…This has got to be the weirdest rescue I have ever heard of,” Hawks remarks as he collects his drink from the vending machine.

“I guess,” Mandalay shrugs and then takes a swig of her water. “Honestly, you hang around the Midoriyas long enough, you get used to the insanity.”

“And – how exactly did you meet them?” Hawks asks, curious. It’s only now starting to sink in just how… strange Touya’s family really is. Really, baby Shoto's words all those months ago finally make sense.

“Oh, Kurogiri’s my boyfriend,” the female hero smiles as she nods towards Weird Creepy Fog Guy, and Hawks is almost... surprised, because that is a very normal answer. Huh, maybe they fell in love when Midoriya junior accidentally kicked off the apocalypse. “He’s… Well, he’s either Midoriya’s butler, indentured servant or adoptive son. It’s been over ten years and I still don’t know which.”

Ragdoll starts humming ‘Here comes the bride’ and Mandalay flushes and turns to her teammate.

Hawks, meanwhile, looks back towards his own boyfriend. Touya is chatting with Kurogiri (seriously, who named him?!) as they watch the three boys. And, taking advantage of not being the centre of attention, Hawks does a bit of soul searching.

When he first met Touya, he had no way of knowing how many secrets were hidden behind that winning smile. Now, just a few months later, it is starting to sink in that if he stays with Touya, this insanity will become part of his life. Even if he retires (however unlikely that is with the Commission breathing down his neck), even if he is forced to give up being a hero because of injuries… He will always be dragged into weird shit like this. After all, Touya would never give up his family, not for anyone. And... Hawks would never ask that of him, not really.

But Hawks knows what the Commission would want him to do, knows what is expected of the Number 2... But as he watches Touya offer baby Shoto a hug, he knows he won't break up with him.

Touya is son to a disgraced hero, adoptive nephew to someone whose father was a deadly villain. His family, no matter how kind, are disturbingly... used to this insanity. And yet - Hawks is more in love than ever. Touya is a worrywart with no sense of self-preservation, but he's also smart, compassionate and hardworking. He doesn't really care about Hawks, but... He loves Keigo.

And - Hawks doesn't know if anyone has ever loved Keigo before. Because Hawks is a figure, a puppet controlled in all ways by a bunch of men and women in suits that believe they know best how to protect the public. Hawks saves people, Hawks risks his life and keeps up his nonchalant attitude, and at the end of the day, Keigo curls up in his bed, bruised and battered.

This is the one way Hawks will always defy the Commission, the one thing that can belong to Keigo.

As long as Touya will have him, he'll stay.

"I've got them!" Four-Eyes suddenly yells, and Hawks almost drops his bottle as two masses of black goo appear on either side of him, and - congeal into two teenage boys. And - no one seems shocked! Instead, Touya hurries to support the larger boy as he staggers and looks around, and Fuzzy and baby Shoto latch onto Izuku. And then Four-Eyes passes him a bottle of something.

This is such a weird rescue, Hawks almost wonders whether Touya actually knocked him out and he's just dreaming, stuffed in a hospital cupboard.

...No, he doesn't have a good enough imagination to come up with this shit.

"We need to move!" Mandalay immediately takes charge. "The League are somewhere nearby, and they won't be happy! Ragdoll, Kurogiri - if they attack, help me evacuate civilians! Boys - feel free to use your Quirks! Hawks, you're our eye in the sky. Touya..."

"I've just reported a villain attack here," Hawks' partner announces as he taps something on his phone. "More heroes should already be on their way."

"...Isn't that false reporting?"

There's a terrifying shriek from somewhere nearby.

"It won't be by the time they get here," Hawks remarks as he tosses his boyfriend his drink. "Love you, babe!"

"I love you too, birdbrain," Touya smiles.

And then Hawks spreads his wings and he's off.

Even the serious situation cannot dull the familiar exhilaration of flying; of rising above the hustle of the streets, of looking back down and seeing people hurrying about far below. But that enjoyment quickly turns to alarm as he spots, illuminated somewhat by the city lights below, other winged shadows coming closer.

"Inco!..." he screams, and then something slams into his and he has to focus on staying airborne.

***

It's loud; people screaming, running, crashes. Izuku tries desperately to stay on his feet, but truthfully all that is keeping him upright is the death grip Tenya has on his arm as he drags him along. He's tired, hungry; his head is pounding, and then Tenya comes to an abrupt stop and practically shoves Izuku aside, into Hitoshi's arms.

Bewildered, head spinning, Izuku looks up just in time for a nomu to let out a loud roar and charge.

It doesn't get far, though, because a blast of blue flames shoots towards it, scorching the asphalt beneath its feet and causing it to dive sideways.

And just like that, all the noise, the chaos - it's gone, far away, like someone dunked Izuku's head underwater. All he can focus on is blue flames.

Blue.

Touya.

He spins around, almost overbalancing, and - there Touya is, a single human figure lit up by his own flames. It is the most terrifying sight Izuku could imagine, because there are so many nomu, and Touya - Touya's body will never be able to handle the stress of using his Quirk for long. Faintly, Izuku can hear Shoto, screaming for his brother to run, to let the heroes handle it, but... That's not Touya.

They need backup.

They need medical help.

They need it now.

And so Izuku grits his teeth, pushes past his exhaustion, focuses on a familiar Quirk...

And he Summons someone that can help.

***

"Oh, come on!” Tensei yells as the handcuffs dangle freely from his wrist. “Seriously, Izuku?!”

“What is it, Iida?” All Might asks as he pokes his head into the room. He frowns. “…Where did Midoriya go?”

***

Hisashi's first thought, upon materializing, is to search for his son. He doesn't know where he is, frankly he doesn't care; if he's surrounded by villains, he'll just have to start blasting. But when he zeroes in on Izuku, he finds him unconscious, yes, but held up by Hitoshi and Tenya, both pale and trembling.

"Thank heavens," he murmurs as he smiles at them, once again reminded how fortunate Izuku got. Because - his friends refused to sit around and wait. They came out to find him, to save him. (Hisashi is going to have to call his lawyers as soon as everyone is safe.) There's a crash somewhere nearby, and Hisashi realizes the villains must have already caught up to them. He swallows back a curse; he'll need to make sure the boys get out safely, so tracking down and eviscerating the League will likely have to wait. "Get out of here, and..."

And then he turns and is faced with a nightmareish scene.

It isn't the nomu or villains that give him pause; he's seen - hell, he's been the cause of scenes like this in his past. It's not the broken windows, the few heroes trying to evacuate civilians or slow down the villains (seriously, why aren't there more?). Instead, Hisashi's eyes are drawn to one familiar figure, outlined by blue flames; and as he watches, Touya bends over (have his lungs already started to struggle? Is he short of breath?). But then he seems to force himself upright again, flings flames at a nomu trying to get past him, towards the boys (his aim is getting sloppy - how long has he been doing this?).

"Get Izuku out of here NOW!" Hisashi yells at the boys as he focuses in on the creature that has turned to screech at his nephew; he raises his arm and blasts it with Air Cannon, causing it to go flying and crash into a shopfront.

(Oops. Insurance will pay for that. Probably.)

Hisashi looks back only once, to confirm the boys are moving, and smiles grimly when he sees them vanish into a Warp Gate, all except for Shoto who is struggling against Yoarashi, trying to run back to his brother. It's only a few seconds, maybe even just one, but - Hisashi will regret it forever.

Because when he turns back, he watches Touya raise his hand, clearly intending to blast something in the sky, only - his flames sputter, seem to struggle for a minute, and then - then Touya's sleeve catches, and there are flames everywhere.

No.

Hisashi's moving before he can process, before he can understand, flying down the street, feet and heart pounding almost in tandem. He can feel the heat even at a distance but still forces himself onwards, even as his mind blanks. He doesn't know what to do, can't seem to think of a plan - all he can focus on, all he can think, is Touya, Touya, Touya.

A blast of water knocks Touya over, but seems to smother the flames; someone tries to grab Hisashi, but he doesn't even bother looking who, he just tosses them aside like a ragdoll. Hero or villain doesn't matter in this moment; anyone that tries keeping him from Touya's side is an enemy.

"Touya!" he shouts even as he throws himself to the ground, flounders for a split second; Touya's Quirk has caused him physical damage before, but never to this extent. Hisashi - he's always been able to fix him before...

...And he will this time, he promises himself, promises Rei, as he summons up his numerous Healing Quirk. Focus on that, focus on Quirks; don't think about how he can't even risk slipping his nephew a Regeneration Quirk in case it puts too much strain on his body. "Touya, look at me! Talk to me! Come on!..."

"...dad?..." a weak voice whimpers, and Hisashi seizes on that, focuses on it, because there's hope. "...Zuku..."

"Izuku got away fine!" Hisashi reassures Touya even as he forces himself to take his hand. No matter the damage - most of his Quirks require at least some skin-to-skin contact. "Just keep talking to me Touya! Hang in there!..."

"...Kei?..."

"As soon as he lands, he'll be with you!" Hisashi promises. "Come on, Touya - look at me, just... Keep looking at me..."

Chapter Text

He failed.

Hawks buries his face in his hands and chokes back a sob. Some hero he is; all that training, all that experience, and he couldn't even protect his own boyfriend. And now - now, Touya is somewhere through those doors, alone, possibly fighting for his life…

"Hawks!..." a familiar voice exclaims, and Hawks stiffens.

He doesn't want to look up, doesn't want to face her, but he needs to take responsibility for this mess. After all - when the Commission learns of his actions, they'll be furious. They'll want a scapegoat, and - Touya is just a random policeman (whom they probably already hate, because Hawks spent several months almost obnoxiously in love). The Pussycats are relatively minor heroes, the kids are just a bunch of students - so many people that the Commission can easily blame for this.

If he makes it clear to the Commission that he'll take the rap, at least he'll protect the people Touya loves.

Mind made up, he forces his head up. Auntie Rei has arrived, looking like she just rolled out of bed, and - it's like a punch to the gut, because he remembers how she welcomed him into her home, how she smiled and laughed, and... She trusted him. She trusted him with her son, trusted that he would keep Touya safe...

And Hawks failed her.

"I'm so sorry!..." he gasps out.

"Oh, no - no... Keigo, it's not your fault!" Auntie Rei sits down next to him and pulls him into a hug, and Hawks doesn't have the strength to pull away, instead clinging to her like a little kid as he sobs. "Touya - I may not know the details, but - Touya knew the risks..."

"He'll pull through," Natsuo states with all the conviction of someone desperate to deny reality. "Uncle Hisashi likes him too much to let him die."

"...Uncle Hisashi liked Auntie Inko, too," Fuyumi points out quietly.

Natsuo pinches her.

"Touya's a fighter," Auntie Rei declares with finality. "He - he won't just go quietly..."

"Yeah," Hawks sniffs. "He wouldn't want to miss baby Shoto's graduation..."

Thinking about it - it helps him calm down. Because, no matter how silly it seems, Touya would never simply die. That might mean missing Natsuo's graduation, Shoto's first ever fan meet. It might make his sister sad, might make his mother cry. Touya...

Hawks' breath hitches.

Touya loves his family more than anything.

His phone vibrates, and reluctantly Hawks frees himself from Auntie Rei's embrace. He checks the screen and groans.

The Hero Commission.

"...I'm really sorry," he apologizes as he stands up. He hisses as his muscles protest, and then wishes he'd gotten injured more seriously. Maybe then he'd have an excuse to stay; maybe then he'd get to be there if - when! - Touya wakes up. The Commission will likely tear into him, and - Hawks just doesn't have the strength to take the inevitable tongue-lashing, at least tonight. But they're the Commission; they own him. "...I have to go."

"Absolutely not."

Hawks almost collapses back into his seat. He looks up, wide-eyed, to find Hisashi Midoriya standing in the doorway, malice oozing out of every pore, so thick Hawks can almost taste it. He shivers and inches a little closer to Auntie Rei, suddenly remembering Touya's almost casual explanation of this man's relation to All For One.

In this moment, Hawks can see it all too clearly.

"Hisashi!" Auntie Rei straightens up, seemingly unaffected by whatever the fuck is going on with Midoriya. "Is Izuku..."

"Quirk exhaustion," Midoriya manages a weak smile. "I let Shoto stay with him to keep vigil. Room 114."

"I'll check on him, mum," Fuyumi volunteers.

"And you," Midoriya rounds on Hawks, and the hero whimpers and shrinks back. "You are going to stay in that chair until Touya tells you you can leave. Am I clear?"

"...Yes, sir," Hawks nods. His phone rings again and he groans. "But..."

"If you leave, you'll always regret it," the man interrupts him, a strange expression on his face. "Trust me, I... I know. I'll deal with those bastards at the Commission."

And with that, he turns and sweeps out of the room, and Hawks could almost swear he hears boss music playing.

"Oh dear," Natsuo mutters. "Uncle Hisashi is pissed."

***

Pathetic, incompetent fools.

Now that Izuku is safe, now that Touya is no longer on the brink of death - all Hisashi can feel is fury. There is a familiar part of him that even now wishes he had left Touya, wishes he had just run towards the League, made them all suffer for all they have done...

(“…dad…”)

But no, he couldn't, he reminds himself, because that would have meant leaving Touya to, quite possibly, die. That would mean abandoning someone he cares about, doing something that Hisashi Midoriya would never do. Only now - now, the League will have moved. Found a new base of operations, found somewhere to hide, like the pathetic, snivelling cowards that they are. No matter, though; Hisashi will find them. Hisashi will hunt them down, make sure they know he is coming for them, so they spend their final days cowering in fear, flinching at every sound as they try and outrun their inevitable fate...

But before that happens, he needs to calm down. Destress. Destroy the pathetic Hero Commission, who through their incompetence allowed Izuku to be taken. Who are responsible for Touya getting hurt. Because of whose ineptitude Hisashi was forced to look into Touya's eyes, knowing he might not be able to save him too...

“Hisashi!”

Hisashi ignores the voice. It does not matter; the world does not matter. All that matters is going downstairs, finding someone that he can kill and maim and rend from limb to limb...

“Dammit, Hisashi!” that same voice yells, and Hisashi almost falls over as something slams into the back of his legs. Snarling, he spins round, and…

“Oh good,” Tensei snaps. “Now that I’ve got your attention, Hisashi – you need to calm the fuck down.”

“Calm down– calm DOWN?!” Hisashi explodes. “Izuku – Izuku was kidnapped from under the Commission’s nose. Touya could die, and you want me to CALM DOWN?!”

“Yes!” Tensei snarls back. “You’ve got every right to be pissed, but – for fuck’s sake, Hisashi, you can’t afford to get arrested now!”

“And why the hell not?!” Hisashi glares at him. “Because I need to do the right thing?! Because I need to trust heroes?! Or maybe, because each and every last one of you is so incompetent that you need me to come bail you out because you have no fucking clue how to do your jobs?!”

“Because you’re Touya’s best chance at survival and you know it!” Tensei throws up his hands. “You want to go off on a rampage next week, be my guest, but – you need to stay in this hospital till he’s out of the woods! If Touya starts crashing – you can do something. But you need to get your head out of your ass and CALM DOWN!”

Touya.

All the strength suddenly seems to drain from Hisashi and he slumps against the wall.

(“…dad…”)

Touya. Touya is in critical condition, and all because he simply wanted to protect his family. Because he was willing to risk overusing his Quirk if it meant saving Izuku. But, when you think about it - Touya would never be in this state if Hisashi had not looked at a little boy with dyed hair and thought he would make a good friend for Izuku.

Touya could die, and it would all be Hisashi's fault.

"...He called me dad," he chokes out past a lump in his throat. Touya called him dad, reached out to him for comfort, but - it was Hisashi's fault he was in that state to begin with. Hisashi, even for just a second, considered leaving him there on the ground so he could sate his desire for revenge.

"Because you're a bloody good father," Tensei rolls over to pat him on the back. "Or at least Hisashi Midoriya is, but - you need to stay Hisashi Midoriya."

Hisashi takes a deep breath and closes his eyes.

Hisashi Midoriya, All For One. Once upon a time, he thought of them as simply two names for the same man, two names amongst the dozens he has owned over the years. If he was pressed, though, he would have said that, at his core, he is All For One. After all, Hisashi Midoriya was simply a name he made up on the spot, for an identity that was as meaningless as any of the other faces he wore over the years, but...

But that's not true anymore, is it?

Because Hisashi Midoriya was the man Inko loved until the very end. Hisashi Midoriya dedicated his life to raising his son, receiving all the hugs, the kisses, the cards and love. It was Hisashi Midoriya who made the correct choice, who decided that family - not just Izuku, he now realizes, but also Rei, and Touya, and Tensei and Kurogiri and so many others - was far more important than some ridiculous feud.

All For One - All For One is just a bitter, lonely old man, and Hisashi - Hisashi never wants to return to that.

Deep breath in. Deep breath out. Eviscerating several people in a hospital reception room is the sort of action that would undoubtedly attract attention from someone.

"Alright," he straightens up and tugs his suit jacket into place. He nods in thanks to Tensei. "Come down with me?"

"Sure," Tensei treats him to a grim smile. "Can't let you get caught on security cameras. Besides, I want to let Tenya stew for a bit before the inevitable lecture."

"How did you get here, anyway?" Hisashi asks as he presses the button for the lift.

"Kurogiri," Tensei shrugs. "I'll need to ask him to grab Principal Nedzu for me."

"...Why?"

"Because he's got the keys to these stupid cuffs.

Hisashi can’t help himself; he laughs. It’s just… So wonderful to hear something so… predictable. Because Touya’s in the ICU, Izuku is still unconscious, but at least – at least Tensei is still his usual, predictable, idiotic self. As they head down, he focuses on his breathing. He can be calm; he can remain Hisashi Midoriya, can chase off these bastards without resorting to anything especially suspicious. After all, for whatever reason - Hawks is whom Touya chose, and so Hawks will be there when Touya wakes up…

Then, with a quiet chime, the lift doors open, and Hisashi feels his eye twitch as he spots a familiar figure surrounded by numerous lackeys, looking around with a bored expression as he waits for his little pet hero to abandon Hisashi's nephew.

That simply won't do.

"Oh, shit," Tensei mutters. "They sent in the big guns; that's the fucking secretary. Now, Hisashi, remember..."

"Secretary Kuse!" Hisashi beams his most terrifying smile as he strides forth into battle. He hears Tensei let out some horrified noise behind him but doesn't turn around, his attention firmly fixed on the pathetic little worms from the Hero Commission. "How excellent of you to come!"

"Sir," Arata Kuse waves off the man that moved to intercept him. How good; Hisashi would hate to have to delay his fun for a little longer. "It's alright... I'm afraid you have me at a disadvantage, mister..."

"Hisashi Midoriya!" Hisashi treats him to a smile that has him flinching as he grabs the official's hand and shakes it. He rather enjoys the wince the man can't hide at the bruising grip. "I'm Izuku's father, and - well, I wish I could talk further, but I really must get back to my beloved son's bedside."

