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Series:
Part 6 of Diverging Paths
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Published:
2021-07-09
Updated:
2025-11-27
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26/?
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Diverging Paths Art and Extras

Summary:

This is basically the place to post any art or drabbles that can't fit in the original series.

These are cross-posted to the official Diverging Paths Tumblr.

Notes:

  • Inspired by [Restricted Work] by (Log in to access.)

Hi! I'll also post polls, art challenges, etc here as well, so keep an eye on the notes :D

(See the end of the work for more notes.)

Chapter 1: Crossover Dump #1

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Cover image for Diverging Paths: The image is divided into three sections. The section to the left is dedicated to Kitsune, and has a teal gradient background. Izuku is wearing his Kitsune costume and is in a superhero pose, his left leg bent out and his right leg bent underneath him. His left hand is on the ground, while his right hand is holding his bow staff. Another accurate read of this pose could be him playing Twister. The middle section is dedicated to Mercenary, and has an orange gradient background. Izuku is wearing his Yamikumo costume, and is walking forwards with his right leg in front, holding a sniper in his hands. The right section is dedicated to Dekiru, and he is sitting back with his right leg up and balancing a laptop on it. He is petting a calico cat, Sushi, who is leaning on his left leg.

Kitsune close up: The image is a close up on Kitsune from the cover image on a transparent background. Izuku is wearing a dark greenish-blue sleeveless hoodie with dark grey accents, dark grey drawstrings, and the hood up, with his green hair peeking out from under his hood. He is wearing a white and black Kitsune mask with teal glowing accents. He is wearing a dark grey Kevlar vest underneath the hoodie, and a light beige turtleneck shirt with elbow length sleeves and two dark blue stripes at the ends of the sleeves. He is wearing dark grey elbow braces with gold pins on the inside of his arms, silver bracers, dark grey fingerless gloves, and gold brass knuckles. He had two scars on his left arm, one scar on his left hand, one burn scar on his right pinky, three scars on his right arm, and one burn scar on his right arm. He is wearing a dark red belt with a silver buckle and matching dark red belt pouches over the hoodie. He is wearing dark blue cargo pants that go down to his knee over dark grey knee bracers and dark grey leggings. He is wearing dark red modified high tops with dark grey laces, dark grey soles, and a gold button on the inside of his shoes.

Yamikumo close up: The image is a close up of Yamikumo from the cover image on a transparent background. Izuku's green hair is dyed dark purple, he is wearing red eye contacts, his freckles aren't visible and has purple bags under his eyes. He is wearing a silver metallic mask and a black earring with a chain on his right earring. He is wearing a dark grey trench coat with dark red accents and silver buttons, and a red turtleneck shirt underneath it. He is wearing a black belt with a silver buckle and has two dark green straps across his chest. He is wearing dark green leggings which is ripped across the left knee. He is wearing dark green silver toed boots with red and silver accents and white gloves.

Dekiru close up: The image is a close up of Dekiru from the cover image on a transparent background. Izuku had a greenish-blue simplified bunny comm in his ear. He is wearing a light yellow tee shirt with two simply palms facing up and the slogan 'PUT UR HANDS UP.' He is wearing dark grey gym shorts with two dark red stripes on the side of the left leg. He is wearing white socks and dark red high tops with dark grey laces and soles. The laptop balancing on his leg is silver with a greenish blue DEKIRU sticker on it written in bubble letters and outlined in light greenish blue. Sushi is a calico cat, with a dark green collar and gold tag.

Originally posted on Tumblr May 15th, 2021

 

 

Kitsune smacking Yamikumo meme: The image is the meme of Batman smacking Robin redrawn to fit into the Diverging Paths verse. Kitsune verse Izuku is the one in the position of Batman, while Yamikumo is the one in the position of Robin. Izuku has bags under his green eyes and has many freckles on his cheeks, his long green curly hair pulled back into a low ponytail. He has black stud earrings, and his expression is angrily disappointed. He is wearing a red jacket with light beige stripes and zipper, and dark grey fingerless gloves. He has a scar on the inside of his right ring finger, a burn scar on the side of his right pinky, and a scar on the inside of his left index finger. Yamikumo has his characteristic dark purple dyed curly hair, dark grey trench coat with dark red accents, and white glove. The background is a solid soft red. 

Originally posted on Tumblr May 19th, 2021

 

 

Ask Box Open: The image features Dekiru in the center, with Kitsune behind him to the right and Yamikumo behind him to the left. Kitsune verse Izuku is wearing his traditional vigilante costume and leaning to the right, with his right hand splayed out and his left hand on Dekiru's shoulder. Yamikumo is wearing his traditional uniform, with thick black eyeliner and lashes, and is holding a knife in the right hand with the tips of his left fingers on the blade of the knife. In the center, Dekiru verse Izuku is facing forward, looking over at Kitsune while sweating. He is wearing a light blue t-shirt that said 'Dekiru' in japanese kanji and dark grey pants. The background is made of dark green and light cream splotches. The caption is "Ask Box Open: Ask us anything!"

Add On #1: The image is a picture of the three Izukus, all in their "civilian" forms. To the left is Mercenary verse Izuku, who has a soft smile and is holding a drink carrier with three drinks. He has bags under his eyes, many freckles, and a scar on his bottom lip. He is wearing a light beige long sleeved tee shirt with greyish brown accents, dark blue jeans, a dark greenish-blue apron with "Midoriya's Mews" and a pawprint embroidered in gold thread, and a dark grey artist glove on his left hand (all fingers cut off except for ring and pinky fingers). To the middle is Dekiru verse Izuku, who has an interested smile and is petting Sushi with his left hand while holding her with his right arm. He is wearing a purplish-pink tee that says "Bitch" and dark grey gym shorts with white drawstrings and a white stripe. To the right is Kitsune verse Izuku, who has an excited grin and has his left hand on Dekiru's shoulder while his right hand is pointing to the right. He has bags under his eyes, black stud earrings, a scar on the right side of his neck, a scar on the inside of his right ring finger, and a burn scar on the outside of his right pinky. He is wearing a red jacket with light beige accents, dark grey fingerless gloves, a white tee with the Chinese character for sun on it, and dark blue jeans. The background is a white and light brown mosaic that resembles a café wallpaper. 

Add on #2: The image is of the two Akatani Mikumo's leaning against each other. The Kitsune Izuku is on the left, with his curly long hair dyed dark purple and tied in a low ponytail, bags under his eyes, a scar on his neck, red eyes, and winged eyeliner. He is wearing a black mask with a silver teeth print, a dark grey leather jacket with dark red accents and silver studs around the sleeve, dark grey fingerless gloves, dark blue jeans, and a gold chain hanging around his waist. His left hand is raised and he is holding a human heart. The Mercenary Izuku is on the right, wearing his traditional Yamikumo outfit, without bags under his eyes (phased out of his design entirely) and winged eyeliner (phased into his design). His right hand is raised and he is holding a grey pistol with red accents. The background is a blurry texture of concrete with a blood splatter over it. The caption is "Canonically committed murder gang." 

Add on #3: This image is of the three Izukus, again in more "Civilian" outfits. To the left is Mercenary verse Izuku, who has a proud look on his face as his eyes are closed and his right leg is stepped up on a cardboard box, his left hand on his hip and his right hand on his right leg. The jeans on his right leg was rolled up to reveal a dark grey simple metal foot. The cardboard box is labelled with "It's actually the left foot :'(" To the middle is Dekiru verse Izuku, who is leaning over with wide eyes and jaw dropped as he admired the metal leg. His face is kind of cartoonish, his t-shirt was light grey but blank, and he was wearing dark grey gym shorts with a dark greenish-blue stripe on the outside of his right leg. To the right is Kitsune verse Izuku, who has a determined look on his face as his right leg is pulled up to his chest by his left arm and his right hand is holding a knife. His white tee is blank. The background is a gold checker pattern with black zoomed anime lines, and a speech bubble from out of frame that says "ZUKU NO!" 

Originally posted on Tumblr May 24th, 2021 (The ask box is still open! Anons are on! Send me something :D )

 

 

Kitsune and Pied Piper: The image is of the two vigilantes Kitsune and Pied Piper, with Kitsune swinging through the air and bringing along Pied Piper. Kitsune had his right arm held up with his grappling hook shot in the air, and his left arm is around Pied Piper's waist. His legs are spread apart like he's gonna do the splits. Pied Piper is glaring at whoever they're flying above, his left arm flipping the bird while his right arm held the pipe behind his head. The background is a blurred background of the sky from an underground highway, and the caption is "Kitsune and Pied Piper." 

