Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

It was a calm sunny day at U.A. High School. After everything that has happened in the last few months (The USJ, Hosu, Kamino, and most recently Overhaul), it was nice to settle back into normal school stuff.

Normal school stuff. As in a school-wide festival. And although it was mainly for the support and general studies classes, Izuku Midoriya was excited to participate. The class in full swing alongside him as they planned for their class event.

It really was a great idea on both Mina and Jiro’s part to do a dancing and singing performance. Izuku didn’t know what their class would’ve picked if it wasn’t for Iida’s suggestion on them doing something fun and stress relieving. Everybody on campus desperately needed the break.

Mina squealed. “Oh this is gonna be so much fun! I can’t wait until my friends from middle school see this!”

“Really?” Kirishima rubbed the back of his neck. A nervous reaction despite the small laugh he gave off. “I don’t really want my old buds seeing me out on a dance floor struttin’ my stuff. Pretty sure I’d give them all heart attacks. I’m not really cut out for dancing. It’s kinda embarrassing really.”

Ojiro raised a brow. “You’re on the planning committee, though. You won’t be on stage.”

“Yeah, and that’s the whole reason I’m working behind the scenes. I got two left feet, man. Badly.”

“But what if you went out there and danced anyway? It’d be pretty manly of you to face your fears.” Kaminari suggested grinning.

“No way! How dare you throw those words back at me!” The red-head exclaimed, appalled. But still remaining jovial. “Don’t disrespect my manliness!”

“But isn’t the point of dancing having fun?” Toru asked innocently. If her quirk wasn’t invisibility, the class would’ve probably noticed her head being tilted to the side in an inquisitive manner, as her doe-like eyes shinning like glittering sparkles often seen in anime tropes. Sadly, they instead had to rely on their imagination.

“Nothing’s fun about getting laughed at when you trip on-stage.” Sato replied, fully serious.

Iida huffed. His arm flying out in emphasis. “Regardless, we already have too many dancers as it is. Not to mention barely enough people working behind the scenes. With Kirishima’s strength it’d be much wiser to have him assist in planning and construction.”

Sero snorted. “You make it sound like we’re building a house.”

“No, but seriously guys.” Mina spoke up again, getting back on topic. “I can’t wait until our friends and family come see us on stage.”

Tsu nodded. “After everything that’s happened, it’ll be nice to see our parents.”

Uraraka blinked, giving a small frown. “I don’t know guys. With all the crazy attacks, would anybody be let into the festival?”

“I hope so. I was looking forward to my parents visiting me.” Yaoyorozu said, placing a hand on her cheek, a tad nervous.

“Not mine,” Jiro commented. “My dad can be a bit embarrassing sometimes.”

“Well in any case,” Sero piped up. “We all know that Todoroki’s dad won’t be able to come. Him being the new number one hero and all.”

“Dumbass!” Bakugo snarled. The hot-head had been mainly quiet for most of the free period, his position in the performance already set in stone. But class was class, and he’d be damned if someone took him off the drums. Forget about it being stupid, no one took him down from a position. No one. “The top ten list hasn’t even been published yet!”

“But he was the number two hero before.” Kaminari reasoned. “And with All Might out of the picture and the list not updated yet, that puts him at the tippy-top.”

“Either way, he won’t come.” Todoroki affirmed. “With all that’s happened he’ll be too busy working in All Might’s place.”

Izuku turned to duel quirk user. “How is your dad by the way?”

Endeavor was a very passionate and driven man, after all. He knew Todoroki had come to terms with the abuse he and his family suffered. But he also knew the reason behind it. The man wanted more than anything to surpass All Might, and now that achievement was taken away from him while the title was handed to him on a silver platter. An empty victory.

Todoroki shrugged. “Don’t know. But I’m sure he’s furious about how All Might is retiring.”

“I’ll bet, man.” Kirishima agreed. “Dude’s a legend. And to suddenly have him retire after all that; my folks were pretty upset too.”

“Whoa, really?” Jiro asked, a bit surprised. “I would’ve guessed he’d be like my dad. You know, going on and on about how hardcore he was.”

The red-head shook his head. “Nah, my folks are pretty plain.”

“How plain we talkin’?” Kaminari gauged.

Kirishima shrugged. “Both of my parents are office people. Only difference is that my dad’s a bit higher up in authority. Not by much, but still.”

“I feel ya, man. My dad works at an electric plant. Not a glamorous job, but it’s ideal for someone with a quirk like what my family’s got.”

Sero turned to one of the larger students. “What about you, Sato?”

“My pop works a gym. He’s a professional trainer. Though he mainly specializes in body-building.”

“Whoa, no wonder you got passed the entrance exams!” Kaminari exclaimed. “You must’ve had your dad train you.”

Sato smiled, a tad sheepish. “Yeah, but not by much. He just wrote down some tips and guidelines for me.”

“Still awesome!” Kirishima then put on his best begging pose. “Please have your dad teach me his manly ways!”

Sato sweat-dropped. “Uhh... why don’t you ask him when he comes to visit.”

“Yeah, I can totally see your dad goin’ nuts over all the exercise equipment we have here.” Sero grinned. “Though mine would totally feel out of his element.”

“What makes you say that?” Tsu questioned.

“My dad’s a writer. A novelist if we’re going into specifics. Guy almost never leaves his office. Mom always has to drag him out of the house to all those social gatherings and book signings.”

“Oh my gosh!” Toru squealed. “I totally have this image of your mom pulling your dad’s ear as she’s dragging him out!”

Kaminari laughed. “Oh man! That’s too much!”

Mina giggled. “My parents are like that too. Dad’s always making funny jokes to make us laugh. He’s never failed to brighten our day.”

“My parents are wine sellers.” Aoyama supplied. “Best in the country.”

Ochaco smiled. “Both of my parents are pretty far away. Before the dorms, I was kinda living on my own in order to get to school. They both run a construction company so they don’t make a lot. I don’t know if they’ll be able to come.” She then turned to Izuku, who seemed to be staring off, lost in thought. “What about you, Deku?”

Midoriya’s head snapped up. “What?”

“Are your parents coming to the festival?”

“W-Well, I don’t know if anybody outside the school could come. But if possible, I’m sure my mom would want to visit. Though she’d probably have to ask her boss.”

“Is she an office worker too?” Mineta asked.

The freckled boy nodded. “Something like that. She’s actually a lawyer. Though for a small community. After that incident at the mall and what happened at camp, she’s been pretty worried. I’d like her to come see that it’s all more good than bad here.”

Kaminari smirked. “A mama’s boy, huh?”

Izuku flushed.

Sero bonked the blonde over the head with his elbow. “Oh like we all haven’t been there.” He too then smirked. “Didn’t your mom call you her little Pikachu?”

The class erupted with laughter.

“Dude! You promised to never tell anyone that! What happens at sleepovers stays at sleepovers!”

“What are we, chicks?” Mineta scoffed, grinning. “It’s your own fault for suggesting your house for our study session in the first place.”

“I think it’s admirable for Midoriya to show such love for his mother. He’s a model son.” Iida complimented. “I’m sure she would be delighted to come see how you are faring here. And I’m also sure my own mother would love to meet her.”

Uraraka beamed. “Yeah, let’s have our parents meet each other!”

Izuku nodded, smiling back. “Yeah, I’ve told her about you guys. She’d love to finally meet you.”

“What about your dad?” Mineta asked. “What does he do?”

Izuku froze.

Sero blinked. “Yeah, you haven’t told us about him yet. Is he coming?”

“Umm... I-”

“You know, come to think of it,” Kaminari accidentally interrupted, scratching his head. “You haven’t mentioned your dad period.”

Iida held a hand to his chin in thought. “Does he work oversees or something?”

By now, the young greenette was looking completely dejected. His head hung low, staring at the notes he had taken in class. Though his mind was a million miles away.

Uraraka frowned. “...Deku?” She asked worriedly.

“How dumb can you losers get? ” Bakugo scoffed. “All the shitty nerd talks about is his mom and you ask about his fucking dad? That asshole left them years ago.”

“Kacchan!”

“Fucking coward dumped his mom and hightailed it out of there. Honestly, you shitty extras should’ve caught onto that by now.” Another scoff. “Some lame friends you are.”

Silence enveloped the room. Everyone staring at either Bakugo for his revelation, or at Midoriya for being the subject of it. All surprised at the implications.

Why didn’t they figure it out? In all the times they were at school, hanging out, and now with them living in the dorms, Midoriya (While still open in many cases) was often very scarce with talking about his life. Though he did often tell stories about his mother a lot. How good of a cook she was, and how her and Bakugo’s mom were good friends leading him and Kacchan to being raised together. But since the day they all each met Midoriya, he never once mentioned his father.

“...Deku?” Uraraka asked again. This time, her words carried more weight. “Is that true? Did your dad really leave?”

Immediately Deku sprung to life, arms flailing. “No! No, no, no, no! I mean, yeah. What Kacchan said is true. B-But it’s not as bad as he’s making it sound. Really!”

“Dude, your dad bailed on ya.” Kirishima spoke softly. Fully serious. “How is that not bad?”

“Yeah, man.” Kaminari nodded. “So not cool.”

“Well...” Midoriya tried to find the words. “I was still very little when he left. I hadn’t even turned four yet and it was already just me and Mom.”

They easily caught the hidden message beneath. ‘He didn’t even stick around to see what kind of quirk I’d get’.

“I was too young to really understand what had happened. I never knew my dad so I never thought much about it. All I know is that his quirk is breathing fire. I’ve asked Mom about him before but whenever I did she’d get so sad. Eventually, I just stopped asking. Because at that point I was old enough to realize that he’d left us. But I also never wanted Mom to get sad like that again so I never brought him up after that.” Midoriya then gave them a small smile. “So really, it’s ok. We pulled through with just the two of us so we’ll be fine.”

The room fell into silence once again. All wanting to say something, but didn’t know how to say it. But Tsuyu, always the level-headed one, stepped up.

“So, in other words, because your dad left when you were still really young, you never got to know him let alone form a close bond. So you didn’t get hurt as bad when he did leave.”

Midoriya nodded.

Tenya took a breath. “Well, I suppose it could be worse. But even so,” He began, before flailing his arms like Midoriya earlier. Though his movements were more precise. “I cannot condone the actions of such a terrible man for abandoning his wife and child, leaving them to fend for themselves! It’s a father’s duty to create a safe stability for the family while providing a form of guidance and identity for the child! And to support them even in times of struggle! The fact that Midoriya’s father did the exact opposite is despicable!”

“Yeah!” Kirishima cheered. “You tell ‘em Iida!”

“I’ll zap him ‘till he passes out!” Kaminari exclaimed.

“I’ll melt him with my acid!” Mina joined in.

Hagakura raised her sleeve. “This cinnamon-roll must be protected!”

“I’ll pound him into the ground!” Sato roared.

Sero grinned. “I’ll tape him to the top of Tokyo Tower!”

Shoji raised a brow at the tape hero. “That sounds pretty tame compared to the others.”

The teen’s toothy grin only widened. “...Upside down in his underwear.”

“Only if I get to use him as target practice.” Bakugo smirked, his hands sparking. “I’ll blast him off that tower and plummet him into hell.”

Tsuyu hummed. “Bakugo’s sure fired up. Do you want to protect Midoriya too?”

“Shut up! My mom’s been waitin’ years to burn his sorry ass! All I’ve ever heard is how shitty he was so I’m gonna return the favor by killing him!”

Aww... many of the girls cooed. He does care.

“Mind if I join you?” Todoroki asked politely. Not surprising. Midoriya had stood up to his father during the sports festival. It was only fair he’d return to favor. “I can freeze him and then burn him alive. The rapid change in temperature should make his arms break off.”

“Can it Icy-Hot!”

Izuku sat there, flabbergasted. Everyone, shouting about how they’re gonna turn his father’s insides outward and feed his intestines to the various blood-thirsty animals Koda vowed to sick on him. Sure it was nice that his friends cared enough to want to protect him, but things were getting out of of hand. He had to do something, fast.

“Whoa, hey, wait a minute!” Midoriya waved. “Isn’t this a bit excessive?”

“Indeed, are we not striving to be heroes? Pillars of justice?” All turned to Tokoyami. His level tone quickly drawing their attention. The bird had mostly kept to himself, much like Bakugo earlier. As one of the class’ many voices of reason, it only made sense he’d speak up now. “Honestly,” He scoffed. “You’re behaving like children. We don’t even know where Midoriya’s father is much less how to locate him. It would be senseless to go attacking blindly in search of him. We’re better than that.”

Izuku sighed in relief. His faith in his class restored. Finally?. “Thank you, Tokoya-”

“However if we were to somehow discover his whereabouts, I would use Dark Shadow to drive him into the very pits of darkness. Tearing away at his sanity.” He gestured to the black mass behind him.

Dark Shadow’s eyes gleamed as it laughed. “Just let me at him. I’ll tear him apart limb from limb.”

Izuku’s smile fell. Since when did his classmates become so vengeful?

“Leaving Deku and his mom is unforgivable!” Ochaco growled. Her eyes fired up with the darkest look. Much like before the sports festival. “I’ll hurl him all the way to Saturn!”

“Uraraka too?!” Midoriya cried out in alarm.

“Woo!” Mina cheered. “You go girl!”

Izuku moaned, his face now in his hands. “This is insane.”

“Before you kids start planning any murder schemes, you should finish your preparations for the school festival.”

The class, startled, all turned to the front. They knew that dead dreary voice all too well.

Aizawa continued to give his class a deadened stare. Standing by the chalkboard, leaving the class to wonder how they didn’t see him earlier (Though many could already guess, seeing a familiar yellow sleeping bag peeking out from behind the podium).

“And to answer your question; yes, your families will be able to come visit during the school festival. As well as the festival being open to the public. The school will just be increasing security. It’ll be much more thorough than during the sports festival.”

How much did he hear? The class had to wonder.

But their teacher wasn’t done. “However, in light of both the incidents and the school’s decision of moving you all into dorms, many of the parents are expressing concerns on wanting to know what’s happening. While no doubt you kids have been updating them on your phones, and the article featuring your class’ dorm life, seeing their child in person would be better.”

That was true. Due to the increased security, no one outside had any inkling as to what went on on school grounds. It was also due to the extra precaution that visitors were practically forbidden unless they had special clearance from the principal.

“That’s why, two days before the festival, the school will be holding a special open-house of sorts. Your parents and family members will be able to visit the school and attend class with you as normal class continues. This is the case for all the students, not just class 1-A. Think of it as like your own Parents Day.”

“Sweet!” Kirishima exclaimed. “I can’t wait to show them Red Gauntlet!”

“Your parents will all receive letters in the mail much like with the dorms. Each contains a slip for them to fill out detailing on who from the family will visit and how many will show. This is mandatory. Without filling out the proper information and sending it back to us, your parents will be unable to attend until during the festival. Be sure to tell them this. Do I make myself clear?”

“Yessir!” Rang the class in unison.

“Good. Now with that out of the way, Present Mic can start English class.” And almost as if on cue, the classroom door opened to reveal the blonde.

“YO, WAZZUP, YOUNG LISTENERS! HOW’RE Y’ALL DOIN’ TODAY!”

He was met with silence.

Aizawa not even bating an eye, grabbed some papers and his sleeping bag. “If anybody needs me, I’ll be in the teachers lounge... sleeping.”

And just like that, once Aizawa was out the door, Hizashi set his own papers onto the small podium and English class began.

Izuku was always one to pay close attention, his determination to become a pro hero driving him to taking excessive notes in class. But today, his mind was elsewhere. Still thinking about what his class talked about just moments ago.

His father. Just like he’d told his classmates, Izuku never new anything about the man. The only reason he even knew about his dad’s quirk was because he’d begged his mom to tell him. With him still waiting to see what quirk he’d get, he wanted to know what quirks his parents both had.

Why did his dad even leave? Was it because his son turned out quirkless?

No. If it were that then Izuku would’ve at least gotten to know the man. Maybe it was something else.

These questions continued to plague Izuku’s thoughts. His mind running through all possible scenarios as to way his father decided to up and leave.

Maybe he should ask his mom about this. He knew the subject always upset her, but he had a right to know. Sure he could always call her, but this wasn’t really meant to be discussed over the phone.

Besides, it had been a while since he had seen her. No doubt she was worried. It’d be nice to see her again.

But it wasn’t like he could just waltz off school grounds. He’d probably have to ask All Might for permission. Maybe he could ask him if he could deliver the slip in person. Or at least tell her about it himself face to face. That way he’d take care of the slip, assure his mom, and be able to ask the questions he needed to.

Mind made up, Izuku quickly delved back into his intense note taking, making a mental one to see his mentor after school.

That just left getting through the rest of the day.

Chapter Text

Aizawa blinked his dry tired eyes. The underground hero letting out a huge sigh as he did so. He could feel the problem child next to him shuffle his feet in nervous tension.

He closed his eyes again in irritation. That itch in his cornea just wasn’t going away. And the suit was testing his last nerve. He honestly thought he wouldn’t be wearing this again, let alone anytime soon.

Why was he even here again?

“Mr. Aizawa?” The man turned to look as his student. “You didn’t have to dress up for this. You could’ve just come in your hero costume. My mom wouldn’t have minded.”

Oh right. Him.

---

All Might blinked. “You want me to go with you to visit your mother?”

Young Midoriya clasped his hands together, head bowed. “Please All Might! I know we can request permission slips to leave school grounds on our own. But I know the school wouldn’t allow a place so far away without a teacher’s supervision!”

The retired hero sighed. Placing the papers he was grading back down onto his desk. “Well, yes that’s true. But whatever do you need to see your mother for? The letter for the school events is being sent by mail and she’ll be here herself in a couple of days for both the open-house and the festival.”

This was indeed an odd thing to ask, especially in Midoriya’s case. Aizawa continued to keep a watchful eye on the conversation from his desk, having his own papers to grade.

After class had wrapped up for the day, most of the teachers had returned to the lounge to finish up on any paperwork they could squeeze in before the day ended. This was of course an ideal time for students to come and ask any questions they may have on anything.

It had barely been a month since Midoriya’s last visit asking All Might to introduce him to Nighteye, and already the problem child was at it again.

Present Mic, who was standing behind Aizawa at this point nursing a cup of coffee, leaned down to whisper. “That kid’s always in here about somethin’, huh.”

Midnight giggled. “And it’s always with All Might too. I wonder if something’s going on between the two of them.”

Aizawa leveled a stare at the both of them. “Don’t you two have your own papers to grade?”

“This is way more interesting than a bunch of silly papers. There’s no way I’m missing this.”

Why was this woman even a teacher?

The erasure hero merely sighed. “Well you do realize that they can hear you, right?”

Sure enough when looking over, Midoriya was flushed pure red, finding the floor absolutely fascinating. While All Might gave them all a deadpanned look.

Nemuri just waved her hand in response. “Please, if the boy wanted privacy he could’ve asked in private.”

All Might sighed, resigned to their new audience. He turned back to the greenette. “Young Midoriya, why do you want to see your mother so suddenly?”

Izuku slowly looked up, his eyes barely peeking beneath his green curls. “I... I just need to talk to her about something. After everything that’s happened, I know she’s been worried. And with that latest thing with Overhaul, I feel like it’d be better if I talked with her in person.”

“If it’s about that, why not just wait until the festival?”

“I can’t! This isn’t...” Midoriya searched to find the right words. “This isn’t something I can talk about with her out in the open. It... it’s a family matter.”

Aizawa heaved a sigh. He had a feeling he knew what this was about.

“In that case, I’ll take you.”

“Huh?” Izuku blinked. Both him and All Might turned to the dreary man.

“I’ll ask the principal to take you to see your mother tomorrow.” Aizawa specified. “It’ll have to be after class but we should have enough time in the afternoon. Course you’ll have to work around that time for any homework or extra training.”

All Might looked on in confusion. It wasn’t like him to offer something like this. “Are you sure, Aizawa? I can take young Midoriya. It’s no problem.”

“As your favorite just said, the school doesn’t allow students to leave the premises without permission. If the destination is long distance, such as an work study, the student needs to have a staff chaperone.”

All Might twitched. His attention towards young Midoriya wasn’t that obvious... was it? “Right, and I’m-”

“Retired.” Aizawa amended. “If you go, we’ll just have to send another hero. It’ll be easier to just send one. Besides, I didn’t get to meet his mother last time. This will be a good opportunity.”

---

Right, that’s what happened. He should’ve kept his mouth shut.

“Mr. Aizawa?”

“Hm?” He looked down at his student. Oh right. “This is my first time meeting your mother. As her son’s home room teacher, I need to make a good impression. She’s placed you in our school’s care after all.”

“Oh.” He... wasn’t expecting that. He never pictured Mr. Aizawa cleaning himself up like this for simple meeting. It was kind of surreal.

“But know this,” He then aimed the deadliest glare he could manage. A intimidating aura of irritation coming off of him in droves. “I expect you to make up for this in class. Understood?”

“Y-Yessir!”

“Good.” He then looked back over the complex. “Now which door is hers?”

“Oh, it’s upstairs.”

Izuku lead the way as they climbed up the stairs to his mother’s apartment. Once they both reached it he rang the door bell.

He peeked at his teacher from the corner of his eye. Feeling the need to thank Mr. Aizawa for going through all of this for him. The man always seemed like someone who didn’t want to bother with anything unnecessary. So for him to come out of no where and offer to take Izuku to see his mother. It was once in a blue moon. He idly wondered if Mr. Aizawa knew this was about his dad after hearing him in class yesterday. Did he even know about that at all?

“Stop staring at me. It’s creepy.”

Izuku flinched. When did he-?

Midoriya felt like slapping himself. Right, pro hero. He forgot. Quickly moving to turn his gaze back to the door.

And perfect timing. The door cracked open to show his mother peeking through.

“Izuku?” She addressed, surprised. The door immediately slammed back shut before a few loud noises followed. No doubt his mother unlocking the deadbolt.

The door swung open again, now fully wide to allow them entry. She gave her son a big hug.

“Oh Izuku, my baby! I saw you on the news the other day! I was so worried for you!” She moved back, leaving her hands on his shoulders. “But you beat that villain, all by yourself. I’m so proud of you!” She came in for another hug.

“It wasn’t just me, Mom.” Izuku laughed. “Some of my classmates were there along with lots of other pro heroes. It was thanks to all their hard work that I managed to beat him.” He then turned to smile at his teacher. “Like Mr. Aizawa. He was there too.”

Inko turned to the man, taking in his appearance. “Oh, of course. Thank you for protecting my son.”

Aizawa just nodded. “All I did was make sure he didn’t do anything reckless.” A habit his student no doubt picked up from a certain hero. “Your son did excellent work.”

Inko nodded, still trying to place the man’s face. Izuku quickly took notice of his mother’s confusion.

“Mr. Aizawa is my home room teacher. He’s also the underground erasure hero, Eraserhead.”

“Oh! Yes! Sorry Mr. Eraserhead. I knew you looked familiar and I remember seeing you at the press conference for the summer camp incident. Forgive me, I didn’t mean to stare.”

“It’s fine, I keep out of the press for a reason.”

“Right, I understand.” She then gestured inside. “Why don’t you both come in. I can make some tea. Izuku, would you show him to the table.”

Izuku nodded, following his mother inside.

“Pardon the intrusion.” Aizawa spoke, slipping off his shoes like Midoriya and stepping inside, the door now shut behind him. After putting on a pair of slippers, he followed his student to the table and sat down.

Izuku sat across from him while Inko finished making the tea. She poured three cups and set them all on the table before taking her seat next to her son.

“Mr. Eraserhead,” She began.

The teacher put up a hand. “Just Aizawa’s fine. I’m off-duty at the moment.”

“Right, of course.” Inko corrected herself. “Is everything all right, Mr. Aizawa? Did something happen? Is Izuku in any trouble?”

Aizawa shook his head. “No, nothing like that. I actually came to discuss a letter you may have gotten in the mail. Sent from the school?”

“Oh, that.” The woman quickly got up and went back over to the counter where she placed the mail. Grabbing the letter, she set it down on the table before sitting back down herself. “I just got it this morning. I hadn’t had a chance to open it, though.”

“The school is planning a cultural festival. Much like any other school except it’s mainly for general studies and support group classes. Though Midoriya’s class will also be participating.” Aizawa explained. “But in light of the recent actions from the League of Villains, the school is taking extra precaution in opening the festival to the public. It’s taken careful consideration by the school before deciding to open the festival, though we will be employing both the school staff and other heroes to act as security. The letter is a form for you to fill out so that when you visit the school, you’ll be granted access that the average visitor can’t get. In other words, not only will your son be able to show you his classroom, but he’ll be able to show you the dorms and other areas restricted to the public. Though there will be some places off limits completely.” He eyed his student.

Izuku began to sweat nervously. Why was his teacher looking at him like that?

“There’s also an additional notice detailing in an open-house we’re holding two days before the festival for the students’ families. You’ll be able to follow your son as he attends class and training throughout the day. Naturally our lessons will be slightly adjusted that day so you can participate in the activities. Lunch will also be provided for the parents.”

Inko cupped her cheek. “Me on the field? That sounds a little dangerous for the parents.”

Izuku couldn’t help but agree. Unlike him, his mother had zero hero training. And they would probably not be the only ones. Not everyone in his class had heroes in their families like Iida and Todoroki. That sounded like a recipe for disaster.

“I assure you ma’am that the training sessions were completely changed to allow the parents’ participation. And even for the ones that weren’t we have an area where the parents can view everything from a screen room. You aren’t required to participate if you don’t want to.”

His mother hummed in thought. So Izuku decided to pitch in.

“It’ll probably be something like a rescue drill. Or maybe bank-robbing scenarios.”

She nodded, now getting it. So she’d act as a pretend civilian.

“I will admit, with all the times my Izuku has gotten himself hurt. After all danger the school’s faced, I’ve been worried for him. I know that’s an occupational hazard for a hero, but for Izuku to encounter those things so soon?”

Aizawa chose to remain silent. Deciding to let Inko talk.

“...But then I heard about all his friends and the wonderful people he’s met since he started school there. Izuku never really made any friends throughout elementary and middle school. All he ever had was Katsuki.”

Her son gave another slight twitch. It was small enough for his mother not to notice, but to a pro hero...

Aizawa knew she was referring to Bakugo. But from what he’s seen of the hot-tempered student, it was clear that what they had complicated, to put it mildly. He didn’t know the full story, but whatever it was, it was clear that his mother wasn’t in the know.

The woman then turned to her son.

“So when you came home from your first day at U.A. to tell me that not only had you made one friend, but two? I was so happy for you. And since then I’d hear all these stories about how much fun you had with your classmates and what you guys did that day.” She turned back to Aizawa. “The only thing Izuku used to go on and on about was heroes. But now, his friends and teachers are all he ever talks about. And when he moved into the dorms, he would go on and on about how they’ve arranged study sessions and movie nights and how they’d all sit in front of the TV and play video games on the weekends.” Inko smiled warmly. “So I think going to the open-house is a splendid idea. I want to meet all of Izuku’s friends and their parents and thank all the teachers for taking care of my precious baby.”

“Mom!” Her son lightly moaned, his face completely red. Maybe his students were right. Mama’s boy indeed.

“We’ll be happy to have you.” Aizawa assured. “Even though you’re not a student, I have no doubt you’ll be able to take something away from this experience.”

“I’m sure I will.”

Izuku sighed in relief. The last time he was here, it took a lot of convincing to get her on board for the dorms. It wasn’t until All Might bowed with his head on the ground that she finally understood. So needless to say, he was relieved to hear that she was already onboard.

“Alright, is there anything else?” Inko inquired. “Considering everything I doubt that’s the only thing you wish to talk about. You wouldn’t have come all the way out here otherwise.”

Ah, perceptive woman. Aizawa noted. He glanced at his student. So that’s where he gets it from.

“Yes, for me that is anyway.” The man answered. Both Midoriyas perked at this. “There weren’t any plans for the teachers to meet the parents again. The only reason we’re here is because the problem child here needed to talk with you.”

“Problem child?” Inko echoed.

Izuku immediately sprung into action, waving his arms wildly. “Ahh! It’s nothing Mom! Mr. Aizawa’s just messing with me, it doesn’t mean anything, really!”

Said teacher stood up. “I’ll go ahead and step outside. Thank you for your hospitality. I look forward to seeing you again at the open-house.” And with those parting words, he left.

As the front door finally closed, an awkward silence fell over them. Izuku broke into a nervous sweat.

What should he say? His mother seemed so happy to see him in person again and about the open-house. And here he is about to ruin it with questions about his father, something that always made his mom sad when brought up.

“Izuku?”

No answer.

“Izuku, what did he mean by you wanting to talk to me?”

The boy gazed up at her through his bangs.

“I, I had asked Mr. Aizawa to take me here because I needed to talk with you.”

“...Why didn’t you just wait until I came to see you at school?” She then quickly backtracked. “Not that I don’t like you visiting me. I was so happy to see you and hug you again.” She gave another hug, squeezing her son in reassurance.

Izuku finally took a breath. “I wanted to ask about Dad.”

The silence that immediately followed was suffocating. His mother’s eyes widening only reaffirming this. The only sound being Izuku’s rapidly beating heart and his pumping blood. And the absolute whirlwind of thoughts dashing through his head.

Did he overstep his bounds? Did he cross a line? Did he break some sacred pact between mother and son and completely tarnished their relationship?!

Oh this was bad, very bad. He had to fix this. Be more specific. Maybe if he explained his reasoning.

Izuku quickly set his mouth to work.

“It’sjustthateveryoneinclasswastalkingabouttheirparentsandtheirdadsandwhentheyaskedmeIhadtotellthemthatIdidn’tknowanythingandtheyallgotsupermadabouthimleavingandIknowyougetupseteverytimeImentionhimbecausehereallyhurtyouwhenheleftandIknowitmusthavebeenhardbutIdon’tknowanythingabouthimsoasyoursondon’tIdeservetoknowI’msixteenafterallIcanhandleit-”

“Izuku.”

“ImeanIknowitmusthurttotalkabouthimafterheleftyoutoraisemealone-”

“Izuku.” His mother tried again, more sternly.

“ButI’myoursonandyoushouldn’tbearthisaloneIdeservetoknowthesethingsbecauseIdon’tevenknowwhyDadevenleft-”

“Izuku!”

Her son flinched. Red tinged his cheeks. Whoops, there he went again.

Inko gave him a sad smile, placing a hand on his shoulder. “I’m sorry. You’re right. You deserve to know.”

Really, just like that? After all these years, she was finally going to tell him? No, this is too soon! Too sudden! He wasn’t ready for this!

The boy rapidly shook his head. “No, it’s ok! You don’t have to tell me if you don’t want to!”

“No, Izuku. I should’ve told you this a long time ago. Maybe then... maybe then you wouldn’t have been as upset about not having a quirk.”

He blinked. What did him being quirkless have to do with anything?

Inko took a deep breath. “I thought about telling you. But you were just a baby back then. And when your father,” She winced. “...Hisashi, left us. He gave me an ultimatum. ‘It’s me or the baby’, he said. I made my choice, and he left.”

Izuku processed this, his mind picking apart the word association. “He... didn’t want me?”

Her eyes widened. “No! Oh, no Izuku.” She hugged her child, in hopes of reassuring him. “No, we both wanted a baby. We wanted to raise a family more than anything.”

“...Is it because I turned out quirkless?” He tried again.

She shook her head. “No, we didn’t even know what quirk you would get, let alone none at all.”