It is immensely satisfying to watch the colour slowly drain from Kuse's face. There are a few seconds when he wonders whether all those buried memories coming back into focus might result in a heart attack; then he dismisses the thought.

They're in a hospital, after all. There should be a defibrillator somewhere nearby.

“But I am sure you can call me tomorrow afternoon, after I’ve gotten some sleep," Hisashi continues and gives their joined hands a quick shake to underscore his command. "And at least with Hawks just down the corridor, you won’t have to worry about us being attacked again.”

“Yes, of course!” Kuse squeaks. “We’ll just – go. Now. Immediately!”

“But sir,” some random bodyguard speaks up. “The president said we were to fetch Hawks…”

“Oh, but that would be so cruel,” Hisashi purrs. “After all – my nephew is in critical condition, and he and Hawks are so in love. Touya would be so disappointed if his boyfriend wasn’t…”

“Yes, quite right!” Kuse hastily nods. “I’m sure reports can wait. Now let’s not – bother Lo… Midoriya anymore…”

And with that he turns tail and flees.

“Well, that was out of character,” Tensei frowns. Then something occurs to him and he slowly looks up with the most disapproving expression on his face Hisashi has ever seen. “Hisashi… Did you do something I wouldn’t approve of to the secretary of the Hero Commission?!”

Hisashi just treats his best friend to a winning smile.

“Not recently, no.”

Chapter Text

It’s dark.

Izuku looks around the dark void he’s floating in. He feels strange, unsure which way is up, surrounded by… is that humming? He searches for the source, confused, and then spots a sliver of light, and suddenly – suddenly he’s standing at the end of a hallway, the light peeking from around a half-open door.

Curious, Izuku starts walking. He wonders whether he should be afraid; is this the light at the end of the tunnel? Is he dead? And yet, as the humming grows steadily louder, he feel… Safe. Drawn to it. If this is what dying feels like - it's not so bad.

He pushes the door open.

Oh, he sighs to himself. It’s all just a dream.

He’s standing on the threshold of a familiar bedroom, its walls painted a soothing green. There’s a dresser to the right of the door; if he looked to his left, he’d undoubtedly see toys scattered over the floor. And opposite him, sitting on the floor, propped up against the frame of a toddler-sized bed…

…Is mum.

Izuku is all too familiar with these kinds of dreams. He knows how it plays out; knows that no matter how fast he runs, no matter how much he cries – she will never turn around, will always remain just out of reach. So he leans against the doorway, content to just watch. He watches her finish humming what he now recognizes as a half-forgotten lullaby, watches her take a deep breath. Watches her as she looks up and says,

“Well, Izuku – let me see how much you’ve grown!”

And suddenly, Izuku can’t hold back his tears.

“…So… how is this even possible?” Izuku asks some time later.

He’s not entirely sure how he ended up in this position, but when he calmed down he was sitting pressed up against mum, leaning against her shoulder, his hand grasped tightly in her lap. It’s all very uncomfortable, but he doesn’t want to move.

Mum smells like peonies and cookies and that one brand of fabric softener that Kurogiri has been known to spend literal hours searching for. It’s the nicest, most comforting smell Izuku can imagine.

“I’m not sure,” mum hums and presses a kiss to his head, and reluctantly Izuku drags himself away enough to see her face. “…It seems to be – some part of me stayed with Attraction. Hisashi would probably be able to explain it…”

Of course, the Quirk! Perhaps this is why Quirks feel so… strange; they are influenced by the personality of their user! In which case… when removed, they perhaps still retain some of that person’s traits. Perhaps even consciousness! Why has Izuku never experienced an interaction with a… ‘Quirk ghost’ before? Could it be that because he and his mum are genetically related, it made things easier for her? Or perhaps - his Quirk came from combining those of his parents, so perhaps some strange amplification occurred, so that...

“…Izuku, do you and your papa talk about Quirks?”

“Huh?” Izuku snaps out of his musings and smiles at his mum. “Oh – yeah, we do! How did you know?”

“You have that same manic gleam in your eyes Hisashi would get whenever he saw an interesting Quirk,” mum sighs. “I suppose it’s good you have common interests.”

“Oh,” Izuku flushes, embarrassed. “…Sorry.”

“Izuku, it’s alright,” mum kisses him. “I’m glad you have something you enjoy, just… Hisashi had a rather unfortunate habit of babbling about Quirks when he was anxious.”

“Really?” Izuku smiles. This is – nice, hearing about a different side of his dad that he never witnessed.

“Oh yes,” mum takes a deep breath and shakes her head. “The longest he ever babbled at me was thirteen hours.”

“…Why would he… babble… for thirteen hours?” Izuku frowns, confused.

“I was giving birth.”

For a moment, Izuku stares at his mother. Then he snickers.

“Let me get this straight,” he grins. “My dad, a not-yet retired villain, was so panicked when you went into labour that he lectured you about Quirks for thirteen hours.”

“Oh yes,” mum laughs. “I kicked him out a few times. Once when he was in the middle of a sentence.”

“And?...”

“When he came back in, he started right where he left off.”

Izuku gives in and laughs. Mum seems to try and hold it together for a few more minutes; then she lets out a loud snort and soon they’re both positively cackling at the image of All For One, fearsome villain, terrified of labour.

“…Dad is such a dork,” Izuku chuckles once they’ve both calmed down.

“So he told you, then?...” mum asks as she runs her fingers through his hair.

“What, that he’s a first generation Quirk user? Centuries old villain that is ‘dead’? Has more Quirks than a small town?” Izuku rolls his eyes. “It came up, yes. But he’s also promised to stay happily retired so long as I keep giving him hugs.”

“…See, this is why it never occurred to me that he was a villain,” mum sighs. “He’s too much of a softie to be terrifying.”

Izuku is so telling dad she said that.

“…What did you think?” he asks with a frown. “I mean… dad told me he retired because you asked him to, but…”

“…I’m not sure,” mum groans. “I’d never heard about this… All-For-One. I thought he was just… Doing Quirk analysis for villains, or maybe… I don’t know, some fraud? I certainly never thought I’d accidentally married a supervillain! I mean – I first met him when he got punched in the face by a mugger! What sort of a supervillain gets beaten up by a petty criminal?”

“Dad would probably say he was stunned because of your beauty,” Izuku sighs. Then he admits quietly, “…He still loves you, you know. Still misses you. Whenever anyone asks, he always tells them he’s happily married.”

“Honestly, Hisashi…” mum shakes her head fondly. “I’ll bet he also leaves out the fact that I’ve been dead for…” mum trails off. “How long have I been dead for? How old are you now?”

“Sixteen.”

“Sixteen?!” mum gasps. “And… Izuku, are you… how are…”

For a moment Izuku hesitates, uncertain, but then… he remembers a small sheet of paper, tucked safely into a photo album. Remembers careful letters smudged by long-dried tears. Remembers words that he read, over and over again, until he could recite them from memory alone.

And he knows what he needs to say.

“…I don’t know if I smile every day,” he begins hesitantly. “But… I think I’m happy. I mean, Machia’s kind of a walking disaster, but… Kurogiri’s been taking good care of me. He’s also been… He’s well, and he’s got a girlfriend whom he loves and who’s really nice, and…

“And I’ve got the best friends in the world,” he smiles. “You’d love Tenya – all the adults love Tenya, he’s such a goody two-shoes…”

“Izuku!” mum exclaims, and he rolls his eyes.

“He knows we call him that, mum, but – we know he nags us because he cares,” Izuku shrugs. “He always carries an extra pencil case in case we forget ours. If we need help – he draws up a study plan and rewrites his notes into a format that we understand better. He nags and he can be annoying, but – every day I’m reminded how lucky I was to meet him.

“Then there’s Shoto – he was a huge All Might fan, too, so any time I got some new merch, he was the first person I’d tell. And – for the longest time, he wanted to be called Penguin when he became a hero. He was obsessed with those birds – any time we went to the zoo, it was always: Are there penguins here? Can we see the penguins first? We never did, but – that was mostly cause we wanted to let him watch the feeding. That was the first thing Tenya did whenever we were going to a zoo - look up what time the feeding was!

“And of course… Hitoshi,” Izuku chuckles. “I sort of… dad says kidnapped, I say liberated him when I first met him. He… He helped us all learn sign language, which is kind of cool and useful and also hilarious. And he’s a really good singer, so if we do karaoke he always wins… But he picks the obscurest songs he can, and makes up the most ridiculous dances to go along. It’s hilarious, especially if he uses his Quirk to get us to be backup dancers. But – if we want to sit it out, we just need to tell him, and – he lets us film it so we can all laugh about it later.”

“They sound… wonderful, Izuku,” mum sniffs. “Be sure to give them all a hug from me!”

“Will do,” Izuku chuckles. He hesitates, but… he’s not done, not yet, and so he soldiers on. “…And you know, I… I have the most amazing mum,” he looks down at his hands. “…She died when I was really little, so I… I don’t actually remember her. But… she gave me this incredible Quirk, and – I know it’s not powerful, or flashy, but to me – to me, it’s the best Quirk in the world. Cause – any time I’m scared, or sad, or anything at all – I can feel it. And – it means that my mum’s there. It means my mum has always been there for me, every minute of every hour of every day…”

“Oh, Izuku,” mum chokes out as she pulls him into a hug. “Thank you.”

Thank you for saving me, Izuku.

“…You’re welcome, mum,” Izuku smiles through his own tears.

He doesn’t know how long they sit there, but finally mum takes a deep breath.

“…It’s almost time for you to wake up, Izuku, but before then… I’ve got something important to tell you,” she gently pushes him away. “I love you, Izuku. I love you so much.”

“I know, mum,” Izuku smiles and kisses her on the cheek. “I love you too.”

“Just – remember to brush your teeth before bed!”

“…Yes, mum.”

“And don’t eat too much junk food! And – on windy days, don’t forget your scarf!...”

“Mum!”

“What? I’ve got to fit a lifetime of nagging into two minutes!” mum laughs and then hugs him again. “I love you, Izuku. I love, love, LOVE you so much.”

It’s almost physically painful to get up after that, but somehow Izuku manages it. Manages to drag himself first one step forward, then another, not daring to look back. He doesn’t want to cry (again) in front of mum…

“…Izuku, could… Could you pass on a message for me?” mum asks hesitantly when he’s almost at the door. He glances over his shoulder and finds she has tears streaming down he face as she stares at him, almost like she’s drinking in the sight of him. “Tell – tell you father thank you, for – for giving me this. It’s… It’s more than I could ever dream of.”

***

Hisashi isn't sure what alerts him to Izuku stirring. Perhaps it is his fatherly instincts; perhaps it is because he has been watching his son so closely that he notices some tiny indication that his son is waking up, something so tiny he doesn't eve register it.

"Izuku?!" he exclaims, leaning over and grabbing his son's hand. "Izuku - you're safe, it's papa! Can - can you hear me?!"

Izuku's hand grasps his own, and then - then, Izuku turns his head.

“…Dad,” his son smiles through his tears. “…Mum’s really pretty.”

Chapter Text

Tenya is sitting in his room, trying (and failing) to read, when his phone rings.

He may not be particularly proud of his actions, but he tosses his book aside and practically lunges for his mobile, narrowly avoiding a collision with his bedside table; as is, he sends several items crashing to the floor, although he wastes no time on identifying them.

He almost panics when he hears Kurogiri’s voice, terrified that something went horribly wrong and Uncle Hisashi is inconsolable with grief. Then, however, he hears the news and scrambles to his feet.

Izuku is awake.

Even though there is nothing Tenya wants more than to tear across town, he takes a minute after hanging up to take a deep breath. He glances around his room, more untidy than it has been in years (since he may or may not have begun and then abandoned several tasks in his attempts to keep himself distracted) and then grabs his schoolbag and empties it onto his bed.

Izuku may have to spend a few more days in hospital, in which case Kurogiri will undoubtedly bring him a change of clothes, but – perhaps Izuku would appreciate something to read. And – what if he misses the beginning of term and needs schoolbooks?! And – will it occur to Kurogiri to bring Izuku supplies for his Quirk notes…

Does Izuku have his phone charger?!

Several minutes of frantic packing later, laden down with a bag that should hopefully keep Izuku entertained for a few days, Tenya almost tumbles down the stairs.

“Izuku is awake!” he calls out, for once uncaring about behaving appropriately for a son of the Iida family. “I’m going to the hospital!”

“Tenya…” his mother begins hesitantly as she emerges from the kitchen. Technically speaking, after all, Tenya has been grounded, and whilst he agrees in principal that he most certainly deserves punishment, he is also willing to disobey his parents in this.

“I’ll drive him,” his father declares.

Tenya doesn’t think he’s ever loved the man more.

Unfortunately, the silent car ride proves Tenya with far too much time to ruminate on his fears. What if Izuku’s more injured than they first realized? He was missing for some time, and – those villains clearly possess few morals, to be able to create these nomu. What is they used Izuku in some of their experiments? What if he’s traumatized?! What if he’s lost all his memories?! What if he…

“Tenya, we’re here.”

Tenya startles. He fumbles with his seatbelt, and then takes a deep breath.

“Tenya?...” his father speaks just as he's about to open the door. “…Your brother would have done the same.”

It’s the closest his parents will come to approving his actions, and Tenya manages a weak smile before getting out.

The reception is relatively empty, with no sign of anyone he recognizes. It's a matter of minutes to check in, and as Tenya heads towards the lifts, he tries to ignore the unpleasant sense of  déjà vu. But he can't quite forget it, not when the smell is the same, not when all the corridors look so eerily familiar, not when he finds himself standing in front of room 114 with that awful feeling of dread in his stomach.

Izuku is on the other side of that door. Whatever state he’s in, once Tenya opens that door, there will be no turning back, no way to pretend that this is all a nightmare. And - Tenya remembers seeing Tensei lying in his bed, hooked up to machines, remembers that awful realization that nothing will be the same. He doesn't know what he'll do if Izuku is in a similar state.

But Tenya made a promise to himself all those years ago, and he takes a deep breath as he reminds himself of that. If Izuku is hurt, Tenya will visit him every day. Tenya will keep him up to date on what they cover in class. He will bring him books, and keep his spirits up, and try to make up for his failure.

Tenya takes a deep breath and opens the door.

“Finally!” Hitoshi groans. “I swear, it took you forever to get here!”

“Izuku’s got something to tell us, but he insisted on waiting for you,” Shoto adds.

Tenya doesn't really pay them any attention. Instead, he finds himself staring at the only bed, because - there are no noisy machines, no wires, nothing. There is only Izuku, sitting up on the mattress, dressed in a set of pyjamas. And - and he's smiling that same smile he has always smiled, the one Tenya always took for granted, and it is just so wonderful that Tenya drops his bag, takess a few steps forward and hugs him tight, because...

Izuku is back.

“Hey, Tenya,” he feels Izuku pat him on the back, and just hugs him tighter, because - it's strange how much he has missed his friend's voice, when it's barely been a few days. “…It’s good to see you too.”

“So what’s the news?” Hitoshi asks. “We’re all here, so…”

“Oh,” Izuku sniffs. “…I talked to my mum.”

Tenya’s heart practically stops in his chest.

“Apparently, Quirks sort of… keep some of the consciousness of their… user, even after being removed,” Izuku explains after he has finally reassured them sufficiently that no, he did not have a near-death experience, his Quirk is just even stranger than they previously believed. “Even after the person born with them dies. Dad says sometimes… the people whose Quirks he took appear in his dreams. It just… since I never experienced it, he never mentioned it.”

“Your Quirk is officially super creepy,” Hitoshi declares. “And I say that as the guy who can turn people into zombies.”

“What was she like?” Shoto asks. “Your mum, I mean?”

Izuku frowns. “…She cried a lot.”

“Your mum? Never.”

“Shut up, Hitoshi,” Tenya says without any bite, even as he examines his friend. He tries to imagine what Izuku is feeling now. Sad? Happy? Loved? Lonely? Confused? “Izuku… Are you alright?”

“…I dunno,” Izuku admits quietly and swipes at his eyes. “I just… She said she loved me, and... Now I just... I can't remember... Is it weird I'm getting chocked up?..."

“Of course not!” Tenya rushes to reassure his friend. “It is completely understandable!”

“…Please tell me you didn’t tell her you just got kidnapped by a bunch of insane villains.”

“I’m not a complete moron, Shoto,” Izuku snorts and then smiles softly. "No, I... I told her about you guys, and... I think she was really relieved, and grateful, and... She said... She wanted me to give you all a hug from her."

“We are the ones that are grateful,” Tenya smiles. “After all, if not for her, we would never have…”

“Group hug!” Shoto grins. “Come on, Auntie Inko’s orders!”

Really, Tenya sighs as he promptly finds himself squashed between his friends, sometimes he despairs over the company he keeps. But he can't help the small smile that tugs on his lips, because - there is nothing for Auntie Inko to be grateful for. They are friends. They have always been there for each other. They always will be there for each other.

It's as simple as that.

“…Oh, and Tenya?” Izuku smiles once they finally separate. “Thanks. I… I know you’ve probably been beating yourself up, but… From the moment I felt Engine, I knew you’d find a way to rescue us. You’re… dependable like that. You’ve always had my back.”

Tenya manages a nod, even as he takes a deep breath, because - they've known each other for so long, of course Izuku would understand his guilt. Of course he would know just the words to soothe him...

“Even if we’re clearly a terrible influence. After all – proposing a rescue without adult supervision?! Honestly, Tenya – is this your rebellious teenage phase? Are you going to dye your hair next?...”

Tenya feels absolutely no guilt about grabbing a pillow and smacking his laughing friend with it.

***

“…Hisashi, please tell me you’re not sulking.”

Hisashi doesn’t even look in the direction of his supposed best friend; instead he raises his chin up, crosses his arms, and declares in a frigid tone, “I do not sulk.”

“…Uh huh,” Tensei agrees as he rolls up to him. “Sure you don’t. And of course it has nothing to do with Izuku chatting to his mum in some weird… Quirk dimension.”

Hisashi turns to glare at the former hero. Then he sighs.

“I’m not… I’m not angry,” he admits softly. But whilst he is most certainly not angry with his son or wife – he isn’t entirely sure what he does feel. “Or… No, I am a bit jealous. But – I understand why Inko would want to talk to him, I just…”

“…You just miss your wife and wish you could see her again,” Tensei finishes for him. “I get it.”

“No, it’s not just that,” Hisashi swallows. “It’s… I… I had Attraction for years, and yet I never… She never…”

“…She never spoke to you,” Tensei finishes, and Hisashi nods. He feels like a terrible father, to be so hurt when this whole situation has clearly meant so much to Izuku, made him so happy, but – he can’t seem to rid himself of this disappointment. Because – he told himself, over the years, that Inko hadn’t been strong enough to speak with him, that maybe she was at peace. He missed her terribly, wished he could see her one more time…

And now, when he realizes that maybe, just maybe he could have, he can’t help but wonder – was it his fault? Was it something he did? Was he perhaps a bad husband, did she perhaps not love him as much as he adored her…

“…Perhaps she was being selfish.”