Pied Piper and Yamikumo: The image is of the vigilante Pied Piper and the mercenary Yamikumo. On the left is Pied Piper, standing with a wide-ish stance and holding a bo staff in front of him. On the right is Yamikumo, standing with a wide-ish stance and holding a sniper in his hands. The wind is blowing to the right, the background is a blurred grayscale alleyway, and the caption is "Pied Piper and Yamikumo." 

Sketch #1: The image is a sketch of Pied Piper and Yamikumo, with Pied Piper facing the right in front and Yamikumo talking to him behind his arms. Pied Piper is colored light red and is holding a handgun, focusing on whatever he's going to shoot at. Yamikumo is colored light indigo, with his left hand in a fist on his hip and his right hand gesturing to the right. There's a little speech bubble that says "PIPER NO!!!" 

Sketch #2: The image is of Reo to the back and Eri to the front, with Reo leaning over with his hands on his knees and Eri is gesturing enthusiastically with her back to the camera. Reo has short hair in and undercut, a long sleeved dress shirt, and jeans, and is colored light yellow. Eri has long wavy hair, a sunhat, and a loose dress with a bow on the back, and is colored light red. The caption is "Reo and Eri." 

Sketch #3: The image is a sketch of Pied Piper Izuku and Kitsune and Yamikumo. Izuku is in the UA gym uniform, hands crossed over his chest and staring directly at the camera. A chibi sized Kitsune has little cartoony angel wings and a halo, leaning back with one leg up and one arm gesturing. A chibi sized Yamikumo has little cartoony devil wings and devil horns, standing back with one hand on his hip. Izuku is colored light green, Kitsune is colored light yellow, and Yamikumo is colored dark red. Demon Yamikumo says "Murder Bakugou. Shoot him in the skull." Angel Kitsune says "No, don't listen to him! Use a syringe!" 

Originally posted on Tumblr May 27th, 2021. Read Pied Piper here. 

 

 

Deku and Dekiru: The image is of canon Izuku and Dekiru verse Izuku. On the left is canon Izuku in his hero costume with his mask and hood down, with an excited grin, his hands in fists up excitedly. On the right is Dekiru verse Izuku wearing a light blue tee that says "SHIRT" and is wearing square glasses, and the bunny comm. He has a pencil tucked behind his left ear, a stack of papers tucked to his chest with his left arm, and his right arm gesturing to the distance, and he's excitedly talking. 

Deku and Kitsune: The image is a sketch of canon Izuku and Kitsune verse Izuku fist bumping each other. Canon Izuku is on the left in his hero costume with his mask and hood down, his left hand on his hip and right hand fist bumping Kitsune. Kitsune verse Izuku is on the right in his vigilante costume with his left hand fist bumping Deku and right hand holding his bo staff. 

Deku and Yamikumo: The image is of canon Izuku and mercenary verse Izuku, with mercenary Izuku holding canon Izuku to his side. Canon Izuku is on the left in his hero costume with his mask and hood down and his arms pinned to his side, visibly nervous. Mercenary Izuku is in his Yamikumo get up, with his left arm holding canon Izuku and right arm holding a dark grey handgun with dark red accents. 

Originally posted on Tumblr Jun 1st, 2021. 

 

 

Part One: The image is of Pied Piper, leaning on a pipe. His left eye is red and he has bags under his eyes. He's in his vigilante costume, the metal mask and hood down. He's wearing a dark and light grey hoodie, dark red gloves, dark grey elbow bracers with silver plates, and a dark red belt with belt pouches. He is speaking.

Part Two: The image is of Yamikumo, Kitsune and Dekiru. Yamikumo is in his mercenary getup, dyed hair and eye contacts and makeup, his metal mask around his neck. He is leaning on Kitsune's shoulder, his right arm draped over Kitsune's left shoulder and left hand holding a phone with a dark purple cover. He is talking while looking at something on his phone. Kitsune is in his vigilante costume, with the kitsune mask on top of his head and his hood down, left hand on his hip and right hand pointing upwards. He's excitedly speaking. Dekiru is looking to the other two Izukus, with round glasses, comms, a dark grey tee with a red stop sign on it, dark blue jeans, and a dark greenish blue scarf with a bunny that matches the comm. He looks very concerned as he is speaking.

Pied Piper: Is stabbing someone immoral? 

Yamikumo: Depends who you're stabbing. 

Kitsune: Not if they consent. 

Dekiru: Yes?!?!?

Originally posted on Tumblr Jun 6th, 2021

 

 

Part one: Canon Izuku is to the left in his hero costume, mask and hood down, speaking with left arm down and right arm across his chest on his left arm. Dekiru is standing to the right, with round glasses, the bunny comm and scarf, a light grey tee with the caption PLAN LGBT in front of a rainbow flag and dark grey gym shorts with a dark red stripe. Dekiru is looking down at the ground focused, with the left hand over his face with his thumb and index finger out and his right hand on his elbow. 

Part two: Dekiru is standing to the left speaking, with his left hand gesturing up and his right hand on his hip. Pied Piper is to the right behind him responding, in his vigilante costume with his mask and hood down and leaning on a pipe with his left arm. 

Part three: Dekiru is facing the right and on the left, left arm down and right hand on his hip, an annoyed expression on his face as he spoke. Pied Piper is to the right, clutching the pipe to his chest with a surprised expression on his face. Kitsune is in the middle in his vigilante getup, behind Pied Piper as he shoves him to the right. 

Part four: Yamikumo is to the left, in his mercenary get up but with his mask around his neck, facing forwards and speaking. His left hand has a cigarette between his index and middle fingers, and his right hand behind a sniper on his shoulders behind his neck. Canon Izuku is to the right, slinking to the right while looking nervously at Yamikumo, his left hand on his right arm. 

Dekiru: Time for plan G. 

Deku: Don't you mean plan B? 

Dekiru: No, we tried plan B a long time ago. I had to skip over plan C due to technical difficulties. 

Pied Piper: What about plan D? 

Dekiru: Plan D was that desperate disguise attempt half an hour ago. 

Kitsune: What about plan E? 

Dekiru: I'm hoping not to use it. Deku dies in plan E. 

Yamikumo: I like plan E. 

Originally posted to Tumblr Jun 13th, 2021

 

 

Part one: Dekiru verse Izuku is sitting down with a silver laptop on his lap labelled "DEKIRU" and is typing while speaking. He is wearing round glasses, a greenish blue tee that says "WISH I HAD A FORESIGHT QUIRK :(" and dark grey gym shorts with a dark red stripe. 

Part two: Mercenary verse Izuku is standing up, his arms in the air angrily as he rants. He has a cigarette in his left hand. 

Part three: Mercenary verse Izuku is hunched over, his hands in a robot position next to him, the cigarette still in his left hand. 

Part four: Mercenary Izuku is standing up again, with his right hand on his hip and his left hand holding the cigarette up near his head. 

Dekiru: Anyone remember the "selling their child on eBay" story? 

Yamikumo: Who sells their kid on eBay? That's crazy. 

Yamikumo: That's a child. A living being that you made. 

Yamikumo: That shit goes on Etsy. 

Originally posted on Tumblr Jun 17th, 2021

Chapter 2: Dekiru Dump #1

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Proto edit: Edit of Izuku Midoriya in the UA uniform without the blazer, he has square glasses without the top, he has a small smile. The background is transparent. 

Edit #1: Edit of Midoriya Izuku looking over his shoulder in concern, in the UA uniform without the blazer. He has bags under his eyes and round glasses. The background is transparent. 

Edit #2: Edit of Midoriya Izuku, facing forward with a concerned expression on his face. He has round glasses, bags under his eyes, a greenish blue bunny comm in his left ear, a dark greenish blue scarf with a matching bunny embroidered on the end, a dark grey zip up hoodie with a light beige zipper, and a light blue shirt that says "DON'T KNOW SHIT" with don't crossed out and a middle finger on it. The background is transparent. 

Edit #3: Edit of Midoriya Izuku mainly facing the back with a surprised expression on his face, wearing the UA uniform without the blazer and an ugly yellow backpack. He is wearing round glasses, bags under his eyes, and greenish blue bunny com in his ear. The background is a purple texture of the ground. 