Okay, now he was really confused. “Then, why did he leave? I don’t understand.”

“Because,” Inko sighed. “Hisashi was never your father.”

Chapter Text

“Because,” Inko sighed. “Hisashi was never your father.”

The world stood still.

. . .

“...What?”

His mother clarified. “Hisashi, the man I married, isn’t your biological father.”

“You...” Izuku grasped for words. “...cheated?”

“No! Of course not-!” Inko quickly calmed herself. The last thing she needed was to get upset. She couldn’t exactly explain things very well if she was balling her eyes out. Breathing deeply, she started again. “I haven't ever cheated on my husband. I would never do that, to you or Hisashi.”

Izuku blinked. This wasn’t making any sense. “But you just said that I’m not related to Dad. So how...?”

His mom hesitated. Trying to find the right words. Eventually, she settled on a question. “Have you ever heard of a sperm bank?”

“Sperm bank?” He parroted, flushed. “Like, a guy stores his... in a bank?”

Inko nodded. “It’s not unheard of. There are many men and women who want children, yet are unable to conceive. It could be anything from having some kind of disease preventing it or just simply being infertile. Your father was one of those people.”

Her son nodded, prompting her to continue.

“When we decided to have a baby, we originally tried to have one ourselves. But no matter how many times we tried, I never got pregnant. It wasn’t until we each got a check up did we find out that your father was infertile. So we went to the bank to purchase a sample and have it inserted so that I could give birth to you. It was Hisashi’s idea. He really wanted to build a family with me.”

“If he wanted a family so badly, why did he leave?”

She sighed. “I don’t know. When I was still pregnant with you, he was fine. He was as happy as any new father could be. But when you were born, he... changed. He started distancing himself, becoming angrier. He wouldn’t help at all when it came to taking care of you and whenever I gave you attention he would start yelling. I think... I think he was jealous of the fact that you weren’t his kid biologically, yet you were mine. And since I was giving you more attention than him, it only added fuel to the fire.”

Izuku’s head lowered, his eyes downcast. “So it was my fault he left you.”

“No. It’s not your fault.” She hugged her son again. “Hisashi was a lonely man looking for companionship. I won’t say too much on the matter, but he had a rough life. So when he met me, he decided to step up and become a better man, a family man. Someone who would shower his child with all the love in the world. But when he saw you, someone who was my son, but not his, he felt like you were stealing that companionship he held with me from him.”

“Oh.” Izuku mumbled. Still felt like his fault.

“I’m not saying what Hisashi did was right, but I think I finally understand what was going on in his head when he decided to leave. He’s been hurt a lot over the years. And seeing my love for you made him jealous from the lack of it with his own mother.”

Izuku stayed quiet.

“I’m sorry I never told you. Part of the reason was because I was worried you’d blame yourself. What Hisashi did was his choice.”

“It’s ok, I’m glad you told me.” Izuku assured. He then paused. “Wait, what was the other reason?”

Inko sucked in a breath. She looked at her son before gazing off into the direction of her room. Making up her mind, she stood up. “Wait here.”

Izuku waited patiently in the chair, his mind reeling. So, not what he had expected. He honestly thought his dad had cheated or something. Or that his dad was some shady villain who got arrested. The young hero shook his head. Maybe he been reading too many of Kaminari’s super hero comics.

His mother walked back out into the kitchen. Once again sitting down, she handed over a large envelope. “When your father and I applied for the sample, we had to fill out the necessary paperwork. These are the files detailing the sample we used. There was only the one, so you were the only child born from it. I saved them thinking you might one day ask me about them.”

He nodded, gingerly slipping the papers out of the packet. Flipping through a few, he skimmed the pages.

Sperm Sample #674574898573
Donor Name: Yagi, Toshinori
Age: 38
Blood Type: A
Gender: Male
Hair Color: Blonde
Eye Color: Blue
Quirk: Quirkless

. . .

Quirkless, he read. Quirkless. His father was quirkless.

Oh... that’s what she meant.

“He was... quirkless.” Izuku mumbled, never taking his eyes off the file.

Inko nodded. “Even back then, times were hard. This sample was the most we could afford. We didn’t even know what the odds of you getting a quirk were. But even so, we wouldn’t change it for the world. We didn’t care that you might end up quirkless.”

She placed a hand on his shoulder, signaling him to look up at her. Both their eyes started to shimmer. Tears beginning to form.

“We loved you. I love you. Quirk or no quirk.”

That did it. The dam broke, both mother and son sobbing as the two hugged it out. They remained like that for the next few minutes. Their hearts bleeding out for each other.

Izuku wiped his eyes with his shirt, his mother doing the same with her sleeve. A few sniffles later and the two were able to form coherent sentences again.

“Thanks.” He said smiling. “I needed that.”

“Anytime.” She then glanced down at the files. “In any case, it was certainly surprising to hear you had manifested a quirk before starting high school. It probably came from your father’s heritage. Because there was never a strength quirk in my family. I’m guessing it was a grandparent or some other distant relative and it probably skipped a generation.”

Sure, let’s go with that. His biological father’s mysterious past doing the work for him in protecting One For All’s secret. He looked down at them as well. “...Is it alright if I take these?”

Inko nodded. “Of course, Izuku. I have no use for them anymore. They’re yours now. Just don’t loose them, alright?”

Izuku nodded before taking a glance at the entrance. “Mr. Aizawa’s probably been standing out there for a while.”

“Yes, best we not keep him waiting.”

The two quickly cleaned their faces of tears before walking up to the door. Once he had his shoes on, Izuku opened the door, revealing the hero on the other side.

He looked over his student. “Ready to go?”

Izuku nodded. He turned back to his mom. “Guess I’ll see you at open-house.”

Inko nodded, beaming. “I’ll definitely be there. It was nice to meet you, Mr. Aizawa. You two take care.”

“You as well.” The man returned the sentiment. “Let’s go Midoriya.”

As Aizawa turned to start his trek down the stairs to car, Izuku gave one last look to his mom.

“Bye, love you.”

“I love you too, Sweetie. See you soon.” She then closed the door and locked it, leaving Izuku to catch up to his teacher.

He rushed down the stairs and walked up to the hero as he opened the car door. Though it was when he reached him that Aizawa paused and turned to face him. He then held out his hand. Izuku looked down.

It was a packet of tissues.

He looked up at his teacher, confused.

Aizawa’s expression remained unchanged. “I figured you’d need it.” The rest was left unsaid.

Taking the packet, Izuku couldn’t help it. He laughed.

---

...Maybe he shouldn’t have brought the files with him after all.

By now, both Midoriya and Aizawa had arrived back at school. And the young hero decided to head up straight to his room to get some studying in before dinner. But no, instead Izuku spent the past hour pouring over the documents like the little creeper he was.

How many times had he read everything? He lost count.

His fingers traced the donor’s name.

“Yagi Toshinori.” His mouth tried out the name. “Toshinori.”

It sounded so noble, heroic. But also so normal, so plain. It was a very common name. The surname as well. It honestly sounded perfect for what seemed as an average quirkless man. A perfect name for his biological father.

He’d read every word and letter in these files. And yet he still knew nothing about this man. Hisashi might’ve left them, and he had come to terms with it. But there was still another father of his out there that he knew next to nothing about.

He wanted to know this man. What made him his father? How did he take after him? Where did the man grow up? How big was his family? What was his history? Izuku wanted to get answers to all those questions.

But... was that even a good a idea?

This man donated his spermatozoa to a sperm bank. Surely that meant that the man had no intention of starting a family of his own. He probably needed money and didn’t even care about Izuku.

A series of knocking interrupted his thoughts. “Deku? Are you in there?”

Izuku jumped. Uraraka! What’s she doing here?!

“Uhh... yeah! C-Come in!” Came his hasty response. He quickly yanked open a drawer and stuffed the papers inside. By the time he managed to slam it shut, the door opened.

“Hey,” The gravity girl greeted. “I just wanted you to know that dinner’s all set up downstairs.”

“Oh, sure thanks. I’ll be right down.”

“Right...” She made a move to leave, but paused. “Um... about yesterday, we didn’t... make you uncomfortable or anything talking about your dad, did we?”

Deku did a double take. “What? No! Of course not! What gave you that idea?!”

“It’s just... you were so quiet today. Yesterday too. And we didn’t even see you after class ended. And when you came back you just went up to your room. So everyone’s kind of worried.”

“Oh.” Ok, so maybe in his haste for answers he went a bit overboard. He needed to start paying more attention to stuff like that. “Sorry, I guess I forgot to tell you. I went to see my mom today. I had asked the teachers if I could go and Mr. Aizawa drove me over there.”

Uraraka blinked. “Why didn’t you just wait? You said she was coming to the open-house right?”

“Well yeah, but when you guys asked about my dad, it made me realize that I knew next to nothing about him. I knew I’d be digging up old wounds but I felt as though I should at least know why he left. So I went to visit to ask her.”

“Oh, I suppose that’s not the kind of thing you can talk about in public.” Ochako nodded. Fully understanding. “Did you get what you wanted?”

For a moment, Izuku glanced at the drawer hiding the documents he stashed. But he shook his head and smiled.

“...Yeah, kind of.”

The brunette nodded happily. Her smile so bright, she could blind kittens. “Good, I’m glad! Well, I don’t know about you, but I’m starving! So what are we waiting for?”

“Right!” Izuku then proceeded to follow his classmate down to the common space.

The rest of the evening consisted of eating Sero’s delicious cooking, Bakugo’s loud yelling over the regular chatter, and Todoroki slurping noodles. Izuku, calmly eating next to what the class had dubbed ‘The Deku Squad’, watched as he listened to Iida and Uraraka fill him in on what he’d missed on his impromptu trip.

The greenette smiled. This was nice. Maybe he was overthinking about this whole dad thing. He was perfectly content with just his mom and they’ve been just fine over the years. And Izuku had made so many friends already.

His family was right here.

There was no need for him to stress about his mystery father. His brain was just taking in the new information, that’s all. This will all blow over in no time. He had everything he needed right here. This was perfect.

“Stop stealing my fucking food, Dunce Face!”

Yep, just perfect.

---

This was not going away.

Izuku moaned in despair as he slammed his head into the desk. It had only been a day since the talk with his mom and his mind was still spiraling out of control.

“Midoriya? Is there something you’d like to share with the rest of the class?” Ectoplasm inquired. “Perhaps you know the answer to this equation.”

His fuzzy green head quickly sprung up. “Uhh... no Sensei. Sorry Mr. Ectoplasm.”

“I can understand mathematics being dull enough to put one to sleep.” The hero commented, gesturing his head to a certain electric blonde dozing on his desk, drool seeping out.

Jiro, taking notice, launched her earphone jacks right into Kaminari’s ears. The boy sprang up, startled. “Huh?! What’d I miss?!”

The class fell into a series of giggling and light chuckles.

Ectoplasm turned back to freckled student. “Just be sure not to fall behind. Math might be boring, but it’s still important.”

“Yessir.”

“And Kaminari, pay attention. Or I’ll personally form a clone just to monitor your work.”

The other boy blinked, utterly confused. But Ectoplasm forming a clone just to make sure he stayed awake translated to being in trouble so...

“Yessir!”

“Good, now can anyone tell me the simplified expression to this equation here?” He tapped his writing utensil on the digital chalkboard behind him.

A single hand rose.

“Yes, Yaoyorozu.”

“Negative six!”

“Correct.” He then casted a look around the class. “I expect you all to be attempting to solve these as well. I can’t keep calling on Yaoyorozu all the time. Eventually I’ll have to pick someone else.”

Some of the class broke into a nervous sweat. “Yes, Mr. Ectoplasm.”

“Just do your best, even if you’re not confident in your answer. There are no wrong answers in this class. If you always get everything correct, you never learn anything. Our school motto applies to more than just heroics.”

“Yessir!” The class resonated.

And with that, their teacher nodded and the lecture carried on. Izuku tried his best in taking notes. But his mind kept asking new questions about his mystery dad.

Making sure his teacher wasn’t looking, Midoriya quietly slipped a piece of paper out from under his notebook. A paper was that was already filled apparently. For written on it, was a chart listing the pros and cons of pursuing the identity of his biological father.

Pros
-Finally learn who my father is
-Answer questions about Dad
-Gain new father-figure
-Expand family
-Get closure
-Learn about myself

Needless to say, most of the pros covered him getting the many questions he’d been asking himself answered. The cons on the other hand... they were a bit more out there.

Cons
-Dad might not care about me
-I might get kidnapped by him
-Turns out to be a villain
-Might dictate how I live my life just because I’m his son
-Make Mom unhappy
-Might only care because I’m famous and a hero in training

Izuku frowned. He was well aware that his overthinking tended to be a bit hyperbolic, whenever he expressed his concerns on something. And this was no different. It seemed so ridiculous on paper. Which was why he formed the list in the first place.

He’d been going back and forth on this idea for hours. Should he try and find his biological father? Or should he just let things be? He had hoped by writing a list of pros and cons, he could finally come to a decision.

Though all this told him was that his imagination came up with some pretty crazy scenarios. But not unheard of, which unfortunately still left him on the fence.

Maybe if he talked about it with someone. His class perhaps? Izuku shook his head. No, he’d already told his class about his father, or lack thereof. He couldn’t just pull a one-eighty like that so soon. And Mr. Aizawa would just tell him he’s just thinking too much on it. Which... wasn’t wrong. The other teachers were also out as well as any friends he made outside of class. They barely even knew the situation.

What about All Might? His mind helpfully suggested.

Izuku blinked. Would that be ok? As the inheritor of One For All, Midoriya already had plenty of in-depth talks with the retired hero, both about himself and All Might. Surely his mentor would give him at least some insight to help him come to a decision. Of course, he also didn’t want to be a bother.

The boy glanced at the clock adorning the wall.

Maybe at lunch. It’s not like he hadn’t had lunch with All Might in private before. This way he could talk with him without it looking suspicious. After all, this was only something he found out recently. He wasn’t exactly ready to broadcast it just yet. Especially when it pulled up even more questions about his mysterious late blooming quirk.

Izuku clutched his hands, fists forming. Yes, as soon as lunch hit, he’ll go ask All Might to talk with him. And maybe finally he can decide on what to do.

---

“Alright my boy,” All Might smiled. “Why don’t you take a seat there. I’ll make us some tea.”

Izuku nodded, doing just that.

All Might usually had his lunch in the teachers lounge with the other heroes. But on occasions he’d eat with Midoriya in one of the small offices. This happened a couple times. Like when discussing plans for the sports festival, or when telling the story of All For One. But more often than not, it was a way for them to converse about both each other and One For All in peace. Can’t risk anyone overhearing something like that after all.

Normally it was All Might scheduling these meetings, as Midoriya was often too shy to ask himself. So imagine his surprise when as he walked down the hall from the cafeteria, his successor approached him, requesting to talk.

He just hoped it wasn’t anything bad, the boy went through too much trouble as it is. Maybe questions about applying One For All twenty percent into ranged attacks? Or maybe about the gloves he had asked Hatsume to make. Either way, All Might will do whatever he can to help give him the guidance he needed.

The tea now made, the elder placed the small cups next to their respected lunches, before taking a seat himself opposite of his protégé.

“Now, what was it you wanted to talk about?” The man asked to start the conversation. “Do you need some help coming up with ideas for applying Shoot Style in range?”

“Oh, no.” They already had after school training for that. “No, this is about... something else.”

The man raised a brow, the tea cup held under his lips giving the image of a wise sensei. He put the cup back down. “You’re not in trouble, are you?”

Midoriya shook his head. “No, everything’s fine. The festival planning is going great, and things have been okay with One For All. It’s just...” He trailed off, attempting to find the right words.

“Just...” All Might encouraged.

“...You remember how I had asked you if you could take me to see my mom?”

“Yes, and Aizawa offered to take you. Makes me wonder if he took a shine to you like I did.” The man laughed. “You mentioned it was a family matter.”

Izuku nodded. “Yeah, I wanted to ask her about my dad. See, he left when I was barely old enough to remember him and my mom never really talked about it. All I knew was that he had a fire quirk. During class everyone was talking about their families and their dads and it made me want to ask her about mine. I, felt like I deserved to know.”

“Which is why you wanted to see her so bad.” All Might concluded. If it were him he would’ve tried to keep that conversation private too.

Another nod. “I just, wanted to know.”

Now it was All Might’s turn to nod. He could understand that. “What did she say?”

“...That my dad isn’t my dad.”

...What?

He must’ve voiced his thoughts, because Midoriya continued. “The man my mom married, he’s not my biological dad.”

The teacher blinked. “She didn’t... cheat, did she?” He didn’t want to believe it. When he first met her, she seemed like such a nice woman. Reminded him a lot of Nana. She never came off as the unfaithful type.

Izuku must’ve realized the implications behind his vague explanation, because he immediately started backpedaling. “No! No, no, no, no! It wasn’t like that!”

All Might gave a sigh of relief. “Don’t scare me like that, kid.”

“Sorry.” He muttered.

The symbol of peace then cleared his throat. “So, you were saying?”

“R-Right. My mom said that when they decided to start a family, they found out that Dad was infertile. So they put in a request at a sperm bank so that my mom could give birth to me. Afterwards, Dad began to resent me so he left.”

The symbol of peace gave a cough of surprise. He honestly wasn’t expect that. At least his mouth wasn’t bleeding this time.

His cheeks flushed slightly. “Uhh... we don’t have to talk about this if you don’t want to.”

Izuku shook his head again. “I want to. I’ve been sitting on this information for over a day and it’s driving me crazy. I just need to talk about it to somebody.” He then looked sheepish. “That is, if I’m not being a bother.”

His blue eyes widened. “No! Of course not. You’re never a bother, my boy.”

In fact, All Might felt touched that Midoriya trusted him enough to confide in him with these matters. He may no longer be the symbol of peace, but he could still be there for him, in his own way.

So the retired hero gave him a small smile in reassurance. “Is that why you wanted to talk? Because you feel guilty for your father leaving you?”

This time, Izuku shrugged. “Not... exactly. I’ve already talked about that with Mom.”

All Might blinked. “...Alright then. What is bothering you, my boy?”

“Well, when my mom told me the truth of who my dad was, she showed me files she kept of the sample she used. So, I’ve been looking over them. And I want find out what he’s like, my biological dad that is.”

Ah, so that was the reason. “What did the file say about him?”

“Just his description. Things like hair and eye color. His blood type too. The only real info I got was his name.” Midoriya explained. “Someone named Toshinori Yagi.”

. . . !

All Might broke into a series of coughs, blood spattering all over. Well so much for that.

Chapter Text

“What did the file say about him?”

“Just his description. Things like hair and eye color. His blood type too. The only real info I got was his name.” Midoriya explained. “Someone named Toshinori Yagi.”

All Might broke into a series of coughs, blood spattering all over.

Izuku’s eyes widened in alarm. “Are you ok?!” His mentor had never coughed that violently before. Was his condition worsening?

All Might dismissed his concerns with a wave. His other hand kept firmly on his mouth as he tried to smother the coughs, attempting to calm them down. “Ah, I’m fine, my boy. Really. Just a tickle in the back of my throat.”

“Are you sure? Should I get Recovery Girl?” His student asked worriedly.

“It’s alright.” All Might assured him. “I may be retired but I still got some fight in these old bones.”

Midoriya wasn’t dissuaded, but nor did he protest. Instead, he sat quietly and began carefully observing his teacher. As if the slightest sign of another coughing fit would warrant him an excuse to drag the retired hero to the nurse’s office.

All Might quickly deflected. “S-So, back to the files. You said you wanted to meet your biological father?”

His pupil nodded. “I’ve been going back and forth trying to decide if it’s best for me to do that. On one hand I really want to meet him and get to know him. But considering he’s my father because of a sperm donation, it’s more than likely that he doesn’t care about me at all. I just don’t know.”

The elder cleared his throat. “Well, I wouldn’t worry about it too much. It’s been years right? A lot can happen in that time. You don’t even know if he’s still around anymore.”

“Oh.” He hadn’t even consider that.

All Might glanced at the clock. Lunch period was nearly over. He stood. “In any case, I think it’s great that you want to reach out and connect with this branch of your family. But remember that you have a life of your own. You don’t have to drop everything just to search for this mystery man.”

Midoriya nodded.

“My advice, entertain the idea and talk it over with your mother. Just don’t let it rule your life. Give it time. Who knows, maybe the answer will fall right into your lap one day.”

“Yeah, thanks All Might.” He felt better all ready. His mentor was right. He was thinking about everything too much. Best to let things run their course.

“Anytime.” The hero grinned. “Now get out of here kid. Don’t want to be late.”

“Right.” Izuku quickly gathered his things and exited the small office. “See you later.”

The boy then happily made his way to his next class. All Might was right. He could always find out who his dad was another time. His life was here, training to the best of his ability to become the next number one hero.

---

Once Young Midoriya left the room, blood gushed from All Might’s mouth. He leaned on the sofa’s arm rest for support, too shell-shocked to stand up straight.

How? How was this possible? How in the world could Young Midoriya be his son?!

Now, he wasn’t a virgin or anything. But the last time he had sex was years ago. If Midoriya was born from one of those one-night stands, the boy would be much older. Plus he never even met his protégé’s mother until the dorms discussion. And he never donated his... seminal fluid. So how the hell did his semen end up in a sperm bank of all places?

A familiar face flashed before Toshinori’s eyes. A green-haired, bespectacled face.

Wait, if he remembered correctly...

---

Nighteye sat at his desk, his eyes downcast as he poured over various documents in his hands. A small vial in front of him.

The door slammed open. A lively All Might barreling through the entrance. “I’m back! Just finished taking care of a villain!”

Nighteye jumped slightly. Uh-oh. If he saw what he was looking at...

“Perfect. Just set the paperwork over there. I’ll get to it later.”

Toshi blinked, placing the paperwork left over from his fight down. “I thought you already finished last battle’s files.” It was odd that his sidekick wasn’t done.

“With the amount of work you do, anyone would still be working on the paper mountain you seem to manifest each day.”

A wince. But he pushed forward anyway. “Yes, anyone but you.”

Nighteye paused. “...This is a side project. I’ll get to those forms soon.”

Toshinori grinned, walking over. “Sounds interesting. Maybe I can help.”

The clairvoyant discreetly placed the papers facing down, positioning them so that any fine print was cleverly hidden, including the files already on the desk.

“That won’t be necessary. I should be done in a few minutes. If you have a spare moment, you should instead pay a visit to the children’s hospital we’re supporting. I’m sure the kids would love to see you.”

“I already went this morning.” The blonde responded, frowning. “You already knew that.”

Crap. His desperation for a distraction made him forget that small detail. Plan B. “Well why don’t you go on patrol then. Surely there must be some crime or disaster in need of your assistance.”

“Mirai,” Toshinori leveled. “...Why are you trying to make me leave?”

Nighteye froze. All Might hardly ever spoke in such a serious tone, much less a flat one. And the use of his first name? He knew he was in trouble.

But before he could even make a case for himself, the hero swiped up something from his desk. The vial.

All Might tilted the container, observing the liquid within the clear glass. “It’s white, but clearly not milk. Are you going to tell me what this is or do I have to guess?”

He opened his mouth, but the words just weren’t there. Honestly, he never expected the hero to walk in while he was working on this. He’d always been so careful to never take it out in the hero’s presence. He might as well face it, he was caught red-handed.

Eventually Toshinori got tired of waiting for an explanation, opting to instead flip the papers over. He blinked.

They were all listed descriptions of beautiful women. All of them much older than the sidekick.

That’s when he spotted it. At the bottom of the page. It was a small description box. Each filled with Nighteye’s neat penmanship. But instead of continuing the listed details of the women, the boxes were filled with harsh blunt commentary on why they were ‘unfit for All Might’.

What?

“What is all this?”

“...If you’ll just let me explain All Might.”

“Why do you have files on these women. You’re not trying to set me up on a blind date are you?”

Nighteye snatched the vial from his employer’s hand. “Of course not.” All Might had made it perfectly clear he wasn’t interested in dating, making this that much harder. “I’m looking for potential carriers.”

The hero raised a brow. “Carriers of what?”

“I’m looking for the perfect carrier to bear your child.” The bespectacled man replied, not missing a beat.

Toshinori sputtered. “What?!”

Nighteye let out a breath, pushing up his glasses. “After learning about One For All, I realized that it’s probably for the best for you to start looking for a successor early.” He explained. “The only problem is that your quirk is tricky and would no doubt weaken after passing it on. Therefore I concluded that the best possible solution is to raise a child heir to inherit your power when the time comes. This works not only to choose a successor to carry One For All and become the next symbol of peace, but it also lowers suspicion by hiding your quirk in plain sight.”

“But I told you I wasn’t interested in dating.”

Indeed, All Might had told him that in a conversation once. After confiding in him about the death of his predecessor, Nana Shimura, the man had almost completely abandoned dating and romance. The closest he’d ever come to was one or two of those one-night stands back in the man’s twenties. But since then he had long abandoned the hope of finding an ideal partner.

Not to say the hero had feelings for his late master. Rather, it was more so that he had completely given up on the idea of being close to others and maintaining a personal connection, of any kind. Even his attitude towards his sidekick and others in the know fell under this invisible rule. Though so long as no one brought it up, it remained unseen, and All Might kept on as their happy beaming symbol of peace.

“I am aware of that.” He then gestured to the vial in his hand. “Which is why I acquired a sample of your spermatozoa so it could be inserted into the ideal female carrier to create the perfect child to succeed the number one hero.”

The symbol of peace blew up like a fire truck. “W-When did you get that?!”

. . .

. . .

“Mirai!”

“...I used my quirk.”

A heavy sigh. “And here I thought the posters in the office were the worst of your fan boy tendencies.” Toshi groaned. “What even made you think that this was a good idea? Did you even consider consulting me?”

“You need an heir to succeed you. You can’t expect to be the symbol of peace forever!”

“I don’t! But I’m not stepping down anytime soon, not when All For One is still out there!”

“You’re predecessor died around your age! What if the same happened to you?!”

“Because I’ll make sure it won’t!”

Nighteye squeezed his eyes shut. He just wasn’t getting it. After foreseeing that horrible, horrible death, he couldn’t bear the thought of losing All Might.

But his predictions were never wrong. So until he learned to change the future, he’ll do everything he can to ensure his hero’s legacy, his dream, his ideals.

Toshinori sighed. Yelling wasn’t getting them anywhere. He needed to explain why he just wasn’t okay with this.

He put his hand on Nighteye’s shoulder, his sidekick looking up in response. “I appreciate the sentiment. But I’m just not ready for a kid.” He paused. How to put this... “A parent is suppose to nurture and offer guidance, never forcing the child’s hand. Only supporting. I can’t force my quirk on a kid. What if they wanted to be something else? What if we forced them anyway? They’d be miserable. I don’t want that for them, or anyone.”

Sasaki remained quiet.

“If you really feel the need to get a head start on looking for a successor. Try looking for kids already striving to become heroes. Their passion will no doubt make them fine candidates already. You may be surprised with who you find.”

Nighteye sighed, placing the vial on the desk. “Very well.”

---

That’s right. He’d caught Nighteye with a sample of his semen looking to create a successor (He still didn’t know exactly how he got that sample). Maybe Nighteye didn’t listen and that was what happened.

...Except, he made Nighteye promise to throw out the sample as well as shred every one of those files. There should’ve been nothing left.

The retired hero gave a heavy sigh. In any case, he was out of luck. With his old friend gone, any information was no doubt unobtainable (Unless he held a séance).

He then lit up. Well, there was still one possibility.

Toshinori pulled out his phone, dialing up a number.

“...Hey, it’s me.”

---

Izuku stood by the entrance of the school, waiting patiently. All around him students were greeting their parents as they entered the gateway through the small security set up by the staff. He as well was also waiting for his mother.

Having called her the night before, the two agreed that they would meet at the front of the school.

So as soon as the sun rose, Midoriya hopped out of bed and rushed out to the front. He had a lot to show her, after all.

He also needed to talk to her about his dad. His biological one.

After his talk with All Might yesterday, Izuku was feeling a whole lot better. He no longer felt like he had to scour over every piece of evidence in hopes of discovering the man’s whereabouts. He felt like he owed it to his mother to let her in on how he was feeling after sitting on this new information.

Looking around, Izuku took note of there not being as many families anymore. Almost all of them having already walked inside, his classmates included.

The young hero frowned, did his mom get held up? Did something happen?

Did her boss decide not to give her the time off?

He hoped that wasn’t the case. He’d really been looking forward to this, family drama aside.

Midoriya checked his phone. Nothing in his inbox. And the time indicated he’d end up late to class in he stuck around any longer.

“Izuku!”

His head snapped up, immediately locking eyes with his mother. Her arm waving in excitement as she sped walked toward him.

“Hi Mom.” Her son greeted in turn, the two coming into a hug. It didn’t matter if he already saw her the day before. You could never have too many hugs.

“Hi sweetie. Sorry to make you wait.”

He shook his head. “It’s fine,” Izuku assures. “I’m just glad you made it. I can’t wait to show you everything.”

Izuku grabbed her hand. “Come on,” He urged. “We only got a few minutes left until class starts and I want a chance to introduce you to everyone.”

Inko laughed. “Izuku, I’ll be here all day. I’ll have plenty of chances to do that. There’s no need to rush.”

But her son didn’t listen. Still excitedly pulling her into the building. She sighed. Maybe if she gave him something to talk about.

Inko gave a kind smile. “It’s good to see you so happy. After our talk the other day I was worried that you wouldn’t be up for it.”

Izuku slowed down, looking back at her.. “It’s fine. I’m feeling much better now. I thought a lot about what you said. And I talked with All Might too.”

“You consulted your teacher?” Inko asked. Odd, it wasn’t like her son to share something so personal without reason. Unless he really trusted that someone.

He nodded. By this point, he did let go of her hand. The two now walking side by side to class. “He gives good advice. I was still trying to wrap my head around my biological dad and everything. I actually wanted to find out who he was and get to know him.”

“Oh Izuku...”

“And I still feel that way, but...” The boy then beamed. “All Might said that I shouldn’t let it take over me. I don’t have to drop it or anything. But right now, my life is here, with you and U.A., and being the best hero I can be.”

His mother smiled, tears building up. No, she promised herself she wouldn’t cry today. For her son, she’ll smile to kingdom come. “I’m glad Izuku. And if you want to pursue this and meet your father, then I’ll support you.”

“Just like with me being a hero?”

“Exactly.”

They both smiled, glad that all that family drama was put behind them, at least for now. Inko herself felt much better now that her son knew what happened. She always figured Izuku, curious as he was, would ask about his father, demanding the truth. She was just happy that he took the news as well as he did. Sometimes her son tried to shoulder too much, not wanting her to worry. Much like herself she supposed.

Like mother like son.

“Speaking of All Might, how is he?”

“What do you mean?” His mother always asked about how he was at school, but she never really asked about someone else specifically.

“Well after that big fight with that super villain he was forced to retire. I’m sure such a drastic change from hero to teacher would be a bit daunting. And right after I yelled at him too.”

“All Might wouldn’t be upset about that.” Izuku chuckled. “He hasn’t really said anything about the change. Though between the provisional license exams and losing Sir Nighteye he probably hasn’t had time to adjust.”

“Sir Nighteye.” Inko tested out the name. “That was the man who planned the take down of that organization you fought against recently, right?”