Tensei and Hisashi turn to stare at Kurogiri.

“I don’t mean anything negative,” the man sighs. “But… Inko always had more faith in you than you yourself did, sir. Perhaps this… Perhaps, this wasn’t simply to reassure Izuku, but… Perhaps it gave her an excuse to reassure herself. To confirm that she made the right decision, and – to meet the young man he has become.”

“…That tracks,” Tensei nods. “If it were me… I mean, I’m not a parent, but – I’d want to see Tenya all grown up.”

“I suppose so,” Hisashi sighs. “…It doesn’t make it hurt less.”

“…I know, sir.”

Hisashi smiles over at Kurogiri, because – here is someone else who understands. No matter how hard Tensei tries, he can never fully grasp the sense of loss their family experienced, will never know what it would mean to see Inko smile one more time. To make sure he really hasn’t forgotten the sound of her voice, the sparkle in her eye…

…Wonderful, he’s getting emotional. Again.

“Right,” Hisashi clears his throat as he adjusts his cuffs. “We had best get going; I want to be back before they serve dinner. Kurogiri?...”

“Yes, sir,” the man nods as he opens a Warp Gate.

“You know,” Tensei frowns as he follows him through, glancing around the familiar space of the Midoriya's living room. “I still need an explanation about what you did to – holy fuck that’s disturbing.”

“It’s not exactly pleasant to experience,” Hisashi hisses as his facial features slowly shift. He tries to ignore the feeling of bones reforming, and once it’s done shakes his head and sits down on the living room sofa. “It’s been a while – I forgot how it makes my jaw ache.”

“Well, guess this explains why All Might never recognized you,” Tensei grins like a child presented with a new toy, and Hisashi can't stop from sighing. “So, like – which identity is this? Anyone I’ve heard of?”

Oh, what a wonderful question. Hisashi can't help the small twinge of amusement he feels as he runs a hand through his hair.

“This is the face of Hisashi Shigaraki,” he answers, and almost cackles when Tensei's face drops.

“Never heard of him.”

“Yes, I suppose you would know him better by a different moniker,” Hisashi smirks. “He was more commonly known as All For One.”

Tensei's face lights up, and really, Hisashi is only human. He can't help how gratifying it is.

“Holy crap, you mean I’m face to face with the All For One?!” Tensei laughs, delighted. “Hey, can I take a selfie?”

“No.”

“But – I came face to face with All For One and survived! That’s an achievement right there!”

“And what if Nedzu looks through your phone?”

“Huh, good point,” Tensei frowns. “I didn’t think of that…”

“You don’t think of a lot of things,” Hisashi mutters, and tries to ignore how fond it sounds. “Are you sure you don’t want to…”

“Hey, I may not like the Hero Commission, but I can hardly let you kill the secretary!” Tensei snorts. “And if you changed your features… Hisashi, please tell me it’s not in case of witnesses!”

This is why U.A. should really spend more time teaching psychology, Hisashi reflects. Because even its graduates seem to labour under the misapprehension that murder and mayhem are both the main actions and objectives of villains. There is no nuance, no appreciation for the subtle actions that are key to a well-executed plan, no acknowledgement for the weeks and months that can be spent perfecting a scheme...

And besides, murder is a rather final action. If Hisashi killed every single person that had ever displeased him, he would very quickly run out of minions.

“Tensei, I’m not going to kill him,” Hisashi sighs. “He’s no use to me dead.”

“…See, it’s saying stuff like that that scares people.”

“Retired villain, remember?”

“…Sir?” Kurogiri reappears and sets a tray with a plate of cookies, two mugs and the sugar bowl down on the coffee table. “Would you like me to…”

“Yes,” Hisashi takes a deep breath and helps himself to a cookie. “Let’s get this over with.”

Perhaps, in hindsight, Hisashi should have anticipated Arata Kuse's actions. But, well - he is perhaps a bit... out of touch. After all, most of his friends are not aware of the fear he could once inspire, and of those that are... Well, honestly, Hisashi doubts Kurogiri is even capable of fearing him anymore. But, all things considered, it is not surprising that the minute he is through the Warp Gate, the secretary immediately throws himself to the floor and proceeds with the grovelling.

Hisashi sips his coffee and mentally counts down in his head.

"Do stand up," he sighs after approximately thirty seconds of listening to the man's incomprehensible sobs. Perhaps once he would have enjoyed the fear in Kuse's eyes, the knowledge that he holds the man's life in his hands. Now all he can think about is whether Izuku has somehow accidentally blown up the hospital in the time he was left unsupervised. “I really do not have time to waste on your pitiful pleas. Do you want tea or coffee?”

“…My lord, are you offering me a drink?” Kuse asks as he mercifully straightens up (Hisashi’s socks were beginning to get slightly damp), although he remains kneeling on the floor.

That cannot be comfortable.

“Yes, and before you ask – no, it won’t be poisoned,” Hisashi shrugs and then sighs as he glances over at his supposed best friend. “…Yes, Tensei?”

“So, for those of us in the back, why is the secretary of the Hero Commission grovelling in front of you, why are you wearing your All For One face, and…” Tensei trails off. Then he turns ghostly pale and drops his mug. “The fucking secretary was one of your minions?”

“Is,” Kuse corrects him with a glare, clearly momentarily forgetting his fear in favour of being outraged at the suggestion he might no longer be devoted to All For One. Which probably shouldn't be as gratifying as it is, but it has already been established that Hisashi has never been a particularly good person. “I am forever dedicated to the service of…”

“Yes, yes, I remember,” Hisashi interrupts him as Kurogiri reappears with two new mugs. He knows from experience how lengthy some of his followers could once get with their speeches about undying loyalty and all that. “Although back when I retired, he was just a middle manager in the licensing department. Congratulations on your promotion, Kuse, very impressive for a brat from rural Hokkaido.”

“Thank you, my lord!” the man beams as he accepts his drink

“Now I suppose I should introduce you two – Tensei, meet Arata Kuse, codename Paperclip. Kuse, Paperclip, whatever the hell name you want to go by – this is Tensei Iida, also known as Ingenium. My best friend.”

“My lord…” Kuse chokes on air. “You have a friend?!”

“…I am getting a very strange sense of déjà vu,” Hisashi remarks with a fond smile. “But yes, I am indeed capable of making friends. Also – could you please call me something other than lord? It’s giving me League of Idiots flashbacks. And I wouldn’t put it past Nedzu to bug my house.”

“This is your house?” Paperclip gasps and looks around, wide-eyed. Then he freezes. “…My lo – sir, you don’t mean…”

“Oh yes,” Hisashi smiles. “Principal Nedzu is my friend, too!”

Kuse promptly drops his mug.

“…Maybe you should sit on the sofa,” Hisashi remarks as he watches the man desperately try to mop up the tea he spilt. “Kurogiri!...”

“No more tea until I can be certain it won’t go everywhere!”

“You!...” Kuse scrambles to his feet. “Do not presume to speak to our – sir that way!...”

...Oh dear, Hisashi has just remembered something.

“I’ve mopped up enough of his messes over the years, I’ll speak to him however I want!...”

“…I feel like I’m missing something here,” Tensei hums. “Hisashi? Explanation?”

“Kurogiri was… relatively new, when I retired,” Hisashi sighs. “Honestly, he only made it to the inner circle because of his Quirk.”

“…But… why’d you keep him after retiring?” Tensei asks. “I mean, Machia I sort of get – he’s a lot cheaper than an army…”

“…Plus, if he believed I’d died, he was liable to destroy a prefecture in his grief…”

“…But why keep Kurogiri?”

“Inko liked me!” a familiar voice calls out.

“She would have liked me too if she met me!” Kuse yells back. “I had seniority!”

And there it is, that same argument from years ago - because back when he was still All For One, Kuse got absolutely outraged when he learnt Kurogiri, of all people, was the only minion to meet Inko and Izuku. Never mind it was a complete accident; Hisashi was too distracted by his son, and by the time he remembered the Warp user... Well, Inko had imprinted on him. Hisashi was not foolish enough to try and keep Kurogiri away when his marriage was on the line.

Although it would be rather amusing to watch Kuse and Kurogiri really get into it, because Kurogiri is no longer the terrified teenager Kuse remembers.

But of course that will have to wait for another time.

“Could we perhaps reschedule your petty squabbles?” Hisashi asks. “Perhaps for when my beloved son is not in hospital.”

“Of course, sir!”

“Wonderful,” Hisashi smiles as Kuse takes a seat. “Now, I summoned you here today because I have a very important question to ask: How was the League able to abduct Izuku from under your very nose?!”

“Sir, I believe Tensei is about to have a heart attack.”

“Oh, honestly, Tensei,” Hisashi groans as he wrestles down his bloodlust. He picks up the plate of cookies and shoves it under his friend’s nose; he read somewhere that sugar could help with shock. “You’re very… soft for a hero.”

“Soft?!” Tensei actually whimpers. “All Might himself would keel over from your Stupid Aura of Death!”

“Izuku has never had any issues with it,” Hisashi points out. (After all, Izuku is still a teenager. Tensei's a hero. Aren't heroes supposed to be prepared to face terrifying villains?) Then he winces as he remember something. “…Apart from when he was a toddler.”

“Okay, first – Izuku probably built up a resistance to it in the womb, and second – Why did you blast your toddler with your Stupid Aura of Death?!”

“None of your business,” Hisashi mutters. Then he turns his attention back on his… Huh. He really needs to figure out what exactly Kuse’s role is now, since he's not coming out of retirement. Ally? YEs, ally sounds appropriately not-evil. “…Well, Kuse? I am still waiting for an explanation…”

“I swear I had no idea about the attack!” Kuse immediately answers, and proceeds with the excuses. “If I had – I would have taken more precautions! Unfortunately I did not remember the immense importance of keeping your son safe, but – I would never endanger my position at the Commission! After all, if someone learned that I knew of a villain attack, I would be immediately arrested! I had no idea the attack was coming, or I would have increased security! As it was, the minute I knew something was wrong, I sounded the alarm and took steps to remedy it; it is not my fault that the Iida brat…”

“Hey, that’s my baby brother you’re talking about!”

Hisashi smiles charmingly at Kuse and the man shrinks back with a whimper.

"I feel I should probably inform you, at this point, that Tenya Iida has been a wonderful friend to Izuku for many years," he leans forward just a little, and Kuse lets out a strangled noise. "In fact, he is almost as dear to me as my own son. But I suppose we should get back to your explanation - I believe you were saying something about sounding the alarm..."

“Yes!” Kuse frantically nods. “I was fortunate enough to come across the younger Iida and of course, since he shows such great promise, gave him directions to where I believed the breech had occurred! And I was right to do so, because he was only a few seconds too late!...”

“Better,” Hisashi beams and takes a sip of his tea.

“This is so weird,” Tensei mutters as he glances between them. Then he frowns as something occurs to him. “Hey, Hisashi – would any other of your minions know about Izuku?”

“I made sure to rewrite their memories before retirement,” Hisashi points out. “But yes, I may have mentioned Izuku and Inko once or twice…”

Kuse shifts anxiously, and Tensei groans as he rubs at his forehead.

“…You made them look at baby pictures, didn’t you?” the former hero sighs.

Chapter Text

HEARTS BREAK AS HAWKS REVEALS REASON FOR RECENT ABSENCE

As many readers will have noticed, a familiar winged figure has been conspicuously absent from the skies above Fukuoka this past week. There has been much speculation about the reason why Hawks, our proud defender, has not been seen in public, but in an exclusive interview, the Winged Hero revealed to us that no-one came close to guessing the truth.

“The thing is, my boyfriend was recently hospitalized,” Hawks told us when we sat down recently. “There are so many capable heroes, but – there’s just one of me. And right now, he needs me to step up as his partner, so I have decided to take some time off. I’d probably not be able to focus anyway, since I’d be worrying about him all the time. Although I’ll probably be back on patrol sooner than later; between you and me – I think he’s getting sick of seeing me every day. Or being cooped up in hospital all the time. Probably a bit of both.”

Yes, you read that correctly – Fukuoka’s favourite hero is no longer single! And the identity of this mysterious boyfriend?

“I think I’d rather keep him to myself just a little longer,” Hawks laughed. “All I will say is he looks absolutely dashing in his police uniform, and is one of the most selfless people I know.”

Of course, Hawks' secrecy is understandable; with recent events one cannot help but wonder whether his partner's hospitalization is in some way connected to his work as a hero. Whether it is or not, I am certain we all wish the mystery boyfriend a speedy recovery!

"You and me both," Hawks answered. "Could I speak to my fans directly?"

But of course!

"I'd just like to say - my boyfriend has always been incredibly supportive of my work as a hero. I've had to bail on him dozens of times, but - he never gets mad. In fact, if my phone goes off - he's the first one to tell me to leave. He covers the cheque if need be, and then when we meet up again he's got the first aid kit ready and waiting. So I hope everyone understands why I've decided to take some time off. It's my turn to take care of him. I promise that as soon as he's out of the woods, I'll get right back to work!"

Perhaps a message for the mysterious boyfriend?

“That’s a great idea – he always reads my interviews!” Hawks beams. “I guess – it’s probably best to keep it simple, so – I love you babe! I don’t mind the entire country knowing that!”

When asked for a comment about Hawks’ absence, a spokesperson for the Hero Public Safety Commission said: “We are all sympathetic to the recent difficulties in Hawks’ personal life and wish his boyfriend a speedy recovery. We look forward to when the Winged Hero can return to our skies.”

When asked for a comment on Hawks’ relationship, his close friend and colleague the Rabbit Hero: Mirko said: “Oh my god, don’t remind me, Hawks spent months pining after Officer (name redacted at the request of Hawks’ manager). It’s almost disgustingly cute how in love he is with that guy.”

“Isn’t that sweet?” mum asks as she looks up from the magazine. “I think I’ll buy myself a copy and cut this interview out…”

Touya groans and wishes he could suffocate himself.

“Oh, come on, Touya,” Natsuo snickers. “Aren’t you happy to have such a dedicated partner?”

“Yes,” Shoto adds with the biggest grin ever. “Hawks is so in love. Isn’t it wonderful your boyfriend loves you so much?”

“I can and will incinerate you both,” Touya promises his siblings with a glare. “Don’t think that just because I’m stuck in bed I won’t.”

“I would prefer you didn’t,” a familiar voice states, and Touya freezes as Uncle Hisashi steps into the room. “Good morning, all.”

Then Touya spots a familiar magazine under his arm and groans.

“I don’t know what you’re complaining about,” the man remarks as he holds it out, and Touya is treated to a picture of his beaming boyfriend plastered on the front cover. “After an interview like this, if the Commission tries forcing Hawks back to work early they’ll risk a huge public backlash. Especially if he gets hurt because he’s distracted.”

“You totally told him to get hurt if he has to go back on patrol, didn’t you,” Touya sighs. He doesn’t even need an answer to the question, because that is such a… Uncle Hisashi move.

“I’m trying to ensure you make as swift a recovery as possible, Touya,” the man shrugs. “There have been many studies showing that friends and family are immensely beneficial to the healing process. Besides, if you want him back on patrol, you need only say so.”

Touya can’t help but smile, because, no matter how annoying Keigo is, it’s still… sweet of him to come sit with Touya every day, even if they’re rapidly running out of things to watch. And – if Hawks goes back to work, it means he’ll be back in Fukuoka. And, however embarrassing it might be to admit it, when visiting hours are over and Touya is left all alone in his room, there is some comfort in being able to pick up his phone and stay in contact with his five favourite people, all gathered under the same roof. He likes imagining he's there with them as they roll out the futons and bicker over the bathroom; likes falling asleep to the sound of Natsuo's familiar snores, Keigo's mumbling and mum's muffled footsteps as she makes sure everyone tucked in.

“…I think I’ll wait a bit longer,” he shrugs. Soon enough, after all, Keigo will be back on patrol. Surely it's not completely unforgivable if he just... Enjoys being the focus of Hawks' attention.

Right on time, the door opens, and a familiar voice cheers, “Hey, babe!”

Then Hawks recognizes Uncle Hisashi and turns pale.

“Hawks!” mum beams at him as the hero edges around Uncle Hisashi, clearly unwilling to even take his eyes off him for a second. Which is kind of ridiculous, cause Uncle Hisashi probably has a speed Quirk. Or five. Touya's pretty sure even the Winged Hero wouldn't stand a chance in such close proximity. “We were just reading your interview!”

“Oh – hello, Auntie Rei,” Keigo manages a weak smile. “Natsuo, baby Shoto…”

“Yes, your adorable interview,” Natsuo nods.

“Yes, it’s so wonderful Touya has such a devoted boyfriend…”

“I hate you both,” Touya informs his brothers. “I’m disowning you – from now on, I only have one sibling.”

“Stop teasing your brother,” mum sighs as she stands up. “Now come on, let’s give the lovebirds some privacy…”

“Is this a good idea?”

“Hisashi, I think Touya’s virtue is long gone,” mum shakes her head. “Now just remember, Touya, the doctors said not to overexert yourself…”

“Mum!” Touya exclaims, horrified at the insinuation, even as the two traitors that are his brothers laugh.

“I’m going, I’m going!” she laughs. “We’ll be down in the cafeteria if you need anything!”

And just like that, suddenly Touya is alone with his boyfriend.

Suddenly self-conscious, he glances down at his hands. They removed the bandages yesterday after Keigo left, and it was at that moment that the gravity of what happened hit him. As he stares at the burns that will never heal, the skin that will never return to how it once was, Touya is once again reminded that this is likely what his face will look like.

“I’ve got great news, babe!” Keigo’s excited voice interrupts his spiralling thoughts, and he looks up to find the hero beaming at him. “The Commission are letting me have as much time off as I need! I can stay in town until you get discharged! Or until your mum kicks me out…”

“…Somehow I doubt that’s what they told you,” Touya smiles. He may not be privy to all the details, but considering the stranglehold the Commission seems to have on Hawks, this is... Suspiciously out of character. "What really happened?"

“…Well, I stopped by the building, and ran into secretary Kuse, and guess what?!” Hawks beams. “He said that their reputation has already taken a hit because of what happened at the Exam, and if I get injured, it could really shake the public’s trust in heroes! And then he told me I wasn’t allowed back until I’d been cleared by a psychiatrist! First holiday in years!”

Huh. Touya wonders idly what dirt Uncle Hisashi has on the people at the Hero Commission.

But, as he takes a deep breath and reaches out to take Keigo's hand, (an action that really shouldn't make the hero smile so widely,) he makes a note to get the man something nice for Christmas.

***

When Izuku is finally given the all-clear, he doesn’t dare procrastinate for fear dad finds some new health scare. He stuffs his possessions into a few bags (seriously, Tenya, he was in hospital, not stranded on a desert island), pops up to Touya’s room to drop off some of the cookies Kurogiri left him and makes it down to the reception in time to step through a Warp Gate.