Originally posted on Tumblr Jun 10th, 2021

 

 

Incorrect Quotes: A sketch of Hawks and Izuku. Hawks is standing up, his wings back and right arm holding Izuku's left arm while the left arm wraps a bandage around it. Hawks is wearing a stud in his ear, a dark grey tank top that says "BRUH," dark grey fingerless gloves, dark blue jeans, and his costume jacket tied around his waist. He has an unamused expression on his face. Izuku is sitting to the right, his left arm out while his right arm is down as he speaks. He has on round glasses, a red t-shirt that says "YELP" and five black stars underneath, and dark grey gym shorts with a white stripe. 

Hawks: How would you rate your pain? 

Izuku: Zero stars. Would NOT recommend. 

Originally posted on Tumblr Jun 13th, 2021

 

 

Cover Redraw: Izuku is front and center, right leg forward as his eyes are closed as he walks forward. His left leg is bent behind him and his arms are trailing behind him. His hair is whipping backwards, he is wearing a white tee that says "Shirt," dark blue cargo shorts with a dark grey belt and gold belt buckle, and red high tops. Hawks is flying above him in the top right corner, wearing his hero costume and eyes wide. He's eating something, and his front arm is clutching a KFC chicken bucket to his chest while the back hand is in the bucket. The background is a building with a couple littler buildings behind it, the light blue sky holding with fluffy clouds and the sun in the top left corner. The font resembles the font on the BNHA manga covers, the title is "Who's this Dekiru?" and the author is "80sGayTrashGoblin." 

Redraw of the first volume cover of the BNHA manga, originally posted to Tumblr Jun 23rd, 2021

Chapter 3: Kitsune Dump #1

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Chapter 3 Insert: Kitsune is in the center, hanging off of the side of a building from the brass knuckles on his left hand. His left leg is also braced on the side of the building, and the mask lights are on and glowing. The background is the blurred sides of a couple of buildings. 

Originally posted to Tumblr May 5th, 2021

 

 

Edit of Izuku Midoriya sitting and eating a bowl of rice. He is in his UA uniform without the blazer, and is looking over his shoulder with wide eyes while chewing some food. He has bags under his eyes, long hair in a low pony, a white long sleeved shirt under the uniform, and a scar along his neck as well as his front hand. Bakugou is visible in the background. The background is a yellow to white gradient. 

Edit of Midoriya Izuku from the UA entrance exam, running towards something with a determined expression in his eyes. He has bags under his eyes, long hair in a low ponytail, a black stud earring, and a red jacket zipped up with white accents and zipper. The background is a shot of the fake city in Ground Beta. 

Edit of Midoriya Izuku, who is now wearing the Kitsune costume, in a fighting stance. The lights of his mask are on and glowing. The background is a blurred shot of the hallways in the building that the Battle Trials took place in. 

Edit of Midoriya Izuku, who is in his Kitsune costume with the mask off and hood down, surprised at something and looking to the side. He has bags under his eyes, long hair in a low pony, and a black stud earrings. The background is a simplified shot of a window. 

An edit of Midoriya Izuku when he first meets Eri. His hair is dyed dark purple and his eyes are red, he is wearing the prototype outfit of "Akatani Mikumo." Eri is unchanged. The background is yellow with rays of white.

Edit of Midoriya Izuku, sitting on a couch looking concerned as he takes a phone call. He has long hair pulled into a low ponytail, bags under his eyes, a black stud earrings, a scar on his neck, dark grey fingerless gloves, and a burn scar on his right pinky. The background is a shot of the Midoriyas' apartment. 

An edit of Midoriya Izuku, who is looking concerned at who is presumed to be Eri. He has long hair pulled into a low pony, a black stud earring, and bags under his eyes. The background is a shot of the Midoriyas' apartment. 

An edit of Midoriya Izuku, who is eating a bowl of rice as he looks up. He has bags under his eyes, long hair in a low ponytail, a black stud earrings, a scar on his neck, and a couple scars on his hand. The background is a blurred shot of the ceiling of the UA dorms. 

Edit of Midoriya Izuku, who is standing and looking incredibly angry and uncomfortable. He has long hair pulled back into a low ponytail, bags under his eyes, a dark stud in his ear, and various scars on his arms. The background is transparent. 

Originally posted to Tumblr May 13th, 2021

 

 

"Hey Deku! Where did you get that cool mask of yours?"

Kitsune is speaking in front, his vigilante costume on except for the hood and the mask. He is holding the mask in his right hand, with the lights off. La Brava can be seen waving in the background. 

"I actually made the mask myself, with the help of La Brava."

Originally posted to Tumblr May 24th, 2021. Ask box still open!

 

 

Edit of Midoriya Izuku in the UA uniform, who looks incredibly uncomfortable. He has long hair pulled back into a low pony, bags under his eyes, and a scar on the side of his neck. The background is a dark greyish blue. 

An edit of Midoriya Izuku running, in his vigilante costume. The background is a dark bluish green gradient, and there are the anime danger lines around him. 

Edit of Midoriya Izuku, in his vigilante costume. He is facing away to the left, holding his right arm up to examine. The background is transparent. 

An edit of Eri in her red dress, looking up nervously while she holds onto her purse. Her hair is dyed green and she has a matching sunhat on. The background is transparent. 

Originally posted to Tumblr May 27th, 2021

 

 

An animated GIF of Midoriya Izuku in the UA uniform. His appearance is sketchy, he has long hair in a low ponytail, many freckles, bags under his eyes, and a black stud. He's mouthing the word "What?" 

Originally posted to Tumblr Jun 9th, 2021

 

 

Edit of Midoriya Izuku with a soft smile on his face, in his UA uniform without the blazer. He has bags under his eyes and long hair in a low ponytail. The background is transparent. 

Edit of Midoriya Izuku looking over his shoulder in concern, in the UA uniform without the blazer. He has bags under his eyes and long hair in a low ponytail. The background is transparent. 

An edit of Midoriya Izuku during the provisional license exam. He is in his vigilante costume, and the woman on his back is unchanged. The background is a shot of Todoroki creating an ice barrage. 

Edit of Midoriya Izuku in his vigilante costume, looking in concern. His eyes have bags under them, his hair is pulled into a low ponytail, his hood is down and his mask is off. The background is transparent. 

An edit of Midoriya Izuku in the UA uniform without the blazer and an ugly yellow backpack. He has long hair pulled into a low ponytail and bags under his eyes. The background is a purplish pink texture of the ground. 

Originally posted to Tumblr Jun 10th, 2021

 

 

Izuku is standing with his eyes closed, his hands over his heart as he says something. He is wearing a red and cream jacket, a white tee, dark blue jeans and dark grey fingerless gloves.

Bakugou is facing Midoriya, with his hands out in a 'bruh' motion as he says something angrily. He is wearing a dark grey tank top.

Izuku's eyes are now open, and his arms are now crossed on his chest.

Midoriya: You're the love of my life and my best friend, I would do anything for you. 

Bakugou: I want you to eat three meals a day and have a decent sleep schedule. 

Midoriya: Absolutely not. 

Originally posted to Tumblr Jun 14th, 2021

 

 

A redraw of the cover of the first volume of the BNHA manga. In the front and center is Izuku, who is running forwards with his left hand braced in front of him and his right hand holding a knife. He is wearing his usual clothes, with his white tee saying "Bad Idea, This is" and a print of Yoda's face. Behind him is a grinning All Might with his hands on his hips. Behind him is the sludge villain. The background is a blurry explosion. The title is "Kitsune, the Night Watcher" and the author is "80sGayTrashGoblin"

Redraw of the first cover of the BNHA manga, originally posted to Tumblr Jun 23rd, 2021

Chapter 4: Mercenary Dump #1

Notes:

I'm taking requests on my Tumblr for doodles based on this challenge, so send me something over there. Or you could comment here, include the word "marshmellow" in your comment if you do, because why not.

(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)

Chapter Text

Midoriya is standing and holding Eri in his arms. Midoriya has a kind smile on his face, a scar on his bottom lip and bags under his eyes. He is wearing a long sleeved cream shirt with brown accents, a greenish blue apron, and dark grey artist gloves. He is wearing dark blue jeans with rips in them, that reveal the burn and metal on his left leg, and he is wearing red and dark grey high tops. Eri's face is buried in Midoriya's neck, her hair is dyed green, and bandages cover her arms and legs. She is wearing a light blue hoodie with the sleeves rolled up, dark grey and red gym shorts, All Might socks, and a white and red baseball cap. The background is transparent. 

Originally posted to Tumblr May 31st, 2021

 

 

A GIF of Eri, who is swaying back and forth. Her hair is dyed green, she has faint scars on the inside of her back arm, and she is wearing a sunhat with a gold ribbon. She is wearing a puffy light blue and white dress with a gold ribbon around the waist, dark grey leggings, and unicorn slippers. The background is light green.