He nodded. “Yeah, I actually worked at his agency along with Mirio-senpai. He’s the one with that permeable quirk I told you about.” Izuku then paused, his expression growing sad. “Or at least that was his quirk.” At his mother’s concerned look, he elaborated. “That organization developed a drug that could take away quirks, permanently. And for Sir Nighteye, he was injured during the arrest and later past away in the hospital.”

“...I see.”

Though Izuku decided not to let that dampen his mood. “But despite that, Mirio-senpai’s been doing really well. He’s still the same as ever.” He himself wished he could flip on his optimism with such ease like Mirio. “And Sir Nighteye assured all of us everything would be okay, even though we were all sad. He died with a smile on his face.”

“That’s... braver than how I would’ve handled it. Sir Nighteye must’ve been very strong. And happy, to die surrounded by those he loved.” Inko then smiled as well. “In any case, I’m glad to hear Mirio-kun is doing well. I’d love to meet him.”

Her son smiled with a nod. “Yeah, I’ll introduce you.”

She nodded.

“Why did you want to know about All Might?” Izuku asked.

His mother shook her head. The both of them reaching the open classroom door. “I just wanted to make sure he’s doing alright. When I talked with him before, I felt this immeasurable weight hanging over his shoulders.”

So she felt it too. Izuku concluded, knowing she was referring to the secrets of One For All. Neither of them lied to his mother, but they weren’t exactly forthcoming about the truth either. And with her initially forbidding him to stay at the dorms, the conversation had quickly become tense. It was nice to know that she cared for him, despite not knowing him well.

“I... also wanted to thank him. For taking such good care of you, sweetie.” She added, her smile shining like the sun.

Izuku beamed back at her. No doubt All Might would love to hear that.

“I’m afraid you’ll have to hold off your thanks for the time being.”

. . . Eh?

Both Midoriyas turned to face the sound of the new voice, who somehow snuck up on them from behind in the hall. Out of habit, Izuku found himself looking at the floor, having a suspicion on who it was. But at the sight of those familiar black boots, he instead turned his gaze upward to see his home room teacher.

Hey, no sleeping bag this time. He let out a small breath. Good, he didn’t know how his mother would react to seeing ‘Aizawa the caterpillar’. He then sweat-dropped. Though he’s probably not using it because of all the parents.

“Oh! Mr. Aizawa.” Inko greeted, giving a small bow. “I didn’t see you there.” And now with him in his hero costume, the man was much more recognizable.

“Forgive me, I didn’t mean to startle you.” He apologized. “I noticed you looking my way as you both were walking so I assumed you saw me.”

Somehow Izuku doubted that.

“That’s quite alright. It’s nice to see you again.” The woman responded in kind. But she soon turned confused. “I’m sorry, but what exactly did you mean earlier?”

Aizawa nodded. “All Might is currently out on a small errand. Both him and Cementoss won’t be here for the time being.”

“All Might’s not here?” Both adults could practically feel the disappointment in the teen’s voice.

His teacher sighed. “Don’t worry, they’ll be back for afternoon classes. Since neither of them teach in the mornings the schedule won’t be changed thankfully.”

Midoriya sighed in relief. He really wanted his mother to see what class with All Might was like.

Inko hummed, cupping her cheek. “Oh, well I guess I’ll have to wait until later to see him.”

Aizawa could help his eye twitching. Was Midoriya’s entire family obsessed with All Might or something? “I hope this isn’t an inconvenience for you.”

“Oh no, not at all. It’s no problem.”

The school bell then rang through the building.

“I guess that’s the bell.” Izuku noted.

“Right.” His teacher affirmed. “Shall we head inside?”

Without a need for reply, the three entered Class 1-A. Aizawa taking it upon himself to close the door behind him.

Overlooking the room, Midoriya saw his entire class present. As for the parents, all of them were occupying the dozens of chairs lined in the back against the wall. Not surprising, given how much space each student’s desk took.

“Go ahead and take your seat Midoriya.” The erasure hero then turned to his mother. “And Mrs. Midoriya if you would take one of the seats in the back, then we can get started.”

“Inko! Over here!” They spotted Bakugo’s mother, sitting next to her husband waving her hand wildly, drawing everyone’s attention. “We saved you a seat!”

Bakugo soured silently in his seat, and it let Midoriya to wonder if he was forbidden from blowing up at anyone due to the parents present. Both his parents and Aizawa probably ganged up on him together with some threat of punishment.

“Mitsuki!” Inko beamed as she walked over. Izuku took his seat as well.

“Hey there, Inko.” The blonde greeted, grinning from ear to ear. “How about that, our boys have the same class together, again. And sitting next to each other!”

“Yeah, imagine that.” Of course both mothers already knew their sons shared the same class (At this point they started expecting it). But they never really had a chance to talk about it. And it wasn’t like they knew the class’s seating arrangements.

Speaking of, homeroom class began, with Eraserhead beginning the lecture. And the parents proudly watched their children listen and take notes.

“Excuse me, are you Inko Midoriya?” Someone whispered.

The greenette turned to the speaker. “Umm... yes. That’s me.”

The man smiled. “Hello, I’m Takahiro Uraraka.” He then gestured to woman beside him. “This is my wife, Seiza.” Said wife waved. “Your son’s a friend of our daughter.”

“Oh? Which one is she?”

“Over there.” He pointed to a bob-cut brunette. Inko immediately recognized her from the sports festival.

And apparently Mitsuki recognized her too. “Oh yeah, I remember her from the sports festival. She faced off against my son.” She grinned at the couple. “She’s got spunk. It’s takes a lot to get Katsuki backed into a corner like that. Pretty impressive.”

Takahiro blushed. “Thank you. But you should thank Deku-kun too. He’s been such a good influence on her.”

Inko blinked. “...Deku-kun?”

The blonde man blinked back. “...Isn't that your son’s name?”

“No... my son’s name is Izuku.”

“Oh, I’m so sorry. It’s just, she’s always called him Deku so I assumed...”

Inko held up a hand. “It’s alright.” But she was honestly surprised. “...Does your daughter really talk about him?”

Seiza laughed. “All the time. Ochako’s always telling us about her friends, but your son’s the one she talks about most.”

Inko blushes. Oh, that was... interesting.

Mitsuki gave a Cheshire grin. “Ooooh~ A future girlfriend maybe?”

“Mitsuki.” Her husband reprimanded. “They’re in high school.”

“So? I met you in high school.”

Inko ignored the Bakugos. “She talks about him that much? Really?” Her son had barely any other friends throughout his entire childhood (Excluding maybe Katsuki). And now, not only did he have friends, but friends who looked up to him, talked about him, supported him? It was a bit surreal.

“Well,” Mrs. Uraraka hummed. “There is another boy, Iida. But still not as often as she talks about Midoriya-kun. She really looks up to him.”

“My son does too.” Inko turned to see a raven-hailed woman peaking from beside the Urarakas. “Tenya’s really taken a shine to Midoriya-kun.”

Another friend. Inko couldn’t believe it. She was so happy. So happy that her son had so many friends now. People that saw the same heart she did.

Inko looked at her son, sitting at his desk as he took notes. A determined look on his face. She smiled.

Izuku attending U.A. was the best thing that’s ever happened to them.

---

All Might stood in front of Nighteye’s agency. Or what was once his agency, seeing as Centepider is in charge of the place now. Honestly, All Might never thought he’d be here again so soon.

“Are you sure you don’t need me to go inside with you?” Cementoss asked, bringing the blonde back to earth.

The retired hero moved his gaze toward his body guard. “No need. I won’t be long anyway.” Besides, both Centepider and Bubble were there. If the point of having a hero escort was protection, he had plenty inside. It’d make more sense for Cementoss to remain out here.

“Alright, just let me know if you need anything.”

All Might nodded and entered the building, instantly spotting Bubble Girl.

The blue skinned woman was standing idle by the front desk, clearly waiting for him. Though she was constantly looking between her clipboard and the clock adorning the wall. No doubt she was anxious, expecting him to arrive any minute.

And yet, she never glanced at the front door.

He took a minute, not moving from his spot. Did she seriously not see him?

Taking pity on the poor girl, the man cleared his throat. She jumped. “A-All Might!” She exclaimed, startled. “You’re here!”

He snorted, grinning. “Yeah, I am here.” He was a sucker for those kinds of jokes.

“Oh!” The woman blushed, realizing her unintentional pun. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to-”

Toshinori put up a hand. “It’s quite alright. I’m sure Nighteye would’ve appreciated it.”

The air turned solemn. And Bubble’s expression fell. All Might winced, feeling he may have spoken too soon.

It had only been a week since his funeral. The loss still fresh in everyones’ minds. All Might at least had the distraction of his classes and young Midoriya. But Bubble Girl and Centepider...

“Sorry, I thought if I kept things light hearted then...” Toshi tried to find the right words.

Bubble shook her head. “No, you’re right. Sir Nighteye would’ve wanted us all to continue smiling.” As if to prove her point, she gave a great big smile. “Right this way, All Might sir. Centepider’s upstairs in his office.”

Once Nighteye’s office. The hero added in his head. After their falling out, Toshinori never reached out to his old sidekick. So he never saw the agency. He absently wondered what his office would look like in comparison to the one back in Minato.

He wished he could’ve taken his protégé’s advice and reconnected with Nighteye. How would the man have felt if he learned he never changed his sidekick’s old office after he left?

These questions plagued his mind as they made it up the stairs and reached the office. Bubble knocked on the door.

“Mr. Centepider sir? All Might’s here.”

The insect hero called from beyond the door. “Come in.”

The two stepped inside. And Toshinori was greeted with what he believed to be the second biggest room-sized shrine of himself (First place of course going to Midoriya). Posters and figures adorned the walls and shelves, coupled with simple interior designing. A perfect blend of business and fandom. Something only Nighteye could expertly pull off.

The bubble hero closed the door behind him, leaving him alone with the new head of the agency.

“Good to see you, All Might.” Centepider greeted. Making his way over from his desk. He shook the man’s hand. “I only wish you could’ve visited our hero agency sooner.”

Me too. The retired hero thought. “Thank you, the pleasure’s mine.” He took in the room. “Is this all Nighteye’s?”

Centepider nodded. “I couldn’t bring myself to get rid of any of it. Keeps him close, you know?”

Indeed. After all, the office Nighteye had at All Might’s agency had been left untouched. He couldn’t work up the nerve to get rid of any of those old posters decorating the walls. The various All Might memorabilia, or anything Nighteye had left behind.

Of course now that he was retired, his agency had been handed off to a different hero. So the room was no longer the same. But he very much understood where Centepider was coming from.

The insect hero shook his head, as if to clear away the depressing thoughts. He turned to All Might. “Anyway, about the reason you’re here.”

Toshinori perked. “Yes, did you find out anything?”

He nodded. “I managed to get in contact with his lawyer.” Centepider began. “And you were right.” His claw then held out a envelope for him. “Apparently Nighteye did leave something for you.”

All Might gingerly took up the letter, tracing his sidekick’s penmanship along the envelope. “Why didn’t he say something earlier? He was at the funeral, he could’ve told me then.” Wasn’t that a lawyer’s job after all?

“Normally he would’ve.” The other concurred. “But Sir Nighteye’s will prohibited him from even mentioning it unless you sought him out. It also stated that the letter was for your eyes only. What’s even on that letter to warrant this much precaution?”

“...Not sure.” The retired hero said continuing to observe the envelope, flipping it over and around. Though he had some idea.

If Centepider had human eyebrows, he would’ve raised them in speculation. “If you don’t know then why were you asking about it?”

All Might froze, quickly fishing for a lie. “Umm... Nighteye mentioned leaving something behind for me. You know, before...” He then shook his head. “Anyway, I only just now remembered it. Things have been... hectic, to say the least.”

The insect hero scoffed. “I’ll say. Between retiring, adjusting as a teacher, the League of Villains. Life’s not making it easy for you is it?”

Toshi gave a dry chuckle. No, it certainly wasn’t.

“Well, thank you.” All Might said, sincere. “I wish I can stay longer. But I have a class later today. Want to give the parents a good impression.”

“Yeah, I heard about that.” The other nodded. “Be sure to say hello to Togata and Midoriya for me. I understand Lemillion is on a leave of absence, but just because I run things now, doesn’t mean their work studies are forfeit. They’re welcome here anytime. And it’d be nice to see you visit every once in a while.”

Toshinori smiled. Not the wide grin of shiny teeth he gave off as the symbol of peace, but a genuine heartfelt smile. “Sure, I’d like that.”

---

All Might looked down at the worn envelop resting in his hands.

He was right, Nighteye did leave something for him. Hopefully this held the answers he was looking for.

But was the letter even about their argument over his successor? It had to, if it was meant for his eyes only it had to pertain to One For All. Or was it, something pertaining more to a successor in the biological sense.

If it turned out that he was in fact Midoriya’s biological father... What would he do then?

OMAKE

(Phone Call Deleted Scene)

“Hey, it’s me.”

“All Might.” Centepider greeted over the phone. “To what do I owe the pleasure.”

“Ah yes, I was wondering if Nighteye had left any files willed to me. Say maybe a letter?”

“Is there a particular reason you want to know?”

The blonde broke into a nervous sweat. Crap, he’s suspicious. “I remember my old sidekick mentioning something like that and only thought of it just now. I wanted to ask before I forget again.”

Centepider gave a hearty laugh. “Well I guess you’re at that old age where you start losing your memory. I unfortunately don’t know if any so called documents exist. I can ask Bubble but we’ll more than likely have to call Sir Nighteye’s lawyer. Though I don’t know if we’ll find anything. The guy helped organize Nighteye’s funeral and never mentioned any letter.”

“It’s quite alright. I just want to make sure.”

“Sure thing, I’ll give him a call. Just drop on by tomorrow. I should have an answer for you by then.”

Chapter Text

Toshinori,

You know, it still feels odd calling you by your real name after all these years. I am and always have been your biggest fan after all. You’ve always been ‘All Might’ to me.

In any case, I am to assume that if you are reading this, then I am no longer of this earth. I do not know where we stand now in the future, that is if we ever even reconciled things between us. But I would like to apologize now for my actions in the past. It was unbecoming of a sidekick, a fan, and a friend. Please understand though that I had your best interest at heart.

“...And then, Deku threw a punch and destroyed the entire robot! It was amazing!”

“Oui, mademoiselle. Midoriya was truly magnifique. A shining beacon in the sky.”

A certain dual haired turned to the greenette. “Is that true, Midoriya?”

Said boy blushed. “Well, yeah. But it wasn’t all that special.”

After their morning classes had ended, the students and their parents all went to the cafeteria for lunch. Seeing as all the parents were visitors, the staff had assured them that they’d be able to help themselves to the food as well. In fact, Lunch Rush was positively thrilled to cook for more people. Going all out to create a wider selection of dishes and even walking around to ask for feedback. It was safe to say that the lunch hero was having the time of his life.

Originally, the students would all sit at their respective tables with their friends. But today, many of the parents wanted to get to know each other as well as the other kids. So naturally, the tables were rearranged to provide plenty of seats. It wasn’t normally allowed to move around the seats and tables. But seeing as it was a special day, the staff allowed it.

This is where Izuku found himself. Sitting in his own chair next to his mother surrounded by his entire class and their families. A blushing mess as his classmates sung praises of his exploits. Of course that wasn’t how it started out.

Initially everyone began telling their parents stories of everything that had happened since starting school here. Some though had already told them everything, so instead they added details left out from before.

Though seeing how a lot of the excitement that happened involved Izuku most of the time, it was only natural the conversation would drift to him.

Iida brushed off with a wave of his hand. “Nonsense, Midoriya. It was you who saw the true test in the exam. Even I overlooked such a blatant detail.”

The engine user’s mother smiled. “Are you still on that, Tenya? You passed with flying colors. Your brother and I are proud of you.”

“Yes, but in my haste, I left a comrade to nearly perish. If I had not thought of it as merely an exam,” He grit his teeth, fists clenched. “I would’ve done the same thing.”

Ochako gave a bubbly smile. “It’s okay Iida. We were all scared of that robot.”

“I’ll say.” Kaminari piped up. “When that thing appeared I ran for the hills.”

“Yeah right!” The explosive blond sprung up. “I tore that hung of metal to shreds! As if the shitty nerd could beat that thing up better than me!”

Everyone sweat-dropped. This kid really got accepted as a student? The parents wondered.

It was one thing to see him chained up at the sports festival on TV. It was another to actually meet the kid.

Mitsuki smacked her son upside the head. “Stop cussing, Katsuki! Where are your manners?! And what did I tell you about ragging on Inko’s little boy?!”

“Stop hitting me, hag!”

“Don’t you take that tone with me, young man!”

“Come on you two. Please stop.” Her husband tried to diffuse the situation. “We’re causing a disturbance.”

More sweat-drops. And now we know where he gets it from.

Takahiro smiled, turning to Izuku. “Well in any case I’m glad Ochako made it out alright. Thank you.”

The boy sputtered. “Oh no, it was nothing, really!”

“Are you kidding? You saved my daughter. That’s more than I could ever ask of a friend of hers.”

The boy stared at the parent in amazement, truly taken aback by the show of gratitude. Not something he was used to.

Finally, he returned the gesture. His smile rivaling the cutest of puppies. “Thank you, sir!”

The man nodded, happy to have made the boy smile.

Izuku then noticed a familiar mop of blond hair from behind the man. His sharp vision quickly picking out his mentor in the crowd.

“Oh, hey. There’s All Might.”

Inko looked as well. “You’re right. I guess he’s back from his errand.”

Immediately the table grew into excited chatter.

“All Might’s here?!”

“The number one hero?!”

“That skeleton-looking man?”

“My goodness! It’s really him!”

Uraraka smiled, standing up. “We should say hi. Hey, All Might!”

Said hero, who had just received his lunch from Lunch-Rush, turned to see the bubbly brunette waving her arms around excitedly. He smiled back, chuckling as he walked up, tray in hand.

“Hello, young Uraraka. Good to see you in high spirits.”

“Hi All Might.” Ochako beamed. “Are you getting your lunch?”

“Indeed. Though I still have some work to do so I’ll be eating in my office.” He then looked over the table. “I take it the parents are all enjoying themselves.”

Mina’s mother nodded. Her smile bright. “Oh yes! We’ve heard a lot of great things about this school. But to actually see it for ourselves?”

Her husband pitched in. “Yep, you guys aren’t the top hero school for nothing.”

“I’m sure everyone here would love to hear that, myself included. I also have a lot of fond memories of my attendance here.”

Sero grinned. “No way, All Might as a student?! There’s gotta be some good stories behind that!”

Kaminari elbowed his neighbor, Mineta. His grin also wide. “Bet he was popular with the ladies.”

All Might laughed off the comments. “Maybe some other time. Right now I’ve got to get ready for my class with you all later today.”

“What was so important that you had to leave the school grounds for?”

Every looked at Bakugo, all surprised by his question. It wasn’t really something you’d see him typically asking. But Izuku knew better. His childhood friend’s face said it all. The mellow furrowed eyes, the calm but level posture; he was serious. Midoriya turned to face his mentor, wondering the same thing.

Did it have to do with One For All?

Once again, Mitsuki smacked her son. “Stop that! It ain’t any of your business where he goes in his spare time!”

“Oh no, it’s quite alright Mrs. Bakugo.” The retired hero eased them with a wave of his hand. “It wasn’t anything major. I just had to run by Centepider’s hero agency to pick up something. Things have been rather busy over there so it was just easier to run and get it now.”

That seemed to satisfy the blond. And as for Izuku, he can only imagine it being related to Nighteye’s passing. Even after the funeral, there was still work to be done. He had actually been invited to the service, right along with his senpai. Many heroes had been there, showing exactly how many lives his own had impacted. Not just those at his agency.

Midoriya shook his head. No, now was not the time to be thinking about sad things. Today was about school, and their families. Happy thoughts.

Hagakure sprung up, sleeves raised high. “So what are we doing today, All Might?!”

The man laughed. “That’s a surprise. Can’t spoil all the fun.” At the students groans, he continued. His smile bright as ever. “...But I suppose there’s nothing wrong in saying that we’ll be at Ground Gamma today. So be sure to hit the lockers first thing.”

“Yessir!” The class cheered.

Inko smiled. “I’m glad to see you doing so well.”

Mitsuki grinned. “I’ll say, after what happened at Kamino.”

“The students sure have taken quite a shine to you.” Mr. Uraraka chimed in.

“I’m just doing my job.” All Might said. “If anything I have you kids to thank for making me feel so welcomed here.”

---

All Might finally bid Class 1-A and their families goodbye, having made his way back to the small office. The same office where he and Midoriya had their discussion about the boy’s father.

Father. It sounded so crazy. Him, Midoriya’s father. It seemed impossible.

But the boy’s files said that he was the donor. And as far as he knew there weren’t a whole lot of quirkless people out in the world, much less ones with his name.

He looked down at the letter sitting idly on his desk, untouched.

He could get his answers right here and now. All he to do was open the envelope.

But what if it didn’t? What if it was just a simple farewell letter from Nighteye?

Toshinori shook his head, bangs swinging. He was thinking too much. Either way, it was a letter from his dear friend. Of course he was going to open it.

And as for his answers... well, there was only one way to find out.

He grabbed the envelope and tore open the seal.

---

“Whoa! This is Ground Gamma?!”

Whoa indeed. Each and every parent felt that Mr. Kirishima voiced their thoughts exactly. Never had they ever seen such a large facility dedicated to just heroism.

It was an industrial themed area full of pipes, generators, and other various machinery.

After lunch period was wrapped up, afternoon classes began. And with everyone anticipating the heroics class, the day sped by fast. Now it was All Might’s turn to show them the potential of his students, and his methods as a teacher.

So as soon a the bell rang, the kids went to the lockers while All Might guided the parents to the bus. Since there were so many people, All Might requested assistance from Thirteen, and suggested the students and parents take separate buses. He figured he could surprise them with seeing their children in their hero costumes at the facility.

Which led to their looks of amazement. The parents following the retired hero as they climbed the stairs of the tallest building.

“Amazing.” Inko awed. “This is where our kids are training?”

All Might gave a sound of confirmation. “We have many arenas like this one across our campus. Each varying in terrain and urbanization. This one is geared towards areas like factories and warehouses. But we have others that hold forests, mountains and urban cities.”

“Really?” Takahiro queried. “I thought that was what the USJ was for.”

Mrs. Yaoyorozu smiled at the man. “Those are for rescue drills like ship wrecks and landslides. Things that can’t be mimicked in a day-to-day scenario. These arenas all probably require constant maintenance in order to keep up with all the destruction done by the students in class. Those major disasters would put a huge strain on these places.”

All Might nodded. “Indeed. It’s easier to do the regular drills and tests here and save the more major stuff for the USJ.”

Takahiro hummed. “Gotcha, that makes sense.”

All Might smiled, reaching the top of the stairs. “Ah, here we are.”

The group filed off the stairs and onto the flat platform that was the room of the building. A large billboard screen serving as a monitor stood on the side.

But they weren’t the only ones there. Not far ahead, Thirteen stood with Class 1-A all dressed up in their hero costumes.

The parents couldn’t help but gush over their children.

“You look so cute, Ochako.” Her dad complimented, shooting a thumbs up.

His wife smiled. “We’re so proud of you, honey.”

Uraraka beamed, her round cheeks rosy.

Kaminari’s mom jumped in as well. “You’re costume is so cool, Denki. My wittle handsome hewo.”

Kaminari groaned. He tried his best to ignore his classmates snickers. “Mom!”

Mitsuki hummed as she looked over her own son’s ensemble. “Not bad, you actually look kinda badass.” She then spotted his knee-guards. “But what’s with those?”

Bakugo retained a level expression. “So I can kill with my knees.”

Everyone sweat-dropped. Kill... with his knees?

Inko looked at Izuku’s costume. Taking in the darker green and black stripes.

“Oh, you changed your costume.” She somewhat knew that it had gone under a few changes. It would be silly not to realize that. Seeing as how heroes were always having to adjust their gear to improve. Still...

Izuku rubbed the back of his neck. “Yeah, mine got kind of got destroyed on the first day. The support department then changed stuff around while it was under repairs. Though I wished they had asked me first.” He then smiled warmly at his mother. “But later on when making adjustments for my arms I told them that I want to keep the base as is.”

Inko’s eyes became glossy. “Oh, Izuku. You don’t have to do that.”

“But I want to. You gave me that first green suit. Keeping it the same makes me feel like you’re there with me cheering me on.”

“Oh Izuku.” She sniffled as she hugged her son.

Sero grinned, somewhere off to the side. “Now it makes sense. Why Midoriya always got all bunched up when the support class told him he should change his design.”

Kaminari joined in. “Such a mama’s boy.”

Jiro smirked. “Pot meet kettle.”

Mineta narrowed at the costume. “But it’s still kinda boring.”

He then gulped, suddenly feeling a chill run down his spine. He looked over to see Bakugo’s mother glaring full on daggers at him.

The spiky haired woman crossed her arms, a black aura encompassing her. “What was that?”

“N-Nothing!” Geez, she’s even scarier than Bakugo.

All Might walked over to Thirteen. “Thanks again for the assist.”

The astronaut waved it off. “No problem. Many of the others already figured we’d need more than one teacher to supervise. Especially since we’re dealing with more people. And with this being a rescue drill, it’s probably for the best that I’m here.”

The other nodded. He then looked over his class. Well, time to start class.

He clapped his hands together. “Alright everyone. Let’s get started. Gather ‘round and I’ll explain how this drill’s gonna work.”

Everyone followed suit. Once settled, All Might delved into the rules.

“Today’s all about search and rescue. In mist of a disaster, you never know how many citizens are injured, or where they’re located. That’s why it is important to know how you locate each civilian and get them to safety. First-aid also factors into this.”

He then walked over to a podium conveniently placed just under the billboard monitor.

“For this drill, the parents will be stationed across the area in different locations, each with a stand like this one.” He then grabbed a small object and held it up. “Once you’ve met the requirements of the location you’re at, take the stamp and mark your paper with it.”

To illustrate, he grabbed a piece of paper also laying on the table. The paper was mostly filled with a basic colorful boarder, the only blank spots being the dozen or so circles. He stamped one, an inky image of their school motto filling the once blank circle.

“Each location has a different kind of stamp, so no duplicates. This one also doesn’t count.” It was only meant as a demonstration after all. “Once you fill all the blank circles, head back here. If you come here with even one blank circle, you’ll be sent back out. Since speed is key, we’ll treat this as a scavenger hunt race. First one to get here with a complete sheet wins.”

“Oh, I get it.” Kirishima commented. “It’s sorta like that one rescue maneuver race we did after our internships.”

Yaoyorozu raised her hand. “May I ask something, sir? What were the requirements you mentioned earlier?”

“Ah, yes. Each parent will be given a script to play out. They’ll be based on various scenarios such as rescuing a trapped civilian, first-aid and the like. If the student responds to the situation accordingly, they get the stamp.” The hero then wagged a finger jokingly. “So no spoiling them.”

Sato’s farther hummed. “So we’ll be grading our kids then.”

“Another thing. I wasn’t sure how many parents were going to attend today, so we have more locations than the spaces available on your maps. You don’t have to hit each location to win. Just fill out the map and head back here.” He then looked over the class. “Any more questions?”

Iida and Midoriya both raised their hands.

“Anyone besides young Iida and young Midoriya?”

The kids snickered, already used to both of their classmates’ tendencies to ask too many provocative questions.

Mitsuki raised her own hand, to the surprise of everyone. “Yeah, I got one. How much of their quirks can the brats use? We are suppose to be the civilians. If one of us gets hurt by their own power things can go to shit real fast.”

“Very true.” The teacher admitted. “Though the students have been through many rescue drills before so they should know at this point the limits of what they can and can’t do. But as far as rules go, quirks are only to be used for mobility and the assistance of others. No tripping up anybody, and no violence.”

Everyone turned to look at Bakugo. The blonde steamed.

“The fuck are you all looking at?!”

More sweat-drops

Thirteen then stepped up. “I wouldn’t be too concerned. I’ve personally overseen much of their rescue training and can safely say that there’s a low chance of something happening because of their actions. But on the off chance something does go wrong, whatever it may be, I’ll be here to step in. The students are also more than qualified to assist if I’m ever over my head.”

All Might held up a small cell. “And the pro-hero staff members are just a short distance away. You’re all in safe hands, I assure you.” He then gave a grin paired with a thumbs up.

The parents all smiled, their initial worries gone. Even with him being retired, All Might still found a way to make them feel safe.

Once again, everything brought full circle, All Might clapped his hands together. “All right, let’s get this show on the road. Thirteen will guide the parents to the locations, the scripts should be on the podiums there. Once you’re there, read them over and wait until one of the students comes to ‘rescue’ you. As for the students, take this time to devise a strategy and searching maneuver. Every scenario’s different but this drill should help you find effective ways to find and rescue as many civilians as possible.”

The students nodded, gathering in their usual little groups.

As Thirteen proceeded to lead the parents back down the stairs, Inko took a small detour to see the retired hero.

All Might blinked, turning from the students to face her. “Ah, hello there, Mrs. Midoriya. Did you need something?”

The woman shied bashfully. “Oh, not really. I just... wanted to thank you.”

Another blink. “Thank me? For what?”

She looked over at her son, who was chatting excitedly with Iida and Uraraka. “I was scared for Izuku after all that’s happened with U.A. lately. And after that attack at the summer camp, well... that was the last straw. I knew when Izuku got accepted into your school that I’d be worried for him. But to have that many scares in just one semester. I didn’t know how much more my heart could take.”

Toshinori remained silent.

As I’m sure you well know already, I used my quirk and foresaw your future. A future in which you die. And no matter what I did, that future wouldn’t change. It devastated me to see your life end in such a way.

Which is why I was so hell-bent on you choosing your next successor already and retiring. It pained me to continue seeing you risk your life so recklessly, despite your injury.

“But then I met you. Hearing your words then, and seeing him here now, at a school with so many friends. I realize now that this school is the best thing that’s ever happened to Izuku.”

His breath hitched.

“I’m not naive. I know a lot of the kids at Izuku’s old schools were mean to him because he was quirkless. And many of the teachers hardly did anything about it.” She then smiled at him. “But you, Mr. Aizawa, the principal; you’ve all done so much for Izuku. And he wouldn’t be attending here still if it wasn’t for you.”

She paused, her face contemplative before she spoke up again. “I’m sure you’ve heard this a lot in your career after saving so many people. But I wanted to say this for myself. And for Izuku too.” Inko then gave a formal bow. “Thank you so much for looking after my son. For being there for him and his friends, and for all that you’ve done as both a hero and a teacher.”

Toshinori felt his throat tighten. How did one respond to that? Here was this woman, the mother of his protégé (Not to mention someone who resembled his own mentor all too well), thanking him not for just his hero work, but for being a teacher. For being there for her son.

And here he was, making her son hide secrets from her.

As Inko raised her head back up, All Might gave his response.

“I meant what I said back then. I truly believe your son is the one to surpass me. Young Midoriya has the heart of a hero. And I have no doubt that he’ll be amazing. So I should be thanking you, for raising such a great young man.”

---

I know you never agreed with my methods of choosing your successor. I will not deny it. What I did was both an invasion on your privacy and an attempt to thrust parenthood onto your shoulders, something you weren’t ready for. My actions toward acquiring your gamete was by far the most invasive and indecent.

After Inko left to catch up with the others, All Might went back to overseeing his students talking strategies. What made him especially proud was that no one was keeping their ideas to themselves. Instead, everyone was contributing. Each sharing their own search methods.