Almost immediately, he is snatched up by a familiar pair of strong arms.

“Little Lord!” Gigantomachia cheers as he twirls them, knocking over an armchair. “You are home!”

“Hey, Machia!” Izuku laughs as he tries to pat the giant on the arm. “It’s great to see you again!”

“Paperclip, look! Little Lord is back!”

Izuku suddenly finds himself being thrust at an unfamiliar man, who is sitting on the sofa. And, for some strange reason, looking through one of the family albums.

“It’s an honour to finally meet you!” the man scrambles to his feet and bows. “Arata Kuse, at your service!”

For a moment Izuku stares at him as he tries to figure out whether he should recognize the name. Then he gives up, sighs, and calls out, "Dad, there's a weird guy in the living room!"

“It’s just Kuse!” dad yells back from the kitchen. “He’s mostly harmless!”

“And he’s looking at our album because…”

“I ensured Hawks can spend as much time at the bedside of his paramour as he wants, so Sir saw fit to reward me!” the stranger beams and then cackles. “Oh, Trojan is going to be so jealous when she finds out…”

Huh. Izuku spends exactly two seconds trying to puzzle out why this stranger is being rewarded with access to photos from his fifth birthday. Then he decides that, realistically, his family is so insane it's a lost cause.

“Hey, Izuku,” Tensei grins as he wheels himself through. Then he levels Kuse with an unimpressed look. “I see you’ve met the Secretary of the Hero Commission.”

Yep, absolutely insane. Izuku is not even surprised.

“Let me guess,” he groans as he picks up his bags. “…You were dad’s inside man.”

“Sir wasn’t lying about your intelligence, Little Lord!”

Izuku just rolls his eyes and carries his things up to his room, followed closely by Machia. (Oh goodness, it's going to be a nightmare trying to manage the giant's overprotective tendencies now.) He dumps his stuff on his bed and just stares at it for a moment; then he sighs and grabs his schoolbag. It'll take some time to sort through everything, but he can send Tenya's things back with Tensei. Then he can triple check he really has everything he needs for school, because he does not want to start his first day back with a lecture from his friend.

As he opens his schoolbag, he notices something unexpected inside and carefully pulls out dad’s copy of A Brief Overview of the Evolution of Quirks: Revised Edition. For a moment he just stares at it, feeling strange; it feels like a lifetime has passed since he last held it in his hands. Then he shakes his head and decides he really should return it, and flips to the back to retrieve the photo of Doctor Garaki he hid there.

“Oh! Little Lord, is the doctor joining us too?!”

Izuku startles, suddenly reminded of Gigantomachia’s presence. As he turns to look at the beaming giant, something stirs in his mind.

He looks down at the photo.

He looks back at Gigantomachia.

“…Machia,” Izuku begins slowly as the pieces slide into place. He holds up the picture and asks, “Think very carefully… When did you last see this man?”

“Hm…” the bodyguard scratches his head and then grins. “Oh, I know! When I met Kacchan!”

And that is all the confirmation Izuku needs to bolt out of his room, screaming, “DAD! I KNOW WHO’S BEHIND THE LEAGUE!”

Chapter Text

It feels great to be back on patrol.

Oh sure, Tenko knows that, as a hero, he’s mostly suited for rescue work (because murder is Bad and Wrong and pretty traumatizing if it’s by way of turning the victim’s body to dust). It was pure chance that he was forced into the position of T.A., although admittedly he’s enjoying it more than expected, but – there’s just something about getting out there in front of the public. Several of his classmates complained about patrol, but Tenko loves it, because it reminds him why he became a hero in the first place.

Plus he managed to beat his personal record of three autographs. He may not be a hero for the fame, but it is nice to be recognized.

It’s nice and quiet as he nears the end of his rounds, and he’s just considering stopping by a nearby café that offers great sandwiches and a sweet 10% hero discount, when he feels something bump into his legs and, surprised, he looks down.

Every single fucking alarm goes off in his head.

He tries not to let his concern show as he crouches down and does his best to smile. He tries not to let his eyes linger on the countless bandages covering tiny limbs, tries not to frown at the dirty dress and long, unkempt hair. He tries not to shake with anger as he gazes into large, red eyes full of pain and despair.

Because this little girl reminds him far too much of a different child that had almost given up on the world, another kid that gazed upon a different hero with almost lifeless red eyes, and suddenly there is nothing Tenko wants more than to snatch her up, get her somewhere safe, and surround her with rainbows and unicorns and fluffy pink clouds until she forgets what pain feels like.

“Hey there, I’m Chronos!” he beams, hoping he doesn’t look too creepy, because step 1 is winning some small amount of trust. “What’s your name?”

The little girl flinches back, shivering, but Tenko doubts it was anything he said.

“Shy, huh?” he continues even as he starts planning the quickest way to get her to the nearest hospital. “I guess I’m hardly one to talk. Although you’ve definitely got prettier hair than me!”

The girl glances up at him and then catches herself and looks back down.

“…I think you’ve got prettier eyes, too,” Tenko sighs dramatically. “Mind you, pretty much anyone would be prettier than me. All I’ve got going for me are my charm and wit, and they’re not much use when people are scared to talk to  me…”

Hm, maybe if he just waits long enough Uncle Nighteye will send someone to look for him. Tenko certainly is having trouble figuring out how to lure the girl into a taxi…

…That came out creepier than he intended.

He's just trying to remember where the closest police box is when everything goes disastrously wrong. Because he is so focused on the little girl, watching for the slightest sign that she might bolt, that he doesn't pay attention to the footsteps. Why should he? They're on a street, and people walk along streets all the time. And so Tenko almost startles when someone speaks.

“Shame on you, causing trouble for this nice hero,” a male voice says, and the little girl stiffens. “Let’s go home, Eri.”

A foghorn blares in Tenko’s head, so loud he almost fears for his hearing. His blood runs cold, because he knows. Knows from how pale the girl has turned, knows from the absolute despair in her eyes, knows because he once experienced that same fear. And he wants desperately to snatch her up, to run, to get her away, but he can't, because for all he knows they could be surrounded. He needs to be cautious, needs to gather information, because he is no use to her dead.

And so he takes a deep breath, forces his head up, and almost screams when he recognizes the man standing in front of him. Because apparently the universe hates him, and of course it's not weird at all for him to run into the head of Shie Hassaikai, Chisaki himself!!!

WHERE THE FUCK IS THE SYMBOL OF PEACE WHEN YOU NEED HIM?!

“Eri, huh?” Tenko keeps smiling, even as he starts desperately trying to activate some previously unknown secondary Quirk that would let him telepathically summon his dad. “That’s such a lovely name! Is this your big brother?”

Please, kid, say he’s a stranger. Say you’ve never met him before, something, anything to give me an excuse…

“I’m her father.”

No you’re not, you abusive dirtbag.

“Wow, you look really young for your age!” Tenko flashes the yakuza a smile before turning his attention back to the little girl. “Come on, let’s see… Up you come!” he manages to lift her and grins at her surprised expression. “Wow, you’re so light! Like a poofy white cloud! You know sir, you really shouldn’t let her out without shoes, her feet are all scratched up!”

Also, why the FUCK is she covered in bandages? I may not know the why, but I can guess the WHO.

“…She ran out of our house when I wasn’t looking.”

She should have kept running.

“Oh, you live nearby? How about I walk you home?” Tenko beams at the guy.

Dear Santa, this year, instead of giving me a present, could you drop this dirtbag from orbit?

“…That won’t be necessary,” the criminal grits out, and Tenko is a truly terrible person because he has never been prouder of his long-perfected annoyingness. "...Don't you have patrol?"

“Patrol is boring,” Tenko rolls his eyes dramatically. “Nothing interesting ever happens on patrol, although Uncle Nightie will kill me if I skip out and don’t report back. He’s always nagging: Chronos, you need to take this seriously. Chronos, stop slouching. Chronos, you can’t play Pokemon GO on patrol. Chronos, you can’t take that cat home with you. Hey, Eri, do you like cats?”

Hesitantly, the little girl nods, and Tenko counts that as a win.

“What about bats?”

Chisaki looks like he’s losing his patience, and it makes Tenko feel all warm and fuzzy inside.

“…What’s a… bat?...”

“Yay! She speaks!...” Tenko grins and would spin them if not for the fact that he really knows better than to show his back to a pissed off yakuza.

“Eri. It’s time to go.”

Perhaps another hero would not have noticed it. Perhaps another hero would have simply disregarded it. But when Chisaki reaches to take his glove off, Tenko feels his blood run cold. Because there is something far too familiar in the gesture, something that causes his body to tense almost instinctively in horrified anticipation, ready to fight, to run, to protect. Only he isn't the only one to notice the gesture, to see the danger in it, because little Eri suddenly comes alive in his arms. She almost kicks him several times in her haste to get down, and almost as soon as her feet touch the ground she's off, rushing over to the yakuza.

It takes every ounce of Tenko's strength not to lunge after her.

"We'd best let you get back to your patrol," Chisaki nods at him just once, dismissing him, secure in his victory, and Tenko wishes he could lunge at him, smash his ridiculous mask against the wall, Decay his arm until he begs for mercy like Eri probably did.

But he can’t do anything, and it is the worst feeling in the world for any hero. Because Eri is right there, just out of reach, and she's a terrified little girl who ran to the first hero she could find like she is supposed to, and yet now she is choosing to go back to her personal hell to protect him, when he would gladly give his life if it would ensure her safety. And then and there, as he glares at Chisaki's back, Tenko makes a promise. To himself. To gran. To Eri.

“I’ll tell you about bats next time, Eri!” he calls after her, trying to keep his voice cheerful, and when she glances back, he raises his pinky finger.

Because, young and inexperienced he may be, but Chisaki seems to have overlooked one key detail: Chronos is a rescue hero.

And no matter what it takes, he’s going to rescue Eri.

Chapter Text

“…Perhaps we could…”

“Hisashi,” Tensei holds up his hand to forestall whatever insane suggestion the man has come up with now. He can feel an impending migraine and tries to hold back a grimace. “If there is at least a fifty percent chance your plan could result in the death of this Garaki guy: no.”

“You heroes make everything so overly complicated…”

“It’s called having morals,” Tensei retorts. “You should try it sometime.”

Hisashi subsides with some grumbling, and Tensei takes a sip of his tea. Yes, he knows letting Hisashi have his way would probably be the easiest way of dealing with the League. But… Then what? If Izuku becomes a hero, there will always be more villains, more criminals that might target him. Should they just give Hisashi carte blanche to do away with anyone that might threaten his son?

And besides, what if that first murder is just some… gateway drug? The problem here is not simply that Hisashi might get into legal trouble; no, instead Tensei has to consider that his friend might become a greater threat than this League ever could have. Tensei can’t help but shudder, because he knows he’s only glimpsed the true terror that was All For One. And… With his body the way it is, he can’t be out there on patrol, but his heart is still that of a hero. He needs to try and protect Tenya and Izuku, try and protect his parents and everyone at Idaten, try and protect Hisashi.

“What about recruiting someone else to take him out?” Kuse suggests nonchalantly as he helps himself to yet another cookie. “Plausible deniability and all that. Perhaps Malevolence…”

Tensei chokes on his tea.

“NO!” he yelps. “You are not breaking anyone out of Tartarus! Especially not someone who has sworn vengeance on my mother!”

“Tensei’s right, Katsumi is a good friend,” Hisashi nods, because of course that’s what the issue is, not the detail that breaking anyone out of Tartarus is the most illegal thing ever. How Izuku came out so well adjusted must be a miracle. “Izuku would be sad if his Auntie died. The Iidas are off limits.”

“I cannot believe I have to say this, but: No murder,” Tensei sighs. Sometimes he forgets that Hisashi needs to have obvious things spelled out. “And No breaking people out of prison. In fact – from now on, just run any plans by me first. No offence, Kuse, but your moral compass is almost as warped as this guy’s.”

“…I have served All For One since I was fifteen,” the secretary points out, unimpressed. “Only reason I got the job at the fucking Commission was because the last insider was coming up to retirement age.”

There are times, Tensei reflects, when he wishes he could just… live in ignorance. Not have to struggle with the realization that the deadliest villain ever played a key role in shaping many of the institutions he most respects. But unfortunately that ship has sailed, and so instead he simply takes a sip of his tea and tries to pretend it is something stronger.

“We’re getting nowhere,” he sighs. “I don’t know about you, but all I want is some painkillers and to crawl into bed. Same time tomorrow?”

“I’d prefer a later time,” Kuse stands up. “I have a meeting that will undoubtedly run late.”

“I’m fine with that,” Tensei nods and grabs a cookie for the road, because he has already learnt the secretary has a notorious sweet tooth and is liable to pocket as many as he can get away with. “Although it’ll probably be a waste of time. I mean – it’s not like we can just call up the police and tip them off to Garaki.”

“…Actually – I have an idea,” Hisashi speaks up. “But… It might get a little complicated.”

“How complex a scheme are we talking?” Tensei sighs. “And, more importantly – how illegal?”

“…As far as I can tell, not illegal at all,” Hisashi shrugs. “I simply tell Nedzu that Garaki is likely behind the… nomu.”

“And when our genius principal asks how, exactly, you figured that out?...”

“I just tell him the truth,” Hisashi states calmly. “That I remember him from my days as All For One.”

***

“Hey, Bakugo!” Kirishima grins as Katsuki sidles up to where his friends (he is not calling them the Bakusquad, he refuses to give Chronos the satisfaction) are hanging out before class. “What have you got there?”

“Hi,” Katsuki manages an only slightly constipated smile as he sets his bag down on the redhead’s desk. He ponders how to respond; then he takes a deep breath, unzips his backpack, and…

“Oh my gosh!” Ashido gasps as she snatches the small plush from his hand. “I didn’t even know they made Chronos merch!”

“They don’t make a lot,” Katsuki explains with a smile as he pulls out some more of his windfall. “But – they had one of those pop-up shops near my dad’s work, so he grabbed me a few things, and…”

“Back up,” Sero holds up his hand. “You’re telling us you got your hands on officially licensed Chronos merch.”

“Yep,” the blonde can’t help but grin. Because Chronos merch, what with how young the T.A. is, is notoriously hard to come by. Most of the stuff he found so far has been made by other fans, and so he had been absolutely blown away to come home to a small pile of officially licensed Chronos merch sitting on his bed. “My dad bought a bunch of those mystery bag things, so I got duplicate pins. I was wondering… Would any of you like some?”

“Heck yeah!” Kirishima grins. “Gotta support our T.A., right guys?”

“Thanks, Bakugo!”

“Ooh, I want the hands Decaying the hourglass!”

“I’ll take the chibi…”

“Cinnamon Roll!”

Immediately, Katsuki grabs his treasured merch and shoves it all back in his bag. He tenses as he feels Chronos pass by, but the hero doesn’t stop, and so he breathes a sigh of relief and turns to see what exactly is happening.

“Erm… Hi, Chronos,” Izuku squeaks as Shimura-Yagi looms over him. “…What’s up?”

Katsuki notices something concerning; he glances around, but all of his classmates are just staring at the odd scene, and no one seems to have registered what he has, so with a sigh he heads over to at least do a little damage control.

Seriously, why does he look up to Chronos so much? The man's... kind of an idiot.

“You’ve got some weird teleportation Quirk, right?!” the rescue hero demands as he leans closer. Then Katsuki smacks him on the back of the head. “Bakubrat, what the hell?...”

“Hands,” the blonde responds and points to where Shimura-Yagi had pressed his entire hand against the surface of the desk. Cracks are already spreading out from the area around the hero’s fingers, and as they watch a small part crumbles away.

“…Ah, sorry about that, Cinnamon Roll,” Chronos winces as he hurriedly removes his hands. “…I’ll tell Eraserhead I’m to blame. But – teleportation Quirk! Give me the details!”

With a roll of his eyes (which is not at all fond, he will deny that till his dying day) Katsuki decides he might as well enjoy the show and leans against his desk.

“…Well, Kurogiri’s got Warp Gate…” Izuku says hesitantly.

“I’m not talking about that!” Shimura-Yagi shakes his head. “I’m talking… Weird, slimy thing! You know, how you and Yoarashi got away from the League! That teleportation Quirk…”

Katsuki frowns. He can vaguely remember some sort of teleportation Quirk that Izuku used during the Stain incident, first to rescue Hush and then to fetch Gang Orca, but – did Izuku ever tell him the name of it? What was it…

“Do you perhaps mean Summon?” Iida speaks up, and Chronos snaps his fingers.

“Yep – that’s the one! You can teleport anyone you want to you, right?!”

“…So long as they’re in range,” Izuku slowly nods. “And their mouth is unobstructed…”

“Brilliant! I’m gonna need to borrow it for an operation!” Shimura-Yagi grins. “Possibly with you attached.”

“Erm… Chronos?” Kirishima is the first of their classmates to speak. “…What are you talking about?”

It is at that moment that something occurs to Katsuki, namely: how many of their classmates actually know about All For One? He glances around the room, wondering who amongst the people gathered know the details; certainly Iida and Yukiyama, but what about Yaoyorozu? Kirishima? And obviously he is not the only one to have thought of that, because Shimura-Yagi takes in the numerous confused expressions and winces.

“…Sorry about that, Cinnamon Roll,” he apologizes sheepishly. “…My bad.”

“Had to happen sooner or later,” Izuku sighs as he stands up. He looks around the room himself, and, as Iida moves closer to him in a silent gesture of support, he admits, “…It’s about my Quirk. Or, technically speaking, one of them.”

“Hang on – one of them?” Jiro frowns. “You’ve got… more than one Quirk? Is that – is that even possible?”

“It is when you’re born with All For One,” Izuku winces. “And before you say anything – I did not name it that. But that's my Quirk, the original one, and it – it lets me take other peoples Quirks and use them. Or pass them on to others. Also sort of sense them, but – that gets really confusing really fast…”

Huh, Katsuki wasn't aware of the sensing thing. He can't help but wonder what makes it so confusing; perhaps, since there are so many Quirks surrounding him all the time, Izuku struggles to distinguish between them?...

“With all due respect, Midoriya,” Yaoyorozu speaks up. “That sounds rather… unbelievable.”

“It’s the truth.” Tokoyami is the first to speak up, and Katsuki can't help his surprise; certainly, the other boy hasn't spent enough time around Izuku to suggest he is close enough to be trusted with the secret. “I saw it myself at summer camp. When I lost control of Dark Shadow, Midoriya was able to take him temporarily so I would not hurt anyone. Shoji can vouch for it too.”

The larger teen nods.

“I’ve seen it too,” Katsuki decides to add his testimony. “When we got attacked by Stain, Izuku was able to slip me a second Quirk. What was it… Amplify? That’s how we managed to beat Stain.”

“Me too!” Uraraka nods. “He took Thirteen’s Quirk during our exam!”

“I just… I don’t know,” Kaminari frowns, and Katsuki tries to contain his irritation. After all, it's not like they have a reason to lie. “I mean, no offense, Midoriya, but it just – it sounds unbelievable.”