Originally posted to Tumblr Jun 1st, 2021

 

 

A GIF of Izuku in his Yamikumo uniform, running to the left, with his sniper bouncing on his back. The background is light grey.

Originally posted to Tumblr Jun 3rd, 2021

 

 

Detective Tsukauchi is standing with a disappointed expression as he speaks. He is wearing only a white dress shirt and a dark grey tie.

Yamikumo is leaning back, holding one sword in front of him with his left arm and holding the other sword behind his neck with his right hand.

Detective Tsukauchi: You know, not every problem can be solved with a sword. 

Yamikumo: That's why I carry two swords. 

Originally posted to Tumblr Jun 16th, 2021

 

 

A redraw of the first volume cover of the BNHA manga. Yamikumo is in the center, walking forward with his left hand holding the sniper slung across his back and the right holding a cigarette between his index and middle fingers. Overhaul is behind him, facing the back with a hand making a beckoning motion. The background is an alleyway with a blood splatter over it. The title is "The Mercenary and his Daughter" and the author is "80sGayTrashGoblin"

Redraw of the first cover of the BNHA manga, originally posted to Tumblr Jun 23rd, 2021

 

 

An image of an OC named Sushi. She is standing facing the front with a small smile, covered in light orange fur. She has darker patches around her eyes and the tip of her tail, and the nose and insides of her ears are pink. She has cat ears and a cat tail, and she has long curly orange hair. She has blue eyes, whiskers, and a piercing in her right eyebrow. She is wearing a long grey coat with rolled up sleeves, a dark purple top with a heart boob sleeve, and a matching short skirt. She has a silver belly button piercing in the form of a heart, and she is holding two green beer bottles. 

Sushi

Quirk: Cat

Bartender

Lady Nagant, leaning back on a rifle coming from her left arm while her right arm is on her hip. She has a scar over her left eye, a piercing in her bottom lip, and a green snake tattoo that runs up her right arm. She is wearing round black sunglasses, black fingerless gloves, silver pointed earrings, a grey trenchcoat with dark reddish pink accents, a dark reddish pink shirt with a pocket over the breast, a green belt with a silver buckle, a green strap going over her chest, dark grey pants, a silver chain attached to the belt, and dark green knee high boots. The background is transparent. 

Lady Nagant

Quirk: Rifle

Bouncer

Himiko Toga, bouncing up with her right leg tucked in with a manic grin and holding a knife in her right hand. She has a dark grey trenchcoat that is falling off her left shoulder, a loose cream sleeveless buttoned shirt, a dark green strap over her waist with a knife sheath, a dark blue pleated skirt, a dark blue bandana around her neck with a teeth pattern, dark green straps around her thighs, dark grey knee high socks, dark brown school shoes, and dark green fingerless gloves that go up to her elbow. The background is transparent. 

Himiko

Quirk: Transform

Spy

On top is a headshot of Dabi, with black stitches holding him together instead of scars, making a disgruntled face. On the bottom is a headshot of Yamikumo, his mask up but seemingly making a cheeky grin.

Dabi

Quirk: Cremation

Muscle

 

Yamikumo

Quirk: N/A

Boss

Originally posted to Tumblr Jul 7th, 2021

Chapter 5: Incorrect Quotes Dump #1

Notes:

Hey, if you enjoy these, you can fill out a short quiz for requests :D Fill it out here.

(yes, this is because no one sent me requests on Tumblr, pls give me validation)

(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)

Chapter Text

Hawks is sitting in front of a dark green couch, reading a book. The book is yellow, and the title is 'Teaching For.' He is wearing a dark grey tank top that says 'got milk?' in white lettering. Dekiru!Midoriya is standing behind the couch, only his head and hands visible, and he is speaking. The background is diagonal light blue and white striped wallpaper.

The same scene as the previous image, except this time Hawks is looking back at Midoriya and speaking.

Dekiru: I desire moisture.

Hawks: Can't you just say "I want water" like a normal person?

Originally posted on Tumblr Jul 17th, 2021

 

 

Kitsune is stumbling forwards, his left arm braced to the side out of frame and the right arm clutched to his stomach. His mask lights are on, and the background is a blurred wall of an alleyway.

To the left is Eraserhead in his hero costume, his yellow goggles on his eyes, he is speaking. He is pulling his capture scarf towards him with a criminal pulled towards him, and he is elbowing the face of the criminal tied up. The criminal is gender neutral, with a purple mohawk and shaved hair dyed light purple, wearing a dark purple tank top, a diamond chain earring in their ear. The background is the same alleyway.

Kitsune is now standing mostly upright, his left arm waved to the side and his right arm still on his stomach. He is shrugging, and there is blood on his costume around his right hand.

Kitsune: Fuck.

Eraserhead: We've got to work on your cursing.

Kitsune: Why? I'm pretty good at cursing already.

Originally posted to Tumblr Jul 18th, 2021

 

 

Aizawa Shouta is sitting on a green couch, with his left leg folded so that his ankle was on his right leg, and his arms about as he spoke. He was not in costume, instead in a long sleeved v-neck dark grey shirt, dark blue pants, and dark brown boots. The background is a lineless dark green couch in front of light blue and white arrowed striped wallpaper.

Mercenary!Izuku is standing, holding a light grey tray, and head tilted as he asked a question. He was wearing a light cream long sleeved t-shirt with brownish grey accents, dark grey artists gloves on both hands, and a bluish green apron with gold embroidery that says 'Midoriya's Mews' and a gold embroidered paw. The background is the same wallpaper as the first image.

Aizawa is leaning back, eyes wide open and jaw dropped. Yamada Hizashi is sitting next to him, also not in costume, leaning forwards with the same expression as his husband. He is wearing a pair of glasses, his blonde hair is in a half up half down bun, he is wearing an almost black jacket, orange tee, and his wedding ring around his neck.

Aizawa: Sometimes I drink milk straight out of the container.

Midoriya: The cow???

Aizawa: What?

Yamada: Green Bean, WHY???

Originally posted to Tumblr Jul 22nd, 2021

 

 

Yamikumo is leaning back, his hands in the air as he spoke, a sniper slung on his back and his metal mask around his neck. The background is transparent.

Dekiru is standing to the left, arms crossed over his chest and one eyebrow raised as he spoke. He is wearing his glasses, a dark turquoise scarf with a little bunny sewn on the end, a yellowish-brown tee with a dark brown question mark on it, and dark grey pants. The background is transparent.

Yamikumo is now in the bottom right corner as he monologues, one hand up and his eyes closed. The background is transparent.

Yamikumo is still in the corner, only is hand is down, his eyes are open, and his expression one of mild curiosity as he looked at Kitsune. Kitsune is hanging from the ceiling in the top left corner, like Spiderman. The background is transparent.

Yamikumo: Dandelions symbolize everything I want to be in life.

Dekiru: Fluffy and dead with a gust of wind?

Yamikumo: Unapologetic. Hard to kill. Feral, filled with sunlight, bright, beautiful in a way that conventional and controlling hate but cannot ever fully destroy. Stubborn. Happy. Bastardous. Friends with bees. Highly disapproving of lawns. Full of wishes that will be carried far after I die.

Kitsune: Edible.

Originally posted on Tumblr Jul 23rd, 2021

 

 

Hawks is standing out of costume, looking down towards the ground as he speaks, his wings flared behind him. He is wearing a dark grey tank top that says 'STUPID & PROUD' in white, a beige jacket tied around his waist, and dark blue jeaned shorts. The background is light blue and white diagonally striped wallpaper.

Dekiru!Izuku is laying on the floor face down, wearing a dark green tee and dark grey workout shorts with light yellow accents. The background is a dark brown grainy floor.

Midoriya is still laying on the floor, and it is revealed that Hawks is standing over him and looking down at him. Hawks is squatting down, both hands on his knees as he leans over while he speaks.

Hawks: What are we doing?

Dekiru: Wasting our lives.

Hawks: I meant for lunch.

Originally posted to Tumblr Jul 23rd, 2021

Chapter 6: Outfit Challenge Dump #1

Notes:

The original art challenge.