And no one discussed strategy like Izuku Midoriya. The boy was currently giving out tips and tricks to the others about how they could use their quirks fully to their advantage.

Normally, when competing in a race, the goal would be to keep those things close to the chest. But not in this case. No matter how you look at it, this wasn’t a competition. If it was, he would’ve included a prize for the student that finished first.

No, this was a test to try as many different methods as possible. More often than not the faster ones wound up being the most commonly used later in their hero careers. The race was just to give them a sense of urgency; mostly for fun. Toshinori remembered reading in his book on teaching somewhere that adding a sense of fun to the lessons often made it both more engaging and more memorable.

So he couldn’t help the overwhelming sense of pride for his students figuring out the true goal of the lesson so fast and already communicating with each other.

“Don’t give me orders, Deku!” Bakugo screams. “I already know how my own damn quirk works!”

Well, almost everyone.

In typical Midoriya fashion, the teen frantically waved his arms in an attempt to placate. “I wasn’t trying to order you, I swear! It was just a suggestion!”

“Hey, c’mon man.” Kirishima also stepped in, placing a hand on the feisty blond’s shoulder. “We’re gonna need to learn to work together in the future when it comes to rescue anyway. Might as well take in as much as we can now.”

Kaminari decided to throw in his own two cents. “Yeah. I mean, you did fail the second portion of the provisional license exam. That had a lot to do with rescue.”

Bakugo’s eyes suddenly flashed. “What was that, Dunce Face?”

Kaminari gulped at those blazing daggers. “N-Never-mind.”

“But Kirishima does have a point.”

The students all turned to see Thirteen, having returned form stationing all the parents.

“It is important to coordinate a way to save as many people as possible that’s both safe and effective. If the civilian is severely injured, speed can also play a major roll.”

Many students nodded in understanding.

“During your provisional license exams, you got to see what it was like rescuing citizens from different disasters while working in a group. But there will also be plenty of times where you’ll be acting solo. This drill is to help you try different methods of rescue and see what works for you. Talking strategy and exchanging tips can help give you a better idea on how to improve as well. Teaming up or going alone isn’t required, but do keep in mind that both will help you improve in either scenario in the long run.”

“Yes sensei!” The class chorused.

“Okay then. The parents are all hidden and I think you’ve all had plenty of time to think up a plan. How’s about we hand out the stamp sheets and get this race started, huh?”

The class grew excited. Except All Might gave no verbal response. He didn’t move for the sheets on the podium either. Thirteen turned to face him.

He was just standing there.

The rescue hero cleared her throat. “All Might?”

I wish I could say my misdeeds have stopped there. But instead, I went against your wishes and donated the sample to a fertility clinic.

I should’ve respected your decision and thrown it away, but you had not chosen anyone to inherit your quirk yet. In that split moment, I donated that sample as a fallback plan. Even if you were not ready for parenthood, there were many families that were unable to. Do not fret though, I did not list your hero name and registered you as quirkless. In that aspect, it will aid those who truly wanted a child, yet struggled financially to obtain one.

The man blinked. “Hm?”

“Shall we get started?”

“Ah, yes. Sorry.” The teacher then grabbed the papers off of the stand, distributing them to each student as he moved. “Remember students, this may be practice, but its impact is important all the same.”

“Yessir!”

Toshi grinned at his enthusiastic class. “Well? What are you waiting for? Clock’s ticking.”

---

Iida was the first to find someone. Though it was only natural given his speed. Surprisingly though, it was his own mother.

“Mother.” Iida faltered. He then stopped himself short. This was a drill. He was the hero, his mother the citizen. He had to show her how much he’s learned. The engine hero straightened. “There’s no need to worry, ma’am. Everything is going to be just fine.” He sped over. “Are you hurt, any injuries?”

His mother smiled. “Oh, thank goodness you’re here. I can’t move my leg. I think it’s broken.”

It wasn’t a very convincing performance. But that hardly mattered. The context was what was important. And if she was injured...

“May I see, ma’am?” At her nod, and kneeled down to inspect her leg. He gingerly held it as he lightly pressed, being careful not to add too much pressure. Even though it was only pretend, he had to be careful. “Yes, it appears you have a severe fracturing. Nothing permanent but dangerous if not treated immediately. Let me carry you to the nearest hospital. My quirk should get us there in no time.”

“Thank you Ingenium.” His mother expressed gratitude. “You’ve earned your stamp.”

Iida chuckled. “There’s no need to call me that, Mother. I haven’t taken up that name yet.”

She giggled. “Sorry, Tenya. Couldn’t help myself.”

The engine hero merely shook his head and proceeded to the podium. He stamped his sheet.

“How’s...” He paused. “How’s Tensei doing?”

His mother sighed. “As good as one expects. He’s starting to get kind of antsy just laying around. I heard from the nurses that he had snuck away a few times. How they managed to lose sight of a man in wheel chair, I’ll never know.”

Tenya laughed. That sounded much like his brother. Knowing him, he was probably tired of staying in the same boring hospital room.

“I wish he was here.”

“I do too, sweetie.” His mother soothed, placing a hand on his shoulder. “But the hospital wanted to keep him a little longer for observation. If he could just see you now.”

Iida frowned, mind flashing back to Hosu. “I’ve still got a lot to learn.”

“Still,” She insisted. “If he could see how far you’ve come.”

He smiled underneath his helmet. His voice soft. “I know.”

---

He almost missed it, but thankfully his sharp eye caught sight of another parent. Todoroki quickly turned and slid back to where he saw them.

It was truly genius on Midoriya’s part to come up with a way for Todoroki to use his ice for mobility. Sure it was something he was already doing. But a common trend in using his ice powers like that often left those in his path frozen solid. Not that there was anything wrong with that. But when you’re dealing with civilians, that’s not the best course of action.

Which was where Midoriya came in handy. Suggesting he narrow his pathway into a thin stream of ice was a stroke of genius. Not only did it keep his ice close to the chest to prevent freezing others, but it actually gave him more to maneuver with.

And so far, it’s been very useful. It even gave him some ideas, he’ll have to experiment and show his friend for input another time.

Todoroki deactivated his quirk, stepping into the small area. He immediately recognized that familiar shade of green.

Midoriya. Or rather his mother.

From the first minute Todoroki met his Midoriya’s mother, he immediately liked the woman. She was kind, and gentle, like his own mom. He had a feeling if the two of them ever met, they’d become fast friends.

If only she hadn’t suffered from his father’s abuse.

Due to both the recent incidents and All Might’s retirement, his father couldn’t attend the open house. Not that he wanted the man there anyway. And it wasn’t like Endeavor went for such things. But that was hard to tell at this point. Todoroki wasn’t blind, he had noticed a subtle change in his father’s attitude. Both towards himself and others.

His mother was also unable to come, due to the hospital still registering her as ill.

Despite that though, both Midoriya and his mother have made him feel more than welcome to tag along with them in touring the school. The rest of the class too, but the Midoriya family most of all.

Right now however, he had an assignment to do. After failing the provisional license exams, he can’t be slacking. The duel quirk user approached her.

Inko read from the script. “Oh! A hero! Please help me!”

Todoroki blinked at the display. Her acting didn’t match that smile.

“Don’t worry, ma’am. I’m here to help. Are you hurt anywhere?”

“I hit my head earlier. It hurts a lot, and I think I felt blood.”

Nodding, Todoroki moved behind here. “May I see?”

At Mrs. Midoriya’s consent, he pretended to inspect her scalp, gently parting her hair to get a better look. All for the illusion of practicing correct paramedic procedures. He walked back around to face her.

“Alright, I’m gonna check your eyes.”

Inko nodded, letting the student spread out her eye to check her pupils. Good, no dilation. Not that there would be any for the drill. But fake or not, it was always important to check. Todoroki stood back.

“Your eyes appear normal, but there’s still a chance you could be bleeding internally. If anything you’ve no doubt at least suffered a concussion. I’ll use my ice to reduce any potential swelling and take you to the nearest hospital.”

“Thank you, Todoroki-kun.” Inko said, smiling. She gestured over to the podium. “The stamp’s over there.”

“Thank you.” Todoroki replied. He walked over to the stand and marked his sheet. Inko followed.

“How was I?” She asked. “Sorry, but you’re the first student who’s found me. I used to play the damsel in distress whenever I played superhero with Izuku. So it’s been a while.”

“Superhero?”

She giggled. “Izuku was alway very much into superheroes. Even back when he was little. He’d run around dressed as All Might and would beg me to play superhero with him and help him decide on a superhero name.”

“...Oh.”

Todoroki was no stranger to the world around him. He was very much aware that his family was messed up. Between an abusive father and a mother who had a mental breakdown, he never had the kinds of tangible bonds Izuku had with his mother, or like anyone from his class.

Inko suddenly winced, realizing her mistake. She remembered Izuku vaguely mentioning Todoroki’s strained family ties. “Oh! I’m sorry, Todoroki-kun.”

The ivory-red-head put up a hand. “No, it’s fine. I’ve got to get going anyway.”

“Okay...” She said, hesitant. “Good luck.”

Todoroki nodded, leaving the small area. He then paused.

“Oh, and Mrs. Midoriya?”

The woman looked up as the teen turned to face her. He smiled.

“You’re acting was perfect.”

Inko beamed.

---

“Hurry up and save me, damn it! What kind of hero screams at the people they’re saving?!”

Mini explosions popped off of Bakugo’s gloves hands. “Shut up, hag! Let me save you!”

“Don’t you go using your quirk on me, Katsuki!”

As the hot-head mother-son duo argued, Kirishima stood off to the side with Mr. Bakugo.

The red-head continued to watch, hesitant smile on his lips. “Man, are they always like that?”

The father sighed. “All the time.”

---

Both All Might and Thirteen observed the students’ progress via the TV billboard.

He couldn’t help but cringe a bit at once again seeing the Bakugo family dynamic. “I suppose I shouldn’t be surprised. This isn’t exactly young Bakugo’s strong suit.”

“Everyone has something they’re not good at.” Thirteen replied, speaking for them both. “But it’s important to work on those things so that when danger arises, they can cover those weaknesses.”

All Might nodded. He couldn’t agree more. “They still have much to improve upon.”

He then focused as the screen shifted to another student. His eyes zeroing in on Young Midoriya bouncing across the terrain like a ping-pong ball.

He remembered the first time his pupil surprised him with that movement, just after the internships. Although he couldn’t outwardly express it in front of the class, Toshinori had been overwhelming proud of the boy for such a huge improvement.

My boy. Toshi thought. My son. Midoriya was his son.

Even with the anticipation of it, the reveal had definitely taken him by surprise. That the very person he had decided to pass on his quirk to just so happened to also be his biological son. And yet, he didn’t feel any different.

His behavior and demeanor toward his young protégé hadn’t changed all that much. Just when had the line between them blurred?

Maybe it was because young Midoriya was the first student he began teaching, the successor to inheriting One For All. How he envisioned the boy as if he were his own. Or maybe it was because Young Midoriya lacked a father figure, a roll that All Might had all too easily slipped into, all without realizing. Maybe deep down, his heart knew all along.

And now that he did know the truth, he couldn’t stop seeing the similarities. Sure, young Midoriya had taken a lot after his mother. But he himself was starting to see the small things.

Like how despite having his mother’s green hair, his wild curly locks always remained untamed. Or the boy’s self sacrificing and selfless tendencies. Even his enthusiasm towards heroes and his drive to become one rung an all too familiar bell in his head.

Whatever the reason, one hard fact remained. Midoriya was no longer just his protégé. He was his son. And he had to tell the boy the truth.

But how would he react? Rang the little voice inside his head. Midoriya grew up without a father, to suddenly gain one out of the blue, and have it be his teacher. His mentor?

“-ight.”

And what of the boy’s mother? Surely she would demand an explanation as to how he knew and why he never said anything. She’d probably assume he knew all along.

When I had collected that sample of your spermatozoon, it was done in the hopes of giving you a successor through next of kin. I suppose it was to be expected that you would react the way you did.

“All Might?”

“Hm?” He shook out of his stupor. And although she wore a suit, his could sense the worry in Thirteen’s gaze.

“Are you okay?” She asked. “I’ve been calling you for a while now.”

“Oh, um... yeah. Yeah, I’m alright. Just thinking on how I can expand upon teaching rescue.”

The rescue hero gave off a vibe of encouragement. “Although you’re new as a teacher, you’ve certainly settled into your new role quite nicely. You’re enthusiasm to teach is contagious.”

I’ve had a good teacher. All Might silently answered, as his pupil’s face flashed across his vision. He chuckled.

“Yes, I suppose I have.”

---

Sero grinned as he extended another long strip of tape, taking another swing. Midoriya’s advice sure was handy, but you should never forget the classics. His swinging was a great way to apply his quirk after all.

He swung around the building... and nearly straight into Sato.

“Whoa!” The sugar quirk user also had a very similar reaction, shielding with his arms as he ducked to the floor. The tape hero landed immediately. A little staggered, but at least he didn’t fall flat on his butt.

“Nearly scared the yellow out of my suit.” Sato spoke, relived. He stood back up.

Sero responded with a sheepish grin. “Sorry, man. Got a little too into the zone.”

“You should really work on that. Being vigilant’s part of the gig after all.”

“True.” The other admitted. “To be honest I was trying to think on how I could use Midoriya’s tips. The guy gives out some really nifty advice.”

Sato smiled, falling in step with Sero as the two began walking. Both wanting to stay mobile. “I hear you man. He was on fire today. I think it was because so many people asked him.”

That was true. Many voluntarily approached the greenette asking for tips on the assignment. Not necessarily to cheat, but rather to improve. This was normal as Midoriya was often seen as the go-to for strategies and clever out-of-the-box thinking. It was just that today happened to be particularly busy for Izuku.

“Well yeah, I mean our parents are here.” Sero reasoned. “We’re all trying to make a good impression.”

Sato nodded. He knew he definitely wanted to show his dad how much he’d grown. “So, how many stamps did you get?”

The other gave his signature toothy grin, holding up his sheet.

“No way! You got five already?! How’d you get so many?!”

“Heh, heh, heh. What can I say. I guess I’m just a flexible guy.”

Silence fell over them.

“...Didn’t land, huh.”

“I don’t think that one really works.”

“Oh come on! Flexible?! Flex tape?!”

“Kaminari told you that one, didn’t he.”

He was only met with more silence.

“Hey, you two! Over here!”

Both boys heads snapped up. It was Yaoyorozu.

She stood a few feet ahead of them, waving her arm to get there attention. The other cupped her mouth. “I found another location.”

Sato smirked. “Finally, it was taking me forever to find someone.”

They then both ran over to the creation hero, ready to take on the rescue challenge. Their game faces fully on.

She gestured them to follow her inside. “I might need help from the both of you on this.”

The two turned to each other, confusion evident on their faces. Finally, Sato spoke their thoughts. “Who is it?”

Yaoyorozu winced. “Just... follow me.”

The sugar hero turned to the other, hoping for some explanation to their classmate’s behavior. Sero however, shrugged unhelpfully.

They followed her into a small narrow area. It was heavily shaded with tall buildings and machinery so it was easy to miss. But that wasn’t what first attracted their eyes.

No, instead the first thing their gaze landed upon was a giant bolder crushing one of the parents. Yaoyorozu’s father to be more precise. His spouse off to the side, wailing crocodile tears.

Their first reaction should’ve been to respond immediately. To play their roles as heroes and rescue the parents. The giant bolder itself should’ve freaked them out, making them think that this was for real, and not a drill.

And yet... they couldn’t help but feel that something was off.

What’s wrong with this picture? The two boys deadpanned.

Momo sighed heavily, bracing herself before donning the face of a professional. She rushed to their aid.

“Everything’s okay, Ma’am. We’re here to help you.”

“Oh thank you!” Her mother wailed. “My husband! He, got crushed by that boulder!” She then desperately clutched her daughter’s shoulders. “Please, please save him!”

“Don’t worry, we will.” Momo assured her mother, guiding her to the side. “But I need you to move to a safe distance. We can’t have you getting hurt as well.”

Still sniffling, the woman complied with her request. Now assured that her mother was safe, she moved onto her father. Walking up to the boulder and inspecting the damage.

To think they’d go as far as to have a giant rock crush one of them. Yaoyorozu couldn’t help but think. She originally wondered where the boulder had come from in a place filled with nothing but industrial concrete and metal. But the question was just as quickly dismissed as she realized that this was probably her parents’ doing.

Finished with her assessment, she turned to her classmates. “I’ll create a few pulleys and iron bars for leverage. Sugarman will work on lifting the boulder high enough for him to get out. Cellophane, you’re in charge of the pulleys. We’ll use your tape to act as the rope.”

Sero, or Cellophane rather, scratched his head. “Are you sure? I don’t know if my tape’s strong enough to lift something that massive. They might break.”

“It’ll be fine. It might seem big, but the material’s surprisingly light.”

Well, if Yaoyorozu had faith in him. Shrugging it off, the other two heroes set to work. Both following their classmate’s guidance without hesitation and full trust. Within no time, the boulder was steadily lifted, allowing Momo’s father to slip out from under.

Her mother cried out in relief rushing to her husband. The couple hugging each other in an emotional embrace.

The children all sweat-dropped. Overreacting much?

And in an instant, the tears were gone. Both parents resuming the friendly faces they held earlier that day. As if the tears they shed had never existed. “Congratulations, you three. You all earned your stamps.”

The father gave his daughter a thumbs up. “You were great honey. Those leadership skills will get you far in the hero community.”

Momo’s cheeks colored at the praise. “Well, I still have a lot to learn before then.”

Sero peeked from her side, grinning. “What is it with everyone in our class being so modest? They’re right, you know.”

Sato nodded. “Yeah, you’ll be head of your own agency in no time.”

The raven haired girl smiled. “Thank you.” She then turned to the podium. “But we can talk about that later. Let’s get our stamps.”

Nodding, the boys followed suit.

“Soo...” The tape hero spoke up again as they left the area, his grin widening. “Anything you wanna say about that back there?”

Yaoyorozu groaned, dropping her face into her hand. “I knew it! I knew they’d go overboard!”

“Yeah, even the boulder we lifted was hollow.” Sato chuckled, motioning his thumb over his shoulder behind them back to where the parents remained. “How’d they even get that in there?”

Momo sighed. “Knowing my parents, they probably made it with their quirks. I’m sorry. Whenever it comes to heroics, they tend to go to extremes.”

“Is this personal experience talking?” No way was Sero leaving this be without a good story.

“My parents...” She hesitated. “Would help me practice and study when I was a little too young for formal training. They’d create these elaborate performances just to make my rescue or villain training more authentic.”

“Pulled out the big guns from the get-go, huh?” Sero commented. At her sad nod, he continued. “Well, that explains the crazy acting.”

Yaoyorozu finally huffed. “Let’s just continue the assignment.” And with those parting words, they resumed the race.

---

“Oh Denki! You’re doing so well! I’m so pwoud of you!”

“Mom!”

Kaminari couldn’t help but wallow in his embarrassment. It was bad enough that his mom was cooing over him in front of his class all day. But now even during training. She wasn’t even pretending she needed to be rescued. The woman just gushed as soon as her son approached her.

And to make matters worse, Jiro stood off to the side, fully amused by the display.

She smirked. “This is too good.”

“Don’t you have stamps to collect?” The electric quirk user gritted out.

“And miss this? Never. And besides...” She then paused, pulling out her sheet. “Already got this one.”

Well, she was already there when he walked in, so that made sense. But Kaminari was more focused on something else about her paper.

“No way! You’re done already?! What the hell!”

“Denki, language! What have we talked about swearing?”

Her son winced before giving a heavy sigh, resigned to his fate. “We don’t swear because we care.”

Jiro snorted, covering her mouth in a poor attempt to muffle her laughter. “Seriously?”

“Shut up! How’d you even complete that thing so fast anyway?!”

The punk girl fiddled with her ear-phone-jacks, twirling it around her finger as she always did in class. “I kept my ears close to the ground.”

Kaminari would’ve smacked himself. Right, hearing quirk. Of course she would’ve excelled in this assignment. All she had to do was listen and instantly know their location. She could cut corners and take shortcuts. Pick the quickest route that would not only get her to the closest locations, but also back to the start, instantly putting her in the lead.

“Well, gotta go. Have fun, Mama’s Boy.”

“Wait! Come back!” He was only one stamp away. If he could just... “Don’t leave me here!”

Jiro jokingly gave a salute. “I’ll tell your story. Let it be known that you died a warrior’s death.”

“Jiro?! JIRO!!”

---

“Hey, Deku!”

Midoriya skidded to a stop to look around, the green lightning fizzling out. As of now, there were only two people in class who called him by his hero name. And only one of them had that same chipper bubbly voice.

At the second call, he turned to see Ochako float down to him, releasing herself from her quirk.

“Oh, hey Uraraka.” Izuku greeted politely. “How’re you feeling?”

The brunette blinked, not quite sure what her classmate meant by that. And then it occurred to her. “Oh! Yeah! I feel great. I haven’t felt nauseous once.”

Izuku smiled. “That’s good to hear.” It seemed like Uraraka had a better hold on her quirk to where she didn’t feel too sick.

“Uh-huh. And it’s all thanks to your advice.” She beamed.

Just like everyone else, Midoriya gave Ochako tips on how to better use her quirk for not only mobility, but also to work around the nausea. He had suggested using her zero gravity in small bursts. Just enough to launch herself up to higher places and land safely. She could then use her skills and hero training to overlook the area and parkour the rest. Needless to say, it worked wonders.

Midoriya blushed, his gloved hand rubbing the back of his neck bashfully. “I’m glad it helped. And you can always adjust it later once you’re able to use your quirk more without making yourself sick.”

“Yeah, I’ll be sure to do that.” She then pointed behind him. “If you’re looking for another location, there’s one just ahead. I was gonna go there next.” She opened her sheet. “See? I only need one more stamp.”

“Oh!” Izuku lit up. He then opened his own paper. “I’m down to one more too. I guess then we could both just go there together.”

Uraraka blinked. “Aren’t we supposed to be working by ourselves? We won’t get in trouble right?”

“I’m sure they would’ve said something if it was against the rules. We’re suppose to be practicing rescuing techniques and traveling between those destinations, right? Not to mention finding the people needing rescuing. Running into other heroes is always a possibility. I think the idea is just to practice what we already know into rescue scenarios by ourselves, but also be prepared to team up with others at a moments notice.”

“Oh...” Uravity hummed, thinking his reasoning over. “Yeah, I guess that’s make sense. You’re so smart, Deku!”

Color bloomed over the greenette’s face. “U-uhh... y-yeah. I-In any case, l-let’s start heading over t-there.”

“Right!”

The two then fell into step as they made their way to the small area. It was tucked away and pretty well hidden. So it was impressive that Ochako managed to spot it in the first place.

Entering the small opening, both heroes immediately caught sight of the parent.

“M-Mom?!”

His mother smiled. “Hi Izuku! Oh wait...!” She then re-read her script. “I mean, oh! Heroes! Please help me!”

While Midoriya was still processing the fact that his mother was the next location, his classmate seemed to brighten up more. “Oh! I guess your mom’s gonna be our last location. Let’s do our best, Deku!”

And without missing a beat, she ran over to start the assignment. Izuku couldn’t help but take a second to soak it all in.

The way his mother spoke, her acting as a civilian. It struck a very familiar cord within him. Reigniting some very precious old memories of when he used to dress up and recuse her in there tiny apartment.

Those moments always held a special place in his heart, so to suddenly be experiencing it again, only now a real hero in training; he felt like he would burst into tears right then and there.

But now was not the time for that. Now was as good a time as ever to show his mother how much he learned.

So he wiped his face of any stray tears, and joined Uraraka in assisting his mother with her pretend head injury.

“Congratulations.” Inko beamed. “You both earned your stamps.”

Smiling back with the same enthusiasm, the two walked over to the podium to fill in their last blank space.

Somehow with her smile growing even brighter, she held up her paper to Izuku. “Look, Deku! We’re all done!”

“Yeah,” He nodded. “All that’s left is to race back to the start.”

Ochako turned to his mother. “It was really nice to meet you, Mrs. Midoriya. I’m glad we got to save you.” Because she was able to meet the amazing person Deku always loved talking about.

“I’m glad you both got to save me too.” The woman then looked at her son. “And I’m happy I was able to see you in action, Izuku. You’ve grown up so much. I’m so proud of you, sweetie.”

Izuku paused. Taking a long look at her. She held the same strong smile from when he left on his first day to school.

I’m still behind you, every step of the way.

Smiling big, he gave a firm nod. “Thanks Mom.”

“Now you both go win this race.” Inko cheered.

““YEAH!””

---

“You gotta be kidding me!” Kaminari wailed out.

Jiro stood casually before him with the victory sash draped across her chest. She hardly even acknowledged Kaminari’s cries of injustice and just continued to twirl her earphone jack.

“Not my fault you dillydallied on your mom’s location,” She then gave a grin, not unlike their home room teacher. “Pika-chan.”

The blond merely groaned in response. “I am never living this down.”

Iida hummed. “I’m surprised I only made second place. Perhaps I need to adjust my strategy in navigation.”

Ochako turned to Midoriya. Since both tied after Iida, they wound up taking the third and fourth spots. “I guess we took too much time on that last location, huh Deku.” She did feel that she was a lot slower at saving Mrs. Midoriya.

Izuku nodded. “We’ll just have to work on first aid practice a little more.”

Just a ways away, Sero was kneeling over on all fours in utter despair. “I can’t believe I got fifth place. I was so close!” He did win first place last time after all.

Sato shrugged. “Yeah, but both Iida and Midoriya have been working on their mobility a lot more, so it’d make sense they’d out-speed us.”

“Well, it could be worse.” Momo encouraged. They all turned to another student. A student with spiky blond hair. “You could be taking it like Bakugo.”

Bakugo screeched. “WHY THE FUCK DID I GET TENTH PLACE?!” He then pointed accusingly toward Deku, who instinctively jumped. “AND HOW THE HELL DID THE SHITTY NERD GET THIRD?!”

Everyone sighed heavily, a little too used to their classmate’s extremities.

All Might chuckled at his students’ antics. Never a dull moment.

Once again, he clapped his hands together. Gathering everyone’s attention. “Well, I think that’s enough for one day. Thirteen is currently gathering all the parents from their locations. After that, you’re done for the day.”

Iida rose his hand before speaking. “Excuse me, Sir. But normally you would review our performance. Why deviate from such teachings?”

“That can wait until tomorrow.” Toshinori waved off. “It’s not everyday your parents visit you at a school like this. I figured you’d want the extra time to show them around. We’ll review today’s drill tomorrow in class. And with the school festival around the corner, you’ll need as much time for planning as you can get. So this will be the last drill until after that.”

The students cheered. Everyone in an uproar.

“Whoo! How awesome is that?!”

“We can show them the whole campus?!”

“Hey All Might, can we show them our dorm rooms?”

“I can’t wait to show my pop the gym we have here.”

“You rock, All Might!”

The retired hero tried to calm his students. Motioning his hands gently up and down in a ‘settle down’ gesture. “Yes, yes. You’ll get to show them the dorms and support classes. But areas like the battle grounds and the pool will be off limits. Aizawa can give you more details on where you can and can’t go.”

“Yessir!!”

“Aside from that, you’re free to go.” All Might finished, grinning. “Class dismissed.”

---

Toshinori leaned back a bit, his old bones giving off that satisfying pop. What a day. But a fulfilling one all the same. He felt like he really did rather well.

After dismissing his class, the school day finally coming to an end. All the students had taken their parents on their own little tours. From the gym to the dorms and even the support class. Many of the little cliques traversed together, their parents getting to know each other as their children showed them around.

But that was all over and done with. The sun was beginning to set, and the students were all saying goodbye to their families.

Some of the teachers had stuck around to talk about some other school related details with the adults. But personally, All Might just wanted to see them off. He rounded a glance, smiling. Seeing the happy faces of their parents, reassured that their children were well and capable, left him feeling proud to be a teacher.

His eyes fell on the Midoriyas. Watching as the mother and son hugged one another. Crying obviously (That boy never seemed to run out of tears), but still very happy.

He recalled the words in the letter written by his deceased sidekick. The last shred of evidence that proved he was Izuku’s biological father. And he thought One For All’s existence was the most shocking revelation he experienced in his lifetime.

Honestly, Toshi wasn’t sure he was cut out to be a parent. He definitely knew he wasn’t perfect. And a lot of his bad habits he gained from being a hero had obviously rubbed off on his pupil already. But still...

He watched fondly as Izuku gave an emotional goodbye to his mother. Toshinori smiled.

But now I understand why you were so against it. I see now that you did not wish to bring a child into the clash between the symbol of peace and the symbol of evil. Between the bearers of One For All and the man that has slaughtered every single one of those heroes, All For One. You did not want their future to be sealed by your legacy. So I will respect your wishes and not pursue the matter further.

One thing’s for sure, as soon as he read that letter. As soon as Mrs. Midoriya thanked him earlier. When he saw that bright smile on his young student’s face as he strategized with his friends. He wanted to embrace that truth. He wanted to be a father figure to Izuku. Be there to guide him, the same way he intended when he made his decision to dedicate his life to raising the boy into the best hero he can be. To be there on the tough days. To do all the things fathers do with their sons.

To be there for Izuku. Whether he was accepted or not.

After saying there goodbyes, the parents all began to leave the school grounds, heading home. All promising to return for the cultural festival.

The students all began to leave as well, heading back to the dorms. Either to turn in for the day or to try and pack in some extra training or studying.

Izuku was about to follow suit, when he felt eyes on him. Turning, he spotted All Might.

The greenette blinked. “All Might?”

The elder snapped back to earth. He looked down at him. “Hm?”

The younger grew concerned. “Is something wrong?”

I can’t undo the things I’ve done. But I will make amends. If you do have a child, they will never know their father is the number one hero. And I will look for a successor to inherit your quirk elsewhere. I already in fact have someone in mind. I think you’ll like him.

The hero smiled again, shaking his head. “Nothing my boy. Come on, let’s go test out the gauntlets young Hatsume gave you.”

“Yeah!” Came the eager nod. And the protégé and predecessor walked off into the small forest surrounding the school. All Might guiding the Midoriya with his hand on the other’s back.

I can only hope that this letter will repair our partnership. Or at the very least, help you understand my motives.

Sincerely, your friend, now and always,

Mirai Sasaki

OMAKE

(Zero Pointer Deleted Scene)

Mrs. Kirishima gasped. “Oh my. Was it really that bad?”

Her son looked a her. “Remember those robots in the obstacle course at the sports festival?”

“Those were pretty much the same.” Jiro finished.

Her rockstar dad scratched his head. “Yikes, and the teachers expected you kids to beat them on the first go?”

Sero nodded. “Yeah, it really freaked us out. I swung away as fast a I could.”

Sato scratched his head. “Same, though the thing almost caught me.”

Yaoyorozu hummed. “So that’s what the entrance exams were like.”

Tsu looked over at her. “What did you guys do?”

“We raced.” Came Todoriki’s short answer.

The other students turned green with envy. Lucky.

(Didn’t Know Deleted Scene)

“I’m so proud to hear of how Izuku did in the entrance exam. He was so devastated afterwards, completely convinced that he didn’t pass.”

The table grew silent.

“...Wait.” Uraraka spoke. “Deku, didn’t think he passed?”

Izuku nodded hesitantly. “I didn’t score any villain points so I was sure that I had failed. The fact that I even got accepted was a complete surprise.”