“Ooh, how about a demonstration, then?!” Chronos grins. “I volunteer as tribute!”

“…Are you sure about this?” Izuku frowns for some reason. “I mean – are you sure your dad…”

“Pfft, I’m a legal adult, I can do what I like!” the T.A. waves his hand. “…So long as it’s still vaguely legal, kids, don’t get any ideas. Besides, I’ve always wanted to see All For One in action!”

“Always?” Katsuki mutters, because it almost sounds like… Like Chronos has been aware of Izuku's Quirk for a while, but for the life of him he can't think why. Especially if it's such a closely guarded secret; it's not like Izuku and Chronos were close before U.A., not like Izuku and Ingenium. But then he decides that he can ponder that later, and so shakes his head and steps forward. “I’m fine with letting you take Explosion. So long as you get it back to me before lunch.”

Despite the brave face he is trying to put on, Katsuki can't help but flinch slightly when Izuku places a hand on his shoulder. He forces himself to remain still, reminds himself that - he trusts Izuku. They may not be close, but - he's willing to back him up, and if it means temporarily giving up his Quirk, he can do that. But he can't help but remember the pain and disorientation he experienced after fighting Stain, and that was only because of an extra Quirk. What will it be like to lose his Quirk? To suddenly be without something so personal, that he has planned his whole future around? Something that, for better or worse, has been such a crucial part of his life?

Except nothing appropriately grand happens. There is no sudden flash of light, no strange sensation in the pit of his stomach; instead there is a moment of feeling slightly weird, and then Izuku withdraws his hand. Katsuki almost demands he stop playing around; that if he's willing to give up his Quirk, however temporarily, Izuku should take it seriously. But where normally he would already be hearing the first crackles of Explosion, there is nothing. And as he slowly raises his hands, willing his Quirk to life, Katsuki realizes...

...It's gone. 

“I know,” Yukiyama sighs opposite him, and Katsuki looks up to find him smiling. “It can be really disorienting when you’re not expecting it. Just be happy you’re not sprouting a whole extra appendage, cause that is not fun.”

Iida winces, and it is only then that Katsuki realizes - this is normal for them. They have known Izuku for so long, are so used to him using All For One on them, that they can't even imagine being afraid of it. And somehow that nonchalance is more comforting than any words of encouragement.

There’s a strange cackling, and Katsuki looks over to find Chronos, pressing his hands over and over again to the desk. Then the T.A. slowly turns, and Katsuki starts inching away when he sees the unsettling glint in the hero’s eye.

“No,” he tells his mentor firmly. “I don’t care if you don’t have your Quirk – you are not using me as a guinea pig!”

“Spoilsport,” Shimura-Yagi mutters and promptly touches Shoji with all five fingers.

“Holy smokes, you weren’t kidding, Midoriya!” Kirishima explains when their classmate doesn’t dissolve into a gruesome puddle of blood and gore. (Seriously, Katsuki wonders not for the first time, who let this man teach?!)

“This is so much fun,” Chronos grins. “Hey, Kaminari, high-five! Now – handshake! Thanks, Cinnamon Roll, I’ve always wanted to high-five someone!”

Then he promptly starts touching everything in the classroom, and Katsuki sighs and shakes his head. He can't even begrudge the T.A., because from the moment he got his Quirk, the hero has lived with the knowledge he could easily kill people. Worse than abstract knowledge; Shimura-Yagi had seen first-hand what his Quirk could do. What must that have done to a young child, knowing he could not even high-five his friends? Knowing that a single second of inattention could be the death of someone he loved? Was there ever a time Chronos could truly relax, or was there always some part of him worrying about his Quirk?

He can’t help but smile and indulge the hero when Chronos takes a break from touching the wall to ruffle his hair.

“…Well, I suppose that was rather convincing,” Yaoyorozu nods. “Although I cannot help but wonder – is this why you are being targeted?”

“I didn’t even think of that! But – yeah, that makes sense!”

“…It’s a little more complicated than that,” Izuku sighs. “See, the first person born with All For One – he was a villain.”

Okay, Katsuki did not see that one coming.

“…When you say villain…”

“We’re talking cartoon-level, planet-destroying, giant-army-of-followers-level villain here,” Yukiyama shrugs nonchalantly, because apparently this is not a Big Deal. “He’s not in any books cause he was that scary. Apparently the guy literally ruled over the Japanese underbelly for decades, and now that he’s gone, well… The League’s basically convinced Izuku’s his second coming or something.”

…Yeah, Katsuki definitely never saw that one coming.

“What happened?” he can’t help but ask. “To the villain, I mean.”

“Septem happened,” Izuku answers easily. “That’s – a hero named Nana Shimura gave her life to defeat All For One.”

As the name registers, most of the class turns to stare at Chronos, who has pressed his hands together and is grinning down at them.

“Yep – that’s my gran!” he announces proudly, because, again, this is apparently not a Big Deal. “My biological grandmother, that is. I never met her, but – dad told me about her final fight!”

“Hang on, you mean – All Might was there?”

“And you knew about this... All For One?!”

“Yep – villain and Quirk,” the rescue hero shrugs, and Katsuki wonders how many more people he knows happen to have very skewed perceptions of what is and isn't vaguely horrifying. “...Dad's kind of just a teeny bit paranoid about anything All For One adjacent, so I got voluntold to keep an eye on Cinnamon Roll here. Don’t worry, as far as I know he’s not trying to assemble a giant army of porcupines!”

“…Literally none of us was worried about that,” Katsuki mutters.

“Yeah, I mean – just cause Midoriya’s related to a villain doesn’t mean anything…”

“Exactly! Whilst I wish he had confided in us sooner, Midoriya chose to sacrifice himself to protect me! Indeed, if not for his heroic actions I do not know how I could have escaped from those villains, or what would have become of me! I am forever indebted…”

“Alright, that’s enough, Yoarashi,” Aizawa sighs as he slinks into the room. “Chronos, what are you doing here? You’re supposed to be helping 3-B in Gym Gamma.”

“Right, Eraserhead, sorry about that!” Shimura-Yagi nods. “Cinnamon Roll – I’ll talk to you about that… Summon later!”

As the bell rings and they all move to take their seats, Katsuki can’t help but struggle with all the information that has been dumped on them.

Izuku, one of the most unassuming members of their class, is somehow related to a notorious villain.

Chronos has known about it for a while, and in fact his grandmother died killing said villain.

And more than that – Chronos became a T.A. purely so he could keep an eye on Izuku!

Really, with everything that he has just learnt, it is not entirely surprising that he forgets one other slightly... unusual event. In fact he only remembers seconds after crashing to the ground, and hastily holds his hands up. He glances down at the slightly cracked floor and then winces as he looks at his chair, which now only has three legs and is also missing part of its seat.

Right, Decay.

“Oh crap!” he hears Izuku exclaim from the seat behind him, and feels someone’s fingers brush the back of his head. Then he frowns; he can vaguely feel something missing, but isn't sure how, or what exactly; something is just... gone.

“Sorry, sir, I’ll be right back!” Izuku promises, and then sprints out of the room, yelling, “Chronos! You forgot your Quirk!”

Eraserhead just sighs.

Chapter Text

“…Come on, Uncle Nighteye… please just hear me out…”

At the sound of his son’s voice, All Might sighs and puts down the report he was reading. Yes, he really should sign off on it, but Tenko sounds like he’s found himself a new mission, and from experience Toshinori knows how… disruptive he can be when that happens. And sure enough, as Mirai appears with the latest batch of paperwork, Tenko trails after him, doing his best impression of puppy dog eyes.

They were probably more effective when he was still a child.

“Dammit, Tenko, I said no!” the sidekick snaps as he slams the documents down on the coffee table. “No, no, no! Now let me use the toilet in peace!”

And with that he storms off. Thankfully, Tenko seems to have realized he should give the man some space; instead of following, he slinks over to the sofa and dramatically collapses onto it with a long-suffering sigh.

Shaking his head fondly, All Might glances just once at the report. Then he leans back and prepares to face the greatest challenge he knows.

Fatherhood.

“Alright, Tenko, why are you harassing my sidekick?”

“I’m not harassing him, I just… Wanted to help with the whole Shie Hassaikai thing,” Tenko pouts.

Toshinori opens his mouth, but then… Then he hesitates. Takes a moment to really look at his son. Because, no matter how hard he may try to deny it… Tenko is an adult. And whilst it has been all too easy to dismiss his ideas as youthful idiocy, he… Over the past few months, All Might realizes, his son has shown himself to be a promising hero with good intuition. Shown that he perhaps is more mature than All Might thought. Shown that perhaps… Perhaps, he has grown up.

And perhaps, rather than treat him like a child and expect him to act like an adult, Toshinori should try a different approach.

Perhaps this is a situation that can best be solved by a conversation not between Toshinori and Tenko, but rather All Might and Chronos.

“Alright… Tenko,” Toshinori clears his throat. “How about a deal? If you explain your request and, more importantly, your reasoning, I will speak to Mirai.”

Speaking being the key word. He can speak to his sidekick about the investigation without actually persuading the man to go along with Tenko's plan.

Unless it happens to be a good plan.

Tenko stills. Then he scrambles upright, brushes his hair out of his eyes, straightens his shirt, and clears his throat.

“So Uncle Nighteye’s been keeping me… updated on the Hassaikai investigation,” Toshinori's son frowns. “I know about the weird Quirk-erasing bullets. And I know he’s planning to raid them soon, so – I want him to add me and Cinnamon Roll to the line up.”

All Might almost bites his tongue off as he struggles not to respond. Instead he takes a deep breath and reminds himself that Tenko is an adult, and so this is not a situation that can be solved by grounding.

“Tenko, with all due respect – you’re a Rescue hero. And Midoriya doesn’t even have a provisional license – explain to me, why should you be included in the raid?”

“Because there’s a little girl, caught in the middle – dad, she’s absolutely tiny, and all bandaged up,” Tenko chokes and hastily holds up a hand to signal he’s not done yet. “Someone… Someone’s hurting her, real bad. If she’s deep in that compound when the raid kicks off, she’ll be in danger. She could be a hostage. So what we need is some way to immediately nab her, wherever she is, and get her to safety. Agreed?”

“Agreed,” Toshinori slowly nods. Every hero is aware of the danger posed to hostages; he himself has had to rescue dozens over the years, and even with One For All - there have been some close calls.

“And Cinnamon Roll just so happens to have a Quirk that allows him to instantly teleport anyone he chooses to him. So if we stick him somewhere safe, and the minute the raid kicks off he uses that Quirk, we’ll have prevented a possible hostage situation.”

“…You have a point,” Toshinori agrees, not even bothering to hide his proud smile as he leans forward. “But you have only made the case for Midoriya. So tell me, why should a rescue hero participate in a raid targeting the yakuza?”

Tenko doesn’t answer immediately. He seems to be carefully considering what to say, and then…

“…Did you know that All Might was my hero when I was a kid?” Tenko begins softly. “I loved playing heroes, and – All Might was strong, and brave, and I wanted to be like him and save people! I wanted – I wanted to make people smile, and make them happy…”

Toshinori’s smile fades as Tenko sniffs and wipes at his eyes.

“…What do you think it does to such an idealistic kid when no one will help him? I wanted to help people, wanted to make them smile, but the moment I needed help – they all turned away. And I… I didn’t even need the Symbol of Peace, didn’t need a hero… I just needed one person. One person that would not turn away, that would pull out their phone and call the police… I wandered the streets for days, but I couldn’t find that one person.

“Except, just when I was about to give up on the world – you came. You – you became my hero, not because you were All Might or the Symbol of Peace or the holder of One For All, but because you saw me. You saw that I was a child, and in pain, and I needed help, and you saved me not because of who I was, but because it was the right thing to do.

“And you showed me – sometimes being a hero isn’t about getting people out of immediate danger. Sometimes you need to save their heart. So – I want you to try and put yourself in that little girl’s place. I want you to imagine what it’s like to be tiny, and covered in bandages, and so terrified that you bolt the first chance you get, even if it means running barefoot for miles. And yet, just when you meet a hero, when freedom is so close, you have to go back. Not because you want to, not because it will get better – because in your mind it’s better for you to endure that pain than to see someone else hurt because of you.

“And now..." Tenko looks up, the most heartbreaking smile on his face. "...Imagine what it would mean if the first thing you saw after being rescued was that same hero. What would it mean if the first words you heard were ‘Hello again, Eri?' To know that it wasn't all for nothing, to know that no matter how painful your punishment... Someone had seen you, seen your pain, and - they actually did something. They didn't just forget you, didn't think it was okay - instead, they did everything they could to help you.

"Because I remember what it meant when you came and rescued me, and... Dad, if there's even the slightest chance I could do the same for Eri, that I could show her there are people willing to help her - I have to do it," Tenko swipes at his eyes. "Not because I'm Chronos, not because I'm a hero - because I was once a little kid that everyone turned away from. Because if I don't at least try... I will become everything I hate."

Yes, Toshinori realizes as he stares at his son, Tenko isn't a child anymore. Perhaps he hasn't been one for a while, and it just took his old man a while to see it. Because Tenko - Tenko is simply a hero with his own way of doing things, his own opinions, his own priorities. Tenko... Tenko is a young man who has shown he can stand on his own two feet without any need for One For All, can make his own mark on the world without relying on his father's reputation. Soon... Soon he will move out permanently. Perhaps he will start a family of his own. And this sudden realization leaves All Might wondering...

…Where have all the years gone?

“…A counteroffer,” All Might clears his throat, suddenly feeling emotional. “You and Midoriya join the team with the sole purpose of ensuring…  Eri’s safety. In return, I get to join the raid.”

Not because he’s needed.

Not because he’s worried about Tenko.

Because suddenly there is nothing All Might wants more than to be able to stand alongside Chronos on a mission that means so much to him.

After such a groundbreaking revelation, it only seems natural that he shares his news with Nana. So bright and early the following morning he picks up his usual slice of strawberry shortcake, and heads over to the cemetery.

“He’s really grown up, you know,” he says by way of greeting when he arrives. “Tenko, I mean. You… You would be so proud of him. He’s grown so mature, so brave, so… so wise.”

If he were still the same man he was when he first adopted Tenko, he does not doubt that he would be ecstatic. He would be proud of Tenko, of course, but also of himself; because it would be proof that he had done it. He had somehow achieved his goal of raising his son to adulthood and not accidentally killing him along the way.

But this Toshinori Yagi is not the same man as when he decided to adopt a child based on gratitude and a vague sense of responsibility. Instead of feeling a great sense of accomplishment, it is all so… bittersweet. Because the Toshinori Yagi of the present – he has mastered the art of not breaking video controllers with his strength. He has unashamedly turned down meetings with top officials and heroes because of parent-teacher conferences. He has returned home countless times to find Tenko and Torino looking through old pictures of Nana.

This Toshinori has become a father in every sense of the word, and yet it is only now the full gravity of what he has committed to hits him. Tenko has grown up; he is no longer the shy, timid boy in a hospital bed, no longer the cheerful kid that made everyone at Might Tower smile, no longer the moody teenager that hated being compared to All Might. Tenko is an adult that no longer needs his dad there to hold his hand, but Toshinori…

…Toshinori is a father that will, in a way, always need Tenko.

“…I’ve not screwed it up, Nana,” Toshinori whispers as the first tears fall. “Somehow – somehow, I haven’t screwed it all up.”

Chapter Text

“…There are so many ways this could go wrong,” is Izuku’s reaction when he is first let in on Operation Truthbomb. “I mean – what if Principal Nedzu reacts badly? Or Eraserhead? Or – or Auntie Rei?!”

“Then I rewrite their memories, providing a reasonable excuse for cutting off all contact, and we all move on,” Hisashi tries to reassure his son. “I’m sure it will be fine!”

“Oh, sure, because you’re only telling them you were All For One. That’s not a big deal at all!”

“Don’t you have a home to go to?” Hisashi asks as he turns to glare at Tensei. “Or should I start charging you rent?”

“Why do we even have to tell them?” his best friend continues, undaunted. “I mean, I kind of get Nedzu. We have a literal mad scientist running around turning people into Quirk monsters; we need all the information we can get, and there’s only so much you can claim to remember from when you were a kid. But – Tenya and the other boys are just kids. Fuyumi’s a schoolteacher. Why do they need to know?!”

“…It’s not about Garaki, is it?” Izuku slowly asks. “…This is about Touya.”

There is a part of Hisashi that wishes he could deny it. Wishes he could claim that this is all the result of careful planning and scheming, the sort that was so characteristic of All For One. But the truth is...

Hisashi is just so tired. It feels like every night, once he falls asleep, he dreams of a trembling hand reaching for him, of a weak voice whispering "...dad...". And there is nothing he can do until he wakes up, until he gets dressed and visits Touya in hospital, looks into his blue eyes, and lies, again and again. Lies to Touya, who nearly died because of Hisashi, lies to Rei, who does not know he is ultimately responsible for the monster that tried to kidnap her youngest, lies to Fuyumi and Natsuo and Shoto who trust him, who consider him family.

Hisashi is just so tired of lies, and it's clear from Izuku's expression that he feels the same way.

“Okay, somebody fill me in, please.”

"...Touya almost died," Hisashi forces out, the words almost physically painful as they remind him of those awful moments. "...Touya almost died, and - the League won't just stop. Garaki is... Garaki is like I was. He... He won't stop. Someone has to stop him."

It is a terrifying thought, because there are few that understand better the danger Garaki poses. It is not the doctor's intellect, not his League, not even his creations that really scare Hisashi; instead, it is his fixation on his supposed mission. After all, All For One's single-minded focus on One For All that drove him for so long; and he knows, with a chilling certainty, that there is no obstacle the doctor will consider too great.

"Until that happens, I'll still be a target for the League," Izuku picks up when it becomes clear Hisashi isn't going to continue. "But they've shown they're willing to use others to get to me; just think of what they did with Yoarashi. And - their best bet is going after those I'm closest to, like my friends..."

"...Or better yet, family members that are not heroes and are not prepared to fight," Hisashi swallows as he tries not to picture Natsuo, lured into some dark alley by a faceless villain.

"Yes, but you don't have to tell them about All For One to warn them..."

"Tensei, I am basically asking these people to risk their lives for me!" Hisashi snaps as the Natsuo in his mind chokes on his own blood, a knife buried in his chest. "And yet - yet I'm not willing to trust them with my identity! How is that fair?! For fuck's sake, you're - you're a hero! You're supposed to encourage me to do the right thing!”

To his credit, Tensei doesn’t fire back. Instead he simply nods, and asks softly, “How is Touya?”

It feels like all the energy drains out of Hisashi's body as he slumps forward. Because... He was there when Touya was discharged yesterday, he saw those scars. Surely - surely, if there is someone to know the truth, it is Touya.

“…He’s okay,” Izuku manages a weak smile. “They discharged him, but… Well…”

“They can’t really do anything about his scars,” Hisashi supplies, clenching his fists. “Physical or mental.”