Also there's still an art challenge that I'm taking requests for, so feel free to send something in <3

(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)

Chapter Text

Yamikumo is kneeling down on his right knee, with his left knee up, and has both of his hands in the rock and roll gestures. His tongue is stuck out revealing that he has a silver tongue piercing, and he is wearing his customary eyeliner and chain ear piercing. He is wearing a black spiked choker, a dark greyish purple sweater, a light pink shirt, blue jeans, and dark red shoes with silver plates. The background is a brick background with broken glass overlaid and a glitchy overlay. The caption is "1A" and "Yamikumo." Dekiru is nervously standing with his hands behind his back. He is wearing a black sleeveless vest, black dress shoes, black ankle bracelets, light grey tee, dark greyish purple jeaned shorts that goes down his knee, light grey tights, and a dark blue bowtie. The background is a dark blue square with light purpleish blue stage lighting over it. The caption is "Dekiru" and "1B" Yamikumo is sitting with his left leg crossed over his right, his right arm to the side to hold him up while his left hand is flipped towards his face. He has his usual eyeliner on as well as dark pink lipstick, and has a smug grin on his face. He is wearing a lavender crop top, chunky neon yellow bracelets on his wrists, dark pink booty shoots, a blood red transparent shawl, dark grey flats, and black thigh high tights. He has several scars on him and freckles on his cheeks and his shoulders. The background is a patch of blackish green flowers over red on a paper texture, and the caption is "Yamikumo" and "1C" Kitsune is standing on his left foot, with his right foot tucked up behind him, and his arms held together in front of him. His hair is pulled into a low ponytail, he has a black stud earring, and his face was the :3 expression. He is wearing a dark blue and white dress with puffy sleeves and a green skirt, and bright yellow rain boots. The background is a set of colorful mushrooms and flowers on a brownish grey square. The caption is "Kitsune!Izuku 1D" Yamikumo is standing with his head turned to the side, left hand on his hip and right hand on his cheek. He is wearing dark purple lipstick, dark purple choker, a dark purple chunky bracelet on his right wrist, a purple sleeveless leotard with a VERY long v neck and puffy dark purple shorts, and dark purple thigh high combat boots. He has many scars and freckles on his shoulders. The background is a dark purple square with outlines of cobwebs and butterflies. The caption is "Yamikumo 2A" Dekiru is standing barefoot in a squat, looking down with bags under his eyes and holding two green coffee cups in his hands. He is wearing a loose dark red crop top hoodie, a light grey shirt, and dark grey leggings. The background is an abomination of a rainbow gradient, black streaks, and rainbow noise. The caption is "Dekiru" and "2B" Kitsune is standing in a T-pose, looking down on the ground with his eyes in the anime stars and his mouth not visible. He is wearing a bluish grey short sleeved jumpsuit with light blue accents and black earrings. The background is a TV glitching square and the caption "Kitsune!Izuku 2C" Mercenary verse Izuku is standing while holding a tray, with his right leg bent. He is wearing a light yellow puffy crop top, a light grey shirt, brown jeans with a dark brown belt, and dark brown heeled boots. The background is a white square with light pink, yellow and white roses on the border, and the caption is "Merc!Izuku 2D"

Originally posted to Tumblr Jul 24th, 2021

Chapter 7: Requests Dump #1

Notes:

You can still send requests here.

(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)

Chapter Text

Izuku is hunched over, his right arm clutching his bleeding torso while his left arm is pointed towards the camera. He is also bleeding profusely from the forehead, and his mask is ajar on his head. He is wearing his Kitsune costume, and he is colored in the carmalldansen palette. His expression is grim determination.

Originally posted to Tumblr Jul 26th, 2021. Thank you for the request crismins!

 

 

Izuku is standing with his right fist punching his left palm. His hands are covered in blood, he is bleeding from above his right eye, and he is bleeding from the mouth. His expression is reminiscent of Bakugou's. He is wearing a tee with a jacket tied around his waist. He is colored in the caramelldansen palette.

Originally posted to Tumblr Jul 27th, 2021. Thanks for the request Generic_Guy!

 

 

Yamikumo is standing, his left arm straight out holding a Glock, with the wind blowing his hair left. He has a manic grin on his face, and his metal mask is around his neck rather than on his face. He is bleeding out of his mouth, there are scrapes on his face, and he has one dark eye. He is colored in the fistfight with god palette.

Originally posted to Tumblr Jul 27th, 2021. Thank you for the request HiddenArrow!

 

 

It's a bust of Izuku, leaning back with a very concerned look on his face. He is wearing the civilian Kitsune outfit, and he is colored in the caramelldansen palette.

Originally posted to Tumblr Jul 28th, 2021. Thanks for the request Seal!

 

 

Dekiru is standing, leaning back with an offended expression on his face. He is wearing a dark jacket and a tshirt that says "bowtie". He is colored in the fistfight with god palette.

Originally posted to Tumblr Jul 29th, 2021. Thanks for the request Kumo-chan ☁!

 

 

Eri is standing, holding an apple in her hands. Despite the fact that she is wearing a sunhat, her horn is still visible. Her hair is pulled into a very long braid, and she is wearing a sleeveless dress tied back with a bow, wearing a long sleeved shirt underneath it. Her eyes are wide and she is sticking out her tongue with a smile. She is colored in the waves palette.

Originally posted to Tumblr Jul 30th, 2021. Thanks for the request Kumo-chan ☁!

 

 

To the left is Kitsune, leaning back with his hood down and making fingerguns with his hands. To the right is Nagisa Shiota, also making fingerguns, his eyes closed and smiling smugly. His hair is pulled up into pigtails, he is wearing a suit vest over a tie, and a rolled up button up. They are colored in the sounds of crying palette.

Originally posted to Tumblr Jul 31st, 2021. Thanks for the request Kumo-chan ☁!

Chapter 8: Sketch Dump

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Chapter 9: Happy Halloween!

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Chapter 10: Requests Closed!

Notes:

So, there's no new art today, but I have an idea! (I hope this doesn't backfire) I'm opening up requests! Make them here, and I'll put the finished piece up on Tumblr and in the contents of this chapter.

You can request both doodles and also to ask any character anything, I'll draw both (within reason). I reserve the right to deny any request or any asks that make me uncomfortable or that are spoilery (if they involve spoils I'll probably draw it after it's no longer spoilery).

Have fun everyone!

EDIT: As of 7/20/2023, I'm closing requests through this page. I might still take them if you do so through the Discord or through my Tumblr.

(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)

Chapter Text

Requests are open! All doodles will go below this line.

Kawaii540 asked: "Is mothman going to be part of the art?"

Kawaii540 asked: "Yamikumo what would you do if eri found out what you do?"

Kawaii540 asked: "What do you all think of each other?"

Kawaii540 requested "Can i request mothman and maiden art?"

Yukieiros asked: "So Dekiru now any myths or legends and if so who's you favorite mythical/Legendary hero?"

Dragonman0007 requested "Is the request bit still going? I know I said this in the other fic, but what about Mothman in a cat pajama onesie ? If you wanna add Koko and/or Eri, that'd be cool to see, but I don't want you to overwork yourself."

Shadows of Valenthia asked: “Say um kitsune what would you do if you found a way to stop your body from tearing it apart permeantly?”

Shadows of Valenthia asked: "*Shouts at top of lungs* Hey kitsune I got a regeneration quirk over here come and get it!!!"

Shadows of Valenthia asked: "So how is the regen quirk doing for ya Kitsune(This is assuming that the others let him have it obviously.) your body stop tearing itself apart?"

Stop enabling the reckless idiot.

Chapter 11: Concepts for Future Stories

Notes:

I had these concepts for future stories in my head and my brain refused to do anything else until I drew them and fleshed them out a little bit. Enjoy, I guess?

Spoilers for Who's this Dekiru? Also I apologize in advance for my shitty handwriting.

(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)

Chapter Text

Hero in Training: Dekiru (featuring Admiral Mickey)

  • The branch off is Chapter 8: Izuku asks if he can be a hero at the meeting and they support him.
  • He takes the heroics recommendation exam with the rest of his friends.
  • He still rejects OFA when All Might offers, and still suggest Hagakure.
  • Eraser teaches him parkour and stealth, Present Mic teaches him public relations, Nagant teaches him how to use a gun, Midnight teaches him how to use a whip, and the others teach general fighting and physical fitness.
  • Dekiru mainly uses a whip, with a gun for long range and a knife for short range.
  • He has the raccoon army working for him.
  • He still does his analysis job on the side.