Bakugo huffed somewhere further down the table.

Iida on the other hand was reeling. “But you would’ve had to have not known about the rescue points in order to come to that conclusion. From all that I’ve observed from you, you’re a very analytical thinker. There’s no way you couldn’t have figured it out.”

“Except I didn’t.” Midoriya shrugged off. “I was so concerned about passing and Uraraka that it just never even crossed my mind.”

“So wait, hold on.” Kaminari paused the conversation, all eyes on him. “Even though you saved Uraraka, even though you destroyed a robot the size of two skyscrapers, you still thought you didn’t pass?”

Izuku nodded slowly. Why were they making such a big deal out of this?

“That’s okay, Deku!” Uraraka encouraged. “That just makes what you did even greater!”

“Indeed.” Iida agreed, standing. “In that moment, Midoriya not only sacrificed his life, but also his chances of passing and getting accepted into U.A. to save a complete stranger. That’s more than what anyone else did that day in the exams.” He then gave a small formal bow. “If anyone here on this campus deserves to be a pro hero, it’s you.”

Izuku’s eyes became glassy as tears welled up. And a fountain a sobbing burst from the greenette. Once again both moved and extremely happy at his friends’ words.

Mrs. Yaoyorozu leaned over to whisper in her daughter’s ear. “Does he do this often?” For a teen balling his eyes out, the rest of the class seemed fairly calm, as if used to the display.

Momo smiled, giving a small sweat-drop. “More than you know.”

“Damn it, Deku! You’re dumbass friends just complimented you! Stop crying like a fucking pansy!”

“Katsuki!”

(Dad’s Blessing Deleted Scene)

“Are you kidding. You saved my daughter. That’s more than I could ever ask of a friend of hers.” He then leaned over to with a grinning whisper. “I’ve never had any intention of handing my little girl over to anyone. But you certainly have my blessing.”

Izuku then became a tomato, his green hair matching perfectly. And Ochako wasn’t far behind.

“Daddy!”

Takahiro laughed.

Chapter Text

Izuku took deep breaths as he walked, still recovering his energy from the intense performance earlier (And the fight just before it). He made it. He barely made it. But it was all worth it. Worth every smile little Eri made from now for the rest of her life.

It was still a close call. That fight with Gentle stretched on way further than it should’ve. Luckily though, both Hound Dog and Ectoplasm caught him before he could cause a stir. The hero in training was just thankful that all he himself got was a scolding and a slap on the wrist. Probably because of the importance of the festival. To reassure the public after All Might’s retirement and the attacks on their school.

Either way, it all worked out in the end. And now that the show was over, all that was left for him was to enjoy the festival with his mother and classmates. He got a text from her earlier, stating that she was here.

After rendezvousing with Eri and Togata (And meeting Togata’s own parents), Midoriya suggested that they meet up with his mom before exploring the rest of the festival. So here they were, walking around looking for a woman with green hair like his own. Now if only he can just find her.

That’s when he spotted it. That familiar shade of dark green held up in a small bun.

“There she is!” He spoke excitedly, catching the others’ attention. He called out to her. “Mom!”

She turned, smiling at the sight of him. “Izuku!”

The mother and son walked up to one another, exchanging a hug as the Togata family and Eri followed up behind.

Izuku smiled. “Did you see the show?”

She beamed. “I did! You all were great, honey. It looked like so much fun!”

He nodded back. “Oh! Mom, this is Mirio Togata. My senpai. He also worked under Nighteye for the work study.”

The blond bowed, giving a bright smile. “It’s nice to meet you.”

Inko bowed as well. “Nice to meet you too. Izuku’s told me about you.”

“All good things, I hope.” Mirio grinned, ruffling his kohai’s wild locks. Making the mop look even crazier.

“N-Mirio-senpai!” The greenette stuttered, desperately attempting to escape and fix his hair. Mr. and Mrs. Togata then took the chance to introduce themselves to his mother, the parents all getting acquainted.

But everything stopped when they heard giggling. Looking down, they found it to be Eri. It seemed the concert earlier had left her in a rather bubbly mood.

Inko smiled. “And who is this?”

She suddenly stopped, giving a small gasp as she darted quickly behind Mirio. Her little hands gripping at his pants leg.

“I’ve told you about her, Mom.” Her son explained. “This is Eri. Senpai and I rescued her.”

His mother nodded, recalling the conversation they had over the phone. She crouched down to where she was eye-level. “Hello, Eri-chan.”

Eri didn’t move, only attempting to hide her face further behind Mirio’s legs. She might’ve come out of her shell and learned how to smile. But she was still rather shy when meeting new people.

Izuku smiled, also crouching down. “It’s alright. My mom’s really nice. Her katsudon is really amazing.” It was a random comment. But hopefully it would ease Eri’s nervousness.

Eri peeked out. “...You’re Deku’s mommy?”

Inko blinked, forgetting for a minute that that was her son’s hero name. She smiled again. “That’s right. I’m the hero Deku’s mommy.”

Silence settled over the them. The five of them giving Eri all the time she needed to get used to Inko.

Slowly, she left the safety of Togata’s legs. Inko stayed where she was, only holding out her hand. Eri grabbed it. Holding it within her own tiny hands.

“It’s warm.” She said simply. And it was. Warm and kind. Like when Deku held her when they first met, or when Lemillion shielded her.

Izuku and Mirio smiled as they watched. Seemed like they had nothing to worry about.

---

After the meetup, the group decided to finally start exploring the rest of the festival. Later meeting up with Izuku’s class and their families. Mirio’s friend Amajiki also joined them. Though he mostly hid behind Mirio or Kirishima, a little overwhelmed by the big crowds. It was a big group, but it was still fun.

The first main stop was to watch the festival’s Miss Con. Luckily they made it when Kendo was performing. Everyone commenting how strong she was to break so many boards. Monoma and his class cheered the loudest.

“HOW ABOUT THAT, YOU THIRD YEAR SECOND RATES?! KENDO’S MARTIAL ARTS IS FAR SUPERIOR TO ANYTHING YOU MONGRELS COME UP WITH!”

Izuku sighed heavily. He doesn’t quit, does he.

“Of course Monoma would turn this pageant into a way to put Class 1-B on top.” Kaminari deadpanned.

“I really worry about his mental state sometimes.” Yaoyorozu hummed.

Jiro’s eye twitched. “Did he just call all the other contestants dogs?”

“That’s a really round-about way to call someone a bitch.” Mineta piped up. He then bared his fist. “How dare he call those voluptuous babes that! I’ll tear his eyes out!”

“Wow, for once Mineta said something I agree with.”

“I don’t know, I think what Monoma said was kind of sweet.” Toru chirped.

Sero looked at her like she grew two heads. Which could’ve been entirely possible. Who’s to say she looked completely human under all that invisibility. “Are you sure you didn’t just go deaf from our concert? He just insulted everyone in the pageant.”

“Yes, but he said it also as a compliment towards Kendo.”

Mina suddenly squealed. “Oh my gosh! You’re totally right! That’s so cute!”

Toru looked back at her, probably also grinning from the sound of her voice. “I know right! Wouldn’t they make the cutest couple?”

“I’d ship it.” Tsuyu agreed, adding on a ribbit.

Mirio hummed. “Monoma-kun is... quite the character isn’t he.”

Uraraka nodded. “Yeah, he’s been like that ever since the USJ incident.”

“Kendo does her best to keep him in line, though.” Midoriya replied, not wanting to judge his schoolmates too harshly.

“And that’s why they’d make such a cute couple!” Toru exclaimed.

“Still, it could be worse.” Tamaki suddenly spoke up. Izuku jumped slightly, forgetting he was there for a second. “There is Kenranzaki-san.”

“Yep,” Mirio agreed. “Seems like there’s one in every grade, huh.”

“Kenranzaki-san?” Midoriya parroted. “You mean the Miss Con champion Hado-senpai’s trying to beat? How is she bad?”

“She’s not that bad. Just a bit...” His senpai struggles to find the right words. “...eccentric.”

Izuku must’ve looked like he still didn’t quite get it, because he then tagged on a mere ‘just watch’ and left it at that. So Midoriya turned back to the stage.

The next entry was... well it was something. Words couldn’t even begin to describe how absurd it looked. The girl was standing on what a appeared to be a large float, resembling her face. Crazy eyelashes and all. And the extravagant dress and loads of makeup she was wearing didn’t make things any better.

“THE QUEEN OF THE BEAUTY CONTEST! A THIRD YEAR FROM THE SUPPORT DEPARTMENT! WITH HER HIGH LEVEL INGENUITY, SHE SHOWS OFF HER FACE TO THE CROWD! A SUPERB PERFORMANCE INDEED!!”

The current holder of One For All cringed at the announcer’s commentary. That was superb? Really? Was there something he wasn’t seeing?

Thankfully he wasn’t the only one confused. Eri also looked at the float in curiosity.

“What is that thing supposed to do?” She asked.

Togata scratched his head. “Your guess is as good as mine.”

Monoma meanwhile seemed to be having an inner struggle.

“Oho? Not bad, third years...” He gritted out.

Izuku’s eyes widened. Did he just admit that it was good? He liked the performance? The guy who hates everyone who isn’t Class 1-B? What was he missing?!

Oblivious to Midoriya’s mental breakdown, Kirishima walked up to Class 1-B’s own Tetsutetsu.

“Hey man, your play went over pretty well! Nice job!”

The steel quirk user returned the fist bump. “Thanks! You guys too!”

Jiro smirked at the two. “And the bromance continues.”

“Those two have really bonded since the sports festival.” Sato noted.

As the Kirishima and Tetsutetsu families met and mingled with each other, Kaminari leaned over to whisper. “Hey, Sero. Do you think love can bloom in a sports stadium?”

Sero snorted, covering his mouth in a poor attempt to muffle his laughter. It was a fruitless endeavor, as pretty soon they both fell into fits of giggles. A few others who listened in joining in as well.

Mirio smiled as he watched his peers and their parents chatter merrily. Simply enjoying the happy atmosphere. His gaze swept upward. “Oh hey! It’s Nejire’s turn!”

Izuku and the others followed with their eyes to the stage. Immediately spotting those familiar blue curls. Nejire stood happily, arms behind her back. Her long curly blue hair flowing behind her as well. And the simple frilly dress only added to her elegance. Making her appear as if she really was wearing flower pedals.

“She looks so pretty.” Eri commented from atop Togata’s shoulders.

The third year smiled. “Yeah, she sure does.”

Amajiki quivered. “Just imagine everyone as puppies, Hado.”

They all watched as Nejire sprung herself up, using her quirk to fly above the stage. The yellow sparks and spirals that came with her power only added to the effect.

“Wow! Look at Hado-senpai!” Ochako cheered.

Tsu put a finger to her cheek. “She’s practically dancing in the air.”

“I used to take dance lessons back in high school.” Yaoyorozu’s mother commented. “To be able to move like that without using the ground as a foundation would be exceedingly difficult. This must’ve taken months of training.”

It really did look impressive. But somehow she made it seem effortless. Like a graceful fairy.

“I really hope she wins,” Izuku said to himself. “She really deserves it.”

Mirio smiled. “Yeah.”

The performances wrapped up rather quickly after that. Followed by the voting booth opening up so the winner can be announced later. Monoma wasted no time climbing onto the stage to insist everyone voted for his classmate, with only really Yosetsu holding him back in vain.

“Oh yeah, man.” Mineta commented in bliss. “Tonight’s gonna be so great!”

Although it was clear the class perv was referring to the final vote for the pageant participants, the others also shared in his enthusiasm for the other festivities available.

“Class C’s haunted maze looks crazy!” Kaminari noted excitedly. “Wanna go?”

“Obvi!” Mina readily agreed.

Jiro simply shook her head. “Yeah no, I’ll pass.”

Meanwhile, Kirishima snagged Bakugo’s arm. “There’s an obstacle course!” And while the spiky blonde said nothing, his visible interest was telling enough.

“And crepes!” Ochako stated. Her and Tsuyu already having set their minds to try some after spotting a stall that morning during setup.

“We still got lots to see, you guys!” Mirio stated, looking at both Eri and the Midoriya mother and son pair. To which darling little Eri responded with a chipper ‘yay’.

Mr. Uraraka smiled, turning to the other parents present. “Seems like our kids already decided on their own plans.”

Mirio’s mother nodded. “Then I guess we’ll just have to part ways and see what the students here have to offer.”

Sero’s dad nodded. “Sounds good to me. It was nice meeting all of you. I’m glad my son’s made friends with such fine folks.” He then turned toward his kid. “Now Hanta, where to?”

Grinning with the rest of the male members among the self proclaimed ‘Bakugo Squad’, all unanimously cheered. “Obstacle course!”

“Alright, boys!” Mitsuki grinned herself. “Let’s see what you’re made of!”

The group then began to naturally disperse. Eventually leaving Izuku and his mom with Eri and the group of third years. Nejire also joining up with them in her school uniform.

Smiling wide, the young Midoriya placed his hands on his knees as he leaned down to address Eri. “So then, Eri-chan. Where do you want to go?”

His senpai immediately jumped in. “Yep! You’re wish is our command!”

Looking between the blonde and greenette who rescued her, Eri pondered over her answer. “Umm... can I try the candy apples?”

At her quiet but eager response, the two boys looked at each other.

“That’s a good start,” Mirio agreed, thoughtful. “Although, I’m not sure where they’d be selling any.”

“It was still pretty early while we were getting ready for the stage show last when we last checked.” Izuku noted. “Not all the classes had finished setting up yet.”

“I doubt anyone’s had lunch yet. We could all look while grabbing some actual food to eat.” Tamaki’s dad suggested.

“Hey, hey! That sounds like a great idea! I’m starving!” Hado senpai cheered.

“Lunch sounds perfect!” Nejire’s mother conquered.

Nodding, Izuku turned back to Eri. “What do you think? Does that work for you?”

Glancing at all her new companions, she finally nodded.

“Then it’s settled!” Mirio senpai then scooped up Eri to once again place her on his shoulders. “Let us be off! Our dear maidens require sustenance! Just point out anything you wanna try!”

“Okay!”

---

Up in the teacher’s lounge. Away from all the commotion, two teachers stood. Watching people flutter about from one attraction to the next.

“You know, all your students and their families are out there, having fun. And here you are, cooped up like some sort of hermit. I’m sure the kids would love to see you.”

All Might tried not to twitch at the word ‘family’. He had become a little sensitive to it since discovering he was a father. Though he was pretty sure Midnight noticed anyway. Thankfully, it seemed she had chosen not to comment on it. So he’ll just stick with their current conversation thank you very much.

“It’s not like I wasn’t out there earlier.” And that was true. He went to Class 1-A’s concert and stuck around a little afterwards to talk with young Midoriya. Not to mention addressing the whole situation with that Gentlemen Criminal fellow. That was a mess.

But his ears were still ringing long after the show was over. Much as hated it, he was getting old. And he can no longer walk around as he pleased without people recognizing him as the number one hero. He was stopped by parents, students, and other visitors at least seven times today alone.

“I just need a minute of peace and quiet, that’s all. I’ll come back out later when it’s less chaotic.”

Nemuri hummed. “Not sure you’ll get your wish. Seems like the whole district showed up, and then some. But have it your way. I need to go back to my rounds anyhow.” She then quirked a grin. “Just holler if you need us to go rescue you from the press or any crazy fans.”

Immediately he felt his face drop into a bemused expression. “Thanks for the consideration.”

Letting that joke be the end of that, the R-rated hero left the teachers’ lounge with a small laugh. Once she was out of sight, he felt his mind start to wander.

Family, huh. His brain once again latching onto the word. Now that he thought about it, his successor’s mother would be here today. The woman who resembled his former master so much. The man sighed.

He already decided to wait a bit until he told young Midoriya, at least ‘till he could ease him into it. Preferably after the festival passed. But should he at least tell his mother first?

On one hand, his student was easier to both reach and talk to. And he felt that being privy to the secret of One For All, not to mention being the subject of such a revelation, it seemed like he should be the first to know. Plus he knew his own mother better than All Might ever could, and would know how to break the news to her best.

But on the other hand, she was his mother. Any parent would want to know what was going on with their kid. Especially if it concerned their safety, and Mrs. Midoriya was no exception. In fact, almost every time he saw her, she was nearly on the verge of tears worrying about her precious child. Going as far as denying her son’s attendance at U.A. just so he wouldn’t get hurt anymore. If she ever decided to inflict her wrath on him in light of this news...

He shuddered. Okay, maybe not. Maybe he’ll ask Gran Torino about it. Or even the principal. Recovery Girl was an option too. Basically anyone who knew about One For All save for his successor. As he was the whole topic of conversation.

In any case, he made the decision to give his former instructor a call. Hoping to gain at least a little insight as to how he should approach this. He’s made a lot of mistakes in his life. But this was one he wanted to be sure he got right.

---

“Hey guys, crazy news!” Everyone turned to see Kaminari running up to his classmates. All of them having bunched up together again. Seemed separating from each other to check out the other stalls was short lived. “There’s a TV crew stationed here interviewing all the students!”

“Whoa, seriously?” Mina asked excitedly. “We get to be on TV?!”

“Wouldn’t be the first time.” Jiro commented.

“Yeah,” Sero said, adding on to Kaminari’s announcement. “They’re going around interviewing all the students, teachers and parents. It’s kinda awesome since they’re all showing how great the school’s been protecting us throughout all the craziness.”

“Don’t you thinks think you’ve all been in the spotlight enough times?” Koda’s mom asked worryingly.

“It’s alright mom,” Koda spoke up for the first time that day, surprising many of parents. “It’s not like we’re actively looking for attention. But I wouldn’t mind supporting the teachers after they’ve taken such good care of us.”

Kirishima snorted as his own folks’ stunned looks. “Told you he talks sometimes.”

Ochako looked around curiously. Half eaten crepe in her hand. “Has anyone seen Deku?”

“Maybe he’s being interviewed.” Sato guessed.

“Yeah right,” Bakugo scoffed. “Shitty nerd would shit his pants before saying anything on camera.”

That earned a smack from his mom. “Language Katsuki!”

“Get off my back, hag!”

“I saw him earlier with his mom and the third years.” Mina said, completely ignoring the family spat. “They were showing Eri-chan around. She was so cute!” She then elbowed Uraraka, grinning ear to ear. “Why~? You looking to impress his mom on what a great future wife you’d make someday?”

The brunette blushed furiously. “What? No! I was just wondering since most of us are all together again.”

“Oh, don’t be shy~!” The pink girl insisted. “I’m sure Midoriya would love the help with Eri-chan. It’ll give you both practice for your future kids!”

Ochako was left a stuttering mess.

Her dad just gave a thumbs up, no help at all. “I wouldn’t mind giving you both advice on raising kids.” His wife lightly smacked his arm, though she was also smiling.

“Dad!”

“Attention! We will now be announcing the results for the beauty pageant! Please gather toward the stage!”

“Hado-senpai’s with Midoriya, right?” Tsuyu noted. “I’m sure they’ll be heading to the stage next. We can try and meet them there.”

“O-Oh, right! Good idea!” Ochako agreed, snapping herself out it.

Mina raised a hand excitedly. “Me too! I wanna see cute little Eri-chan!”

More of the class and their parents agreed. Others opted to go check out the news crew stationed elsewhere. And the rest resumed touring the festival.

Ochako was glad everyone was having fun, especially Deku. She grew concerned about how their carelessness in bringing up his father highlighted his lack of one. He seemed so sad about it afterwards. But all it really did was encourage him to finally ask about it to his mom. And he seemed so much lighter.

Now Deku was throwing everything into making this festival the best for little Eri. Bringing a smile onto her face to chase away the darkness.

She might’ve not played a huge role in rescuing the girl. But if there was any way she could add in her own brightness to light up her day, then Ochako wanted to be a part of it.

What she felt for Deku. Her feelings. All that can wait. It wouldn’t be fair to bring it up now.

---

As the announcement for the beauty pageant results called over the intercom, Midoriya and his group started making their way back to the stage.

“I hope you win, Hado-senpai.”

“Yeah,” Eri agreed with him readily. “You were so pretty flying around.”

“After all that hard work, you deserve it.” Mirio tacked on.

To that, the blue-haired third year giggled. “Aw~ You guys are sweet!”

“Just remember,” Tamaki then spoke up. “Keep your expectations low and you won’t be disappointed.”

Mrs. Amajiki waved her son’s concerns away. “Oh, I’m sure it’ll be fine. You were just great! The point is you had fun!”

Well said. Izuku has come to really like the parents of the third years. Though a part of him wished both All Might and Mr. Aizawa was with them as well. But that was unrealistic, given the need for security. All that said, his homeroom teacher did ensure he’d rejoin them later in the afternoon once the school became less crowded.

Maybe it was because his mind had briefly thought of All Might, but his eyes immediately caught onto to something yellow. A long cape paired with gloves and boots as part of white jumpsuit. One of the most basic superhero suit designs, but still a stapled classic, even if you hardly see it anymore. Which made sense as the person wearing it was a grouchy old man Midoriya was all too familiar with.

“Oh! It’s Gran Torino!” Izuku stated, and began calling out to him from across the crowd. The grumbling hero stopped where he was, noticing him quickly before walking his way over.

“Hey, hey, you know that old guy?” Nejire asked eagerly.

Izuku nodded. “Mhm, he was the hero I stayed with during my internship. He used to be All Might’s teacher. I also picked him as my first choice for my work study too. But it didn’t work out since he was so busy. It was actually his idea for me to go to Sir Nighteye.”

“I see!” Mirio noted. “So that’s why you started asking All Might about him all of a sudden.”

By this point the old man had gotten close enough to overhear them. “Midoriya could easily work with any hero. But considering his circumstances, I felt there was no one better qualified than Nighteye. Besides, him and Toshinori needed a kick in the pants to patch things up and get over that stubbornness they both share.” He then eyed Izuku. “Seems to be an ongoing trend these days.”

That got a laugh out of everyone. Eri was giggling too. And Izuku almost got wrapped up in his usual response of protesting in denial, only to inwardly agree that it was somewhat true. But something about that name suddenly gave him pause. Why did it sound so familiar?

“It’s nice to meet you. I’m Izuku’s mother, Inko Midoriya.” His mom greeted, bowing. “Thank you for taking care of my son during his internship. I’m sorry if he caused any trouble during it.”

Gran Torino waved off the apology in dismissal. “Eh, no more so than my last student. Honestly, they’re polar opposites sometimes but they share that same bullheaded recklessness when it comes to heroics. Almost to the point of hurting themselves. Ha! You thought your son was bad with the broken arms? Toshinori lost his whole stomach years ago. And he was copying your boy during that fight in Kamino. Birds of a feather those two. They’re bound to drive anyone crazy.”

Normally his mother would be distraught at the thought of him being hurt. But the way the veteran hero brought it up had her laughing. As if they were joking about their kids’ antics.

“So what brings you here, Mr. Gran Torino.” His mom continued the pleasantries.

“You can drop the mister. I’m already old. I don’t need the reminder.” The old man joked. “All Might gave me a call and asked to meet up with me. But I’ve been wandering around for an hour and still can’t find him.”

“He went off somewhere in the main building after the concert, I know that much at least. Maybe one of the other teachers know.” Mirio guessed.

That earned a scoff from Torino. “That’s just typical of him. Honestly, he says one thing and completely forgets about another. Toshinori always did have a one track mind.”

There it was again, that familiar sense of having heard that name before. But where, he didn’t know anyone named Toshinori-

Izuku’s eyes suddenly widened. Wait. Yes he did. He had heard that name before. He repeated it out loud so many times to himself. But it was used just now to refer to All Might. And if he remembered correctly, Gran Torino had called him that when they first met the man tried to throw him off by appearing senile enough to be underestimated.

“Hm? Toshinori?”

“Midoriya!”

“Umm... Gran Torino?” He spoke, voice hesitant, but on the cusp of sounding desperate. “That name...”

“Hm?” For a second it looked like the old man had no idea what he was talking about. “Oh. I suppose you wouldn’t know about that. Being the Symbol of Peace had pretty much wiped away any record of it in the populace. Though considering he’s your predecessor you should know. That’s All Might’s name.”

“W-What?”

“Toshinori Yagi. That’s All Might’s true name.” Unaware of Midoriya’s mental crisis, Torino crossed his arms. “Did I not just say that two seconds ago? Don’t tell me you’re going senile. And here I thought was the old man.”

The joke did not take away the feeling of Izuku’s whole world crumbling around him. Images of every memory he ever had with All Might suddenly speeding past his eyes. His voice echoing in his ears.

“Young man, you too can become a hero!”

“You know, I too was quirkless once.”

“Rescuing your friend, without getting injured or into a fight. I’m so proud of you!”

“From now on, I’ll devote my life to raising you.”

“I believe that young Izuku is the right person to succeed me. No surpass me!”

“My advice, entertain the idea and talk it over with your mother. Just don’t let it rule your life. Give it time. Who knows, maybe the answer will fall right into your lap one day.”

Izuku felt his heart stop. He knew.

“Yep, just like Toshinori.” Gran Torino quipped. “Always lost in your heads thinking too much. You two outta take things-Hey! Where are you going?!”

“Izuku!” His mom cried out in concern.

Midoriya tuned them out. He couldn’t help it. His mind was drowning in the realization of his recent discovery.

All Might was his dad.

OMAKE

(Monoma’s Mother Deleted Scene)

“Apparently she’s not the only one.” Tamaki suddenly spoke. Izuku jumped, forgetting he was there for a second. The third year simply pointed ahead, avoiding everyone’s gazes by hiding behind his bangs as usual.

They turned to where he was pointing, spotting a blond woman next to Monoma, currently shouting his poor ear off. The One For All user took in her appearance. Blond hair, cobalt eyes, well dressed...

Don’t tell me...

“Neito, how many have I told you to be nice!”

The blond groaned. “Yes mother.”

Kaminari whistled. “That’s Monoma’s mom?”

“She’s a total knockout!” Mineta exclaimed.

“Wow, didn’t expect her to scold him.” Sero noted.

Sato noted. “Yeah, I thought she’d be like him, honestly.”

“You mean looking down on everyone?” Shoji asked, quirking an eyebrow.

“You really shouldn’t judge someone so quickly.” Denki’s mother lightly scolds.

“I kinda thought that too, though.” Ochako added.

“Same.” Toru joined in.

Mina smiled. “Me too.”

“Makes you wonder,” The electric quirk user closed out. “Where it all went wrong.”

Chapter Text

“What a surprise, viewers! Two of U.A’s heroes, Ectoplasm and Cementoss are here with us today!” A reporter spoke to the camera with a bright smile, many spectators chattering excitedly around them. She put the microphone towards the two, Cementoss mainly. “So, what can you tell us about All Might’s retirement?”

You insisted on an interview just to ask us that? Both simultaneously criticized. Originally, the two had been taking a break between patrolling the grounds. Other pro heroes relieving them of their posts. That was when they noticed a large crowd and decided to see what the fuss was all about. As staff and acting security, it was their job. That’s when they spotted the reporter and her cameraman interviewing various students, parents and any other festival goers.

Unlike previous years, U.A. decided to check every visitor coming and going. Most were allowed in with a simple bag check. But the media was another story entirely. They only allowed a small handful of news networks onto the property. Four in total. Their reason was simple, minimize the amount of swarming from the media.

Ever since the new school year started, every news channel and gossip magazine had their eyes on their school. All Might becoming a teacher playing a huge factor. Every incident earned scrutiny that effectively damaged their reputation as the best hero school. Not that they cared about frivolous titles. But as a pillar in the hero community, they represented the ideal strength and integrity of all heroes across Japan.

And the League of Villains crippled it in less than a year. The attack at the summer camp highlighted how easy it was for villains to attack the students. They had been attacked before, sure. But the number of students injured and one being kidnapped just showed the world how ill equipped they were to deal with the imposing threat.

According to the media, that is. Who all loved nothing more than to whip the public into a frenzy for high ratings. No matter how true, false, or exaggerated the story was.

Hence their mitigating of how many outlets they were allowing in. Gossip tabloids and talk show hosts were immediately turned away. And the four that were allowed in were all thoroughly checked long before gaining permission to enter the grounds via invitation. A neutral-stance news network, a respectable podcast hostess who had been gaining traction online as of late, and the freelance reporter Taneo Tokuda who had visited before and been proven to be trustworthy.

The last group was the one standing before them now. A more social news show that focused more on celebrities and sensationalism than anything political or serious. Though it was the only one among their category that had yet to cross any boundaries so they were given a pass.

Except while they asked a variety of questions, their focus ultimately always circled back to All Might. And now that people who actually knew him showed up, there was no stopping their curiosity.

Many heroes had given their various impressions on All Might stepping down as the number one hero. Each expressing their sorrows at his hero work coming to an end, and how they were all inspired by him in different ways. Those in the U.A. staff however, were far too busy tending to the school and their students to have time to give such statements.

So despite their rude insistence, Cementoss wasn’t opposed to answering.

“Well, like many other heroes you’ve no doubt heard from already, I was ultimately saddened by the fact that our symbol of peace will no longer be around. But that doesn’t mean All Might himself is gone. The last several years with him as our hero have been the best anyone can ever say. I’d say I speak for many heroes when I stress how much All Might has influenced our lives. We all felt inspired to help others when we first saw him in action.”

Ectoplasm leaned in, looking to add his two cents. “That desire to help others only grew when we each found our own respective passions in teaching. We may never top All Might as the strongest individually. But being able to build up the next generation of heroes to uphold that same integrity will outshine any hero ranking.”

Many whispered agreements and praises at their words passed over the crowd. The reporter nodded in agreement.

“And how’s All Might taking his retirement?”

Ectoplasm was thankful for the mask hiding his eye twitching in irritation. Even when they tried to direct the conversation to something broader like the school and their students they still went back to All Might.

It wasn’t that they didn’t want to talk about him. But having worked with the guy they could immediately tell he wasn’t the type to bask in the publicity. So their discretion was mainly out of respect for the man.

“He’s certainly risen to the occasion.” Cementoss said honestly. “When he first started teaching here, he had a difficult time adjusting. It’s a much different environment to hero work, never mind career.”

“But he learns quickly.” Ectoplasm commented. “I had never seen such a drastic change until after Kamino. As our first years had been training for their license exams, he jumped from one student to the next left and right giving out advice.”

Cementoss nodded. “Yes, I’d say he’s fully embraced the role of a teacher now.”

“Yeah!” A third voice chimed in loudly. They all turned to see Present Mic approach them. “Remember that first day when he came into the teachers’ lounge? Our new students had been surprising all of us and he was all excited asking ‘Is this what it feels like to be proud of someone? It’s amazing!’” He then laughed. “That first year class won him over instantly!”

“That’s true.” Cementoss agreed. “They certainly have him wrapped around their fingers.”

The reported gleamed at that. “Any chance we can hear more from the number one hero himself?”

“That would require knowing where he is.” Ectoplasm stated bluntly. Hoping that was enough of an excuse to let the conversation end.

“He’s in the teachers’ lounge.” Another person said, joining in. Seeing it was Midnight approach them. “It’s rather hard to enjoy a festival when you’re constantly getting swarmed, so he’s taking a break.”

The heroes all secretly grinned when the reporter winced at having been called out.

Cementoss hummed in thought. “I would’ve assumed he’d be with Midoriya and the rest of his class.”

“Same here.” Present Mic added. “Those two are attached to the hip.”