“…Okay, I get it,” Tensei sighs. “You don’t want to lie to your family, I get that. It still doesn’t mean this isn’t going to blow up in our faces!”

“You don’t have to come if you don’t want to, Tensei,” Hisashi tries to smile. “I’m sure it will be fine…”

It has to be fine.

And if it's not fine...

...If it's not fine and everyone he loves abandons him, at least they won't be targets anymore.

If this is the price of their safety, he's prepared to pay it.

“So this is where you are hiding!” Nedzu beams as he enters the kitchen.

Hisashi levels the bastard with a glare and, for the thirty-first time that day, wonders what exactly he was thinking.

“I am not hiding,” he protests half-heartedly, because he absolutely does not want his legacy as All For One to be besmirched by the suggestion he ever hid in a kitchen. “I am merely… steeling myself.”

There’s a sudden crash from the living room, closely followed by a chorus of apologies, and Hisashi winces.

Definitely not hiding.

“I must say, I am… intrigued,” Nedzu hums. “I cannot think of a reason for you to summon us all like this… Is there anything I should be concerned about?”

“Well I am not telling you early,” Hisashi huffs. “I would rather only go through this ordeal once.”

“I am sure it will be fine, sir.”

“Oh yeah?” Hisashi turns to Kurogiri and quirks an eyebrow at the Christmas mug he is holding. “In that case you won’t mind sharing your booze.”

Kurogiri looks down at his mug. Then he looks back up.

“Sir…”

“Come on, hand it over,” Hisashi holds out his hand expectantly. “I’m about to bare my soul here. If anyone deserves liquid courage, it’s me.”

Reluctantly, Kurogiri hands over his mug.

“Truly fascinating!” Nedzu chuckles, delighted. “I must say, I cannot imagine what could make you so anxious!”

“Hey, Hisashi, we’re all – hello, Principal Nedzu!” Tensei smiles as he wheels himself into the room.

“Right, let’s get this over with,” Hisashi sighs as he stands up, feeling rather like a condemned man being escorted to the gallows. “One for the road?”

“…I really don’t think now is the time to get drunk, sir.”

Hisashi opens his mouth, remembers Nedzu is present and hurriedly closes it. He is about to inform the hero he is a retired villain, after all; no need to draw unnecessary attention to just how good he was at his profession.

Mentioning that time he got hammered and successfully took down the power grid for a dare would probably not go over well. It is the sort of boast that could… be easily misconstrued.

“Hisashi!” Rei smiles when he enters the room. Then she frowns. “…What’s wrong?”

“Yeah, why does Izuku look like you’re about to burn his entire All Might collection?” Natsuo adds, jerking his head towards the teen.

Hisashi takes a moment to look around at the gathered group. There’s Izuku, sitting on the floor surrounded by his friends; Nedzu, just hopping back into the armchair he claimed. Rei and Fuyumi squeezed in on either side of Touya on the sofa, Natsuo at their feet. Mic and Aizawa are sitting together, and as he watches, Tensei stops his wheelchair near his classmates.

These are his friends and family, Hisashi reflects as he tries to gather his courage. These are the people he loves. These are the people he may lose today.

But then he focuses on Touya, and he clenches his fists. Touya came close to dying; as is, he will carry those scars for the rest of his life. And Hisashi knows with a bitter certainty that if revealing the truth is the price he has to pay to keep those he cares about safe, he will accept all the scorn and rejection they heap upon him.

Better that than for any of them to wind up dead.

“The reason I have called you here today is because… we know who is most likely leading the League of Villains,” Hisashi pauses as Tensei produces a photo that is immediately snatched by Aizawa. “He goes by the name of Kyudai Garaki. He was a devoted follower of All For One, and, well…”

“…He’s not taking the loss of his precious Lord well,” Tensei mutters, and Hisashi shivers.

Somehow, thinking about the doctor makes him want to take a long, scorching shower.

“…Oh dear,” Nedzu murmurs. “…I believe I’ve heard of him. Is he…”

“A Brief Overview of the Evolution of Quirks,” Izuku supplies. “He’s that Garaki.”

 “And for those of us who are not Quirk nerds?” Natsuo waves his hand in the air.

“Garaki is widely regarded as one of the pre-eminent Quirk researchers in the world,” Nedzu explains, and it is a mark of how seriously he is taking the matter that he is not smiling anymore. “With his expertise… Hisashi, you don’t think!...”

“…That he’s grabbing random people off the street and turning them into Quirk monsters?” Tensei smiles grimly. “That’s exactly what we think.”

Nedzu actually groans.

Hisashi winces himself, because – he is responsible for these nomu. He provided the funding, he encouraged the doctor… Oh, sure he destroyed all of Garaki’s research notes when he retired, but what does that matter? What comfort would that be if Hawks had not been in the area when Shoto was snatched up, what would that mean in the face of the Yukiyama’s grief?

Even retired, Hisashi keeps putting those he loves in danger.

“…Uncle Hisashi, how do you know all this?” Touya speaks up. Then he glances around, at the strange mixture of people. “And why are you telling us?”

Hisashi understands the question of course; Nedzu and Izuku need to know this to be effective against the League. Aizawa and Present Mic are professional heroes, and Tensei is his friend; telling them makes sense. Perhaps informing Rei, Tenya and Hitoshi seems reasonable; but it still leaves a recently discharged patient, a schoolteacher and a broke student.

But of course Hisashi is not telling them because of a rational, logical decision.

He takes a moment to look around one last time, as he tries to commit everyone’s faces to memory. He is prepared, he tries to tell himself. This is the best decision he can make, he reassures himself. Even if they hate him, even if they never speak to him again – at least they’ll be safe.

“The thing is….” He forces out, his silver tongue suddenly turned to lead. “I… may not have been entirely truthful… The thing is… I… I…”

“You remember him,” Nedzu slowly smiles, some strange approval in his eyes. “You know Garaki was All For One’s follower because you remember him. Only you have always maintained you had nothing to do with any criminal activities and don’t know any of All For One’s followers, so you cannot inform the authorities about Garaki without admitting you lied.”

It would be so easy to simply nod. To agree, to let Nedzu plan a way to inform the authorities without implicating Hisashi, to proceed with his safe, happy life. But that would mean lying, and...

...And Hisashi is just so tired of lies.

“But… I understand you telling Principal Nedzu…” Rei frowns. “But why me? Why Natsuo?”

“Because the League will not stop on its own. Someone has to stop them,” Hisashi winces. “And until that happens… You will all be in danger. Touya almost died, so – it seems only fair that I offer you, all of you… The truth, and then – then give you the choice to walk away. Izuku and I – we can’t get away from All For One, but…”

“Hisashi,” Rei snaps in an icy tone. “Do not insult me by finishing that sentence. I do not give a damn about this Garaki or the League – hell, I’d say the same if it were All For One himself! I am not leaving you and Izuku to deal with this on your own! We are family!”

“Technically we’re…”

“Do not even start! Hisashi, you helped me when no one else would! You gave me and my children a new life! And even though that was more than enough, you still – you’ve still been there for all of us! So no, I don’t care what you say about the danger, I am not abandoning you and Izuku now!” Rei glares at him, and Hisashi can’t help the desperate hope that flickers in his chest before he ruthlessly stamps it out. “You are my family, Hisashi, blood or no! You have been my family for years, and nothing will change that!”

“Yeah, uncle Hisashi!” Natsuo smiles. “Heck, even if Touya were right and you're All For One himself, you’d still be our uncle!”

Kurogiri lets out a cough. Hisashi tries not to squirm in his seat.

“Well this is awkward,” Tensei mutters.

“What?” Hitoshi frowns. “What is it?”

“Well…” Hisashi clears his throat. “The thing is…”

“…He is All For One. Or, technically speaking, he was.”

Everyone, Hisashi included, turns to stare at Nedzu.

“Honestly, Hisashi,” the headmaster frowns at him and takes a sip from his mug. “I am a genius. You really did not think me capable of putting all the pieces together?”

“But… You asked me for advice on improving the U.A. curriculum!” Hisashi splutters, feeling rather like when Inko first told him she was pregnant. He expected instant rejection, expected Nedzu to frown and... Tolerate him, yes, for the good of his students, but also distance himself. Put a stop to their friendship. Not... Not... This. “You invited me to the school!... You even listened to my suggestions about the security!...”

“Hisashi, All For One practically wrote the book on modern villainy!” Nedzu chuckles. “Why would I send you to Tartarus to rot, when you could help me better prepare my students to survive and thrive? Who better to advise me on villains than the man who was once All For One himself? And - well, I did run your suggestions by some security experts, to ensure they wouldn't open up new vulnerabilities, and they agreed there was no way anyone could exploit them.”

“…Well,” Hisashi clears his throat and tries to ignore the warm glow in his chest. “…It’s nice to finally hear someone appreciate my level of expertise.”

“Question!” Natsuo raises his hand. “If you were a super-scary villain, why is Endeavor still alive?”

"Because when I learnt of his... misdeeds..." Hisashi clears his throat. Speaking about Endeavor is not easy, both because he does not wish to trivialize the hero's actions and because, well... What if he reminds the Yukiyama's too much of the man? "...Inko had just died. I had... retired from being a villain and convinced everyone All For One had died, and was planning to focus my energy on raising my young son. I know from experience that suddenly murdering or disappearing a top hero tends to attract a lot of scrutiny, and so I chose to try and achieve my objectives in a legal way."

"...Your legal way involved assaulting a top hero and dumping him in the middle of a forest," Tensei points out.

"Yes, well I was fairly new to being a law-abiding citizen," Hisashi retorts. "I was still... getting acclimatized. Does that answer your question, Natsuo?"

“Yep, thanks, uncle Hisashi,” Natsuo grins and then yelps when Fuyumi smacks him. “What, don’t tell me you weren’t curious!”

“Well, I don’t know much about heroes or villains,” Rei smiles. “But... I know you, Hisashi. I trust you. What I said earlier still stands. I’m staying right here.”

“Hear, hear,” Fuyumi grins.

“One more question: are you sure you’re not an ancient alien?”

“Natsuo!”

“Sorry!” the student laughs. “But – same here. All For One or not, you're our uncle.”

“Yeah,” Touya smiles. “We’re your family. Shoto?”

“I don’t exactly get a choice here!” the teen snorts. “I’m hardly about to abandon Izuku!”

“Quite right!” Tenya nods. “As Izuku’s friends, we will stand by him!”

“Yeah!” Hitoshi grins. “Team Izuku all the way!...”

“Absolutely not!...”

Several of them flinch when Aizawa scrambles to his feet, wide-eyed. He opens his mouth, only for Present Mic to jump up and slap a hand over it.

“Hitoshi, stay where you are!” the Voice Hero manages a feeble grin as he pulls his boyfriend along. “We’re just going to nip out for a quick chat!”

Hisashi nods, understanding, and simply watches Yamada half-drag his struggling partner through to the downstairs bathroom and shut the door. It isn't surprising, after all; they do not know him as well as most of the others gathered, and truthfully - truthfully, he mostly included them because of Hitoshi. Because one of the villains seems focused on Hitoshi, and as his parents, they deserve to know about the League, have every right to information that could be crucial to keeping their son safe.

Hisashi is hardly one to judge overprotective parents.

"So, uncle Hisashi... What happened?" Fuyumi asks in an obvious bid to change the subject. "I mean - obviously, All For One wasn't killed by Septem decades ago..."

"Ah..." Hisashi smiles as his eyes drift to his wedding photo, to Inko, smiling back at him. "That's a long story, but..."

"He slipped up a few times after mum got sick and she figured up he was doing some illegal stuff," Izuku shrugs. "But since she was dying, she told him he had to quit doing said illegal stuff and focus on being a dad. End of story."

"Yes, thank you, Izuku," Hisashi mutters, slightly annoyed that his son has somewhat spoiled his tale of epic love, redemption and sacrifice...

"...That's it?" Shoto asks dubiously.

"Yep," Izuku nods.

"...That's all it took."

"Absolutely," Kurogiri agrees, and Hisashi casts a betrayed look at the man.

"...I must say, I... wasn't expecting that, Hisashi," Nedzu clears his throat, and glances towards the wedding picture on the wall, respect clear in his eyes. "Your wife must have been a remarkable woman."

"She was," Hisashi agrees, pleased nonetheless that even with such a barebones summary, a figure like Nedzu can understand the sort of person Inko was. "You'd understand if you met her."

"No, I think you were just whipped."

"Natsuo!"

Hisashi doesn't try to hold back his laughter as he looks around the room. These are his friends. His family. Even now, knowing the truth, they choose to stand by him, to trust him when he says he has changed. And - perhaps he has? Because for all that All For One inspired fear, perhaps even loyalty, he cannot ever imagine the terrifying villain inspiring such trust. If so - if so, he hopes it is a change that would make Inko proud of him, perhaps even Yoshito...

Wait.

“What about you, Kurogiri?” he frowns as he focuses on the Warp user. “I just realized – I never gave you a choice before. And I'm sorry for that, but, just like everyone else... If you choose to leave, I will respect that.”

“Thank you, sir,” the man smiles. “But that is precisely why I will stay.”

Chapter Text

By the time Hizashi finally unlocks the bathroom door, Shota has resigned himself to the inevitable.

“Alright, so…" his boyfriend puts on the fakest smile Shota has ever witnessed as they rejoin the others in the living room. He tries to slink past and back to his seat, only for a hand to shoot out and grab him in a bruising grip. "Shota..."

Wisely, Shota decides this is not the moment to push back, not when Hizashi looks seconds away from snapping. So he just lets out a long-suffering sigh and shoves his hand (one, because the blond has still not let go) in his pocket, ignoring the glare he see from the corner of his eye.

"Sorry about earlier, Midoriya," Hizashi apologizes, as if Shota was somehow in the wrong.

(Midoriya is a retired villain with a rap sheet longer than Machia is tall. He was also, frequently, the only adult supervising their only son. Irrational or not, Shota thinks he had every right to be upset.)

“It’s fine,” the man smiles sardonically. “I imagine finding out someone you interact with regularly was once a supervillain can be quite a shock.”

Shota narrows his eyes at him.

“I freaked out and spent several weeks stalking him before I came to terms with my impending death,” Tensei supplies, and Aizawa turns to stare at him, wide-eyed.

Considering Tensei and Midoriya are friends… That is not reassuring.

“I freaked out and run away for a few hours, until All Might talked me down,” Izuku shrugs. “Then I realized I love my dad. And also I really don’t want to be responsible for the return of All For One.”

Shota is starting to think that Hizashi and him really should just do as he suggested, namely grab Hitoshi and flee the country.

“I implemented twenty different systems to ensure that, in the event of my death, someone would be alerted to All For One’s continued survival,” Nedzu smiles. “Now that I am confident Hisashi is permanently retired, I’ve cut it down to five."

Somehow, that actually helps calm Shota down. Just a tiny amount.

“The thing is…” Hizashi hesitates, for once seemingly lost for words, before sighing and stating bluntly, “…We don’t trust you. Not entirely. But…”

“…We trust our Class Pres and his overprotective tendencies,” Shota supplies, with a nod towards Tensei. “And even if we could get Hitoshi to stop hanging out with Izuku…”

“…Which is not happening,” Hitoshi snaps.

“…Veritas is fixated on Hitoshi,” Aizawa chooses to ignore his son. “Retired villain or not, we need to stay in the loop. You’re our best bet to keep our son safe.”

It had been a difficult realization. Hitoshi is their son, their child whom they had sworn to protect, but... Realistically, they aren't strong enough to keep him safe. If there is another attack, Shota cannot in good conscience abandon his students to rush to his son's side, and besides that - so long as Hitoshi and Izuku are friends, Hitoshi will not hesitate to place himself in danger if it means helping the other boy.

In different circumstances, perhaps Shota would be pleased at his son's loyalty. He was pleased once upon a time, because for all that Izuku has a penchant for getting into Situations, he's a good kid. And when Shota got calls about some new mess the four boys had stumbled into, he could take a deep breath and remind himself how Hitoshi had grown, how confidant and cheerful he had become. Now though - now, after the League proved themselves far more capable than expected, after Izuku and Yoarashi were kidnapped from under the noses of dozens of heroes and Touya Yukiyama nearly died - now, Shota regularly finds himself waking up drenched in cold sweat. And no matter the time, no matter how tired he feels, he finds himself driven by a desperate need to find Hitoshi, to make sure.

It is only after he lays eyes on his son that he can calm down and accept it was just a nightmare. That in reality - it was only one body carried away on a stretcher, only one child (because that's what they were at the time, children) dead before his time.

Although it pains Shota to admit it, Hizashi was right. They're not strong enough to protect Hitoshi on their own, don't have the resources to even think about hunting the League on their own. But for all that All For One is a nightmarish, ghoulish figure that strikes fear into the hearts of many - he was also powerful, more powerful perhaps than even All Might himself. And never mind physical strength; Midoriya would have information that it might take them months to find, information about his former followers, about possible recruits, perhaps even some ideas as to what the League might try next. If they are willing to turn a blind eye to his admission, are willing to allow Hitoshi to remain friends with Izuku - they will gain a powerful ally against Veritas.

Shota is more than willing. Shota is ready to do almost anything if it means keeping Hitoshi safe.

And besides, Tensei and Nedzu are both vouching for Midoriya. And whilst Shota will readily admit that Nedzu is one of the most intelligent beings alive, and so Midoriya would have to be a master manipulator to completely fool him, it doesn't reassure him as much as Tensei's nonchalance. Because for all that Shota was never as close to the older Iida as Hizashi was, the one thing he has always known about the man is that he adores his younger brother.

If Tensei trusts Midoriya with Tenya's safety, that is the best guarantee Shota could ask for.

Which, of course, is not to say that Shota is about to allow his only son to hang out anywhere with the only adult supervision provided by a former supervillain.

That would just be terrible parenting.

***

Hisashi smiles as he switches on the kettle. There's something so... comforting about it, as he listens to all the noises around the house. Upstairs, the boys are setting up for a sleepover. If he listens closely, he can just make out Rei on the phone as she orders takeaway. Present Mic has already left, having promised to bring Aizawa back an overnight bag (which is fine; Hisashi is more than willing to put up with overprotective parents if it means Izuku gets to keep his friends), and as he listens, he hears Nedzu call out his goodbyes...

“…Hey, Uncle Hisashi.”

“Touya,” Hisashi smiles as he turns to his sort-of nephew, hovering in the kitchen doorway. “Tea?”

“…Sure,” the young man mumbles as he glances around the kitchen. Then he seems to steel himself and take a deep breath. “…Uncle Hisashi, I… I wanted to talk to you…”

“About what?” Hisashi frowns. Is this somehow related to All For One? Does Touya have some reservations now that he has discovered Hisashi’s true identity? Or perhaps he didn’t feel comfortable speaking out in public, and only now that it is just the two of them is he confident to pull away?

“It’s… about the rescue,” Touya clears his throat, and if not for his injuries, Hisashi suspects he would be blushing. And that suspicion is confirmed when he almost silently whispers, “…I called you dad.”