Hero in Training: Bullseye

  • Immediately after the doctor's visit, Inko declared that Izuku is not actually quirkless, but his real quirk is analysis!
  • Mitsuki spent her college years in America, and she learned how to shoot a gun, so she taught Izuku.
  • Inko also knew martial arts and refined quirk control, so she primarily taught Katsuki.
  • Izuku and Katsuki grew up wanting to be the Wonder Duo, with Katsuki as the heavy hitter and Izuku as support.
  • Izuku doesn't know that he's actually quirkless.
  • He doesn't accept OFA, instead it's passed onto someone else (I don't know what).
  • Eventually, with AFO in the picture, he is going to learn the truth...
  • Also Inko and Mitsuki are retired vigilantes.

Tricksy Vigilante: Jester

  • His mom perished from a villain attack, and Hisashi is MIA, so he was sent into foster care.
  • He was adopted by a childless rich couple who adopted "the quirkless child" as a publicity stunt, so he was mainly raised by the staff.
  • His main caretaker was an older quirkless maid who loved old school magic tricks and supported him in his dream.
  • Knowing his adopted parents wouldn't care what he did as long as he was out of the way, he sunk his ridiculous allowance into a vigilante costume and tricks and weapons.
  • The people came up with the name Jester.
  • He has a mechanical rabbit companion named Usagi.

Vigilante Thief: Robin Hood

  • Inko is in the hospital for cancer treatment, so he gets a reality check early.
  • He and his merry men rob from the 1% and donates the rest to charity.
  • "Robin Hood" is Izuku, the leader.
  • "Little John" is Kirishima, the right hand man.
  • "Maid Marian" is Himiko, the researcher (aka stalker).
  • "Friar Tuck" is Yaomomo, who uses her money to help fund operations and cover up crimes.
  • "Will Scarlet" is Tokoyami, the backup.
  • "Much the Miller's Son" is Hatsume, who provides their gear.
  • "Alan-a-Dale" is Shinsou, their newest addition.
  • Most of them have lives outside heists, but Izuku and Himiko don't so they're the most active.

Yakuza Boss: Akatani Mikumo

  • Despite being quirkless, his father stuck around, accidentally giving Izuku some pyromaniac tendencies.
  • However his dad was a minor villain, meaning that one day there was an attack from a rival villain gang, and Izuku was the only survivor.
  • He took his chances on the street instead of foster care.
  • Years later, he saves a little girl, setting the man chasing her on fire.
  • He didn't know it, but the man he killed was Overhaul, boss of the Shie Hassakai, and in his will he specified that the person to kill him would become the next boss.
  • Mimic and Chronostasis seek him out, and that's how Izuku becomes a yakuza boss at age fourteen.
  • He overhauls the Shie Hassakai, expanding and recruiting several key players, and soon they have the entirety of Musutafu in their grasp.

Legacy Villain: Venom

  • After All Might crushes Izuku's dream, his faith in heroes is shattered altogether when he watches as the sludge villain kills Bakugou and the heroes do nothing.
  • Dismayed, he asks his mom what his options are.
  • Little did anyone know, Inko is the villain Jill the Ripper, and she is happy to take Izuku on as her apprentice.
  • Izuku's villain name is Venom, coming from the poisoned knives he uses.
  • Inko is friends with Mr. Compress, which is how they get pulled into the League in the first place (after Stain).
  • (Also no one comes to save Iida, so he does die.)
  • Izuku becomes Shigaraki's right hand man, encouraging a coup against AFO.

Chapter 12: Warm Ups and Extras

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Did a little experimenting for a warm up, and Dekiru was my muse.

Originally posted to Tumblr on Aug 19, 2022.

I described this outfit in chapter 26 of Mercenary (not out at the time of posting) and was compelled to draw it.

Originally posted to Tumblr on Aug 23, 2022.

I got a lot of questions about how Hagakure would use OFA, so I hoped this answered some of them! (Not all of them, for spoiler reasons, but feel free to ask more questions.)

Originally posted to Tumblr on Aug 26, 2022.

I drew Hagakure's hero costume with OFA, so I decided to draw Himiko's hero costume (with OFA).

Originally posted to Tumblr on Aug 27, 2022.

I went to the laundromat the other day (because going to the laundromat is cheaper than buying a washer and drawer), and was inspired to draw K!Izuku and Eri at the laundromat.

Originally posted to Tumblr on Aug 28, 2022.

Mothman: I am happy with myself! I have a positive mental attitude!

Dekiru: God, I wish that were me.

On a totally unrelated note, I've been rewatching Snapcube's Sonic fan dubs.

Originally posted to Tumblr on Aug 29, 2022.

Ever since I posted those Diverging Paths story concepts, I've been paying attention to which of them have been the most popular, so now you all can see them too.

Originally posted to Tumblr on Aug 31, 2022.

Chapter 13: Outfit Challenge! (❁´◡`❁)

Notes:

It's a classic Goblin Google Form, this time an interest check for a Discord. A couple of people have expressed interest, but I wanted to get a bit more input before I commit :p

This prompt has been sitting in my computer gathering dust for forever, so I decided to draw the boys! The original prompt is here for anyone who wants to use it themselves.

All of these have a vague background, but I'm not gonna tell you, you guys have to guess for yourselves >:D

(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)

Chapter Text

Notes:

Crossposted to Tumblr 9/21/22

Dekiru - Kitsune - Mercenary

Official Diverging Paths Tumblr - Art References

Chapter 14: Izuku's Hero Posters!

Notes:

On the art requests page a while back, someone asked if they could see the posters that Izuku drew in Mercenary. I put it off because at the time, I didn't think my art skills were up to chops, but I think I'm ready to draw them now!

Especially because I've been drawing for a job, but the style for that art and my own personal style has a very big disconnect, I've been trying to reconcile those two. So heads up: there's going to be a lot of experimentation with these posters. Enjoy.

(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)

Chapter Text

The Eraserhead poster from Chapter One!

Chapter 15: Doodle Dumps and Discord!!!

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Yes, I did give Hagakure Gurren Lagan sunglasses. Yes, I am a nerd. No, I have no regrets.

Originally posted to Tumblr on Sep 25, 2022.

The best team up idea I've ever had.

Originally posted to Tumblr on Sep 28, 2022.

First day of school for Himi and Hito!

Originally posted to Tumblr on Oct 2, 2022.

As previously established, the most popular story concept has been Rags to Riches, so here's some concept sketches fleshing those ideas out!

I didn't really have a sketch idea for the update, so I drew a meme instead.

Originally posted to Tumblr on Oct 5, 2022.

I was scrolling through my dash when there was none other than a Pied Piper sneak peak... so I decided to shitpost.

Originally posted to Tumblr on Oct 6, 2022.

I had a very vivid mental image in my head and had to get it out into the world.

Originally posted to Tumblr on Oct 9, 2022.

Finally, I am announcing the opening of the official Diverging Paths Discord! Come hang out with me :D

Chapter 16: Backlog from Discord

Notes:

Warning for arachnophobia. Sexy anthro spider lady, so if you don't like spiders, you might wanna skip this one.

(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)

Chapter Text

Experimenting with a Chibi art style, for reasons.

I wanted to draw Himiko and Hitoshi's hero costumes. And yes, Hitoshi's theme is a vampire hunter, because he thinks he's funny.

Originally posted to Tumblr on Oct 16th, 2022.

Welcome to your episode of Keeping up with the Todorokis.

Originally posted to Tumblr on Oct 19th, 2022.

My initial concept sketches for Noumu Inko (with a bonus Nagant for good measure).

The first official art of Suringu, to go along with the upload of Dekiru ch 29.

Originally posted to Tumblr on Oct 25th, 2022.

Just cleaned up an old sketch for the update.

Originally posted to Tumblr on Oct 26th, 2022.

As I'm fleshing out the story for Rags to Riches, here's the new upper crust for the Shie Hassakai.

Originally posted to Tumblr on Dec 19th, 2022.

A little sneak peak into something I'm working on... Very slowly...

Finally, here's a quick sketch I did of Midnight and the baby.

Notes:

If there's any requests you want to make, feel free to send them to Tumblr or the comments of ch 10 of this work :D

Dekiru - Kitsune - Mercenary

Official Diverging Paths Tumblr - Art References

Join the official Diverging Paths Discord!