“Are they really that close?” The reporter was digging again. Though this time around, they didn’t quite notice, caught up in the discussion just as much as she was.

“All Might is close with all his students.” Ectoplasm responded neutrally. “He struggles a bit with remaining unbiased and playing favorites, but every new teacher has that issue when they first start out.”

“It is true he gets along with Midoriya better than the other students,” Cementoss elaborated. “But their quirks are close enough that I’d imagine All Might simply just has an easier time teaching him. We often get students with quirks similar enough to our own that we end up giving more advice since we’ve shared the same experiences as them.”

“Not to mention their personalities.” Midnight noted herself. “There are differences but they have a pretty similar demeanor. Though it’s not like Midoriya’s difficult to get along with.”

After that, the conversation was no longer about All Might, but about their most recent student. And no one even noticed.

Ectoplasm nodded. “Very true. I wouldn’t say he’s the best in my math class, but he never hesitates to answer his guess when called and always asks questions after class when he gets stuck on something. Any teacher would appreciate that quality.”

Now the reporter looked interested in the new name. “Is this Midoriya student that beloved among the teachers?”

“Yep! That little green bean is super endearing!” Present Mic added. “You should’ve seen him during his first few weeks here. He asked everyone for autographs! But he was so sweet and polite to everyone about it too. And on top of that he follows All Might around like a little duckling! Trust me, if we put him in front of all the female heroes we have in Japan, they would just coo over his cuteness nonstop.”

Cementoss held up a finger. “You’ve likely seen him at least once during the school festival. He’s the boy with the green hair who made it to the quarterfinals.”

It then clicked who the teachers were talking about now that the reporter could finally place a face to the name. “The one who broke all his fingers?” That little force of destruction was considered sweet and innocent among the staff?

At that statement, all the teachers winced.

“Yes,” Cementoss finally admitted. “It’s true that Midoriya’s quirk can damage him whenever he uses it. But that’s mainly because it did not manifest until the year prior to starting high school. His body had yet to adjust to its properties. We didn’t come to know this fact until much later after his enrollment. A little embarrassing on our part. Though he’s shown great improvement since then. In fact, his entire usage made a complete turnaround after just a week of internships following the sports festival.”

“Yes, he surprised all of us when he came back able to use his quirk without intentionally harming himself.” Ectoplasm stated. “He truly embodies the motto at our school.”

“Is that so...” The reporter hummed in thought. This Midoriya kid was sounding more and more fascinating. The fact that all the teachers, professional heroes, sung their praises about him said a lot. Actually, it might be more valuable to interview him rather than All Might. “Any chance you know where we can find him? I’d like to get an exclusive on U.A.’s best and brightest.”

“Well, that might not be feasible today.” Cementoss confessed, scratching the back of his head. “We have a special guest attending today. Midoriya and a third year of ours are showing them around our campus. Apparently those three really bonded during our students’ work studies. And due to the nature of this guest it’s not a good idea to crowd them. So I’m afraid Midoriya’s unavailable today.”

Well that was disappointing. And while the temptation of seeking him out just to see this special guest was overwhelming, it was pretty clear they were some type of person that was likely in protective custody. Something the teachers would be naturally touchy about. Not a good idea to put someone like that on a camera. And although they worked in gossip, she will respect their privacy in this regard.

“Ah, speaking of the little listener.” Present Mic all of a sudden blurted out. Everyone following his pointed finger to the direction ahead. There was a boy, green hair in wild curls sprinting off with crazy speed.

“Where’s he off to in such a rush?” Midnight asked aloud to herself.

“Don’t tell me he got caught up in something again?” Ectoplasm grumbled.

What did that mean? Was the kid a delinquent?

“Only one way to find out!” Mic resolved and then shouted, waving to catch the kid’s attention. “Yo, Midoriya!”

Almost to comical effect, the teen skidded to a stop. Shoes nearly mimicking the sound of tires squealing.

“Oh uh, Present Mic-sensei.” Midoriya greeted, a small stutter to his voice.

“Where’s the fire little buddy?” The hero went on to ask, playing it cool, but serious. “Something up?”

“N-No, everything’s fine.” He answered. His voice showing that wasn’t his primary concern now. “I’m just looking for All Might. Have you seen him?”

“He’s resting up in the teachers’ lounge.” Cementoss reported. “Probably best to leave him be for now. You can talk with him later when he returns. In the meantime, you should have fun and relax with your classm-”

“S-Sorry, but I really need to talk to him! It’s important! Thank you!” And just like that he was off like a rocket again. Leaving all the teachers stunned.

“Not even a second to breathe.” Ectoplasm commented. Apparently, they were all too used to their student’s odd behavior.

“You know, it isn’t just All Might who’s strange around Midoriya.” Midnight brought up. “He’s always visiting the teachers’ lounge looking for him. It’s almost as if those two were acquainted with each other before joining the school this year.” There was a joke she could make about the two getting up to something naughty, something she normally did as part of her hero persona, but she refrained. Jokes aside, saying such things about a teacher and student were not appropriate.

Cementoss hummed in agreement. “I think I saw somewhere that Midoriya was the boy who tried to help Bakugo back during the slime villain attack. That was one All Might dealt with so I just assumed the two met through that incident.”

“I dunno,” Present Mic drawled. “Seems pretty sus if you ask me.”

Ectoplasm gave the blonde a dry look at his choice of words. “You’ve been letting your students influence you too much.”

“And you all gossip too much.”

The adults all froze at the new voice, turning to see Eraserhead standing behind them. The look on his face dry as always.

“What are you all doing here?” The scruffy man drawled out. “Shouldn’t you be on patrol? Preferably separate.”

The reporter felt a little stunned at the man’s look and attitude. This was another pro hero? He looked more like a homeless man.

“There is such a thing a rotation,” Midnight brushed off. “We’re all on break so we thought we’d spend time with our students and participate in some of the events.”

“You three, I can believe that. But you,” Aizawa locked eyes on Present Mic. “You already burned your free time watching Class 1-A’s concert.”

His old classmate raised his hands in a placating gesture. “Okay, okay. I just wanted to see what all the hubbub over here was about. Though it’s not like I’m not still working. I saw Midoriya speed past us earlier looking for All Might.”

He threw their student under the bus? Everyone from his coworkers to the media crew and all the students and visitors watching collectively observed.

“I don’t care what the problem child is up to. If it involves All Might then it’s not serious.” His eyes then flashed red as he glared at the blonde. “You, on the other hand, are coming with me. We need extra eyes on the west gate.”

Present Mic yelped as Eraserhead grabbed him by the front of his jacket and was promptly dragged off like a toddler being pulled away by his mother.

Problem child? The reporter repeated the word in her head. This Izuku Midoriya was sounding more and more interesting by the minute. And the school building was technically available to the public due to some of the class events taking place inside so...

While the heroes were distracted watching Present Mic comically struggle against the other hero’s grip, she whispered to her cameraman as they wrapped up and began to make their way toward the large structure. They weren’t sneaking intentionally, but they didn’t exactly announce their exit either.

“He should’ve mentioned he was still on the clock.” Ectoplasm stated, feeling no remorse for the disciplinary action the other faced.

Cementoss idly scratched his head. “Well, it’s not like we were helping matters. All of us being grouped together like this.”

“Besides, we’re reaching the end of our break.” Midnight held up her wrist as if to observe the time, even though all that was on it was her signature metal cuff. Why she felt the need to do that no one knew. “We’re sorry to cut this short, but the three of us need to resume our own patrols. I sincerely hope you all have a fun time here at- Ara? Where’d they go?”

What should’ve been pleasantries of goodbyes exchanged, as soon as Midnight turned around, any trace of the the media group were long gone.

Further ahead, the duo in question were hastily rushing to get inside. Hoping to catch this Midoriya kid before he and All Might leave elsewhere. None of them noticing their actions drew a pair of eyes towards them.

A lean man with curly hair and large round glasses hummed as he watched the skittish media weave through the crowd. His instincts telling him something wasn’t right, he opted to follow.

---

Gran Torino stood there in the middle of the walkway, surrounded by people passing him by. Staring baffled in the direction his student’s student ran off too. And he knew he wasn’t the only one. Both Midoriya’s mother, the third years and their parents also shared similar expressions.

Now he wasn’t not used to Midoriya being such an odd ball. He had plenty of exposure back when he was training him during the internships. But this skittish behavior was new.

And it wasn’t just the little brussel sprout. Toshinori had been acting odd too this morning.

---

“Hm? School festival?” He asked the other on the phone. “Sorry, but I can’t make it. It’s still all hands on deck for that League of Villains case. I’m not gonna be able to find time to attend. You already know this. I gave the same reason to Midoriya when I turned him down for his work study.”

“I know,” Toshinori admitted over the phone. “I just... need some advice.”

A tick formed in his temple. He was too old for all this beating around the bush. “Well, spit it out then. Anything you wanna know you ask me upfront like an adult. You’re asking for advice, not me to hold your hand.”

“...If my master was still around,” He began slowly. “And she found out about Shigaraki, what would she do?”

The air immediately grew somber. And Gran Torino was glad he had stepped out of the room to answer this call. Why on earth was Toshinori asking that of all things?

“I told you before. He may be Nana’s grandson, but that doesn’t change the fact that he’s a villain working for All For One. You’ve seen him, the kid is too far gone. If Nana was here she’d say the same.”

Nothing but silence on the other end. No doubt the man was thinking heavily on his statement.

“But...” He began again, catching the other’s attention over the line. “I know she’d cry every night in regret believing it was her actions that led to this. And how she should’ve at least stayed in touch with her son and his family so she could be there for Tenko when he needed her most.”

“...I see.” Toshinori finally said.

“Why are you asking anyway? Like I said, I though we’d already gone over how Shigaraki’s circumstances don’t change the fact that he needs to be stopped.”

“They don’t. I’ve accepted that. It... wasn’t Shigaraki specifically I wanted to ask about. Something’s come up recently in my life and I’m not sure what I should do about it.”

The old man hummed. And somehow it involved asking about how Nana would handle the Shigaraki situation? “It have anything to do with that letter you got from Nighteye?” As Toshinori sputtered on the other line, no doubt about how he knew that. “Good grief, you show up to his agency in the middle of the day just to pick up that? Of course word’s gonna spread. Just be lucky the gossip’s only making its rounds among the heroes. Can’t imagine how the public’s gonna latch onto that.”

“Right.” Toshinori hesitantly replied. “Well, yeah. It does have something to do with the letter. Thing is, it’s not exactly the type of thing I can ask about over the phone. I thought the festival might be a good place to talk. Plus it’s give you a chance to see young Midoriya. I’m sure he’d love to see you.”

---

He honestly had no idea what Toshinori wanted to talk about. And he didn’t know why Midoriya was acting so squirrelly. But he was positive the two were somehow connected.

Well, guess he should start making his way to the building. Probably best to take Mrs. Midoriya and the others along. Something tells him they’ll find the both of them without having to look too hard for either.

---

Within the silence of the teachers’ lounge, Toshinori quietly gazed out the window. Watching the crowd of students entertaining both themselves and the visitors. Though what he really focused on were the families traveling together.

It wasn’t something he’d given serious thought over before. There might’ve always been the passing idea of meeting a nice woman, marrying her. But his dedication to deafening All For One and keeping the peace as the number one hero took priority. And he didn’t wish to burden them with such a weight. Or worse, risk putting them in danger. Shigaraki now serving as proof that there was no level too low that All For One wouldn’t stoop to torment the wielders of One For All.

But now, with the discovery of his successor being his own flesh and blood. It changed so many things in his life. Looking at all those moms and dads with their sons and daughters. He wanted that. So badly. Like he’d never wanted anything else in his entire lifetime.

Still, the thought scared him. Young Midoriya was already tied up in the struggle between All For One and One For All. Just the idea of the villain doing something, anything, to the boy was enough to make All Might want to lock his son away from the world where he can never be hurt again. But he’d always dismiss it in the end. Not only was the notion ridiculous and useless against someone like All For One, but that would only make young Izuku unhappy. All the boy ever wanted in the world was to become a hero and save others. Just like him.

And there was that too. How was Toshinori supposed to balance between being his father and mentor? He already struggled between being a teacher versus some kind of idol to young Midoriya. He looked at him like he hung the very stars in the skies, even long after the kid had seen him at his weakest. Knowing full well he was flawed, human. Did young Midoriya even want a father figure? Sure the boy expressed that desire. But would that opinion change upon learning it was All Might meant to fill that roll?

The retired hero sighed. He was walking himself in circles. Gran Torino was supposed to be there to talk with him about all this, but the man was running late.

Maybe he got lost?

Unlikely. The man acted senile, however he wasn’t really. Perhaps he paid a visit to Young Midoriya first.

“Guess I’ll head out and look for him.” Honestly, he could use a walk at this point. He stood up, about to make his way to the door.

But it was as he raised from his seat that he started to hear it. Footsteps. Rapid taps slamming heavy against the floor outside, even if the sound was faint. Who was running through the halls at this time? He wasn’t aware what staff was around this section of the building. Maybe he should go out and scold whoever it was. Likely a student.

His intuition proved correct, though not entirely. As the door to the lounge was thrown open to a boy with wild green hair. His successor panting at having run all this way.

“All Might!” He exhaled out in gasps, out of breath.

“Y-Young Midoriya? Why are you running in the halls? Is something wrong? Wait, has something happened to your mother? To little Eri?!” Yeah, he maybe could’ve handled that better.

And it looked like he wasn’t the only one confused. “W-What? No! My mom and Eri are fine! That’s not why I’m here.”

Now Toshinori was really lost. “Then why...?”

It took a minute for the boy to get the words out.

“...Why? Why didn’t you tell me?”

“Tell you what, my boy?” Had he somehow forgot to cover something involving One For All? Or at least All Might thought it was about One For All. “I’m not as young as I used to be so my memory is a little-”

“No! You knew,” He insisted. “You know I’m your son!”

Toshinori’s eyes widened. And suddenly whatever sounds of the festival outside were drowned out by the silence within the room.

He should’ve seen this coming. Young Midoriya was a smart kid. So smart and brilliant. It was only a matter of time before he’d find out on his own. He only wished he could’ve told him beforehand. Now he thinks he’d been hiding it from him.

“I told you and you didn’t tell me the truth. Why? Was it because of One For All?”

That threw the blonde through a loop. “What? No, of course not-”

The young boy plowed right over him. “Did you not want me as your son? You knew this whole time? Were you ever gonna tell me?! Why-”

“I didn’t know!” As soon as the words left his mouth, he reeled back immediately. He hadn’t meant to snap at the boy. But he had to stop him before he went on one of his usual rambling storms. The kid was smart but had a tendency to overthink in exaggeration.

Seeing young Midoriya calm down now, also surprised at All Might’s statement, the old man decided now was the time to explain his perspective.

“When you explained how you were born, I was just as surprised as you were when I first heard my name on that paperwork. I mean, I dated a little in my younger years, but certainly not with your mother. And you’re far too young to have come from any of the others.”

“I was born through gamete donation, though.”

“Right, I thought of that too. I didn’t donate anything to those types of clinics. So naturally it baffled me how you came to be... Until I remembered something that happed with Nighteye years ago.”

“Sir Nighteye had something to do with my birth?” His student looked even more confused. And Toshinori couldn’t really blame him.

“He was insistent on me having a successor. His initial idea was for me to actually have a kid of my own so we could pass on the quirk without it looking conspicuous. Since I hadn’t been seeing anybody at the time, he had... secured a sample and was going through candidates. I eventually caught him and told him to stop. I didn’t like the idea of forcing my own kid to carry the burden of One For All.” The retired hero sighed. “I managed to convince him to look for a successor through the students already aiming to be heroes. That was how he ended up with young Togata.”

Was that why Nighteye was so stubborn on it being Senpai? Midoriya wondered. Because him and All Might already had an argument over his future successor?

“Anyway, the memory cropped up after you left so I did some digging. Turns out he never got rid of the sample and instead donated it. Good grief, I know Nighteye never liked to waste anything, but this is ridiculous.”

So it was by complete accident that Izuku ended up born as All Might’s son. A fluke.

“Right... ridiculous.” He mumbled. Midoriya was his successor of One For All first and foremost. Of course them being related complicated things. All Might likely didn’t want anything to do with it. He might be retired now, but there were so many things that the hero had to prioritize over family. Defeating All For One, as well as the protection of the people and One For All. And they’d seen All For One already go after Nana’s family tree with Shigaraki. All Might definitely wanted to avoid a situation like that. “You didn’t even want a kid. I can see how that’d be a burden to you.”

His teacher’s eyes suddenly widened at those words, realizing his blunder. “Now hold on! Young Mido-” He took a deep breath, and grasped the boy firmly by the shoulders. “Izuku, you will never be a burden to me. If anything, I’m happy to have learned this.”

Izuku blinked. What? “You are?”

His teacher-no, his dad let him go and once again stood tall over him. He had an easy smile on his face. The same reassuring presence he’d seen whenever he gave him uplifting words. Like at the sports festival, when All Might told him he was once quirkless like him.

Quirkless... Another piece of the puzzle slotted into place. How had he not seen it before now?

“Sure, it was quite a shock to learn. I mean, what are the odds that the very kid I picked to inherit my quirk turned out to be my own son like Nighteye had originally intended? Seems almost too perfectly lined up.” The blonde shook his head at the absurd circumstances. “But I wouldn’t change it for the world. You’re a wonderful kid, Izuku. And while I admit it’s already a struggle trying to balance being your mentor and hero, I wouldn’t mind adding dad into the equation. If you’ll have me.”

Midoriya could hardly believe it. All Might, the hero he looked up to since he was small, was not only his father, but was offering to take on that roll. And the decision was entirely Izuku’s.

But what should he do with that? He hadn’t accounted for the possibility of already knowing his dad. The two of them had only just figured out how to be mentor and student. Would acting as family change all that?

“From now on, I’ll devote my life to raising you.”

Izuku had his answer.

Toshinori watched as Izuku looked him straight in the eye. Displaying the same determination as whenever he expressed his desire to become a hero.

“Yes, nothing would make me happier.” The same response he gave back on the beach that night. He could tell All Might remembered. Because in the next moment, he opened his arms, inviting a hug. To which Izuku ran into with full force.

The old man gave a chuckling grunt as he felt the recoil. “Easy there. You’re gonna knock this poor old man over.”

“Oh, now you wanna play the old man card?” The boy grinned up at him, for once not feeling the least bit sorry. “Recovery Girl usually has to fight tooth and nail to get you to rest.”

“And may I remind you that you’re just as bad with your injuries.” All Might tut back, wagging a finger.

“Well, I am your son. Clearly I get that from your side of the family.”

He nearly sputtered at having been called out like that. But he wasn’t ready to throw in the towel. Instead, this led to the retired hero humming in thought. His hand rubbing his chin. “Is this what they meant when they say the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree?”

Midoriya honestly didn’t know, so he simply gave a shrug of the shoulders when the two split. A few seconds ticked by, before both dropped the discussion to laugh at the absurdity of it.

It felt good to talk like this with him. Midoriya remembered all the times they socialized outside of any training, class or One For All discussions. All Might often tried to bond with his successor, obviously not wanting to cross lines and be too familiar. But his fan boy tendencies and admiration always seemed to hinder than. It had begun to wear off a little as the two got to know one another. But even still, there was that layer of putting the hero on a pedestal and collecting all the themed merch he could find that remained.

Now however, it seemed that last bit had finally clicked. All Might, was human. He wasn’t perfect. But he tried. Tried to be a good hero, a good mentor, a good teacher. And now, a good father.

Though it wasn’t like Midoriya knew what standard a father should be. The only close proximity he had would probably be Kacchan’s dad. And...

Endeavor standing tall and intimidating while he yelled at his son from across the stands flashed in his mind. Todoroki’t look of utter contempt as he tried everything to suppress his flames.

Yeah, Izuku was fairly certain that no matter what All Might will never be as bad as that. Though maybe it was because he was thinking of Todoroki’s family that the memory resurfaced.

“Are you All Might’s secret love child or something?”

“Holy whoa! I really am All Might’s secret love child!”

His newly labeled dad coughed up blood in surprise. “W-What?!”

Oops, did he say that out loud? Realizing the retired hero had no idea what he was referring to, Midoriya quickly went to explain. “Oh, um... During the sports festival, Todoroki confronted me about how close we were since the start of the school year.”

“And he thought it was because you were my illegitimate child.” The old man scratched his head. “That young Todoroki means well, but his imagination gets ahead of him sometimes.”

“He’s not wrong, though.”

“No, he’s not.” All Might finally chuckled, ruffling his son’s hair. It drew a smile from the younger. “Now, how’s about you and I go join the others. I’m sure your mother must be worried about you.”

Izuku nodded, feeling bad for running off the way he did. He had some explaining to do. “Wait! What about my mom?! What do we tell her?!”

“Calm down,” All Might said, resting a hand on his shoulders. “Let’s put the discussion aside for later. We can tell her the whole story some other time. I’ll ask Principal Nezu to take you to visit her. Neither of you should be having to stress about this on a day meant for fun.”

“Oh... Okay.” That was much easier than what he was making it out to be.

“In the meantime, let’s go and enjoy the rest of the festival. All the students worked hard to make this event an enjoyable day. It’d be a waste not to go appreciate their efforts. And I’m sure little Eri would also love to see what they have to offer.”

That had Midoriya grinning in determination. Reminded of the whole reason they went all out in the first place. “Right!”

The boy let the older man guide him out of the teachers’ lounge. Engaged in more casual conversation as they went on their merry way. Leaving the hall, neither noticed a round lens peaking around the corner.

Chapter Text

“Now where’d that kid run off to?” The reporter murmured to herself, her eyes scanning the hallway in search of a kid with messy green hair. If only the boy wasn’t so fast.

Not even a second after they essentially bailed on the school teachers, they chased after one of their students. Hoping that if they catch up to him, they’ll be able to interview All Might.

Ever since the fight in Kamino, marking the number one hero’s retirement, the man had hardly made another public appearance. Which was somewhat expected. He was mainly recovering from the injuries he suffered. And obviously hero activity would’ve ground to a halt if he retired soon after. But no one has had a chance to interview him since. 

“Makoto, we’ve been searching this school for five minutes already.” Her cameraman complained. “Let’s just call it and get back to doing interviews.”

“And miss an opportunity to interview All Might after his retirement, no way. You gotta live a little, Isagi.”

“But the longer we take to find him the less footage we’ll have to show for by the end of the day. Do you really want our producer to get mad at us again because you decided to follow your ‘journalist ambition’?”

Makoto halted in her steps, recognizing her coworkers dry voice. And he had every right to. How many times had she used that very excuse because she chased after a lead that would get them exclusive breaking news coverage?

Feeling called out, she hesitantly turned back to him. “Well...”

“Holy whoa! I really am All Might’s secret love child!”

Both heads quickly snapped in attention at the sound.

“Did you hear that?”

Makoto nodded. “It came from around the corner.”

They went to investigate, finding a door left ajar in the hallway. Makoto opted to crouch down low, allowing her cameraman to have plenty of room to poke the lens within the gap.

Within, they could see the very kid they’d been looking for. Along with...

Makoto quietly gasped. “All Might! It’s really him!”

As soon as she pointed him out, the man spat out some blood. She grimaced. That was hardly awe-inspiring.

“W-What?” All Might coughed out in surprise.

The green-haired kid, Midoriya she remembered the teachers calling him, began to elaborate. “Oh, um... During the sports festival, Todoroki confronted me about how close we were since the start of the school year.”

Todoroki, the family name of the hero Endeavor. She remembered that his youngest also attended here in the same year. And come to think of it, they actually faced one another in the sports festival. Were the two of them friends?

“And he thought it was because you were my illegitimate child.” All Might finished, scratching his head. “That young Todoroki means well, but his imagination gets ahead of him sometimes.”

“He’s not wrong, though.” The kid replied, laughing a little.

“No, he’s not.” All Might finally chuckled, ruffling the boy’s hair. It drew a smile from the younger. “Now, how’s about you and I go join the others. I’m sure your mother must be worried about you.”

Izuku nodded, feeling bad for running off the way he did. He had some explaining to do. “Wait! What about my mom?! What do we tell her?!”

“Calm down,” All Might eased him, resting a hand on his shoulders. “Let’s put the discussion aside for later. We can tell her the whole story some other time. I’ll ask Principal Nezu to take you to visit her. Neither of you should be having to stress about this on a day meant for fun.”

“Oh... Okay.” The boy replied, finally calming down.

“In the meantime, let’s go and enjoy the rest of the festival. All the students worked hard to make this event an enjoyable day. It’d be a waste not to go appreciate their efforts. And I’m sure little Eri would also love to see what they have to offer.”

That had Midoriya grinning in determination. His fists both clenched in excitement as a smile beamed on his face. “Right!”

The two began to move, All Might keeping a hand on the boy’s shoulder as they walked. Leading Makoto and Isagi to quickly scramble out of sight around the corner where they came from. Once settled, they watched as they stepped out into the hall.

Immediately All Might’s head snapped up, taking in the silence around him. Even in this weakened state, his eyes seemed sharp as ever, ready to defeat any threat he was perceiving. Not even his student calling his name seemed to snap him out of such intense focus. Makoto felt chills run up her spine. Is this what it felt like to be a villain, afraid of All Might?

“Dad?”

The man suddenly snapped his head back to Midoriya, seemingly thrown through a loop after being broken out of deep concentration. And to be honest, Makoto and Isagi were stunned at the address as well.

More blood sputtered forth. “Y-Yes? What is it, Izuku?”

The question seemed to fluster the boy for some reason. “Oh uhh... I wanted to ask you something but you weren’t responding so I... I’m sorry if I said something wrong.”

“N-No,” The old man insisted. “No, you’re just fine. I mean if you are...”

“Y-Yes!” The boy quickly answered. “Yes! I’m just fine with that.”

What the heck were they referring to? It seemed like there was an underline Makoto was missing. But still... Dad? The kid addressed All Might as Dad, and that shout earlier also established this fact. But was that real, that the two were father and son?

She silently glanced up at her partner, who looked back at her equally befuddled. All while keeping the camera steady.

“Um... Is everything alright?” Midoriya spoke up, once again drawing the focus on him. “You seem spacey all of a sudden.”

“Ah, it’s nothing. Just thought I saw something.” The retired hero waved off with ease, dismissing the very much valid paranoia. “Now, what was it you wanted to ask?”

“Oh! I wanted to see if we can stop by the dorms on the way to everyone. There’s a surprise I wanted to set up for Eri and Sato promised to help me with it.”

“Sure, that works. Do you know where you saw them all last?” He asked back.

“I left them where all the concession stands outside were. Though I’m not sure if they’ve moved. Gran Torino’s with them, though.”

All Might rubbed his chin in though. “Ah, that explains a bit. You can text one of them to say where we’re heading. The crowds have gotten heavier now that it’s the afternoon, but we should find them without much trouble.”

“Right, okay.” Midoriya moved to do just that. Both starting to walk down the hall to their destination.

All Might chuckled again, ruffling the boy’s messy hair. “But if you vanish in front of me again, I will spam your phone.”

The two laughed at the joke only they understood. Walking around the corner and out of sight.

After a minute, knowing they were in the clear now, both Makoto and her partner stepped out of their hiding place.

“We heard all that, right?” Isagi asked slowly, breaking the silence. “That kid, Midoriya, is All Might’s son?”

Makoto couldn’t agree more. “We just discovered the scoop of the century!”

“Makoto.” Her partner chastised, already knowing where her mind was heading.

“But we have to follow them! We can’t just give the scoop without the full story. We need as much footage and data of this Midoriya kid as possible.” Now that she thought of it, was Midoriya All Might's last name? “And we can film the rest of the festival as we go to blend in!”

Isagi sighed heavily. “I’m going to regret this, aren’t I?”

His question was ignored. “C’mon! We’re burning daylight!”

---

“Izuku! There you are! I was worried when you ran off earlier.” His mother declared. Both to herself and the others of her son’s reappearance.

They all turned to see the boy with All Might tagging behind. The elder ruffling her son’s hair upon stopping.

“Sorry to have kept you waiting,” The retired hero greeted them. “Young Midoriya wanted to ask my help with something. But it’s been resolved.”

“Are you sure?” The woman asked, concerned. “You ran off in such a hurry. I was beginning to think something was wrong.”

“Huh?” Her son looked confused, as if just realizing why they had been worried. “Oh no, everything’s fine now. I promise.”

At that, Izuku suddenly yelped as his head was yanked down slightly. The shorter hero in the group jumping up with his quirk to kid the kid a noogie.

“That’s what you get for startling your folks so bad." Gran Torino jabbed at him. “I had to run damage control for your carelessness. If this were a real crisis, you’d get a whopping zero.”

“S-Sorry about that.” He chocked out, looking quite guilty for causing so much worry.

All Might however just clapped his hands resolutely, looking to play mediator. “Well, now with that settled, why don’t we all go see the rest of the festival.”

The statement led to Tornio letting One For All’s ninth wielder go from his grip. The boy scrambling to fix his naturally messy curls. But the old man paid it no mind, choosing to instead look at his friend’s protege in suspicion.

“Are you sure?” His mother asked, considerate. “We wouldn’t want to impose on you.”

The second oldest man in the group merely waved off the concern. “Not at all, I wanted to continue checking out the festival anyway. And this way I get to check in on little Eri. If anything, I should apologize for imposing on you.”

Inko immediately backpedaled. “Oh no, of course not!”

“Having the All Might tag along is just wonderful!” One of the third year parents said, the rest also giving their own verbal agreements.

Mirio also swooped in to save the day. “We’d love to have you explore the booths with us! Right, Eri?”

She excitedly nodded.

Tamaki shook like a leaf. “Everyone’s gonna be staring at us with All Might in our party.”

“Hey, hey! That sounds so exciting!” Nejire cheered, her arms shaking to help her express all her pumped up energy. “Oh! Question for the number one hero! Why are your bangs like that?”

“Uh...” Toshinori blinked at the sudden “Oh, these? Well they-”

The girl then suddenly whirled toward Gran Torino. “And why are your feet so big? Your hands too!” Then she was back at interrogating All Might. “Hey, hey! Did you know you both have the same hair?”

She was referring to both Toshinori’s and Midoriya’s hair. Which now upon closer inspection, looked practically identical in terms of style. And now only the two of them knew the reason why.

“Huh, they do look similar.” Togata noted. “I guess great minds think alike, huh!”

“That has nothing to do with hair.” Amajiki stated bluntly off to the side.

The group of junior heroes continued to chat amongst themselves over how much hair factored into thinking. Both Eri and the parents enjoying the nonsensical conversation. Gran Torino though had a different objective. He yanked Toshinori’s shirt down.

“Since we’re playing twenty questions here,” He the leaned in close to whisper. “What’s going on? You dragged my old butt all the way out here away from the All For One investigation. The least you can do is tell me what all this is about.”

His former student, nervous around his old mentor, cupped his hand to obscure his own voice. “I promise I’ll tell you later. Let’s wait until things calm down some. And besides, you already took the day off. Might as well give yourself a break to relax.”

The old man huffed, letting go of the blonde. “Fine, but there better be some taiyaki here.”

By the time the two heroes tuned back into the conversation though, a flash caught everyone off guard. They all turned to see a tall, lean man with dark curly hair and glasses. A lens poking out of his hand and a toothy grin to match the white flash earlier.

Izuku was the first to recognize him after rubbing his eyes. “Tokuda-san! What are you doing here?”