…Oh.

Hisashi takes a moment to examine the young man before him. Touya is normally one of the most confidant people he knows; self-assured, always ready with a smile and prepared to help anyone, whether it be one of his siblings or a stranger on the street. Now though... Now, he is studiously avoiding eye contact, his shoulders hunched, and it does something unpleasant to Hisashi's stomach.

Because Touya - Touya expects rejection.

And now that Hisashi looks back over the years, he can see the signs so clearly over the years, and it brings a lump to his throat. Because he remembers the surprise on Touya's face when he discovered Hisashi had come to his graduation (as if there was anywhere Hisashi would rather be). He remembers how Touya flushed when his classmates mistook Hisashi for his father (as if Hisashi would be offended), but didn't bother correcting them.

Hisashi takes a moment to think; he opens his mouth and then hesitates, uncertain, aware that if he says the wrong thing, it will undoubtedly hurt Touya far more than if they just never speak of this again. But - but Hisashi doesn't want Touya to believe that he should be ashamed, doesn't want him afraid that he made some unforgivable mistake.

He needs to at least try.

“Touya,” he fumbles, trying to find the right words, aware that this moment is going to be one Touya remembers forever. “I... Whilst I know we aren't technically related, I am honoured you think of me that way..."

Touya winces.

"...And I love Izuku, of course, but... If I had another son... I would be immensely proud if he grew up to be even half the man you are," Hisashi doesn't try to resist the urge to reach out and ruffle Touya's hair, and smiles when the young man's head snaps up, eyes wide. "Especially since you... You've pretty much figured it all out on your own. Your brave, and kind, and compassionate, and... All your siblings are incredibly fortunate to have you, because they know that, no matter what - they can turn to you for help. But you also - you're also sensible enough to accept that sometimes, you need to put yourself first. And whilst, as you can probably imagine, I have some rather... negative opinions about the police... I will also say, I think your motivations for joining are both noble and speak volumes to your character. So, I suppose this is me saying, that... You don’t have to be embarrassed, because… Whilst I didn’t deserve it, it was… It was an absolute honour to hear you call me that, Touya.”

Izuku may be the best son possible, but Touya - Touya is a close second.

Touya sniffs, and then suddenly tackles him in a hug, and Hisashi smiles as he settles his arms around the young man.

Perhaps he’s finally getting the hang of this fatherhood thing.

Chapter Text

Human nature is rather predictable, even in the face of bizarre events such as the emergence of strange superpowers, or the discovery that a trusted member of your extended family may in fact have once been a villain that ruled over the Japanese underworld. And so it is not at all surprising that even after several hours of fairly uninterrupted sleep, the conversation swiftly returns to the previous day’s revelation.

“…I mean it’s so weird!” Shoto declares, his words muffled as he pulls his shirt over his head. “Uncle Hisashi is so, so… nice! I just can’t picture him doing… evil stuff!”

Izuku makes a mental note to try and educate his friends on how to refer to dad’s past… activities. Then he decides not to; watching someone else be lectured about how terrifying All For One was, and how professional villainy is an art that should be granted the appropriate respect, sounds rather fun.

“…Remember that weird aura he got when we got attacked at camp?” Hitoshi asks, quirking an eyebrow from his seat on Izuku’s bed. “It was fucking terrifying, and we weren’t even the focus! I’m pretty sure he was ready to eviscerate the entire League!”

“Yeah, but that was cause he was worried about Izuku and us!” Shoto insists, as he smooths his hair back into place. “If I got attacked by villains, my mum would probably want to murder them, too!”

“Your mum isn’t a decades-old villain with an arsenal of Quirks and more battle experience than most modern militaries,” Izuku feels the need to point out. “…It’s not that he wanted to murder them, more like he was absolutely capable of it and could probably do it and still have more than enough time to cover his tracks!”

“Yes, Izuku is quite correct!” Tenya nods as he finishes combing his hair and passes the comb over to Shoto. “Now that we know the truth about Uncle Hisashi, we should not make the mistake of underestimating him! However, I believe this knowledge will serve us well in years to come!”

Shoto stares at the comb for a few seconds. Then he glances up at Tenya and, with a sigh, gets to work on his own hair.

“How exactly is knowing that my best friend’s dad is a retired villain, who could totally take over the country if he wanted to, going to help me become a hero?” Hitoshi asks as he gets up.

“Why, this is a perfect reminder that no matter what villains we encounter, they are still fellow human beings!” Tenya almost knocks the light off the bedside table as he starts his familiar chopping motions. “They may still have people they care about or who care about them! They have their own motivations and ethics, just like we do, and so we should keep that in mind and not immediately condemn them!...”

“Huh, you actually make a good point, Tenya,” Hitoshi nods as he opens the bedroom door. “Good job in actually finding a life lesson in this… weirdness.”

“I still say Uncle Hisashi is mostly harmless,” Shoto grumbles. “I mean… Hitoshi, if something happened to you, your dad and Mic…”

He trails off when they’re able to see the living room and, more specifically, Aizawa, currently asleep on the sofa. Hitoshi rolls his eyes and opens his mouth, only for Tenya to motion for him to be quiet. They all sneak down the stairs and through to the dining room; as the last inside, Hitoshi turns around, and…

“DAD! BREAKFAST!” he yells so loudly that all his friends startle.

“Hitoshi! That was completely uncalled for!” Tenya huffs.

Izuku rolls his eyes at their antics and instead smiles as his dad sighs and folds his newspaper.

“Hi dad,” he greets the man as he takes his seat.

“Morning, all,” dad smiles at them, suitably distracting Tenya from his latest round of nagging because retired villain or not, one should still respect one’s elders. Probably. It sounds like the sort of thing Tenya would say, Izuku decides. “Sleep well?”

“Great,” Shoto grins as he slips into his seat.

“…No nightmares?”

“No, why?”

“…Dad,” Izuku groans as he catches on to what his father is implying. He wonders whether Shimura-Yagi has similar issues with his father or whether this is a villain thing. Probably a villain thing. “…None of us are scared of you.”

“I’m just… concerned, since you had a great shock yesterday,” dad clears his throat. “…It wouldn’t be unusual for you to have a few nightmares, or some doubts, or…”

“…Uncle Hisashi, we’re fine,” Shoto frowns. “Why would we be scared of you?”

None of them pay any attention to the sounds of a phone ringing somewhere in the living room.

“…Not even a little bit scared?” dad winces.

Izuku groans and buries his face in his hands. No, this probably isn’t even a villain thing; this is definitely an All For One thing.

“…Izuku, explanation?” he hears Hitoshi ask.

“…My dad is a retired villain with a massive ego and delusions of grandeur,” Izuku removes his hands long enough to glare at his father. “Hearing people are scared of All For One gives him a weird ego boost.”

For a moment, all his friends stare at him, stunned.

“But Uncle Hisashi – you are no longer simply All For One!” Tenya is the first to recover, and almost slaps Hitoshi. “Indeed, you have been a positive role model in all our lives for many years! If I were unable to turn to my parents or Tensei, I would not hesitate to approach you for advice or assistance! It is simply impossible to be afraid of All For One now that I know his connection to you, because I know and trust you not to hurt me!”

“Yeah, Uncle Hisashi,” Shoto nods. “If you wanted to remain a scary villain, you shouldn’t be such a good dad!”

“Besides,” Hitoshi shrugs as he ducks out of Tenya’s way and sits down. “All For One’s only scary until you realize beating him would be super easy.”

Well, talk about a red rag to a bull. Izuku helps himself to some food and settles in to watch the fireworks.

“Hitoshi, some of the greatest heroes in modern history spent decades seeking to stop me and were unable to do so,” dad points out loftily. “I doubt you’ve come up with a foolproof plan overnight.”

“I don’t have to come up with a plan,” Hitoshi shrugs again. “I’ve got Izuku’s phone number. All I’d have to do to stop you is shove him at you. All For One solved, you're welcome world.”

Dad stares at him for a moment; then he turns to glare at Izuku.

“This is all your fault, Izuku. I hope you’re pleased with yourself!”

Izuku decides not to bother pointing out that he never asked to be born into this… weirdness. As a matter of fact, he spent most of his childhood completely unaware of the existence of All For One; he never meant to defeat him, it just sort of… happened. Instead he bites into a muffin and snickers as dad, with the air of someone mortally offended, unfolds the paper again and hides behind it.

“Hitoshi, Izuku – we need to go,” Aizawa pokes his head into the room at this point, his hair an absolute mess; Shoto wordlessly hands him Tenya’s comb.

Aizawa wordlessly passes it back.

“What? Why?” Hitoshi groans. “Kurogiri made muffins!...”

“Izuku, Chronos mentioned some mission he’d need Summon for, right?” the teacher asks, ignoring his son. “First planning meeting’s in an hour; I said I’d bring you.”

“But why do I have to go?!” Hitoshi demands.

“Remember that talk we had yesterday?”

“Oh, you mean about how you’re paranoid and I’m suddenly not allowed around Uncle Hisashi without you or Mic or Tensei?” Hitoshi glares at his father.

“Not that any of you would be able to stop me…” a familiar voice mutters from behind the newspaper.

“Dad, you’re not helping,” Izuku sighs.

Thankfully, before matters can devolve any further, Shoto and Tenya exchange looks and, seemingly, telepathically agree on a way to avert disaster.

"Hey, could me and Tenya come round to your place?" Shoto asks. "Hitoshi, you promised you'd help me study for that English test."

"An excellent idea!" Tenya nods. "We should not neglect our education, no matter Uncle Hisashi's recent revelations! In fact - weren't you struggling a bit with trigonometry? Perhaps we should spend the day studying! Mister Aizawa, would that be acceptable?..."

The man hesitates for a moment; then, bowing to the pressure of Shoto's pleading eyes and Tenya's entirely too sensible arguments, he relents.

"Fine, but - let your parents know first. Hitoshi, Izuku, I'm going to call Hizashi."

As his friends exchange triumphant smiles, Izuku tucks into his breakfast, thoughts already turning to this mysterious mission. Shimura-Yagi was so focused on Summon, it would seem he already has some sort of plan. Presumably whatever it is will involve rescuing people, except – disasters aren’t exactly something one prepares for several days in advance. Are they? Wouldn't it make more sense, in such a situation, to pre-emptively evacuate the area if you knew about an impending disaster? But with Chronos being a Rescue Hero…

“Love you Izuku! Take care!”

“Oh – love you too, dad!” Izuku calls over his shoulder and nearly walks into the doorframe.

Perhaps Chronos was acting as a go-between? That would certainly make more sense. If there is an upcoming operation that has a high possibility of devolving into a hostage situation, having someone on hand that can easily evacuate hostages to safety would be sensible… How could Chronos have found out about it, though? As a Rescue Hero, he would be unlikely to be asked to assist with such an operation. Perhaps he learnt the details from a colleague; not one of the teachers at school, or else they would have spoken to Izuku directly... Maybe it was someone Shimura-Yagi knows from his U.A. days? That makes sense; the other likely possibility it that it is a mission he learnt of through his father, and - how likely is All Might to agree to Izuku joining his team...

“Hey, Izuku?” Aizawa clears his throat once they have stepped through a Warp Gate. “…Could we talk for a minute?”

Izuku blinks and shakes his head, taking in his surroundings. Really, they're nothing surprising; Kurogiri has a firm preference for opening his Gates to locations such as side streets and back alleys, a preference that is understandable both from a legal (because Kurogiri getting arrested for illegal Quirk usage is not an experience anyone is keen to repeat) and practical standpoint. Unfortunately, that means that many times, Izuku will find himself in less than immaculate locations.

“Oh – sure, sir,” Izuku nods, trying to ignore a particularly courageous rat. “What is it?”

“Just – are you alright?” the teacher frowns as he steps closer. “I mean – it can’t be easy, what with your dad…”

“Oh,” Izuku frowns. Honestly, he’s gotten so used to this weird status quo that it feels strange to realize - Aizawa is worried about him. Sure his dad is a retired supervillain, but – it’s just his dad. And, at least as a father, he is strangely enough probably better in the role than most completely normal, not-at-all-evil people. “That. I mean, yeah, it’s weird, but he's - honestly, even with the whole villain thing, he's pretty much the same behind closed doors. He nags me about schoolwork, he worries about me... He's just my dad. And you don't have to worry about him plotting, or anything... Unless it's to murder the League. He's retired from villainy, but I'm pretty sure he'd come back for the three hours it would take to kill them. But Tensei says he'd got it under control..."

For a moment Eraserhead stares at him; then he huffs a soft laugh and reaches out to ruffle his hair.

“Well, if you ever need help or advice, you can count on me or Hizashi both in our professional capacity or – private. Although if you need somewhere to crash, the Yukiyama’s would probably be safer.”

“Or Tenya’s,” Izuku smiles. “Dad’s terrified of Auntie Katsumi.”

“All For One, terrified of Mrs Iida,” Aizawa frowns. “…You know, I can actually see it. That woman is scary.”

Izuku laughs.

“Now come on,” Aizawa sighs as his phone beeps. “We’d best get going, before Chronos sends out a search party.”

With a smile, Izuku follows his teacher.

He has a feeling today is going to be a good day.

Chapter Text

Today is not, in fact, a good day.

Slowly, Izuku inches behind Eraserhead, even as a small, detached part of his mind starts identifying all the heroes staring at him.

There’s Dragoon Lady Ryukyu, watching him with a raised eyebrow, clearly wondering what he’s doing here.

There’s Lock Hero Rock Lock, frowning at him.

There’s Gran Torino, glaring at him.

There’s All Might (?!!), smiling at him.

…And there’s Chronos, bearing down on him like a demented train.

“Ci… Midoriya! You made it!” Shimura-Yagi grins and then turns to pout at Aizawa. “I tried asking Eraserhead here for your number, but he said he couldn’t give it out without your permission and forbade me from looking it up in your records…”

Considering those records also list Izuku’s home address, which also happens to house, in increasing order of the threat they pose, a former child-burglar, an overprotective giant, and finally the man who just happened to murder Chronos’ grandmother, Izuku is suddenly very grateful for Aizawa’s professionalism.

“Erm… What’s going on?” Izuku asks as he tries (and fails) to ignore the dark looks he’s getting from Gran Torino.

“And why’s All Might here?” Eraserhead growls, and Izuku glances up just once, grateful as he observes how his teacher is eyeing the Symbol of Peace. Because whilst Aizawa’s first loyalty may always be Hitoshi, he is still incredibly protective of those he cares about, something Izuku experienced over the years both as a positive and negative. And if there was ever any doubt, that’s gone, because Izuku now knows that the man is fully prepared to take on even the Symbol of Peace or All For One himself.

Either of those scenarios would likely end with Aizawa's untimely demise, but - it's still a nice sentiment.

“You’ll find out just as soon as the meeting starts,” Shimura-Yagi assures him even as he not-so-subtly manoeuvres Izuku around so he can no longer see Gran Torino. “We’re just waiting for… Oh, here they are!”

The door opens again, and, to his surprise, Izuku finds himself staring at some rather familiar faces.

“Uraraka?! Tsuyu?! Kirishima?!” he frowns and then glances over his shoulder as he realizes that all of them have secured internships with heroes who also happen to be present. “…Chronos, what exactly do you need me for?...”

“All shall be revealed, kids,” Shimura-Yagi assures them. “Sir Nighteye already has his laptop fired up and ready to go, so how about we all take our seats? Midoriya, you’re with me.”

Izuku is thoroughly confused. This is not entirely unusual, though, and this looks like one of those situations where he'll get an explanation sooner if he just doesn't protest, so he allows himself be tugged along to a large conference table. He takes his seat next to Chronos and glances around, eyes widening as he realizes just how many heroes have gathered here. They range from small, local heroes to - well, the Symbol of Peace himself, whose massive frame positively dwarfs the elderly Gran Torino he's sitting next to.

It's harder, now, to guess why he's here. His classmates all have provisional licenses and internships, and so Shimura-Yagi must have sought him out for a reason, but - why? What could Izuku possibly have to offer when All Might is sitting right there?

Sir Nighteye begins the meeting by briefing them about an organization called Shie Hassaikai, and Izuku just feels even more confused. Because this sounds way, way too dangerous and complex a situation to involve a highschooler without a valid license. And - how is Chronos involved? After all, the Rescue Hero has always been honest about the fact he has little experience with organized crime, or even villains in general. Is he just involved by proxy, because of family connections? If so, if this is All Might's operation - surely he knows how awkward it would be, for Izuku to work with his father...

Then however the discussion moves on to weird Quirk-erasing bullets, and Izuku does have to hand it to the universe – somehow it has managed to find something even weirder than So my dad’s a retired supervillain.

He still doesn't have the slightest clue why he's here, though. He hopes it's not because they want to see whether the bullets would work on All For One.

…Then Fat Gum informs them all that the weird Quirk-erasing bullets contain human blood, and Izuku almost slams his face into the table.

Apparently the theme for this month is Mad Quirk Scientists.

Great. Wonderful. It's not like Izuku isn't already dealing with one insane doctor that likes to mess around with Quirks. At least this one doesn't seem to be curious about how many Quirks he can shove in a single body; no, this one is going for the exact opposite. And Izuku remembers the horror of those nomu so clearly, remembers the pain and misery that was their entire existence, but as he reaches into his body, as he brushes against the loving warmth of Attraction, he can't help but wonder...

...Which of those is truly worse?

"Ah, I believe it's my turn to speak," Chronos stands up, apparently unaffected by the revelations. Then again, Izuku ponders, eager for a distraction before his thoughts can spiral out of control, he probably heard all this earlier. Uncle Nighteye and all that. "See, I had a really interesting run-in with Overhaul, the leader of Shie Hassaikai not that long ago. More importantly, I also met his daughter. Her name is Eri and she is adorable. Also, she was absolutely terrified of Overhaul. Also also, she was barefoot, dressed in rags, and covered in bandages. Also also also, when we looked later, we realizes - she doesn't have a birth record anywhere. Do you want me to keep listing red flags or is that enough?"

And just like that, everything makes sense.

Izuku can suddenly see it all so clearly. There is a little girl out there somewhere, trapped in a dark lab where her very blood is harvested to turn into these strange bullets. A little girl, watched day and night by countless villains who do not wish to allow their prize experiment to escape. A little girl, who made it out, who was glimpsed by someone from outside Shie Hassaikai just once.

They'll be more cautious than ever. They'll tighten security, perhaps move her somewhere new - any rescue attempt would be fraught with difficulties, because Shie Hassaikai would not give her up without a fight. They'd probably move her at the first sign of trouble, and even if the heroes somehow reached her - if these villains are willing to use her in their experiments, what's to say they have any regard for her life whatsoever?...

"...That's why I'm here, isn't it?" he asks Shimura-Yagi, and tries not to flinch as suddenly everyone falls silent and turns to stare at him. But then he reminds himself that there's a little girl somewhere that can still be saved, that he can still save, and focuses on Chronos' smiling face. "You want me to use Summon to get her out."