Chapter 17: Concepts for Future Stories, the Second

Notes:

Spoilers for Kitsune

(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)

Chapter Text

Hero in Training: Kitsune

  • He was rescued from AFO's compound when he was 9, during a raid
  • All Might practically adopted him on the spot
  • Instead of wearing a mask he uses face paint/makeup because he's his true authentic self
  • Does not accept OFA
  • Still a feral little shit, just less depressed
  • He and Sir Nighteye hate each other: Nighteye because he could become another AFO, and Izuku because Nighteye is a dick to his dad
  • Izuku and Katsuki reunite sooner
  • Costume is more inspired by All Might

Time Traveling Vigilante: Deku

  • The heroes weren't winning the war, so the second OFA user finally decides to activate his quirk
  • So 18 year old quirkless Izuku is sent back in time
  • Instead of AFO helping Tenko that day, it's Izuku
  • While working at a shitty gas station to provide for himself and his new son, he's also a vigilante and works to take down AFO's empire
  • He actually rescues Oboro, getting the vigilante Deku three new fans
  • The taser-knuckle gloves are a creation of Izuku's
  • The scarf doesn't actually have a function, it just reminds him of his teacher...

Discord specials

  • Yes, Aizawa's hero costume is inspired by the vigilante, full circle BABY
  • Izuku is not only picking up Tenko but also other stray children

Humarise Cult Member: Merci

  • He was kidnapped by the cult at a young age, whisked to Otheon and the cult's headquarters
  • Despite being quirkless, he doesn't actually have any power within Humarise, just a figurehead for the group
  • He's worn the blindfold since he was kidnapped and 24/7, as such his eyesight is pretty nonexistant
  • With the help of Eddie Soul, he does manage to escape with a briefcase of evidence
  • He meets Rody, giving him the case and telling him to give it to someone he trusts, before he's captured again
  • But now that he's had a taste of freedom, he's already plotting his next escape...

Ghost Medium and Private Investigator

  • Nearly died while at Jigoku Onsens in Beppu
  • The burns fucked up his eye, and now he can see and talk to ghosts
  • In order for anyone else to hear the ghosts he has to use an ancient analog radio
  • His dad, the dead pro Salamander, just follows him around and is the Watson to Izuku's Sherlock
  • The coat was his dad's
  • Most of the underground heroes think of him as an annoying brat
  • The first thing he says to All Might is "Sir, are you aware you're haunted?"

Master Criminal, Ex-Juvie Deku

  • Early on, Izuku tried to report the bullying, but instead the police arrested him (ACAB)
  • They continued to extend his sentencing for BS reasons, so he resigned himself
  • Meanwhile the HPSC has realized that having their top heroes commit crimes is bad
  • They assemble a task force of kids in Juvie (because they think kids'll be easier to manipulate) and put Hawks and Nagant in charge
  • If any of them fuck up, they're threatened with going to Tartarus for life
  • The ankle bracelet is a tracker
  • Izuku is the mastermind of the group, consisting of Himiko, Mustard, La Brava and Rody
  • This is a shameless Leverage Au

Hero in Training, Reaper

  • Base concept: What if Izuku and Katsuki swapped personalities?
  • Izuku is still quirkless, constantly angry because his mother just wants him to stay in a little glass bubble, while Katsuki has decided his job is to be Izuku's guard dog
  • Izuku hates Katsuki's constant presence, he thinks the boy is looking down on him
  • Izuku knows a quirkless hero won't be popular, so he doubled down on being scary as shit to criminals, hence the grim reaper aesthetic
  • "The world hates me, why shouldn't I hate the world?"
  • It's only when he gets to UA that he finds friends who he doesn't feel are constantly looking down on him, and slowly realizing that his mom treating him like a fragile vase is a form of abuse

Discord special

  • The dragon bracers are flamethrowers

Chapter 18: Cute Girls in Cute Outfits

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Chapter 19: Expression Requests

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Chapter 20: Phase 2 of Diverging Paths poll...

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

The Final Vote Tally

Second Chance with 61 votes

Sir? Are you aware that you're haunted? with 60 votes

It's an Analysis Quirk, Right? with 58.5 votes

Magic, Quirk, or Illusions? with 42 votes

Robin Hood, Hero of the Poor, Menace of the Rich with 39.5 votes

The Family Trade with 37 votes

Deku, Mastermind of Villains with 32.5 votes

Who's this Dekiru and how did he become a hero? with 24 votes

Don't Fear the Reaper with 20.5 votes

Kitsune, Son of All Might with 20 votes

What's the Cost of Freedom? with 11 votes

Chapter 21: BIG Compilation

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Dekiru Doodles

Mercenary Doodles

Other Doodles

Chapter 22: Updated Yamikumo Inc Designs

Notes:

Spoilers for future chapters of the Mercenary and his Daughter

(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)

Chapter Text

Chapter 23: Brain Dump Drabble: Mercenary 1

Notes:

Crossposted from Tumblr.

A little idea I had while brainstorming for a Mercenary rewrite.

Chapter Text

Hawks wiped the trail of blood off of his cheek, watching as the kid in front of him sheathed the knife that had just cut his face. The same knife he had been expecting to go through his throat. 

"I understand where you're coming from." Yamikumo says, turning to face him. "That drive to save a child you've never met, who you don't have a face for, but you know is suffering. So I'll cut you a deal."

Sensing that the fight was over, Hawks relaxed his wings, returning his feathers to their place. "A deal?"

"You have two options. I can tell you the entire truth. Where the blood comes from. How the bullets were originally created. How they are created now. Where the girl came from and where she's currently living. The story that weaves all those questions together."

"What's the catch?"

"I'd have to kill you." Yamikumo laid his hand on the pistol on his hip. "For her safety."

He narrows his eyes, but the mercenary continues to speak. "Or, your other option is that I tell you nothing, and you get to live, with the knowledge that right now, the little girl you're looking to save has already been saved, and right now she is living a happy and healthy life."

"And I'd just have to take your word on that?"

"Yes. If I offered you any more than that, I'd have to kill you."

Hawks looks into Yamikumo's eyes. He's been profiling and tracking the mercenary for a year now, having lied his way into his inner circle (although now his suspicion that Yamikumo knew he was lying is all but confirmed). Despite how elusive it is to others, he has a moral code he follows with every fiber of his being. He can see when the kid is lying, and on a few very rare occasions, he can see when the kid is being genuinely, completely honest.

"Fine. I'll take your word for it."

Chapter 24: Brain Dump Drabble: Mothman 1

Notes:

Crossposted from Tumblr. This time I was brainstorming for a Mothman rewrite.

Chapter Text

Himiko keeps swinging, but her knife is effortlessly knocked away time and time again. The boy in the moth hoodie has a giant grin on his face, as if a life or death fight was a game to him, just pissing her off even more.

"Why are you defending that piece of scum?!" She snarls, continuing to try in vain to get a hit on him, but he's slippery. "He's a hotheaded piece of meat with his head up his own ass!"

"Yeah, he sucks-" That remarks gets a quiet angry noise from the hero bleeding out behind him, "But he should have the chance to do better! If you kill him, he can never change and do good things-"

"That's not how it fucking works!" Himiko grabs the other knife from her jacket when the first was knocked out of her hand. "People are fucking trash! And trash needs to be taken out!"

"Well that's not true-!"

"Shut up! Shut up! Shut up! Stop being stupid!"

A katana flies through the air, and the boy stumbles backwards. Her mentor drops down in front of her, picking up her discarded knife and holstering it.

"You have a noble spirit, kid," Stain says. "But you are standing in the way of a hero that needs to be purged."

"I know." The glowing red gaze never wavers, even in the presence of the Hero Killer. "I'm not gonna let you kill him."

"Master, please, let me-" Himiko is cut off when Stain raises an arm.

"These heroes you're defending, they have no reason to change, to do the right thing. The world is cruel and heartless, kid. The only way to fix it is to dispose of these false heroes."

"That's not true. The world isn't cruel and heartless, cause I'm in it!" The boy twirls the bat in his hand, raising it to point at them. "And I am choosing to be kind! And I believe that everyone else can choose to be kind too!"

In front of her, Stain sheathes his katana. "We're leaving, Himiko."

She stares at the boy for a bit, before sheathing her knife as well. As they left, she thought about what he said.

Choosing kindness? Ridiculous nonsense...

Chapter 25: Brain Dump Drabble: Mercenary 2

Notes:

Crossposted from Tumblr. Quote directly from my notes, "i might be adding a secret blood ritual to the akatani lore"

Might wanna skip this one if you're sensitive to needles.

Chapter Text

"Boss, what the fuck?"

Dabi was supposed to have a normal shift. This was supposed to be a normal meeting, just catching up on the agenda and telling his boss the info he gathered. 

So why is Yamikumo sitting on the bar, in his Incognito outfit, holding a syringe filled with something that looks like blood?

"Dabi! Come here, come here." He pats the bar next to him, helpfully pushing a stool out with his foot.