The grin widened. “Hey there, kiddo.” He then acknowledged the others. “Taneo Tokuda, pleased to meet ya.”

“You know him, Izuku?” His mother inquired.

“Oh, yeah. He’s a reporter that came to interview our class after we started living in the dorms.”

“Ah, right. I remember the school arranging that to reassure parents about the situation on campus.” All Might added in. He extended a hand. “Nice to meet you. Young Midoriya told me about you.”

“All good things I hope.” The man joked. He seemed nervous about shaking All Might’s hand, but happy too. A fan then.

“Actually, yeah.” He admitted whole heartedly. “I’ve been around long enough to know some reporters are only looking out for the latest scoop. But young Midoriya sung nothing but high praises about you.”

The reporter chuckled at that. “Then I guess I best live up to that reputation.” He then leaned in towards the retired hero discreetly. “You’ve got a tail.”

The jarring news had Toshinori stiffen. He followed the reporter’s gaze discreetly. Taking care not to draw attention to where he was looking. Sure enough, there was a duo consisting of a reporter and cameraman hiding in the crowd. One of the groups personally cleared by UA to enter the campus. That didn’t bode well.

“Thanks for the heads up, I’ll let our staff know.”

“If you’d like, I can deal with it. Our kind’s got our own code of conduct. I speak their language. They’ll listen to me.”

All Might held up a hand at that. “You don’t have to trouble yourself. I kind of expected this behavior today, at least to some degree. We’ll handle it.” He then pulled out a phone to do just that. Sending a quiet text. Likely to their principal.

“Alright, if you say so.” Taneo conceded, hands up in a surrounding gesture. “Just thought I’d give you the heads up. I may be a reporter, but there are lines even I don’t cross.”

“I appreciate it.”

“Is the reporter man Deku’s friend?” A little voice piped up, drawing everyone’s attention. “What’s that mean?”

Mirio smiled wide, bouncing the girl slightly as he readjusted her over his shoulders. “A reporter is someone who writes about what’s going on in the world. People, events, the weather.”

“Like a storyteller?” The way she cocked her head to the side was so cute.

That got a laugh out of all the adults. Mirio also chuckled. “Not quite. A storyteller is someone who writes fiction, something made up. A reporter writes about what’s actually happened. It’s how we stay informed about what goes on in the world.”

Tokuda just looked even more amused at the statement. “More or less. But you better be careful. There are some reporters that are actually storytellers in disguise. They like to pass off fiction as fact. So be sure to keep an eye out to learn which is which.”

When he moved a finger up to his grin in a shushing motion, Eri mimicked it with a giggle, nodding in agreement. A promise being made.

 “Anyway, I better get back to making my rounds. Just wanted to pop by and say hello.” The man waved, saying his goodbyes. But then a thought struck him. “Oh, but first. How about a photo of all of you?”

That sounded like a great idea, but the circumstances weren’t favorable. “Sorry, but the case of Overhaul is still under investigation. Until it’s resolved we can’t have any pictures of little Eri circulating the media.”

“Aw, that’s no fun!” Nejire complained, cheeks puffed as she pouted. Eri also gave a small noise of disappointment, much to the surprise of Izuku and Mirio.

“That’s alright. How about a personal one then? Purely for sentimental value.”

The retired hero still wasn’t sure, but it was what his son said next that ultimately swayed him.

“It’ll be fine, he did the same thing with me when he visited last time. And I haven’t seen that picture anywhere online.”

Taneo grinned again as he flicked open his wallet to show the photograph. “Personal keepsake for myself. Not everyday you get to do a story about future heroes on campus.”

Midoriya of course knew that wasn’t true. Well, the picture being a keepsake was. But the real reason for the photo was to document himself with the future successor of All Might. A reminder that even though the number one hero has retired, the future was still bright.

Oh man, if only the guy knew. Given the new information the boy had just learned.

Nonetheless, that was what finally convinced All Might to give the okay. “Alright, one photo of all of us. For the memories.”

“Perfect! Now everyone move in close, just like that.”

It took some direction to get the shot just right. Eri had to be taken off of Mirio’s shoulders because their combined height cut her out of the frame. She also didn’t know how pictures were taken and it took some effort to get her to pose and smile. Amajiki was nervous about standing too close to anyone except the other two members of the Big Three. But his posture made his height too short to be next to either. Instead Izuku and his mom were ordered to take those spots. So getting the third year to calm down and stand still also ate some time. The rest of the parents were naturally taller and had to stay in the back. And Gran Torino began gripping only a minute in about how long this was taking. Tokuda also turned out to be rather picky when it came to arranging staged photos. He needed everything to be just so. A stark contrast to the surprised selfie he took with Izuku.

But eventually, the picture was finally taken. And the reporter happily used his quirk to print a copy for each and every one of them, himself included.

With that accomplished and enough compliments on the photo’s quality to go around, Tokuda finally said farewell and left to another area of the festival to document more of it.

Now all that was left, was to have fun showing Eri around. And make sure she continued to have a wonderful day.

The day had, in short, been a blast. There had been a rather hilarious encounter in the haunted maze, what with half their group being so easily spooked. Even All Might had freaked and puffed up believing there was a perceived threat, which logically lead to him deflating and having a coughing fit, getting real blood everywhere.

Okay, so maybe not so hilarious. But for the actors in Class C to drop the act entirely believing they accidentally killed the number one hero and subsequently scramble to get him looked at was rather absurd to watch when thinking back. It was actually Izuku who snapped out of being scared to buckle down and calmly get his father a stool to sit and a towel to cover his mouth and catch the blood. Gran Torino scolding his former student all the while in front of everyone that it was supposed to be him that was scared and not the other way around.

The whole scene also revealed to everyone in the general vicinity that the old man tearing into the retired hero was actually his mentor and trained All Might. Something which wound up terrifying Toshinori in a different way as Gran Torino began recounting tales of his former student when he was their age. And now having more context, yeah. His dad had valid reason to be afraid of the man. Still, new All Might lore was a huge boon to all that listened in.

But that was hardly their first stop. They also watched Bakugo and the others run the obstacle course. Midoriya and Mirio also taking turns to participate. Course then Gran Torino decided to have his own fun and show them up. Prompting some laughs from the audience as they observed him trouncing the unfortunate kids facing against him.

They later stopped back at the stage to find that Nejire wound being crowned the winner. A tiara and bouquet of roses given to her amongst the confetti and pictures.

There were also plenty of stalls they ate from with lots of yummy food. Though Mirio was wise in monitoring Eri’s intake so she’d have room for the one treat she’d been hoping for all day. Sadly, not one of them was selling candy apples.

The sun had begun to lower, turning the bright blue sky into a crisp orange. All the visitors gone for the day, save for those in their group.

Gran Torino stood with All Might. His mother also about to leave. And Aizawa had come by to pick Eri up and take her back to the hospital she’d been staying in under police protection. Snipe and the Big Three were also there, the seniors having already given their parents goodbyes. As they too had already taken their leave.

“Thanks for coming today. I loved it.” Izuku said his farewell to Eri, the day now over.

She didn’t respond, likely because she didn’t get to try the candy apples. That wasn’t to say she didn’t have fun. He smiled, crouching down to reveal the reason he’d been holding his arms behind his back since visiting Sato.

It had been tough to slip away, especially after the way he’d run out the first time. But luckily All Might knew what he was up to. Roping both his mom and Gran Torino into the ruse. They bought him plenty of time to make it.

“One more thing,” He spoke gently, catching her attention as he pulled out the treat. No great fanfare. But definitely an eagerness to make her happy. “Surprise~!”

“A candy apple!” Mirio exclaimed. “From where? I couldn’t find any.”

“Yeah, I didn’t see that anybody was gonna be selling them.” Izuku explained as Eri gingerly grabbed the stick. “So I bought ingredients when I went out this morning. It was easier to make than I thought it’d be.”

“Huh, so that’s why.” Snipe commented, mainly to himself. No doubt having been informed on the encounter with Gentle Criminal that day, and wondering what could’ve led to him needing to go to the store in the first place.

Izuku stood back up. “The only thing I couldn’t get at the store was food coloring. But Sato had plenty.”

In quiet awe over the legendary treat now sitting in her hand, Eri cautiously took a bite.

“It’s getting late.” Aizawa commented. “But you should be able to see her again soon.”

“Well?” Nejire asked curiously. Practically glowing in her tiara as she leaned forward to speak with Eri. “How is it? Good right?”

The little girl pulled back from the apple, all smiles. A sugar stuck to the corner of her mouth. “It’s the best thing ever!”

“Yep! Nothing beats candy apples!” The blunette beamed.

Tamaki offered a shaky thumbs up. “You got to live out your dream. Happy for you.”

Izuku, was happy at the praise. “I’ll make them again for you. So you have something to look forward to.”

“I will!”

“Alright then, time to go.” Eri then too Aizawa’s cue as she ran up to hold his hand. Both leaving in the direction of the hospital.

“Goodbye Eri-chan!” His senpai called out. “We’ll see you again soon!”

“Hey, hey! Take care!”

“Stay away from needles!” That last one earned Amajiki some stares. But otherwise, it was a heartfelt goodbye.

“Whelp! We better get going too.” The leader of the trio decided. “See you in class, Midoriya.”

Izuku nodded. “See you later.”

Nejire and Amajiki also gave their own farewells, trailing after their friend back onto school grounds. That just left the the remaining teachers, Gran Torino, and the Midoriyas.

“Umm... Mom?” What was there to say? There was so much he wanted to tell her now that things have calmed down. Mainly the update in his newfound familial status with All Might. But there were still others around. And how would she react to this news, after everything they’ve already discussed?

Lost in his own head again, his mother smiled. Going in for a hug. “Oh Izuku, I had a great time. All your friends and teachers are so wonderful. I can’t believe I ever even suggested you leave.”

“No, you had every reason to. You were worried about me.” And acted accordingly as any mom should. “But I’m glad you changed your mind.”

His mother sniffled. “Oh my baby.”

Toshinori walked up, placing a hand on his son’s shoulder. “There’s another thing we’d like to discuss with you. Nothing of major concern, but it does involve some new information today. Would you be opposed to another house visit?”

Inko expressed confusion, but otherwise had no problem. “Not at all, you and Izuku can visit anytime.” Any excuse for her son to come see her more often was welcome.

Snipe stepped forward. “If you’d like, I can escort you home.”

“That’s very kind of you, but I wouldn’t want to impose.”

“Not at all ma’am.” The hero assured her. “Just a part of my job.”

“Still, my home is quite a long commute from here.”

“I see. At least let me take you to the train station. It’ll be dark soon and I’ll rest easier knowing you made it to your neighborhood safe.”

Everyone agreed with that. Izuku waving her goodbye as the two headed off in that direction.

“Alright, I’ve been kept in suspense long enough.” Grab Torino snarked before smacking his former student on the head. Jumping as he did so. “You’re gonna tell me that important thing you’d been wanting to discuss so bad.”

“You called Gran Torino here?” Izuku asked his teacher curiously.

All Might nodded. “It has to do with our conversation earlier today.” Ah, now he understood. “Would you like to come with? I know you’re probably tired, but it only makes sense for you to be there.”

“What? The brat’s involved too?” Now the old man was lost.

“All will be explained.” His mentor assured him. Then dramatically posed pointing toward the school building. “Quickly! To the teacher’s lounge!”

“Who the hell are you whipping out that line for?! There’s no one here but us!”

Midoriya bursted out laughing at their antics. Never a dull moment.

A ways away, the supposed tail that had been following them peaked out of hiding as they cut the footage. Now outside the school grounds.

Makoto smiled as she watched the remaining people walk back into UA. “Did you get all that?”

Her cameraman, Isagi, nodded. “Every second.”

“I can’t believe it! Once we bring this back our ratings are gonna go through the roof. And bring so much hope to the world at the same time!”

“Don’t forget what they said though. That little girl’s part of the Shie Hassaikai case. We’ll have to blur her out if we wanna avoid any lawsuits.” Isagi stood, working to power down his camera. “You really think our story’s gonna have that much of an impact? I mean sure, All Might had a kid all this time. But it wouldn’t be the only hero family scandal out there.”

“Yes, but people have been worried about the future ever since the number one hero retired. If we show everyone this, they’ll see that the symbol of peace is still here, in his legacy.” She then gasped. “What if his son’s the whole reason he applied as a teacher?!”

“It’s possible, but maybe a little too bias to have that much favoritism. He was already wearing down before Kamino, right? Maybe he took on teaching to slow down. You know, ease out hero work gracefully.” At least until that bald villain came and ruined everything.

There was a click, and then a flash. “You know, for all your brilliant theories, I’m appalled you didn’t just go up and ask All Might yourselves.”

Gasping, both turned to see a grinning lean man. Waving at them with a lens embedded in his palm. Or rather, protruding. His quirk?

“You, you’re that journalist.”

He smirked toward the cameraman. “Yup, and a photographer. And just look at all the gold I struck.” They then paled when he held up multiple printed photos of them blatantly spying on All Might and his group all day. There was even a level of skill where All Might was the clear centerpiece of their spying. Taking care not to show his son or anyone else in the group. Even the little girl was not in a single picture. “Would be a shame if these ever got out. If they saw that this is how you operate as reporters, sneaking around and spying on our number one hero, the public would never trust you again.”

This wasn’t just any confrontation. This was blackmail. The worst kind of scenario in their line of work.

Makoto swallowed. “What do you want?”

“Oh, nothing much. Just that little fortune sitting in your camera.” He motioned with his hand. “Come on, fork it over.”

Isagi blocked the device with his body. His partner glaring. “You just want to release it yourself!” She accused.

“Bingo~! Should be a fair trade. After all, all you guys want is for the info to go public. So it shouldn’t matter who gets the credit.”

Isagi frowned. That didn’t sound quite right. Not in a bad way, just... off. Like his heart wasn’t genuine in saying that. Discreetly, fiddled with the sim card.

“Yeah right, there’s no way-!”

He cut her off. “Deal.”

Makoto snapped her head over to him, taken aback.

The man grinned. “Smart choice.”

“On one condition,” He leveled. “You destroy the pictures right here.”

The other reporter didn’t react. “Hand over the sim card and we’ll see.”

He had no other choice. Isagi walked over and held out the chip. The other taking it without resistance.

He inspected it, likely using a trained eye to tell if it was a fake or not. Sometimes people like them often carried blanks to use a decoys. The best way to determine that is whether or not the card was brand new or scratched with use. But Isagi was smart enough to know he couldn’t fool this man that way. The card has been use before. The golden tab where the card was read showed faint black marks, implying it had been inserted into something before.

He pocketed the data. “A deal’s a deal.” And then popping out a lighter. Setting the photos aflame. Dropping them to the ground to crush the newly made soot under his foot. Putting out the fire. With one last smirk thrown at them, he waltzed off. “Pleasure doing business!”

Tokuda smiled as he walked out of their sight, looking down at his prize. “That went easier than I thought.” And it was all too easy to crush the flimsy chip in his fingers. Now there being no way to recover the footage from the damaged tech. He pocketed sim card, now turned trash. “I meant what I said, Midoriya-kun. Thanks to you, I know there’s still light in this world. And I’ll do my part to protect it. Until the time is right.”

---

“I think that about covers everything for the kitchen.” Sato stated, watching as his classmate wrote everything down. “Sorry, we kinda burned through a lot of ingredients yesterday.”

Izuku nodded, jotting the last item he’d been told to get on the list. “Alright, got it. Todoroki already checked with the girls about anything they need that’s not for the common area. Have we asked all the guys yet?”

“Why yes. I’m very glad you asked, Midoriya.” Mineta answered slyly. He held up a hand to discreetly cover his mouth from the others as he attempted to whisper his request to his classmate. “It’s not at the convenience store, though. See there’s a very special item in a small store down the block-”

Sero bonked him over the head with his elbow to shut him up. “Nah, we’re good.”

“Actually, we need some charger cables for everybody.” Kaminari announced.

Mina looked at him. “What do you mean? That’s what we have you for.”

“Exactly my point! You can’t just keep using me to charge all your phones whenever your chords go bad! There’s no way you’ve all gone this long without replacing them.”

“Bold of you to assume they were ever broken to begin with.” Jiro stated, her expression unchanging as she scrolled through something on her phone.

That had the electric quirk user gasping dramatically. “Traitors! All of you!”

This is the chaos Bakugo walked in on. “Quit your whining. It’s your own damn fault for letting everyone walk all over you. If it were me I would’ve kicked anyone’s ass that asked me to be their personal battery.”

“But you’d also kick my ass if I said no to you.”

“You’re damn right I will.” He then forced his phone onto the blonde. “Now get charging, Dunce Face.”

The other groaned in defeat.

“Oh, Kacchan. Is there anything you want us to pick up?”

“Huh?”

Sensing the other’s confusion, the boy elaborated. “It’s our weekly grocery run. Remember, we all take turns grabbing supplies for everyone?”

Kirishima then snorted. “You know, the one you always bail on?”

“Why the hell should I care about grabbing anything for you extras!”

Used to the behavior, Izuku continued. “Today it’s my and Todoroki’s turn. So is there anything you want me to get for you?”

“Choke on my smoke, Shitty Nerd!”

“Ah, that’s...” Great, now he was riled up. Should he wait for the fit to pass until he’ll properly answer the question, or should they skip him this time? They really needed to leave soon.

Ultimately, it was Todoroki who took that decision from him. “I don’t think they sell those at the convenience store. Have you tried Amazon?”

“Shut it, Icy Hot!”

An understanding nod from the scarred teen. “Now I know they carry those. Midoriya, be sure to put down pain reliever patches for Bakugo.”

Izuku held up his notepad as a last minute defense from his childhood friend’s yelling at the comment. Oh well, at least there were no explosions this time. Eventually they were able to get the request of some spicy flavored snacks and were already on there way to grab what they needed.

“Why did you go and provoke Kacchan like that?” He eventually asked as they browsed the isles, putting the items they were looking for into the cart. There was a short moment where he suddenly got the strangest feeling. He looked around to see if he could find it. No luck.

If the behavior was odd, Todoroki didn’t comment on it. “I thought you were finally standing up to him.” His classmate replied, obviously referring to the what came after they fought each other and got suspended. There had been a notable change in how Midoriya responded to Bakugo. Instead of letting the other do as he pleased or quietly trying and failing to speak up, the greenette had started to outright meet Katsuki’s verbal challenges head on.

“I am, but I’m not about to go picking fights either. Getting him worked up over nothing doesn’t resolve anything.”

Todoroki grabbed another item as they continued. Izuku scratched it off the list. “But you’ve started talking back. You’re way more confident in how you approach him. I thought maybe if I gave you an opening you could resolve things quickly.”

“Yeah, when he’s being competitive. That’s completely different. And he understands it’s not serious. But arguing over daily stuff just makes him angrier.” They’re getting there, but Bakugo’s habits weren’t going to just change overnight.

The boy hummed, thinking it over. Recalling all the times Bakugo went ballistic about one of them leaving a sock out in the hallway, or not cutting the vegetables properly, or when they bombarded him with their trash. “I suppose you’re right about that. Maybe I should apologize.”

Izuku sighed at his friend’s cluelessness. Endeavor trained his son well in heroics and combat. Social interactions, not so much. “That’ll just make things worse. But maybe if you were the one to deliver his snacks he might just let it go.”

“Thanks, I’ll try that.”

There it was again, that strange feeling. He glanced down the isle.

This time his companion did notice it. “Hm? Something wrong?”

“Not sure, but it feels like we’re being watched.”

“Security cameras?”

Midoriya shook his head. “It hasn’t bothered me before the last time I was here.” He glanced around again. “You don’t feel it?”

“No. But I’ve gotten used to that sort of thing over the years. I mean, my old man never had me on TV or anything, but we get followed by paparazzi occasionally.”

Made enough sense, though it didn’t solve his current dilemma. But there wasn’t much he could do about it either.

Having collected everything, the two went up to the root to check out their items. There was a brief moment with the cashier as her eyes grew wide upon seeing them. It wasn’t first time they’d gotten this reaction. Most workers in the shop often had a pleasant surprise to learn that U.A. students often shopped here. Especially the ones that have circulated the news this year. Like their class for example.

But Izuku remembered seeing her a few times before and she hardly batted an eye. They’ve even chatted occasionally. What could warrant such a reaction?

“What are you doing here?” She asked, but still got started at scanning their items. “Shouldn’t you be back at your school or something?”

Her tone immediately had Todoroki on edge. “What do you mean? Our class comes to shop here every week. Unless you suddenly have a problem with it.”

Realizing quickly how her words could be taken the wrong way, she tried again. “Haven’t you guys seen the news yet? You really shouldn’t be out in public right now.” She quickly handed over the bagged items, accepting the debit card from Todoroki.

Now Midoriya was on edge. “Why? Because of the festival? I know we went all out with our class event but I don’t think it was anything bigger than the attacks on our class or the sports festival.”

They were, after all, a more famous bunch. With high status children like Endeavor’s son, or those that made a big splash in the sports festival; they were bound to be recognized or approached in public.

The girl moved swiftly to finish the transaction. “It’s not because of that, it’s-”

“See! I told you it was him! It’s Izuku Midoriya!”

All three heads whirled to where the voice originated. It was a girlish squeal, the owner’s appearance matching just about as you’d expect. A young girl around their age with her friends, pretty and in pink. Her little entourage all joining in their own shrieks of excitement. Which wasn’t the first time Izuku had seen a reaction like that while out and about with Todoroki. Except...

“Huh, me?” Izuku pointed to himself as he said this, illustrating his point. Mostly girls flocked toward his classmate. But him? He hadn’t even really had a girl approach him until he met Uraraka. So why the sudden fascination?

By this point a huge crowd of the other shoppers had gathered. But no one offered an explanation. Instead, they gossiped among themselves.

“I think they’re here for you, Midoriya.” Todoroki observed. Now wary of the crowd surrounding them.

The greenette grew flustered. “Eh, but why? I didn’t do anything.”

“There was that take down of that yakuza group.”

“But that was weeks ago!” And while he had been mentioned in the news, his involvement had been mainly a footnote. Most of the coverage consisted of the fate of the Shie Hassaikai and the operation conducted and organized by most of the heroes.

“Wow, it really is him!”

“I’m surprised to see him out and about. Didn’t the school say they were keeping their students mainly on campus?”

“Eek! Is that Shoto Todoroki?! He’s here too?!”

“And they’re together! Are they friends?”

“Sons of the two greatest heroes, best friends. How wonderful!”

Voices continued to climb in volume as they started gathering around. Crowding around the two boys. Excited in their chatter.

The cashier quickly handed them their items. “All of you back off! I will call the police!” She then leaned closer. “Seriously, I can get you out the back. It’s just temporary, but it can give you guys a head start.”

“No need.” Was all the warning Todoroki gave before his right side began to ice over. Frosty breath exiting his mouth.

“Wait, Todoroki!” Izuku warned. “You don’t have your hero license yet!”

He halted for a moment. “It’s fine if it’s in self defense, right?”

Knowing them, they would still get in trouble anyway.

“Nuh-uh!” The cashier shouted. “My boss will kill me if he comes back to water damage! Ice damage? Whatever, he won’t like it and you guys will be so banned.”

Kind as the owner was, he ran a strict business. This was the only store within reasonable distance to the school that was within their student budget. And Midoriya was not going to let this ruin their ability to continue shopping here.

Kacchan would murder him otherwise.

“Hold on, Todoroki.” His body sparking in green lightning, he hooked his arms under his classmate’s from behind. The crowd grew excited at his quirk. Phones out to commemorate the sight.

Said boy, blinked. His quirk deactivating in surprise. “Midoriya, you’re using your quirk too.”

“But I have my license!” They really didn’t have time for this. Provisional it may be, it was enough to justify his usage in basic defense and escape. Izuku sprung the both of them into the air. Todoroki able to follow his lead in allowing both their bodies to properly backflip behind the counter. The worker easily opening the door for them to run through.

“Turn right!” She instructed. “Last door down the hall!” Once the door swiveled shut, all hell broke loose. The people now clamoring the counter just to chase after them. “What, you wanna go?! I’ll take you all on! Get you arrested for trespassing and theft!”

Midoriya didn’t cut his speed for even a second. Shifting his friend to be able to more or less run alongside him. They exited the back door.

When he did slow to a stop, he felt more than saw Todoroki propel forward and crash into the ground from the leftover momentum.

“Oh no! Todoroki!”

“I’m fine.” He grunted out, in a rather awkward position. It actually made him more scared that he potentially injured the poor teen.

“Here,” And Izuku helped him up. “We should get out of here before-”

“There they are!” A girl screeched. Drawing their attention to the end of the back alley. And others to her location.

“That happens.” His friend finished rather unhelpfully.

It was no use, he was going to have to use his quirk again. His body charged up to a steady ten percent. It should be enough to get home and outrun them.

“Look! He’s using his quirk again! So cool!” One kid exclaimed. All started rushing towards them.

“Let’s go!” He grabbed Todoroki.

“Wait.” Working quickly, the boy instead moved himself to wrap an arm over Midoriya’s right side, using his left. Prompting the greenette to do the same. And then with his right side, it iced up again.

“Todoroki!” Izuku warned again. He knew he wouldn’t hurt anyone, but the last thing he wanted was for his friend to get suspended on quirk usage outside of school without a license.

“Relax, I’m only using it on myself.” Both watched as his right shoe was covered in a thick but smooth layer of ice. Raising his other foot to not even touch the ground, allowing his full weight to lean into the other. “Okay, now you can go.”

Homemade ice skates, or skate as there was only one of them. Brilliant Todoroki! This way he can run as fast as he wanted without worrying of his friend tripping. Midoriya could gush about it for hours on all its uses if they had the time. Sadly that was gonna have to wait.

“Okay, hang on.” He quickly spun them around, and with a burst, took off in the opposite direction. It didn’t take them long to leave the crowd in the dust.

They were only just down the hill from the school, but the climb was child’s play for someone of Midoriya’s stamina. And Todoroki barely had to lift a finger. Still, they could’ve stopped any time. But Izuku didn’t want to. They were already drawing more attention with the quirk’s flashy display. If they stopped and someone recognized them, it’d happen all over again.

No, he wasn’t going to stop until they were safe back in their school dorm!

It was when they finally made it past the gate that he finally deemed it safe to lose speed. Only cutting his power completely when they reached the steps of their dorm.

Out of breath, they quickly opened the doors and leaned against them to close. Grocery bags dropping to the floor.

“Oh hey! They’re back!” Mina shouted, excited. “And in record time too!”

“Whoa, what happened to you guys?” Sero’s eyes widened as he took in their disheveled appearance.

Todoroki looked down, beating the last bit of friction melted ice off his shoe, the entirety now ruined from both the running and frozen water. It was now significantly worse looking than the one that never even grazed the ground.

“...I need new shoes.”

Kaminari raised an eyebrow. “Yeah, we can see that buddy.”

“You wanna tell us what happened?” Mineta asked. “You look like you guys got mobbed or something.”

The duel haired boy continued to answer for the both of them. “That’s exactly what happened.”

“Wait, seriously?!” Their shortest classmate exclaimed. He couldn’t believe he got it right.

“Geez man,” Kirishima commented. “The ranking list hasn’t even come out yet officially and you’re already being hounded about your dad becoming number one?”

“Actually, they were more interested in Midoriya this time around.” All followed his gaze to the greenette, still recovering his breath. “Though I’m not sure why.”

“I do.” Came the grumbling of a certain explosive student. Everyone gave Bakugo a wide berth as he stomped his way over to Izuku.

“K-Kacchan?” He asked hesitantly.

“Shut up!” He shouted, shoving his phone screen in the other’s face. “You wanna tell us what this garbage is about?!”

Confused, he grabbed hold of the device. Pulling back a bit to actually read its contents. It looked to be an article with a video attached from some news outlet. With a particular title summarizing the subject in bold text.

“W-WHHAAAAAAAAAAAT?!”

---

“Damn,” Taneo cursed to himself. Mindful of his volume within his little office at work. “And here I thought I was on top of the leak this time.” He further crushed the already damaged sim card he’d stolen in his hand, knowing full well it was just a dud. That he’d been played.

On the screen in front of him, sat the display of the latest breaking news from the gossip network he cornered yesterday. Their headline being the last thing he wanted to see.

Izuku Midoriya: All Might’s Son
The retired number one hero’s secret child hiding among his own students

Taneo hit the desk again in his frustration.

Chapter Text

“Right, let’s get down to business.” Principal Nezu stated, stacking his papers in a neat and orderly fashion. The rest of the staff all nodding around the table. Even All Might, who despite his compliance, was sweating bullets.

He couldn’t blame the poor man. After all, the latest news bomb involving their school, or rather a certain pair at their school, took them all by surprise.

And that’s exactly why they were holding this meeting.

Aizawa chose to speak first. “Well? Aren’t you going to explain yourself?”

“I...” All Might struggled to find the right words. “I promise that we had no intention of hiding anything. This news is just as surprising to Izuku and I as it is to all of you.”

“Oh~” Midnight drawled, smirking. “So it’s Izuku now. You two sure are moving along fast.”

Snipe sighed heavily. “Midnight, please don’t say things that could be taken wildly out of context.”

She blinked, as if realizing what she’d just said. “Alright, that one was unintentional.”

“She’s not wrong, however.” Ectoplasm observed. “Both you and Midoriya have been rather close since the start of the year. To think it was because of your relation.”

“I suppose we only have ourselves to blame for not catching on.” Cementoss in. “Looking at them now, I can see the resemblance. Though you should’ve said something. I understand the need for secrecy on account of being the number one hero, such as having Midoriya take his mother’s name to avoid any paper trail for villains to track. But we would’ve been able to help in any extra security you needed to ensure his safety.”

Present Mic leaned over to nudge the retired hero, grinning ear to ear. “All Might you sly dog, scoring a wife under all our noses. And here we all thought you’d die a bachelor.”

The man coughed up blood. “It’s not like that! She’s-”

“All Might and Mrs. Midoriya aren’t married.” Aizawa’s voice cut through the air like a knife. “Her husband is Hisashi Midoriya, and they separated shortly after their son’s birth.” Steadily he turned his gaze over to All Might. Judging. “I can only imagine the reason.”

“Oh dear,” Recovery Girl lamented. “That certainly won’t look good to anyone doing a background check.”

Indeed, it didn’t. Luckily, Nezu came prepared before any accusations can fly. “I took the liberty of looking that up myself. According to their records, Izuku Midoriya is actually a child of artificial insemination. Meaning that while Inko Midoriya is indeed his mother, the father is not her husband. And both are aware of this fact. Now, as to how a sample of All Might’s DNA ended up in such a facility.”

Now the stares resumed, albeit now for a different reason. Oh well, at least he proved there was no adultery involved.

Toshinori sighed, clearly tired. “Nighteye’s letter has the explanation.” He took the paper out of the files he brought, handing them over to the principal.

The humanoid mouse gave the page a once over. Breezing over the text. “Oh my, well that’s certainly unexpected. To think he was so dedicated to creating an heir for the next symbol of peace.”

“That was seriously his reason?” Thirteen asked, her expression looking befuddled under her suit.

“I talked him out of that whole plan. But he donated the sample behind my back. I only found out recently because Izuku got curious about his father and looked to his mother for answers.”

“I see, and it was during the festival you both came to the conclusion that you were related.”

If possible, All Might looked even more guilty. “Actually, I found out during the open-house. With everything going on, I thought it best to wait until things had calmed down. But as usual, Izuku figured it out all on his own.”