And even as he thinks about this, he can feel anger slowly rising in his chest. Because how dare these, these... criminals? How dare they involve a literal child in their schemes? Izuku can hear a voice in the back of his mind, a voice that sounds suspiciously like his dad, ranting about devaluing the title of villain, and disregarding the high standards that he set.

...Izuku should probably not tell his dad about this.

"Exactly," Sir Nighteye stands up again. "Midoriya here is a student at U.A.. He possesses a Quirk that allows him to teleport individuals to his location; as such, he will be joining out mission for the express purpose of rescuing Eri. Chronos has agreed to supervise him; once Eri has been secured, he is our best bet at calming and reassuring her."

“Yeah, but – from the sounds of things, this leader sees her as the core part of his plan,” Rock Lock points out. “I doubt he’ll take her loss lying down.”

“And that is where the rest of us come in," Nighteye nods. "I would normally prefer to spend more time collecting evidence; however, now that we know about Eri, our priorities must shift accordingly. Our focus, first and foremost, must be on locating where they have hidden her. Once that has been done, Chronos and Midoriya will take up positions somewhere within... Summon's radius. At the same time, the rest of us will prepare to enter Shie Hassaikai's hideout. On our signal, Midoriya will teleport out, and we will rush into the base to arrest as many villains as we can, whilst also securing evidence. Now, if you look into the files you have been handed..."

***

“Hey, Chronos?”

All Might looks up from his phone. Then he glances around and surreptitiously takes two steps to the left so that, should Gran Torino look away from his conversation with Fat Gum, he won’t notice Tenko talking with young Midoriya.

After all, his mentor is rather... set in his ways. And All Might isn't entirely sure how they would explain his hostility to some of the gathered heroes.

“What is it, Ci… Midoriya?”

“My number,” the teenager holds out a scrap of paper with something scrawled on it. “And… When the operation starts, do you want me to ask Kurogiri to be on standby?”

Kurogiri, Kurogiri... Something about that name is familiar, though All Might can't quite place it...

“Why?”

“Well, Warp Gate is really weird…” Midoriya sighs theatrically. “Sometimes, it just ‘randomly’ opens up a Gate between a disaster zone and the nearest hospital. Especially when the Pussycats are working there. Dad thinks it’s psychological; so it’s entirely possible that, if Eri needed medical assistance, a Warp Gate might mysteriously appear…”

Toshinori can’t help but snort with barely contained laughter, and the two turn to stare at him.

“…Thanks, kid,” Tenko clears his throat. “Well, we should probably…”

“Actually, I was hoping to have a word with you, Midoriya,” All Might smiles and tries to appear unintimidating, something that would perhaps be easier if he was not over seven feet of solid muscle and known for ending fights with a single punch. And also hadn't behaved rather... badly when he first learnt of Midoriya's Quirk. “Perhaps somewhere a little private…”

“Not so fast, All Might,” Aizawa growls, appearing almost as if out of thin air, and Toshinori can’t quite stop from shivering at the malice in those tired eyes. “Remember our little chat?”

“…What little chat?” Midoriya asks, glancing between them.

“…Ah,” Toshinori manages a weak smile. Whilst Eraserhead’s dedication to his students is heartwarming, being the focus of the man’s ire is… rather terrifying. “I believe he is referring to the time he promised to scalp me, should I go within a hundred yards of you.”

“And, since you apparently haven’t lost your memory…”

“Very well,” Toshinori sighs. He supposes he earnt this treatment; and, if this is what it takes to speak with Midoriya - fine. “Tenko, do you perhaps want to go talk to your other…”

“Well I would, but Aizawa here looks three seconds away from strangling you,” his son shrugs. “And besides dad, no offense, but…”

“…But I have shown my judgement can become rather clouded when it comes to matters related to All For One?” Toshinori supplies. He can’t even be offended, not when it is the honest truth. "Very well, then. Midoriya, what I wished to speak to you about is... If you are uncomfortable about my inclusion on this team... I can leave."

In different circumstances, he would be rather amused by the shock evident on Tenko and Eraserhead's faces. As it is, it causes a rather uncomfortable tightness in his chest.

"What?!" Midoriya gasps, clearly surprised. "Why?!"

"This mission..." Toshinori manages a weak smile as he reaches over and ruffles his son's hair. "It means a lot to Tenko. And I... I would not wish to jeopardize its success."

"...But you're All Might," the teenager protests. "Wouldn't..."

"I am All Might, yes," Toshinori shrugs. "But even I have my limits. I cannot magically appear at Eri's side; I cannot pinpoint her location, would have to fight my way through to her... But you? You could have her out like that," he snaps his fingers. "This mission is not about the Symbol of Peace, not about One For All or All For One. This mission is about a little girl who needs to be rescued as quickly and safely as possible, and you - you have the Quirk that could make that happen. You are integral to this mission's success, and if you are at all uncomfortable about mine or Torino's presence, I completely understand."

Then he takes a deep breath and continues.

"And, furthermore... I believe I need to apologize. I know it probably doesn't count for much, not after the way I acted, but... I should have listened to Tenko. I had met both you and your father before, and come away from those meetings with positive impressions, and yet, when I found out about your Quirk... I disregarded those and instead fell into the trap of making assumptions about you based solely on your Quirk. And when my son tried to speak up, my son who so many made assumptions about simply because of his own Quirk... I did not listen. I do not expect forgiveness; I only wish you to know that, going forward..."

"Apology accepted."

Toshinori pauses and stares at the teenager, dumbfounded, as Midoriya reaches out his hand.

"That's not to say... I don't know if I forgive you, yet. And I don't trust you, but... I'm willing to give this a go," the boy shrugs. "I can understand, rationally, why you'd be suspicious of anything connected to All For One, but... It really hurt, cause when I was little... All I ever wanted was to be you. You were my hero, you... you helped get me through some of the hardest parts of my life..." Midoriya clears his throat. "But I'm not you. I can never be you, and... Over the years, I've realized - that's okay. Because it's me, Izuku Midoriya that can rescue Eri, and... Maybe it would be enough, for me to fight alongside All Might."

"...Thank you," Toshinori smiles, even as his stomach twists with guilt. This is the child he judged simply because of a Quirk. This young boy who once looked up to him, who wanted to be like him... He deserved better. And even after all that, Midoriya is willing to accept his apology, to set aside his grievances in light of a little girl than needs rescuing. Give it a few more years, and... Toshinori can already see the sort of hero the lad will grow into, and it only makes him more ashamed.

Clearly he has made a grave error.

Well, Toshinori decides, he has time to make amends.

“Hey!...” he hears Torino exclaim as they shake hands. “Toshinori!”

Chapter Text

“So, dad… Do you know anything about a group called Shie Hassaikai?...”

Slowly, Hisashi lowers his newspaper and eyes his son suspiciously. Izuku is casually playing with his breakfast, very carefully not watching him, and Hisashi’s many well-trained instincts are instantly on high alert.

“…Why?” he asks as he sets the newspaper aside.

There are two possibilities; the first is that Izuku heard the name somewhere in passing and is simply curious to find out more about the criminal underworld, particularly since he has such a reliable source of information at home.

The other is that Hisashi really needs to pay a certain yakuza group a visit sometime in the next few days.

“…No reason…”

Hisashi just picks up his mug and takes a sip of coffee as he stares at his son, unblinking.

One minute…

Two minutes…

Five minutes…

“Alright, fine,” Izuku huffs just as Hisashi’s eyes are starting to get dry. “So you know how Chronos recruited me for a mission? The thing is, Shie Hassaikai are apparently behind some weird Quirk-erasing bullets, only there’s this little girl they’ve got, and Chronos wants me to Summon her out when we go arrest them – but I won’t do any fighting, don’t worry! And I’m technically not supposed to tell anyone, but I figured you might have some insight, and – OH MY GOD, THEY’RE USING HER BODY FOR THEIR BULLETS and I’ve been trying not think about it for a week!”

Hisashi stares as his son buries his face in his hands. He takes a moment to parse the information Izuku has just dumped on him, and then another to process it. Then he stands up.

“…Izuku, I need to step out for a minute…”

“Dad, sit down,” Izuku groans. “You’re not murdering the whole of Shie Hassaikai.”

“…Just a small massacre?”

“Dad…”

“Fine,” Hisashi sighs as he sits back down and picks his mug up again, though it’s mostly to keep his hands busy. “…Even if they deserve it.”

Izuku opens his mouth, considers the matter for a moment, and then nods. “…Yeah, they probably do.”

For a moment they sit in silence, Izuku seemingly relieved to have finally let that out, and Hisashi contemplating the sad erosion of professional standards of the criminal underworld. Strange Quirk-erasing bullets. A prestigious organization such as Shie Hassaikai stooping so low as to utilize a literal child in their fiendish experiments. Honestly, it’s sounding more and more like the loss of All For One has negatively affected the entire criminal underbelly.

“My information is probably rather outdated,” Hisashi admits as he tries to remember anything about Shie Hassaikai. In his day, they were largely unproblematic; All For One’s visits to them were more a matter of routine than any need to curb any problematic aspirations. “It sounds like someone new has taken over. I knew the old head before retiring, and that guy was way too principled to have anything to do with Quirks. I can’t see him breaking Rule 6, and he definitely would never break Rule 17…”

“…I probably don’t want to know this, but what are Rules 6 and 17?” Izuku asks.

“Quirks are the primary domain of All For One and encroaching is a Very Bad Idea,” Hisashi recites good old Rule 6. Of course, over the decades there were several people that disregarded such sound advice, but that was the beauty of Rule 6 – it gave him such freedom to devise fitting punishments.

“…And the other?”

“Don’t hurt kids on purpose,” Hisashi shrugs. Of course, he understood that sometimes there were unfortunate casualties; really, if he went after every villain that accidentally brought down a building, half the criminal underworld would vanish overnight. But that did not mean he was willing to tolerate child abuse, or utilising children for experiments, no matter how that bastard doctor protested. “I even had a nice little system – take 17, multiply by the number of underage victims, and you’ll find how many pieces you’ll be in once All For One is through with you.”

“…You had an actual system for punishing villains that targeted kids?”

“Well of course, Izuku,” Hisashi nods. “People need to know their actions have consequences, even if they are fearsome villains. Just because they’re criminals does not mean they can act with impunity; their actions still reflect on the rest of us. Can't have lowlifes negatively impacting the perception of villains by the general public, not when there are those of us who work hard to maintain a high professional standard of villainy..."

“…That’s just the justification you made up because you didn’t want to admit you don’t like kids getting hurt, isn’t it,” Izuku smiles knowingly. “But, back to Shie Hassaikai… Does the name Chisaki ring any bells? Or Overhall?”

“Must be someone who joined after I retired. Or maybe they were really low down on the totem pole,” Hisashi admits. “Don’t forget, I was basically overseeing the whole of Japan; I could not concern myself with every low-level ruffian. Though it’s a shame; I liked old Kenji. He had principles. And enough smarts to know not to piss me off. And he always had excellent tea.”

“…I’m not even gonna ask.”

“I wonder what happened to him?” Hisashi muses, overcoming with a strange sense of nostalgia. It is odd; over his years as All For One, he was forced to numb himself to the inevitable loss, betrayal and change that he witnessed, unaffected as he was by concerns such as aging. His followers gradually grew old and died, replaced by fresh faces and new blood, leaving him alone.

All except for the doctor.

But now he can admit that perhaps not all change is bad. Because, for all that the passing of time robbed him of many of his most trusted followers, it also allowed him to watch his son grow and mature. It was change that brought his friends and family into his life.

It is still a shame to see the downfall of such an institution such as Shie Hassaikai, especially when…

Wait a minute…

“…Izuku, what do you mean about them using a little girl’s body for bullets?”

“Eerm…”

The doorbell rings.

“Well, I’d better get going,” Izuku scrambles to his feet. “People to save, murders to avert…”

“Izuku, sit back down and answer the question!”

“Good morning, Hisashi!” Nedzu’s voice calls out, a slight tremor in it. “…Is something wrong?”

“Dad, you need to get your bloodlust under control!” Izuku hisses as he clears his dishes.

“I’ll control my bloodlust once you tell me whether they’ve moved or not!” Hisashi exclaims. “Nedzu! Where are Shie Hassaikai based?!”

“Dad, we are literally rescuing Eri today,” Izuku groans. “And All Might’s involved – you don’t want to draw any attention to yourself now!”

“…Fine,” Hisashi wrestles his murderous urges until he is fairly certain passing pedestrians won’t be in danger of unexplained heart-attacks. “But if you run into any trouble, feel free to send this… Chisaki over. I’m more than willing to explain Rule 17 to him.”

“And what may Rule 17 be?” Nedzu asks as he appears in the doorway, his hands/paws still trembling slightly.

“Not happening, dad,” Izuku rolls his eyes, but nonetheless does not protest when Hisashi pulls him into a quick hug. After all, here his son is, embarking on his first hero mission; if he’d known in advance, Hisashi would have the camera ready. Maybe... Alright, Izuku probably doesn't have time right now, but - surely a quick photoshoot to celebrate a successful mission is not too much to ask... “Morning, principal Nedzu! Take care, dad! Oh – if you could keep him away from Shie Hassaikai, that would be great!”

“Oh?” Nedzu perks up, his interests clearly roused by this passing comment. “Whatever is your problem with Shie Hassaikai, Hisashi?”

“None of your business,” Hisashi grumbles, because this is one of those many ways heroes make things needlessly complicated. Thirty minutes is all it would take for All For One to solve the problem such insignificant vermin pose. “You know, the quality of villains has really gone down since my day…”

Half an hour later, the strangest group Hisashi has ever schemed with settles down in the living room. (Second strangest, he hastily corrects himself. His thirties were a… rather adventurous period, and considering his personal history that certainly says a lot.) Nedzu claims his preferred seat, well and truly recovered from his earlier scare; Tensei is in his wheelchair, munching on a biscuit, and Touya is just switching his phone to vibrate. Contrasting with their relaxed postures, Present Mic is perched on the very edge of the sofa, looking very much like he would prefer to be anywhere else.

“Alright, Hisashi,” Nedzu beams. “Now that we are all here, what can you tell us about Garaki?”

“Technically speaking, we’re one short,” Tensei winces at the though of Kuse. “…Hisashi got back in touch with one of his old followers.”

“…Should we be concerned?” Present Mic hisses at his classmate.

“As Hisashi has pointed out to me several times, said follower never committed any actual crimes,” Tensei answers with a long-suffering sigh. “His morals are shot, though. I have spent far more time than should be necessary explaining to two grown men that no, we are not breaking anyone out of Tartarus.”

“Fascinating,” Nedzu hums. “Just out of interest, Hisashi, how would you execute such an attack?...”

Present Mic makes a curious sound.

“I’ll admit, most of my plans related to Tartarus are out of date,” Hisashi shrugs. “I assume they’ve increased security in the past decade. And as for my… supporter, he texted me earlier to say he’ll be a bit late; he has a work meeting.”

He should see if he can get access to more modern plans though. This Chisaki will undoubtedly be sent there, and impressing on him the error of his ways is surely not villainous behaviour. In fact, Hisashi will be doing everyone a great service, because the government would undoubtedly be interested in learning about all the vulnerabilities that threaten the security of the supposedly escape-proof prison...

Although Izuku might not see it that way.

It appears that Tartarus will remain the most secure prison in Japan with only one escape in its history.

“Oh, how interesting,” Nedzu beams. “Who could it be… I assume someone influential, considering their lack of criminal record. A politician? A business leader?... Perhaps… Hm, perhaps another scientist?...”

“Trust me, you’ll never guess it,” Tensei huffs. “Besides, aren’t we supposed to be focused on the former minion that’s gone off the deep end?...”

“Garaki didn’t go off the deep end – he was always a complete psycho!”

Slowly, they all turn to stare at Kurogiri, who has perched on the end of the sofa, mug in hand.

“What?!” he asks, exasperated. “I have information to offer, too! I joined All For One, I attended meetings of the inner circle. I was also warned in no uncertain terms to stay the hell away from the doctor, unless All For One was there to act as a buffer!”

“…Ah, yes,” Hisashi clears his throat, feeling uncomfortable. “…Garaki was always very… dedicated to his research.”

“You mean he saw everyone as potential science experiments!”

“…Erm…” Present Mic clears his throat. “…What sort of research are we talking about?”

“I recruited the doctor because I was interested in his theories,” Hisashi sighs. “It was… good, to find someone else fascinated by Quirks. I provided him with the funds, the equipment – and yes, sometimes even the subjects for his research. Of course, Nedzu – you’ll be familiar with his published findings, but… You’re all also familiar with his less than legal results. Garaki is, after all, the creator of the original nomu.”

“…Oh, fuck."

“Hang on – what do you mean, original nomu?” Touya speaks up. “…What’s the difference? Is there a difference?”

“The difference is, those things we’ve encountered are… not right,” Hisashi frowns. He's been mulling over this the past couple of days, trying to piece together all the information gathered, aware that he will have to explain this to people who not only are unfamiliar with Garaki, but also the mechanics of All For One. “The original nomu were created using All For One. Somehow… Somehow, Garaki has managed to recreate some of his research and, using it, found a way to transfer Quirks… artificially. At least, that’s the only explanation I can think of…”

“…When you say recreate, Hisashi… What do you mean?”

“I mean I destroyed his original research,” Hisashi snaps. “It doesn’t matter.”

“Hang on a second,” Tensei frowns. “I thought you originally planned to return. Why would you do something like that?”

“I lost my temper,” Hisashi mutters, as he shakes his head, trying to push away the memories that have lingered at the back of his mind since Izuku confirmed it was Garaki. “That’s it. This isn’t going to help us find the League, so…”

“…Sir, Garaki was your most devoted follower,” Kurogiri says. “Why…”

And suddenly, the memories spring free. Suddenly, Hisashi is back there; he can almost smell the odd, unpleasant mix of chemicals that permeated the doctor's lab. He can almost see the faint glow of the various screens from the corner of his eye. And more than that, he can hear that rushing sound in his ears, feel that sense of confused betrayal that set in as he struggled to process the blasphemy the doctor had uttered.

“BECAUSE HE LIED TO ME!” Hisashi screams, desperate to get away from that nightmare. Away from the man he trusted, away from the man who did not understand him, away from the man who was willing to hurt Inko. “Because he said, if Inko died, he could bring her back!”

“Hisashi…” Nedzu gasps, horrified, and it hurts. It hurts that someone he considers a friend, considers close, would even for a moment entertain the though that he would do something like that to the love of his life.

“…Only it wouldn’t be her, would it?” Hisashi looks down at his wedding ring, unable to bear the doubt on their faces. Because they're wrong. He may have been a villain, may have done many things that were morally wrong, but - he loved her. Even in his darkest moments, even at his most desperate - he only tried so hard to find a cure because he loved her. He loved her, not because of her appearance, not because of her Quirk, but for a thousand different reasons that were really just one. He loved her because she was Inko.