He grumbles the whole way over but sits down, used to his boss sitting on the bartop and making everyone else sit down so he was taller than them. "That better not be blood."

"Too bad it is!" He giggles at Dabi's groan. "Although, is there anything this color that you'd prefer to blood?"

"I- Alright you got me there."

"Well, have you noticed that the company has really grown closer? Like a family?"

"Don't tell me you're docking all our pays."

Yamikumo scoffs. "I would never! But seriously, think about it."

Dabi narrows his eyes. "Does this have to do with the fact that on all the licenses, you changed our last names to Akatani?"

"Maybe~" His boss drops the teasing smile and tone. "But look. The two of us, we've been together the longest. Two years. And I consider the others family too- Not Spinner, he's new- but you're my brother in everything but blood."

He straightens up at that. Mikumo has monologued before about how important family is to him, how his current goal is to avenge his father and return The Akatani to its rightful place in his hands, how the name's legacy and carrying it on is his life's purpose. To be considered a part of that- it warms a part of Dabi's heart that he thought was long dead.

And under the sarcasm and cynacism, he can admit that he feels the same. While he doesn't know where Mikumo fits into the dynamic (given that he just found out his boss is fifteen like two weeks ago), he feels like Himiko is his little sister, like Sushi and Nagant are his older sisters. It certainly isn't conventional, but they're family in everything but blood. 

"Yeah. Yeah, you're right."

He thinks it's the first time he's seen Mikumo genuinely smile. "So, I figured it was time to make it official."

"Wait- You legally changed all our names, how does it get more official than that?"

Mikumo lifts the syringe in his hands. "The Akatani bloodline operates differently from other family's. You aren't recognized as a part of the family unless you have the blood of an Akatani flowing through your veins. Whether you get the name from adoption, marrying in, or a name change, it doesn't matter unless you have the blood."

"Wouldn't that just lead to siblings marrying each other? And wouldn't that fuck up the genetics?"

Mikumo shook his head. "It's a part of the quirk of an Akatani from hundreds of years ago. The shared family genetics would remain unbroken, while the parents unique genetics would be combined to make the new child. This allows for anyone to join the family, a spouse, an adopted child, a comrade in battle, as long as they were injected with the blood of an Akatani."

Dabi's eyes drift to the syringe. "That's your blood."

"Correct! Should you choose to accept, you'll be the second living Akatani."

"Wait, second? Did you not inject your daughter first?"

"Well, while joining the family is the safest its ever been with modern medicine, there's always the risk of complications." Mikumo has the audacity to look sheepish. "And I've never seen my father or mother initiate someone and no one leaves written records so I'm going off what I remember being told to me several years ago."

Ouch. "So I'm your guinea pig."

"Don't worry, I have the hospital on speed dial. I would never let anything permanently harm you!"

"Just temporarily?"

"Just temporarily! So are you gonna say yes or..."

Fuck it. Dabi was already an Akatani in every other way. He might as well agree to the blood ritual.

"This is the shittiest cult ever," he mutters, sticking his arm out anyways. 

"Not a cult!" His boss giggles, picking his arm up and searching for a vein. "Although maybe I'll register Yamikumo Inc as a religion for the tax exemptions. We're apolitical here."

The needle goes into his arm and through the faux skin, which doesn't have nerve endings so he doesn't feel anything. Once Mikumo is done, he pulls the syringe out and puts an All Might band aid over the hole.

"Really?"

"Hey, be glad it isn't Endeavor or Hawks."

"If you put an Endeavor band aid on my arm I would beat your ass I swear-"

Dabi shivers, feeling a warmth go through his entire body. He can feel a strange tingling sensation in his arms and legs, like they're waking up from being asleep, and he can feel his heart beating in his stomach.

"It'll probably take a few days for your body to adjust and for the blood to get thoroughly mixed into your veins, so congrats on your vacation," Mikumo says, having discarded the syringe somewhere. "But blood takes 20 seconds to circulate throughout your body, so this should work..."

He takes off one of his gloves with his teeth, exposing a pale hand littered with scars. He holds it out, so Dabi takes it.

His eyes widen as underneath his skin, veins that were previously tough to see started glowing a light blue, from his fingers to his wrist. Mikumo's hand was doing the same, and as he lifts his hand out of Dabi's to move it up his forearm, the glowing patch of veins follows Mikumo's fingertips.

"We'll always be able to identify each other," Mikumo breaks the silence, pulling back to put his glove back on. "It's an effect that cannot be replicated by any quirk, not ones like Himiko's. And since its not a quirk itself, it can never be stolen."

"Wow." Dabi was genuinely speechless.

"The Akatani will also recognize you by blood. It only shows its true capabilities to an Akatani." Mikumo sighs wistfully. "Oh, to have the whole family back together again..."

Dabi flexes his fingers. The tingling has faded, leaving only the warm feeling. "So. I think I'm fine."

"Oh, yes, yes. I request you stay in the apartment for an hour before you officially leave for wherever you wish, just in case we do need to go to the hospital, but otherwise you're on vacation for the next few days. Paid, of course."

He stands up, preparing to head to the back. "Cool. I was planning on spending the next few days binging the rest of Community anyways."

Yamikumo waves him off. "I'll be in my office if you need me. Don't die."

Maybe Dabi doesn't mind the warm feeling in his chest, not when he can see that his boss is still smiling.

Chapter 26: Brain Dump Drabble: Crossover 1

Notes:

Crossposted from Tumblr.

Chapter Text

"So, uh, Mr. Tsukauchi?" Dekiru asks, holding his notebook up. "Do you think you can spare a few minutes? I wanted to test some theories regarding your quirk."

"Uh, sure." The Detective runs his hand through his hair, then puts his hat back on his head. "I'll be taking my lunch break soon anyways."

"Excellent!" Dekiru starts furiously writing. "Okay. Okay. Control first. Deku!"

"Right!" Deku, the Midoriya Izuku of this universe that they'd all fallen into, speaks up. "I am not Midoriya Izuku."

"That's a lie."

"Okay. I am Midoriya Izuku."

"That's true."

"Perfect, perfect," Dekiru is still scribbling away. "Okay. Mothman."

"Ooh, it's my turn! Um. I am Midoriya Izuku."

The Detective narrows his eyes, already suspicious. "False?"

"Fascinating," Dekiru mutters, "So while legally Mothman is Midoriya Izuku, and inhabits the physical body of Midoriya Izuku; because he doesn't personally identify as Midoriya Izuku it's a lie."

"How does that work?"

"I lost my memory when I was six." Mothman answers the Detective's question. "I only found out my real name is Midoriya Izuku yesterday when I showed up here."

"Okay..."

"Yeah yeah tragic backstory, it's my turn." Yamikumo takes a sip of something unidentifiable out of a mug. "I am not Midoriya Izuku."

"False."

"What the fuck?"

"I don't know why this confuses you guys so much." Yamikumo flippantly waves his other hand. "I am both Akatani Mikumo and Midoriya Izuku. It's not some sort of shitty split personality trope or whatever. They're both facets of me, but neither is the whole picture."

"But you said you like to keep them separate!"

"And I told you yesterday that I'm not being either. I'm just fucking around right now. Doing what feels right."

Dekiru groans. "This does not help."

"Let me try this then." Yamikumo clears his throat. When he speaks, his voice is noticeably deeper. "I am not Midoriya Izuku."

... "Why is that true?"

Dekiru throws his hands up. "How the fuck did you do that?!"

Yamikumo grins. "In order to be the ultimate actor, you must be able to shift into the mindset of the character. You must be able to convince yourself that you are someone else before you can convince others."

"This is why everyone hates theater kids," Dekiru grumbles, scribbling in his notebook again. "But that does add to my theory that it's not about subjective reality but whether the person believes it's reality."

Yamikumo nudges Kitsune with his boot. "You do it."

"You just want me to do it so you can make fun of me."

"No, it's because I'm studying all of you." Yamikumo reaches into his pocket and pulls out a single yen coin from his pocket. "Will you do it for a yen?"

Kitsune snatches it out of his hand. He stands up, shaking out his hair as he approaches where the rest of the Izukus are standing (although he keeps his distance from Tsukauchi). "I am Midoriya Izuku."

The Detective rubs his forehead, looking like he's fighting off a headache. "How the fuck did you do that?"

"Do what?"

"My quirk registered that as both a lie and a true statement."

...

"It WHAT-?!"

Notes:

The longest part of this was writing the descriptions.

Dekiru - Kitsune - Mercenary

Official Diverging Paths Tumblr - Art References

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