Now it was Aizawa who looked tired. Though to be fair he always looked like that. That said, Midoriya had quite the effect in draining the teacher’s energy even more so. “And without thinking he rushed off to go confirm his theory to you. That kid’s always too smart for his own good.” He sighed, turning to All Might. “Clearly, that habit is from your side of the family.”

The retired hero sputtered.

“So, now that everyone’s on the same page,” Ectoplasm announced. “And the media has a hold of it, how are we going to approach this?”

“The usual damage control won’t exactly be enough, but it’s a good start.” Midnight proposed. “Getting the jump before any rumors can start will help in preserving All Might’s golden image, and Midoriya’s as well, before he’s slapped with the label of the number one hero’s kid forever. And he’s going to have to get used to spotlight eventually when he goes pro. Might as well let him get a head start now.”

“Will he be alright, though?” Thirteen asked, a touch worried. “He’s always been pretty shy around any attention.”

Nezu nodded sagely. “All very good ideas, Midnight. And Thirteen is also correct. It’ll be a large adjustment for young Midoriya. But if we want to preserve the symbol of peace, we need to act fast.”

“It doesn’t matter what some sort of gossip tabloid thinks of me.” All Might spoke up. Buffing up temporarily with a thumbs up. “Being a hero isn’t about any limelight!”

Says the most popular hero out there. Though Aizawa didn’t dare say it out loud. Or maybe he will. Who knows.

“That’s all well and good now, but this is about more than just you now.” Nezu politely stated, watching as the retired hero popped back into his true form. “Young Midoriya is just as affected by these rumors as well. Anything from your reputation, to your fans and enemies; those are all tied to him now. We’ll also have to secure against any accusations of adultery, especially since they’re unfounded. And expectations are now riding high. People will look at him and try to pinpoint any discrepancies between the two of you. That in turn can open up an outcry of negative feedback for him not living up to their perception on how the next symbol of peace should be.”

“But I don’t want him to be like me!” The blonde stressed. “Do you know how long it took to get him to stop imitating me?”

“Too long?” Snipe quipped.

All Might sighed. “He kept feeling like he had to live up to this ideal as my successor. It took forever to start breaking him out of that mindset. We’re still not out of the woods yet.”

Recovering Girl nodded, fully understanding. Having gotten to know the boy quite a bit with all his visits to the nurse’s office. “Yes, and we want Midoriya to shine as his own hero. Not a mini All Might.”

Grinning, Present Mic leaned over to his former classmate. “Small Might?” That earned him a scarf around the head.

“The kid needs experience dealing with that type of crowd all the same.” Eraserhead finally spoke his own thoughts. “And the students need an introduction anyway. If we can control the environment, Midoriya can enter the spotlight on our terms.”

“Oh? Got something in mind already?” The mouse inquired, intrigued.

He merely turned his gaze to a binded Present Mic. “As a matter of fact.”

Muffled by the scarf, the hero made a questioning noise as he pointed to himself.

---

“Hey, Gran Torino?” The older hero turned to the lie detector detective working with him on this case. “Do you have any idea as to what this is about?”

Taking a look at the article displayed on the smart phone, Torino huffed and went back to his work. “Shouldn’t be surprised. It only took what, a day? That’s a new record.”

Tsukauchi’s eyes widened. “Wait, this is real?”

“Yep, got the news yesterday. I’m a grandpa now. Which means a congrats to you for your new uncle status. You must be proud.”

Even without looking up from his desk, he could tell the detective looked like he just sucked a lemon. He looked back at his phone. “How are we only just now finding out about this?”

“That rose-tinted glasses clairvoyant Nighteye apparently had an ace up his sleeve, even unbeknownst to him. Guess he got his wish about the next wielder of One For All being his choice. Shame they didn’t have a chance to get along.”

The air turned somber for only a moment.

“Still, this is wild. You think they’re aware this dropped today?”

Gran Torino gave another huff. “Knowing that school, they’re probably already taking care of it. Meanwhile the brussel sprout and all his classmates are probably running around like headless chickens at the news.”

Tsukauchi glanced back at the article one last time. Before putting away the device. “That’s likely. I’d lend them a hand, but we have bigger things to worry about.” This case on the League of Villains wasn’t going to solve itself. Sitting down, he took a long sip of his coffee. “Besides, they’d have called me if they needed help.”

“Or to ask for your help in updating the family tree.”

The detective spat out his drink.

---

“No way! So you’re really All Might’s kid?!” Kaminari exclaimed.

Mina jumped in. “And the crappy dad who abandoned you and your mom wasn’t related to you at all?!”

As of now, all of class 1-A have gathered around the common area. The truth now out in the open, Izuku was now subjugated to sharing what had been going on since that discussion in the classroom.

“Yeah, we only just found out.” Izuku answered them. “Mom never told me that they weren’t able to have a kid on their own. So I just went all this time not knowing.”

He specifically avoided details like how it was Nighteye who deliberately and secretly donated that sample. As well as to the reasons why he would do such a thing, as One For All was still kept under wraps. Midoriya didn’t even bring down the paperwork that provided All Might’s name, seeing as how his father’s quirkless status was written there for all to see. There was probably only one classmate he’d be willing to show that to, and that was Bakugo. The only other one there in on the secret. Provided he was intrigued enough to ask about it.

But man, what a convoluted mess this was. Not only was the spotlight permanently on him now, but now questions will begin to arise on how exact his birth came about. His mother never remarried after separating from his dad. And All Might never had any publicly known romances. The two never interacted either, so it’d be hard to pull something out of thin air if they were looking to cover it up. Something which Midoriya wasn’t too keen on doing, but with actual documentation out there showing his dad as quirkless, they were gonna have to in order to protect the secret of One For All.

Todoroki looked down to his hands where he sat. Staring at nothing in particular, but clearly in awe at whatever caught his attention.

“I was right?” He spoke softly in wonder. “Midoriya really is All Might’s secret love child. And I figured it out before anybody. Even All Might.”

Izuku sighed, only mildly exasperated at the conspiracy theorist that was his friend. “Todoroki.”

“No, Midoriya. You don’t understand. Not even you knew you were his son.”

“I mean, we somewhat knew.” Shoji admitted. “Midoriya and All Might were always rather close since the start of the year.”

Yeah, but not for the reasons they think. And yet Izuku wisely kept silent.

Tsu hummed to herself. “Maybe they instinctively knew?”

“What? Like a duckling imprint?” Hagakure guessed. “Does it even work like that?”

The dual quirk user continued to marvel. “Still, I was able to discover the truth hidden from even Midoriya and the number one hero. Just imagine what else I can reveal. What other mysteries would my observations be able to uncover?”

Oh dear, that spelled disaster. Just how many crazy theories did Todoroki have? He silently apologized to whoever ended up being a future victim. And to Mr. Aizawa for having to put up the resulting future chaos. Their teacher truly was a saint for having to deal with the insanity that was their class.

“Man, I can’t imagine how crazy that must be.” Sato sympathized. “To go your whole life idolizing your favorite hero, only to find out he’s your dad. That’s gotta be hard to wrap your head around.”

“Same goes for the other way around too.” Jiro noted, twirling her earphone jack. “I mean, never having a family only to discover you apparently have a kid, a teenager. And someone you’ve been interacting with on a daily basis. I’d be too scared to know how to approach them. You can’t go back to how things were, but you’re not exactly family levels of close either.”

Midoriya smiled at his classmates’ observations. The level of awareness they all had on the situation and how he and All Might felt about all this was very on point. “I will admit, it was all kind of a shock. But I think it’s because I’ve gotten to know him as my teacher first for a while that I don’t feel so disconnected. We actually get along pretty well, and we’ve talked about it too. It just feels natural to treat each other like actual family now.”

Ochaco smiled. “I’m glad that you both are adjusting well then, even if it was only yesterday.”

Izuku nodded. “Thanks.”

“Still, that’s pretty cool right? Being All Might’s kid? Total bragging rights!” Mina commented. And she wasn’t exactly wrong, but Midoriya was hardly the type to go around doing that.

“Yeah, that’s true.” Sero agreed. “That makes you like, the third guy in our class with heroes in the family.”

Iida nodded. “Indeed, though you didn’t grow up in that type of environment, please know that you can ask me any questions you may have regarding my experience or to deal with certain situations.”

“Sure thing. Thanks Iida.” Discreetly, he glanced over at Bakugo. Who had been unnaturally quiet since they all sat down. He’d been observing the exposition blankly. Not at all his explosive self.

Finally, he scoffed. “That just figures. You two are way too much alike it’s not even funny.”

Translation: While it is new information, he’s not surprised. As secrets and Midoriya now have a permanent relationship. Not to mention this crazy whirlwind of circumstances always happening around him.

“Hey Bakugo! What’s it like being the childhood friend of All Might’s son, huh?” Kirishima teased. He knew that the blonde was just as much a fan as Midoriya.

Mineta however, lacked any tack. “Betcha anything he’s jealous.”

“Huh?!” He immediately whirled onto him. Our for blood. “Say that again and I’ll squish those grapes of yours!”

While everyone knew he was referring to his quirk, their classmate took the threat much differently. Quickly shielding his lower region with his hands. “No! Not my money makers!”

No one offered any sympathy, much less helped Mineta escape from their most volatile classmate.

---

The staff meeting concluded with a good semblance of a game plan. Many of which going to prepare for the coming media storm. Hizashi especially with his own radio show. The scheduled plan was for All Might to make a guest appearance tomorrow, and then Midoriya at a later date. With someone coming in at some point before then for coaching. Then there was the added intention of going to alert Mrs. Midoriya of the current situation, as she’ll likely also be swarmed by press. And finally, Nezu will work with his own contacts in covering up as much real documentation as he can regarding the specifics on how Izuku was born. Then they can later spin the story themselves however they wanted.

That was all well and good, but Aizawa had a strange feeling regarding the whole situation. One that had been itching at him since this crazy school year began. And this time, he wasn’t going to just drop it.

“Well, I’ll see you later during classes.” The retired hero said in farewell, being the last one to leave aside from himself and the principal.

“Hold it.” The underground hero ordered, his professional voice creeping in. The kind he often used on villains. A bit underhanded to scare the number one hero like this. But he was tired of getting the runaround. “That’s not all there is to this.”

Nezu cocked his head in an innocent manner. “Oh, whatever possibly could you mean by that?”

Aizawa immediately locked his eyes back at him. “You’re in on it too.” Now he was sure there was something. The rat was always working something behind the scenes.

Nervously, All Might continued to play dumb. “In on what exactly, Aizawa?”

“Midoriya being your son might explain the blatant favoritism.” The blonde sputtered again in protest. “However, if you only learned of this fact now, that means there’s another reason you’re always sneaking around supporting him. And as his homeroom teacher, I think I deserve to know what’s going on concerning my student.”

Seeing the older hero panic, it made him wonder how All Might ever was able to hide his injury for so long. The man was a horrible liar.

Nezu meanwhile sighed. “I suppose it was only a matter of time before you approached us with this. Very well, if you wouldn’t mind closing the door.”

“Principal Nezu!”

“It’s all right, All Might. I had a feeling Mr. Aizawa would be the first to figure it out. Astonishingly, young Bakugo beat him to the punch. But I imagine the power of childhood friends trumps anything else.”

The hero felt a twitch in his dry eyes. Bakugo was in on this too?

“Both of you,” He said menacingly, closing the door slowly as he did so. “Are going to explain everything.”

“Of course.”

The explanation, as it turned out, was far more involved in the recent events than he ever realized. A quirk spawned from All For One tormenting his younger brother, passing it along from one user to the next, each time the power growing stronger, until it reached All Might and in his first clash suffered his injury, the falling out with his sidekick over a successor, and lastly, him stumbling upon Midoriya and being inspired by the kid enough to find him worthy of inheriting One For All. It was a lot to take in. And with each new bit of information, more and more pieces fell into place.

Overall, it left him exhausted. Aizawa slumped in his chair. Hand over his eyes. “All this time, and when he first showed up to class I thought Midoriya was one of those kids with a flashy quirk that never bothered to put forth any effort.”

All Might frowned. “Come on, you know Izuku isn’t like that.”

“Well, I know that now. But seeing that kid break his bones during the entrance exam, it was like he had no prior experience using it. Because it was his first time using it. He’s had no quirk counseling and you just think you all can skirt by that with no repercussions?”

“Uhh, I...” Seeing the number one hero flounder for a response was hardly comforting.

“I do agree with you.” Nezu said in understanding. “However, One For All must be kept a secret. To that end, it’s very difficult to get young Midoriya the care he needs without risking the truth getting out.”

“Not if you’re smart about it. I’m not about to neglect Midoriya’s upbringing if it can be avoided.” He then turned All Might. “And another matter that concerns me, does his mother know about this?”

Surprisingly, All Might was forthcoming with that information. “About One For All? No. But I did let on to the fact that I saw him as my successor. Actually, I expected Izuku to tell her the whole story at some point. I was rather surprised he went that far to guard my secret.”

“The kid idolizes you.” Aizawa replied. “Of course he would.” He then stood back up, grabbing All Might’s shirt to drag him out the door. The man exclaiming his surprise. “You’re retired remember? And last I checked, we now have a rule stipulating that all students require a hero staff member to escort them whenever they’re leaving the premises. Seeing as you’re no longer on the job, I’ll be taking that position.” That’s when he threw a glare over his shoulders, red eyes acting as the final nail in the coffin. “And I’ll make sure you tell Mrs. Midoriya everything.”

The response earned him a nervous gulp, the man resigned to his fate.

“Alrighty! You kids have fun!” Nezu called out. The door closing behind them.

---

Taneo Tokuda was expecting a lot of things to transpire after this news broke. Midoriya and his mom will be swarmed with the press, suspicions of both adults’ integrity being called into question what with Mrs. Midoriya’s prior marriage (Something only he’d been able to dig up given his early start in researching the kid. And oh would you look at that, that little tidbit has now been wiped clean off the internet. A coverup no doubt.), Dozens of offers for him to write articles about the scandal for them seeing as he’s been able to get onto the U.A. campus not only once, but twice.

Getting a phone call from the school’s very own principal, wasn’t one of them.

“Y’ello, Tokuda speaking.” He drawled out, meanwhile thinking of all the possible reasons he was being reached out to.

“Hello there, Mr. Tokuda.” The principal greeted warmly. “I was hoping to have your assistance in sharing some insight regarding one of our first year students.”

Yeah, he was afraid of this. The guy clearly knew he took the chip. The how he didn’t know, but for the talking rat he expected no less. And now they assumed he was the snitch. His career was done. Oh well, it was fun while it lasted.

He sighed. “Look, if this is about the leak, I truly am sorry.”

“I know, and after all the trouble you went through in tailing them to get it out of their hands. That was part of the reason I chose to leave the matter alone. Too bad it was a fake.”

What? Taneo leaped upright in his chair. “How did you know that?”

The smile in Nezu’s voice was so obvious. “Why Mr. Tokuda, I have eyes everywhere. I knew you had good intentions in keeping that film from the public. That’s why you went to the trouble of alerting All Might.”

Well yeah, but he couldn’t have imagined his motives to be so easily telegraphed. And here he thought he’d done a good job at playing the sleazy reporter.

“I’m a little confused, sir. If you already know what happened, then what’s the use in calling me?”

“Ah, a very excellent question. I’ll get straight to the point then. I’d like your help in training our newest little celebrity for the spotlight. Practice questions, posture and acting, oh! It would be wonderful if we could make a class session out of it with you as our guest! It’d be perfect for the students to get some experience with a real reporter. Of course, we will provide a small degree of compensation, and opportunity for future collaborations.”

He couldn’t believe what he was hearing. The guy actually wanted him there?

“Forgive me for overstepping but, it almost sounds like you’re offering me an exclusive should I go along with this.”

“Not just an exclusive.” The principal corrected. “Should you say yes, you will get first access to any future interviews, coverage, or press conferences regarding our school. An infinite wellspring of scoops. Within reason of course. I think a deal like that has far more value to a reporter than anything monetary, wouldn’t you agree?”

Yes, it most certainly does.

“That said, it’s still your choice in the end. They call it freelance for a reason after all. The decision is yours.”

It was tempting. Too tempting. He liked being solo as he had more leeway in what he wanted to write, be it book or article. But here, Nezu was offering him a never ending supply of content for the one thing he loved writing about the most. Heroes.

And not only that, he was being given the chance to help the new symbol of peace grace the world stage. And countless other heroes of the next generation. Rather than focus everything on on a singular hero like the media had done in the past (Gross mistake they were all now paying the price for), but rather a collective group of shining stars that have defied the odds to get where they are now. He could pave the way for future heroes and reporters.

His choice was obvious.

“Well Principal Nezu, I’d say you’re speaking my language.”

---

It was later than expected, but Aizawa was able to drag both father and son to the Midoriya residence. Sadly, the media swarm was already buzzing about the property. Thankfully though, Nezu and Detective Tsukauchi arranged for police to keep the press away for a certain distance. And allow for residents to sneak out a back way. Inconvenient, but doable.

All Might sighed as he peaked through the blinds of Mrs. Midoriya’s apartment. The vultures just about went nuts when the two of them strolled in. Aizawa had chosen to remain outside, leaving them alone to provide the explanation to Izuku’s mother, but not before giving one of his signature glares to All Might.

“It’s times like this that I have regrets over the fame I earned as All Might.” He commented, choosing to finally step away from the window. Returning to his seat at the table as Inko brought tea. “The symbol of peace was meant to scare away criminals, and build trust towards heroes. Not... well, this.”

“Did people not trust heroes back then?” His son asked curiously from his own seat. His mom sitting next to him.

“Yeah. This may come as a surprise to you, but heroes actually weren’t all that popular of a career back then. Maybe for the novelty of it. But ultimately they were just glorified civil servants. Usually if something went wrong, whether it was a natural disaster or a villain attack, it was always the hero’s fault.”

“I can’t imagine that being easy.”

He nodded, confirming his successor’s thoughts. “It wasn’t, my predecessor certainly got called a lot of colorful words during her career. Still, she smiled through all of it.”

“Predecessor... For One For All, right?” Inko spoke up. A solemn tone in her voice. All Might had pretty much caught her all up to now. From the secret of his quirk to the discovery of his relation to Izuku. Now, simply came the aftermath.

Another nod. “I wouldn’t be the man I am today if it wasn’t for her.” He then took a breath. “Look, I know this is a lot to take in. And I could’ve handled my passing of the torch to Izuku a lot better. It wasn’t my intention to leave you in the dark like...” He trailed off, watching the woman raise a hand to quiet him.

“You and I have already had this conversation. Back when I expressed my concerns on Izuku going to your school. I’ll admit, I am upset that neither you or Izuku trusted me enough to be notified when you offered your quirk to him. I mean, every day he was coming home with some new injury or another.”

Both males winced. Yeah, they definitely could’ve handled that better.

“I’m still new to this whole teacher thing.” He admitted reluctantly. “So, I’m not blind to all the mistakes I’ve made since this year began. If I had approached Izuku’s training with the mindset I have now, it would’ve gone much differently.”

“Good, just hearing that tells me you two will be more mindful going forward.” She smiled briefly, but still kept going. Her expression sobering up again. “It still bothers me that Izuku will have to face the things all the previous users had to, yourself included. Honestly I’m just thankful that the villain from Kamino is in prison. I just can’t bring myself to think about my son having to face him.”

By now the tears had begun to accumulate. And All Might jumped to run damage control.

“And he won’t.” He assured her. “Honestly none of the students were ever supposed to fight these villains so soon. I... can’t make any guarantees about the future, especially as far as All For One is concerned. He has both evaded and defeated my predecessors for generations. What you’re looking at is the sole outlier. That said, I can guarantee that the school and current top heroes are aiming to both prepare and defend our students. We want to shield them from all of it, but we also know now that we can’t control every circumstance.”

“Prepare for the best, expect the worst. I understand. And I won’t fault the school for doing everything they can.” Inko said, nodding. Now with that put to bed, it was time for the other talk. “But you’re really here about those records, right? About you being Izuku’s father. What I want to know is, your intentions toward my son, now that you know.”

She never gave off any air of intimidation. Then again, she didn’t have to. Forget All For One, this woman is scary! Such is the power of the mama bear.

The retired hero gulped. “Right well, I know that I haven’t exactly been present in his life up until now. And I’ve only just grasped being a mentor and teacher. I’m not exactly sure what being a parent even entails.” He nervously scratched the back of his head. However, he quickly reaffirmed himself. “That said, I’ve decided to dedicate my life to raising him. And I don’t just mean as my successor. I... I want to be a part of his life. Make memories with him, spoil him rotten, scold him when he acts reckless. All those things. The good, and the bad. Even if I’m not skilled at it.”

Izuku was starting to get emotional. And his mother’s eyes were also getting a little glossy again. But that was par for the course in this family.

Inko sniffed, wiping away a tear before it fell. “Then I guess, I have my answer.” She stood up, walking over to his side of the table, and extended her arms out in a hug. “Welcome to the family, All Might.”

He chuckled, accepting the contact. “If I’m part of the family now, then at least call me Toshinori. I’m retired now.”

She nodded. “Right, of course, Toshinori. So long as you extend the same curtesy and call me by my given name.” She stepped back as he nodded in response. But didn’t quite return to her seat yet. Instead, she looked back at him with a small glint in her eye. “Well, now that that’s done. Would you like to see some of Izuku’s baby pictures?”

He had never seen his son look so red, jumping out his seat like a rocket. “Mom!”

Picking up what she was doing, he grinned with all the bravado of his All Might persona. “I most certainly would!”

“Dad!”

---

“Hey,” Bakugo called out, drawing the nerd’s attention once he returned to the dorms, having been waiting for him to get back from Auntie Inko’s. Eyes now on him, he gave a jerk of head. Instructing the other to follow. Luckily, Deku knew when to listen to him.

To tell the truth, the shitty nerd should always listen. But he and Izuku have known each other long enough for the other to tell when Katsuki was just ranting as his usual self, or when he was actually being serious. This was one of those times.

Heading up straight to his room, he opened the door for the two to walk inside. This naturally drew a reaction from his green haired companion.

“You’re room? You want to talk here?”

A death glare was directed to the other in response. “Problem?”

Midoriya shook his head at the challenge. “Um, no. It’s just unusual.”

“Whatever, better here than that All Might shrine you call a room. Less chance of any of the extras bothering us too.”

His classmate didn’t argue with that, choosing to enter upon invitation.

It wasn’t crazy decked out like Kirishima and the others. But it was nowhere near as plain as his tailed classmate either. Not that he went around bragging about it. No one was allowed in his room, as far as he was concerned. Surprisingly, Deku was the first.

As expected, Katsuki claimed the bed. He granted permission for the nerd to use his desk chair. Though when grabbing it, Deku noticed a small decoration adorning the shelf of his desk.

He lightly gasped. A small glow to the eyes. “That’s the All Might prize trading card we both won together! I can’t believe you still have it!”

“Of course I still have it! Don’t tell me you threw your piece of plastic away!” Something that he knew for fact would’ve been out of character for him. Though through passing glances, he never saw the card on display anywhere in the nerd’s room.

“No way! I would never! I have it preserved in card binder, along with the other hero cards I’ve collected.” Ah, that explains it. “And I didn’t mean it like that. It’s just, you’ve always talked about surpassing All Might, and made fun of me for my collection of hero merch. I just thought you had grown out of it.”

The blonde scoffed. “Everyone at least has one piece of hero merch somewhere. Don’t think you’re special. You’re just a creep for being so obsessed with him! Why he chose such a fan boy as his successor I’ll never understand!”

At least the nerd had the decency to look sheepish. “Yeah, I guess you’re right. He never seemed bothered by it since I met him. Though after meeting Sir Nighteye, I can kinda see why.”

“Huh? What does Moon Specs have to do with any of that?”

The improvised nickname didn’t confuse his childhood friend one bit. “Right, I guess you never had a chance to meet him.” Izuku noted. “He had All Might posters and merch all over his office. He was actually a fan before becoming his sidekick.”

“Great, another crazy stalker. What, is All Might just adopting all of you off the side of the street?!”

“Something like that.” Came the chuckled admission.

“Yeah well, speaking of...” Katsuki leveled a stare at his childhood friend. Or, rather someone he’s known for so long. Could they still even call themselves friends, after all he’s done to him? Deku still hasn’t dropped the childish nickname, something that still surprises him to this day. He doubt he deserves it. Whatever, that isn’t why he called him here. “What was the verdict? At Auntie Inko’s.”

The cover story. No way things can just go back to normal after this. And they can’t just continue with the breaking news without something to defend against the media, now that all the dirty laundry is out there. Bakugo was more than willing to have an excuse to blow back any reporters for being annoying, but the last thing he wanted to do was accidentally give them extra fuel to add to their arsenal.

“Right, that. Well, as far as Mom’s job is concerned, she’s on leave right now. Principal Nezu arranged for her to come move in on campus temporarily until we can come up with a better game plan. We’re discussing the details tomorrow with everyone who knows. I think Present Mic and someone else will also be there. Along with our homeroom teacher. Oh, but Da-I mean All Might said you can come, since we grew up together and all.”

Figures, Deku was in 1-A so anything regarding his sudden shot to fame would immediately concern Bandages. But why Boom Box too was what had Bakugo scratching his head. And another mysterious guest? Strange.

“Yeah, I better be. I don’t wanna have to deal with any vultures just because you and the number one hero got careless.” Deku grew apologetic at the call out, prompting another round of scolding from the blonde. “Give me a break! You tell me what a super ultra secret your quirk is, yet you two are always sneaking around! If you ask me you two are way more suspicious!”

“Sorry, I know. I didn’t realize that news crew would follow me. It’s my fault, and now we all have to deal with the consequences.”

“You’re damn right you do!” Lesson learned. And with that out of the way, now came the real talk. “So, how’s it feel? To have All Might as your old man?”

“Huh? I thought I already answered this downstairs today.”

“Not that you dingus! I mean now that you no longer have that worthless bastard to look up to!” At Deku’s confusion, he clarified. “How does it really feel? To have an actual dad that’s around?”

Now the nerd understood. Up until this point, Deku had never once met his father. Officially that is. Any memory from his toddler years have probably long since become muddled. No longer giving a good impression of the type of person he was, not that he was even worth remembering. From the way the old hag talked about him, the guy was a shithead.

But everything was different now, there was someone else who’s taken the role of father figure. And it was someone who already began unconsciously taking that space since day one. Katsuki wasn’t blind, he knew Deku and All Might were close. And not just in a mentor-student type of way. All Might was emotionally driven, just like Izuku. It didn’t take a genius to find out how they were influencing each other. The fight in Kamino proved it.

Deku didn’t say anything yet, so he decided to push things along. “Seems to me like you already got your answer. I’m not deaf, Deku. You almost called him dad.”

This added to the other’s nervous shifting. Unsure on how to answer. “Yeah, I did. We sorta talked during the culture festival. And... we both agreed it was alright. He calls me by my first name now.”

The blonde gave a snort. “He better. Be pretty awkward for someone to call their son by his last name. I’d have blown his face up if he kept doing it.”

The nerd had the gall to laugh at that statement. “You never change.”

You’re wrong. He wanted to protest. I have changed. Should he say it? His apology? He’d been working up the courage to do it. Since Kamino. But it all came out wrong. Between failing the licensing exam, and believing it to be his fault All Might retired, he about exploded when confronting Deku and his secrets. And the night pretty much was consumed with two things. Fighting, and answers. And like a candle, his frustration had burnt himself out. Afterwards, it became too awkward to say anything. Katsuki was never good with... feelings. Just the thought of it made him want to throw up.

However, Deku needed to understand. He might’ve been forgiven all this time. But that never in any way excused his behavior. The name calling, the beatings, and the things he said.

“You know if you really want to be a hero that badly, there actually might be another way. Just pray that you’ll be born with a quirk in your next life, and take a swan dive of the roof of the building.”

He had to make this right.

Katsuki sighed. Just... not today. He wasn’t ready. Not yet. And perhaps now wasn’t the best time anyway. What with all the dad drama.

Speaking of...

“Oh yeah, here.” Pulling out his phone, the blonde fired a quick text to the other. “I gave my parents the brief rundown earlier today. Told them not to go yapping to any reporters. But my old man offered to lend any advise he could to All Might. Since he’s new to all this.” At the notified ping on the nerd phone, he watched as Deku pulled it out to see a phone number. “That’s his number. Says your pops is free to call him anytime.”

“Oh wow, thanks so much! I’ll be sure to pass it along. Please tell Uncle Masaru I said thank you too.”

“Tell him yourself you damn nerd!”

And that was the maximum his Deku tolerance battery could take. Swift kick in the ass out of his dorm and a slammed door later, he was back to getting ready for bed.

Yeah, he still wasn’t ready to apologize. Words were stupid but so was saying the wrong thing should he decide to dive in head first with no plan. He still needed time until he could properly articulate the thoughts that had been boiling over for so long.

Until then, actions spoke just as loud. And All Might did say one of the biggest parts of being a hero was saving others. Something he lacked in. Something Deku excelled in. Something he needed to polish.

Well, saving Deku from his own stupid stumbling in public seemed to be a good place to start as any.

---

The next morning, the second meeting went underway. This time not featuring the entire U.A. teacher staff. Rather the meeting consisted of only a small handful of their school’s employees. All Might, Eraserhead, Present Mic, and of course Nezu. Everyone else was an outlier or was brought in for a specific reason. Taneo Tokuda, as his insight was needed. Inko Midoriya and her son Izuku as they were both directly affected by the circumstances bringing on this meeting. And Katsuki Bakugo, who was also involved in the current scandal due to his long history with the Midoriya family.

Nezu honestly wished he could’ve brought in the whole Bakugo family so that everyone would be on the same page. But that would’ve drawn much more attention than he would’ve liked. The blonde’s already had too much spotlight from the sludge villain incident, the sports festival and the kidnapping alone. Best to keep from adding fuel to that fire. So instead, their son will be acting as a middle man and pass along whatever was discussed or agreed upon here.

“Right, let’s get started then.” The principal announced. “We all know why we’re here. While the U.A. staff has already come up with a plan to address the current debacle regarding the parental connection between young Midoriya and All Might. However, what we need to discuss now is the exact cover story we plan on divulging to the public.” He turned to the mother in the room. “Mrs. Midoriya, ultimately this is your decision.”

Everyone turned to her. She took a breath.

“I’d... like to keep my marriage with Hisashi as common knowledge, if that’s alright. I know things didn’t work out between us. But he was still a kind man at his core. And I don’t want to just wipe away our history together.”

The white mouse (Bear?) nodded. “Yes, I understand. It’ll certainly be easier to change as little as possible to the official story. However, that still leaves the question as to how you and All Might supposedly would’ve come into contact.”

“We did think about that during our visit to her apartment yesterday.” All Might admitted. “It was actually her idea for us to have met through the law firm she works at. While she mostly has handled minor local cases, it wouldn’t be too surprising for legal and heroic circles to cross paths eventually.”

“That actually sounds pretty plausible.” The reporter in the room spoke up, agreeing with the number one hero. “But what if we stretched it back just a teeny bit?” Upon all eyes turning to him, he elaborated. “Picture this...”

As he explained his plan in detail, more and more the group became sure of the story they’ve built. Bakugo had even pitched in to poke as many holes in it for the sake of them patching them up. Ultimately reinforcing the fabrication. Having grown up with the Midoriyas, it only made sense.

And now, all the preparations were complete. All that was left was to enter the stage proper.